Job Requirements
Minimum Qualifications:
· HS Diploma supplemented by specialized training in helicopter piloting or a related field.
· Two (2) years of experience as a helicopter pilot including night flight experience (1500 hours flight hours, 1000 hours turbine time).
· Possession of an appropriate, valid FAA Commercial Pilot's License with Rotorcraft-Helicopter rating.
· Possession of an appropriate, valid FAA 2nd Class Medical Certification.
Preferred Qualifications:
· Recent and relevant operations, services and activities of an aerial law enforcement program.
· Operation of Bell 505 aircraft and Bell Factory training.
· 250 hours of flight at night, Night Vision Goggle experience, and Instrument rating.
The Helicopter Pilot job responsibilities include:
· Serves as pilot in command of the Fort Worth Police Department (FWPD) helicopter providing safe, efficient, and immediate aerial support to road patrol and other Fort Worth Police Department law enforcement operations. Retains responsibility for aircraft during duty performance.
· Performs pre and post flight inspections of helicopters and auxiliary equipment. Prepares flight inspection reports.
· Researches aircraft area of operation for adverse weather conditions, hazardous obstructions (unlit towers, cranes), restrictions in airspace (Temporary Flight Restrictions), and any changes to Federal Aviation Regulations, airspace.
· Maintains flight authority to initiate, conduct or terminate a flight conducted on behalf of the City.
· Provides safe and efficient air transportation services in support of various Police Department functions including traffic patrol and enforcement, pursuit of criminals, location and spotlighting of crime scenes or various other law enforcement activities.
· Operates and maneuvers helicopter for assigned police functions in a safe and effective manner. Performs aerial searches to locate and spot light crime scenes as required.
· Prepares analytical and statistical reports on operations and activities.
· Provides aerial transportation support for various other departments as required.
Working Conditions
Applicants for this position must pass a Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS) fingerprint-based background check and maintain CJIS eligibility. Due to CJIS requirements related to system access, the following will result in being disqualified for this position: Felony Convictions, Felony Deferred Adjudication, Class A Misdemeanor Conviction, Class B Misdemeanor Convictions in the last 10 years, Class A Misdemeanor Deferred Adjudication, Class B Misdemeanor Deferred Adjudication in the last 10 years, an Open Arrest for Any Criminal Offense (Felony or Misdemeanor), and ALL Family Violence Convictions regardless of class.