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Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Helicopter Pilot

Live Oak, FL

$80K - $100K/yr

Overview Helicopter Pilot - Live Oak, FL AirLife 7 Florida B407 GXP w/ Bell Auto-Pilot / VFR $15 ... Nestled among towering oaks and natural springs, it's a place where weekends are spent on the ...

Overview Helicopter Pilot - Texarkana, AR LifeNet B407 / VFR $40,000 Location Stipend Off Duty ... weekend walks, family outings, or simply soaking up the sunshine. With a growing local economy ...

Overview Helicopter Pilot - St. Louis, MO St. Louis Children's Hospital BK117/ IFR $12,500 Location ... Whether you enjoy catching a Cardinals game, exploring local breweries, or spending weekends along ...

Overview Helicopter Pilot - Glasgow, KY EC-130 / VFR $12,500 Location Stipend Off Duty Housing ... and weekend adventures. The cost of living is affordable, the community is welcoming, and the ...

Helicopter Pilot

Hot Springs, AR

$73K - $91K/yr

Overview Helicopter Pilot - Hot Springs, AR LifeNet Air B407 / VFR $10,000 Location Stipend $15,000 ... baths, and spending your weekends exploring the vibrant downtown filled with local shops ...

Overview Helicopter Pilot - Elkhart, IN Memorial MedFlight EC145 / IFR $15,000 Location Stipend Off ... weekend outings. With an affordable cost of living, rich arts and music scene, and easy access to ...

$131K/yr

... HELICOPTER FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR/EVALUATOR. Applicants must be qualified as an Instructor Pilot in the ... search and rescue operations or surveillance and reconnaissance. Competent in conducting or ...

Helicopter Pilot

Live Oak, FL

$80K - $100K/yr

Overview Helicopter Pilot - Live Oak, FL AirLife 7 Florida B407 GXP w/ Bell Auto-Pilot / VFR $15 ... Nestled among towering oaks and natural springs, it's a place where weekends are spent on the ...

$131K/yr

... instructor pilots, and aeroscout observers in flying techniques and methods of instruction ... search and rescue operations or surveillance and reconnaissance. Competent in conducting or ...

Overview: Helicopter Pilot - St. Louis, MO St. Louis Children's Hospital BK117/ IFR $12,500 ... Whether you enjoy catching a Cardinals game, exploring local breweries, or spending weekends along ...

Helicopter Pilot

Live Oak, FL

$80K - $100K/yr

Helicopter Pilot - Live Oak, FL AirLife 7 Florida B407 GXP w/ Bell Auto-Pilot / VFR $15,000 ... Nestled among towering oaks and natural springs, it's a place where weekends are spent on the ...

Helicopter Pilot

Glasgow, KY · On-site +1

$82K/yr

Overview Helicopter Pilot - Glasgow, KY EC-130 / VFR $12,500 Location Stipend Off Duty Housing ... and weekend adventures. The cost of living is affordable, the community is welcoming, and the ...

Helicopter Pilot - Texarkana, AR LifeNet B407 / VFR $40,000 Location Stipend Off Duty Housing ... weekend walks, family outings, or simply soaking up the sunshine. With a growing local economy ...

Overview Helicopter Pilot - St. Louis, MO St. Louis Children's Hospital BK117/ IFR $12,500 Location ... Whether you enjoy catching a Cardinals game, exploring local breweries, or spending weekends along ...

Helicopter Pilot

Hot Springs, AR

$73K - $91K/yr

Helicopter Pilot - Hot Springs, AR LifeNet Air B407 / VFR $10,000 Location Stipend $15,000 Sign On ... baths, and spending your weekends exploring the vibrant downtown filled with local shops ...

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Showing results 1-20

Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot information

See salary details

$71.5K

$100.2K

$123.5K

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

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for weekend search rescue helicopter pilot in the United States is $100,249.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Weekend Search and 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 and 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.
More about Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 8% Full Time, and 89% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,249 per year, or $48.2 per hour.
Public Safety Helicopter Pilot

Public Safety Helicopter Pilot

Broward County Sheriff's Office

Fort Lauderdale, FL • On-site

$124K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Broward County Sheriff's Office rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 34 rated police


Job description

Salary: $124,369.00 - $175,000.00 Annually
Location : Aviation Unit, Ft. Lauderdale Executive Airport 5253 NW 20th Terrace, Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Job Type: Permanent Full Time
Job Number: 26118A
Department: Law Enforcement
Division: Aviation Unit
Opening Date: 02/16/2026
Closing Date: 12/18/2026 4:30 PM Eastern
Minimum Requirements
  1. High school diploma or equivalent. An evaluation of foreign high school diploma may be required.
  2. Must possess and maintain throughout employment, a valid Florida driver license without any restrictions affecting job performance. Driver license must show current address. All candidates must submit with the application, a Certified Department of Motor Vehicles "entire" driving history.
    • Florida driving histories can be obtained at any courthouse in Broward County. Three year, 7 year, and online Florida driving history records will not be accepted.
    • If you have possessed a driver's license in any other state in the past 10 years you will need to submit an "entire" driving history from that state. For non-Florida driving histories, please contact that state's division of motor vehicles.
    • The search date for all driving histories must be within one month of the date the application for employment is received by the Bureau of Human Resources.
    • Driving history records must be attached to the online application.
  3. Successful completion of a factory school for the current model and type of aircraft/helicopter operated by the agency preferred.
  4. Flight experience in current model and type of aircraft/helicopter operated by the agency preferred.
  5. An equivalent combination of training and experience may be considered. Such experience must be clearly documented for consideration.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Possession of a Commercial Pilots License for rotary wing aircraft/helicopter and instrument rated license.
  • FAA First or Second Class Medical Certificate.
  • Five hundred (500) flight hours as a pilot-in-command rotorcraft-helicopter.
  • One hundred (100) flight hours turbine-engine rotorcraft-helicopter preferred.
  • One hundred (100) hours rotorcraft-helicopter night flight time.
  • One hundred fifty (150) hours rotorcraft-helicopter flight time within the previous twelve (12) months preferred.
  • CFI and CFII Rotorcraft-Helicopter rated preferred; prior law enforcement helicopter experience preferred.
  • Trained and qualified in the use of Aviator's Night Vision Imaging System preferred.
Additional licensure, certification, or training will apply to meet and maintain compliance with established regulatory standards from the Federal Aviation Administration
Salary:
The salary range for the position is $124,369 - $175,000.
Additionally, applicants who are Florida Certified will receive an additional supplement of four percent (4%) and would be FRS Special Risk.
Maximum salary including four percent (4%) supplement is $182,000.
Nature of Work
Under administrative direction, this position performs flight operations within the Aviation Division of the Department of Law Enforcement of the Broward County Sheriff's Office. Employees in this classification command and operate helicopters during specialized and selective law enforcement activities. Work involves an element of personal danger and employees must be able to act without direct supervision and to exercise independent discretion in addressing emergency situations. Work assignments and instructions are received from an administrative superior who reviews work methods and results through observation, reports and conferences. Incumbents perform essential class functions as outlined herein according to functional area of assignment. Performs related work as directed.
Essential Functions/Physical Requirements
The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. It is not necessarily descriptive of any one position in the class. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment to the position.
Operates rotary wing aircraft in support of criminal searches and apprehensions, search and rescues, surveillance, aerial photography, and daily agency operations.
Operates sophisticated avionics, including moving map systems and HD camera.
Assists law enforcement personnel in specialized and selective law enforcement operations and maintain confidentiality concerning all police and agency related matters.
Complies with Federal Aviation Regulations and Air Traffic Control procedures.
Performs all pre-flight, in-flight and post flight checks in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
Maintains all pre-flight and post flight data, i.e., operations logs, aircraft logs, and weather briefings.
Conducts detailed flight plans with little notice; ensures proper fueling and operations readiness of aircraft at all times.
Performs routine cleaning and maintenance on aircraft and rotor blades.
Conduct training flights to enhance air operations, safety, and coordination with other units; performs flight instructor training and safety duties.
Maintains current knowledge of local geography and roadway networks.
Employees in this classification are assigned to work shifts which will include weekends, holidays, and extended emergency activation events (i.e. hurricanes). Employees must have the ability to work any shift and engage in flexible work assignments that can include voluntary and/or mandatory overtime to meet agency needs.
Performs related duties as directed.
Tasks involve an element of personal danger and employees must be able to act without direct supervision and to exercise independent discretion in addressing emergency situations.
Tasks involve the intermittent performance of extremely physically demanding work, typically involving some combination of reaching, bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, running, climbing, and that may involve the dragging, pushing, and/or pulling of extremely heavy objects, such as in the event of chasing and subduing a suspect resisting arrest.
Tasks may involve standing, sitting or walking for long periods of time. Some tasks are performed with potential for intermittent exposure to disagreeable elements including, but not limited to, heat, humidity, inclement weather, loud noise, toxic/chemical agents, electrical currents, pathogens, violent behavior, weapons, explosives, animals. Tasks include working around moving parts, vehicles, equipment, carts, and materials handling, where extremely heightened awareness to surroundings and environment is essential in the preservation of life and property.
Broward Sheriff's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Broward Sheriff's Office will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
Recruitment Information
Applicants who qualify will be subject to an extensive selection process and screening program, which may include, but not be limited to evaluation of training and experience; written test; computer based test; interview; polygraph examination; psychological evaluation; employment record, fingerprint and background check; medical examination; and drug screen. The expected duration of the selection process varies by position and could last 10 to 12 weeks. Reapplication will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
BSO is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, citizenship status, color, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. Veterans' preference per Florida law.
If you encounter issues with your application and need technical assistance, please contact Applicant Support (GovernmentJobs.com) from 9 am to 9 pm EST, Monday - Friday. You can reach them by phone at 855-524-5627 or email Once you successfully submit your application, you will receive a confirmation e-mail. If you do not receive this e-mail, please contact Applicant Support for any inquiries.
BENEFITS:
The Broward Sheriff's Office values the contributions of its sworn/certified and civilian employees. The agency's outstanding Benefits Package is one of the ways BSO retains its employees and attracts new personnel to the BSO team.
Here's a sampling of typical employee benefits:
  • Medical Insurance: Various plans including Open Access options with pre-tax premium conversion available. New employees are eligible on the first of the month following the date of hire. Prescription plans are also offered
  • Domestic Partner coverage: Medical, dental and vision coverage is offered
  • Life Insurance: One times salary for basic life and AD&D at no cost to the employee. Additional voluntary term life and dependent life are also available
  • Dental Insurance: Three plans (DMO, PPO and Indemnity) are available on a pre-tax basis
  • Line of Duty benefits
  • Vision Care Insurance: 100% of the premium for single and family coverage paid for by the Broward Sheriff's Office (in combination with medical insurance election).
  • Voluntary Long and Short-Term Disability
  • Voluntary Long Term Care Insurance
  • Voluntary Critical Illness Insurance
  • Retirement plan under the Florida Retirement System
  • Deferred Compensation Programs available (Employee contribution)
  • Sick leave, annual leave, holiday leave, bereavement leave, military leave, personal day, bonus days
  • Sick leave pool and donated leave program
  • 24-hour fitness center
  • Employee Assistance Program, on-site and through medical insurance
  • Wellness programs including health screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, etc.
  • Florida Prepaid College Program payroll deduction program
  • On-site insurance representatives for medical, dental and vision programs
  • Voluntary Legal aid discount program
  • Flu and Hepatitis B vaccines at no charge

DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE PROGRAM:
The Broward Sheriff's Office is recognized as a Drug-Free Workplace pursuant to Chapter 440, Florida Statues. BSO is committed to providing a safe work environment and to fostering the well-being and health of its employees to preserve a happier, healthier workforce. All BSO employees share the responsibility of maintaining a safe, productive and drug-free work environment. BSO is dedicated to programs that enhance the well-being and health of its employees and the public's safety.
For information on the Drug-Free Awareness Program:
SPM3.19 Drug-Free Awareness Program.pdf
01
Do you have a high school diploma or equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do have an active Commercial Pilots License for rotary wing aircraft/helicopter and instrument rated license?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have a FAA First or Second Class Medical Certificate?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have one hundred (100) hours rotorcraft-helicopter night flight time?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have five hundred (500) flight hours as a pilot-in-command rotorcraft-helicopter?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question