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Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot Jobs in Boston, MA

Boston MedFlight

RW Pilot

Bedford, MA · On-site

$123K - $178K/yr

Air ambulance helicopter pilot responsible for the safe and efficient operation of helicopter air ... Willingness to work a rotating schedule including nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call ...

U.S. Navy

Aviation Officer

Lowell, MA · On-site

HELICOPTER PILOT - As a helicopter pilot, the sky is your domain. Hover over the sea for search and rescue, extract Sailors and Special Forces from a hot landing zone or track and neutralize enemy ...

U.S. Navy

Aviation Officer

Babson Park, MA · On-site

HELICOPTER PILOT - As a helicopter pilot, the sky is your domain. Hover over the sea for search and rescue, extract Sailors and Special Forces from a hot landing zone or track and neutralize enemy ...

U.S. Navy

Aviation Officer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

HELICOPTER PILOT - As a helicopter pilot, the sky is your domain. Hover over the sea for search and rescue, extract Sailors and Special Forces from a hot landing zone or track and neutralize enemy ...

U.S. Navy

Aviation Officer

Brockton, MA · On-site

HELICOPTER PILOT - As a helicopter pilot, the sky is your domain. Hover over the sea for search and rescue, extract Sailors and Special Forces from a hot landing zone or track and neutralize enemy ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Lynn, MA

... helicopter sea rescues and underwater search, salvage, repair, and demolition to support carrier ... Rescue Swimmer preparatory and Rescue Swimmer School for those in that specialty; Class A School in ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Malden, MA

... helicopter sea rescues and underwater search, salvage, repair, and demolition to support carrier ... Rescue Swimmer preparatory and Rescue Swimmer School for those in that specialty; Class A School in ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Revere, MA

... helicopter sea rescues and underwater search, salvage, repair, and demolition to support carrier ... Rescue Swimmer preparatory and Rescue Swimmer School for those in that specialty; Class A School in ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Woburn, MA

... helicopter sea rescues and underwater search, salvage, repair, and demolition to support carrier ... Rescue Swimmer preparatory and Rescue Swimmer School for those in that specialty; Class A School in ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Salem, MA

... helicopter sea rescues and underwater search, salvage, repair, and demolition to support carrier ... Rescue Swimmer preparatory and Rescue Swimmer School for those in that specialty; Class A School in ...

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All JobsSearch Rescue Helicopter Pilot JobsWeekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot JobsWeekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot Jobs in Boston, MA

Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot information

See Boston, MA salary details

$77.7K

$108.9K

$134.2K

How much do weekend search rescue helicopter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for weekend search rescue helicopter pilot in Boston, MA is $108,911.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,800.00 and $121,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a weekend search rescue helicopter pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Weekend Search and Rescue Helicopter Pilot, you need an FAA commercial helicopter pilot license, extensive flight hours, and specialized training in search and rescue operations. Familiarity with advanced avionics, GPS navigation systems, night vision goggles, and possibly certifications like Instrument Rating or Hoist Operator training are typically required. Exceptional decision-making, situational awareness, teamwork, and calmness under pressure are critical soft skills for success in life-saving missions. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe, efficient, and effective rescue operations in challenging and unpredictable environments.

What are the typical challenges faced by a weekend search rescue helicopter pilot during missions?

Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilots often encounter unpredictable weather, challenging terrain, and time-sensitive emergencies that require quick decision-making and strong situational awareness. Coordination with ground rescue teams and other emergency responders is essential, especially in high-stress situations where lives are at stake. Additionally, pilots must maintain a high level of readiness and adaptability, as missions can vary greatly in scope and urgency. Regular training and clear communication with the rescue crew are key factors in successful operations.

What is the difference between Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot vs Weekend Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Helicopter Pilot?

AspectWeekend Search Rescue Helicopter PilotWeekend Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Helicopter Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, Search and Rescue (SAR) trainingCommercial Pilot License, Medical Flight Certification
Work EnvironmentRescue missions, often in remote or challenging conditionsTransporting patients, hospital transfers, often in urban or suburban areas
Employer & IndustryRescue agencies, government agencies, NGOsHospitals, medical transport companies, emergency services

The main difference is that Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilots focus on locating and rescuing individuals in distress, often in difficult terrains, while Weekend EMS Helicopter Pilots primarily transport patients to medical facilities. Both roles require specialized certifications and involve flying in emergency situations, but their missions and environments differ significantly.

What does a weekend search rescue helicopter pilot do?

A Weekend Search and Rescue Helicopter Pilot operates helicopters during weekends to assist in finding and rescuing people in distress, often in difficult or remote locations. Their duties include responding to emergency calls, navigating challenging weather and terrain, and coordinating with ground rescue teams. They are trained to handle high-pressure situations and must ensure the safety of both the crew and rescuees during missions. The role requires advanced piloting skills, knowledge of search and rescue protocols, and the ability to make quick decisions in emergencies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot jobs in Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot jobs in Boston, MA?

For Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot jobs in Boston, MA are:

Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,911 per year, or $52.4 per hour.

RW Pilot

Boston MedFlight

Bedford, MA • On-site

$123K - $178K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Position Overview:

Air ambulance helicopter pilot responsible for the safe and efficient operation of helicopter air transport missions, including emergency medical flights, interfacility transfers, and scene responses. This role requires exceptional flying skills, sound judgment under pressure, and a commitment to the safety of patients, crew, and aircraft. The pilot operates in single-pilot, VFR and IFR conditions, and collaborates closely with clinical and operational staff to support Boston MedFlight’s mission of critical care transport.

Essential Responsibilities:

Flight Operations:

  • Safely operate helicopter aircraft in accordance with applicable Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), including single-pilot VFR and IFR operations.
  • Conduct thorough pre- and post-flight inspections ensuring airworthiness and regulatory compliance.
  • Monitor aircraft systems and weather to assess flight risks and make real-time go/no-go decisions.

Emergency Response:

  • Respond promptly to medical transport requests including emergency scene calls and interfacility transfers.
  • Collaborate with medical teams to ensure the safe and efficient loading and unloading of patients and medical equipment.

Communication:

  • Maintain clear and timely communication with Air Traffic Control, ground support, medical teams, and dispatch centers.
  • Provide continuous updates on flight progress, delays, or safety concerns.

Navigation and Route Planning:

  • Plan and file appropriate flight routes considering weather, airspace, NOTAMs, fuel requirements, and terrain.
  • Utilize GPS, radar, and other navigation tools to ensure safe routing and efficient operations.

Safety and Compliance:

  • Strictly adhere to Boston MedFlight’s General Operations Manual (GOM), Safety Management System (SMS), and company policies.
  • Participate in safety briefings, audits, training programs, and quality improvement initiatives.
  • Foster and support a just culture and safety-first environment.

Maintenance and Reporting:

  • Document and report all discrepancies or mechanical concerns in a timely manner.
  • Collaborate with aviation maintenance personnel to ensure aircraft readiness.
  • Maintain accurate flight and maintenance logs, reports, and documentation per regulatory and company standards.


Qualifications:

  • FAA Commercial Rotorcraft-Helicopter License with Instrument Rating.
  • Must obtain an ATP (Airline Transport Pilot) Certificate within one (1) year of employment.
  • Current and Valid FAA Class 1 Medical Certificate required upon hire.
  • Successfully complete FAA Class I Flight Physical on an annual basis.
  • Minimum of 1,500 total flight hours (rotorcraft) as Pilot in Command, 500 hours cross country and 100 hours of night flight time required.
  • Previous experience in Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) or Part 135 operations strongly preferred.
  • Preferred Night Vision Goggle (NVG) experience.

Skills and Abilities:

  • Strong aeronautical decision-making skills.
  • Effective communication and teamwork abilities under stressful conditions.
  • High level of professionalism, integrity, and safety awareness.
  • Proficiency in interpreting weather data, air navigation charts, and utilizing flight planning software.
  • Ability to lift at least 50 pounds using proper body mechanics and assist in loading and unloading patients into BMF aircraft.

Additional Responsibilities:

  • Willingness to work a rotating schedule including nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call assignments.
  • Must maintain a clean driving record and background check.
  • Must be able to operate in varied environmental conditions including extreme temperatures, noise, and vibration.
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States.
  • Must have recent flying experience in a helicopter during the past 12 months.

Notes:

  • Must pass FBI and/or CORI background check prior to starting employment.
  • Subject to PRIA record review.
  • Pre-employment physical and drug and alcohol screening required.
  • Participation in random drug and alcohol testing in accordance with Part 120 of the Federal Aviation Regulations.
  • Valid U.S. passport, Real ID-compliant driver’s license, and authorization to work in the U.S.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.
  • This position requires current COVID-19 and seasonal flu vaccinations, subject to medical or religious exemption requests.