The Pilot operates departmental aircraft to support and enhance Sheriff’s Department operations through safe, efficient, and mission-focused flight services.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Complies with all applicable Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, Sheriff’s Department policies, and Metro Air Support Unit procedures.
• Reviews local weather conditions and forecasts when weather may impact flight operations at the start of each shift.
• Conducts pre-flight inspections at the start of each shift and post-flight inspections at the end of shift.
• Reviews aircraft maintenance logs for existing discrepancies and documents any issues.
• Provides safety briefings to all passengers, including emergency procedures.
• Maintains radio communication with Air Traffic Control and other necessary entities.
• Completes and maintains required flight reports and records.
• Responds to noise complaints, as assigned.
• Assists in maintaining the aircraft’s cleanliness and professional appearance.
• Informs the Director of Operations of any issues affecting aircraft safety, malfunctions, flight operations, passengers, or scheduling.
• Recommends procedures to improve Metro Air Support Unit operations.
• Performs additional duties as assigned by the Metro Air Support Unit Director of Operations.
• Represents the Metro Air Support Unit in public speaking engagements as needed.
• Operates any departmental aircraft as assigned.

*The above information is intended to outline the general nature and scope of the duties required for this position. It is not an exhaustive list and may vary depending on specific job assignments and responsibilities.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Possess a Commercial Pilot Rotorcraft FAA rating.
• Possess an Instrument Helicopter FAA rating.
• Hold a current Class II FAA Medical Certificate.
• Have a minimum of 1,500 hours of turbine rotorcraft flight time.
• Be qualified to operate AS350 series helicopters.
• Be qualified to operate Bell 205 (UH-1H) or Bell 206 family (two-bladed, single-engine) helicopters.

*Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience may be considered for the above requirements.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Be proficient in radio communications.
• Have at least 500 hours of mountain flying (at altitudes above 4,500 feet).
• Have at least 500 hours of night flying experience.
• Be qualified in helicopter night vision device (NVG) operations.
• Have experience with external load operations, such as: Helicopter rescue hoist, Sling loading, Vertical reference, Short-haul, USFS water bucket operations
• Attend and pass factory-certified pilot schools or equivalent training as directed.
• Pass an annual unit check ride for each assigned aircraft.

PREFERENCES

• Prior public safety aviation or law enforcement aviation experience.
• Familiarity with Metro Air Support Unit procedures.

SCREENING AND COMPLIANCE

The offer of this Bernalillo County position requires compliance with the following:

• Successful completion of a post-offer employment medical examination and background investigation.
• Adherence to all County safety guidelines.
• Complete all FEMA training(s) assigned to this position.
• Possession of a valid New Mexico driver’s license by the date of hire and maintenance of a valid license while employed in this position.
• Complete required supervisor training, if applicable.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Pilot departmental aircraft in a possibly hazardous environment while performing law enforcement and fire support operations.
• A majority of essential duties are performed in the field with the aircraft.
• Outdoor duties are sometimes required in performance of essential duties.
• Worker is exposed to natural weather conditions while performing outdoor duties.
• Worker may be exposed to intermittent noise and vibration factors, particularly while in the aircraft.
• Work hazards include high stress level of work and operation of the aircraft in potentially hazardous situations.

EQUIPMENT, TOOLS, AND MATERIALS

• Personal protective equipment utilized in aircraft operations.
• Equipment and materials used to perform aircraft pilot duties.