Helicopter Pilot

SkyLife is a premier air medical service provider operating under Air Methods, the leader in the air medical industry. Air Methods is renowned for its commitment to delivering life-saving medical air transport services around the clock to communities across the nation. It is dedicated to providing consistently high safety standards while valuing work-life balance for its employees. SkyLife specifically operates in Visalia, California, a city known as the "Gateway to the Sequoias" due to its proximity to the stunning Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Visalia itself is cherished for its agricultural heritage, vibrant community spirit, excellent schools, and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, making it an ideal location for both work and residence.

The role available with SkyLife is a temporary pilot position with a competitive salary range from $91,190 to $102,576, enhanced by an ACCRA geographical cost of living adjustment of 110 percent. Additional financial incentives include a $25,000 stipend, a $3,000 IFR stipend for pilots qualified under Instrument Flight Rules, and an experience stipend of up to $12,000. A substantial signing bonus of $40,000 is also offered. Off-duty housing is provided to support employees’ comfort during their rotations.

As a pilot with SkyLife, you will be entrusted with the safe and efficient operation of aircraft tasked with life-critical medical transports. You will ensure that aircraft and weather conditions are suitable for flights, adhering strictly to Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR), Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) guidelines, and the General Operations Manual (GOM). Your responsibility extends to ensuring the safety of all passengers, crew, cargo, and equipment on every flight mission.

This role requires a thorough understanding of various aircraft and their medical systems, including backup aircraft used within the operational area. Being comfortable and knowledgeable about the medical interiors allows for seamless cooperation with the medical crew, ensuring patient safety and comfort during transit. The position also necessitates rigorous pre-flight inspections, meticulous flight planning often at short notice, and precise completion of all required documentation.

SkyLife pilots are valued participants in company meetings, community outreach, and departmental activities, contributing to a vibrant, collaborative workplace culture. The job involves rotating shifts of 7 days on and 7 days off, each shift lasting 12 hours, promoting balance between professional and personal life. This role does not have supervisory responsibilities but is critical in executing the on-ground team’s strategic objective of providing unmatched patient transport services.

The minimum education requirement is an associate degree or equivalent, with some candidates holding a bachelor’s degree preferred. Experience requirements include at least two to five years of relevant aviation and medical transport experience. Specific flight experience includes 2,500 total flight hours, 2,000 hours in category, and significant rotor wing turbine and cross-country night flying hours under Instrument Flight Rules. Pilots must maintain physical fitness standards, including weight and age limits, to meet regulatory compliance.

Air Methods is committed to supporting its pilots through comprehensive benefits that include health, dental, and vision insurance; competitive 401(k) retirement plans; flexible spending accounts; tuition reimbursement; life insurance; disability insurance; legal coverage; relocation assistance; and employee assistance programs. We take pride in being an Equal Opportunity Employer and ensure a workplace where all employees can thrive in a safe and inclusive environment. This position remains open until filled, embracing a minimum three-day posting period, welcoming passionate aviation professionals ready to go above and beyond in community service through air medical transport.