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Weekend Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 - 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 ...

Helicopter Pilot

Live Oak, FL · On-site

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

Helicopter Pilot

Live Oak, FL · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

Helicopter Pilot

Glasgow, KY · On-site

$82K/yr

Helicopter Pilot - Glasgow, KY EC-130 / VFR $12,500 Location Stipend Off Duty Housing available $15 ... and weekend adventures. The cost of living is affordable, the community is welcoming, and 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

Glasgow, KY · On-site

$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

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

Live Oak, FL · On-site +1

$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 ...

Helicopter Pilot

Live Oak, FL · On-site

$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 - 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 · On-site

$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 ...

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

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

Helicopter Pilot

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$82K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

Helicopter Pilot

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$82K/yr

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

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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 9, 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,249 per year, or $48.2 per hour.
Helicopter Pilot

$82K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


Air Methods rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 870 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview:

Helicopter Pilot - St. Louis, MO

St. Louis Children's Hospital

BK117/ IFR

$12,500 Location Stipend

$15,000 Sign On Bonus

AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE!

As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our communities. We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high-performing culture, sparked by teammates who deliver on being the best!

Location

 

St. Louis offers the perfect mix of big-city excitement and Midwest charm. Known for its iconic Gateway Arch, passionate sports culture, and rich music and food scenes, St. Louis has something for everyone. Residents enjoy a lower cost of living compared to many major metro areas, while still having access to incredible restaurants, vibrant nightlife, family-friendly neighborhoods, and beautiful parks like Forest Park — one of the largest urban parks in the country. Whether you enjoy catching a Cardinals game, exploring local breweries, or spending weekends along the Mississippi River, St. Louis delivers a welcoming community with plenty of opportunity and entertainment year-round.

Benefits

Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package created with the diverse needs of our teammates in mind:

  • Health, Dental and Vision
  • Competitive 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Flexible Spending Account Benefit Plans
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Full Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • AD&D Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Business Travel Accident Insurance
  • Voluntary Legal
  • Relocation Assistance
  • Employee Assistance and Benefit Concierge Service Programs

Job Summary

Responsible to ensure aircraft and weather conditions are airworthy to transport medical crew and patient to receiving hospital within an assigned operational area. Responsible for compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR), Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), General Operations Manual guidelines (GOM), and thorough knowledge of Air Methods policies and procedures.

Responsibilities:

Essential Functions and Responsibilities include the following:

  • Operates Air Methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner.
  • Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by sign off of Daily Flight Log. Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight and upon completion of each flight.
  • Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and equipment.
  • Must be thoroughly familiar with all aircraft and medical systems of backup aircraft utilized at operational area and also ensures that the medical flight team is familiar and comfortable with the medical interior and systems.
  • Responsible for completion of required documentation.
  • Able to conduct detailed flight planning with little notice to exacting standards.
  • Participates regularly in Air Methods meetings, activities, projects, committees and community outreach.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Additional Job Requirements

  • Regular scheduled attendance. (7/7 schedule - 12-hour shifts)

Subject to applicable laws and Air Method’s policies, regular attendance is an essential function of the position.  All employees must follow Air Methods’ employment practices and policies.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position has no supervisory responsibilities. 

Compensation

Compensation commensurate with flight and EMS experience from $82,900 per year.

Qualifications:

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  In accordance with applicable laws, Air Methods will provide reasonable accommodations that do not create an undue burden so disabled employees may perform the essential functions of the position.

Pay Scale

Based on flight and EMS experience.

Education & Experience

  • Associate’s degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school and two  to five years’ related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Bachelor’s degree preferred

Operation and Safety Requirements:

  • As a member of the Flight Crew, any person employed in this position shall maintain a weight not to exceed 250 pounds and shall be less than seventy (70) years old.

Skills

  • Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment
  • Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months

Instrument Flight rules (IFR) Program:

  • 2500 total flight hours with a minimum of 2000 hours in category
  • 1000 hours PIC in category
  • 500 hours of rotor wing turbine time
  • 500 hours of cross-country flight time, 100 hours of night flight time
  • 75 hours of actual or simulated instrument time at least 50 hours which were in flight in an aircraft including 20 hours in actual instrument conditions in category

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
• Commercial & Instrument Rating (for category and class of aircraft)
• ATP rating in category meets this requirement
• First OR Second Class FAA Medical certificate required.
This position is subject to drug and/or alcohol testing per the DOT/FAA requirements (pre-employment, random, reasonable cause/suspicion, post-accident).
Air Methods is an EEO/AA employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status

Minimum pay: USD $82,900.00/Yr. Maximum Pay: USD $93,251.00/Yr. Benefits:

For more information on our industry-leading benefits, please visit our benefits page here. 

Internal bidding ends: June 1, 2026

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities:

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c).

This position will be open and posted until filled, with a minimum posting period of three days.


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About Air Methods

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Air Methods is the most responsive and reliable provider of critical care transportation solutions. We partner with our EMS and hospital customers to solve the challenges of patient logistics and save lives. We deliver industry-leading performance in safety, clinical quality, and patient advocacy, committing to zero balance bills. In addition to caring for others, we care for our own teammates: building a high-performing culture where people are passionate about their work and always bring their best. We can't be the industry-leading air medical company without you.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Englewood, CO, US

Year founded

1980