DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Comply with all applicable Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, Sheriff’s Department policies, and Metro Air Support Unit procedures.
- Review local weather conditions and forecasts at the start of each shift when weather may impact flight operations.
- Conduct pre-flight inspections at the start of each shift and post-flight inspections at the end.
- Review aircraft maintenance logs for existing discrepancies and document any new issues.
- Provide safety briefings to all passengers, including emergency procedures.
- Maintain radio communication with Air Traffic Control and other necessary entities.
- Complete and maintain required flight reports and records.
- Respond to noise complaints as assigned.
- Assist in maintaining the aircraft’s cleanliness and professional appearance.
- Inform the Director of Operations of any issues affecting aircraft safety, malfunctions, flight operations, passengers, or scheduling.
- Recommend procedures to improve Metro Air Support Unit operations.
- Perform additional duties as assigned by the Metro Air Support Unit Director of Operations.
- Represent the Metro Air Support Unit in public speaking engagements as needed.
- Operate 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.
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:- Employee must successfully complete the post-offer employment medical examination and background investigation.
- This position is omnibus. Employment is subject to a pre-employment and random drug testing in accordance with all terms and conditions of federal and state rules and regulations regarding alcohol and/or drug testing.
- Employee must comply with the safety guidelines of the County.
- Employee must possess a valid New Mexico driver’s license by employment date and retain a valid license while employed in this position.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Pilot departmental aircraft in a possibly hazardous environment while performing law enforcement and fire support operations.
- The 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 job, 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.