Options for Helicopter Jobs After Military Service

For someone with helicopter experience in the military, what are the job opportunities like after service? Are there specific certifications or steps I should take to find a helicopter job post-military?

The transition from military service to civilian life can open up many exciting job prospects, especially for someone with helicopter experience. Numerous sectors value the specific skills, discipline, and knowledge you've accrued in the military.

Here are some potential career paths for someone with helicopter experience:

1. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Pilot: EMS helicopters are a critical component of emergency response systems. As an EMS pilot, you would be responsible for operating the aircraft during emergency medical situations.

2. Firefighting Pilot: Forest firefighting efforts often employ helicopters, and experienced technicians and pilots are essential. This role might involve water bombing, transportation, or reconnaissance.

3. Charter Pilot: Providing private flights for individuals, corporations, or tour groups can also be an option.

4. Utility Pilot: These pilots often work for energy companies, taking employees to remote locations or transporting equipment.

5. Flight Instructor: With your military experience, teaching prospective helicopter pilots could be a rewarding part of your career.

When transitioning into civilian roles, acquiring the necessary civilian certifications is crucial. You'll first need to obtain your private pilot licence (PPL) and then a commercial pilot licence (CPL). After this, you might consider getting an instrument rating and a flight instructor rating.

To make this transition smoother, you might want to take advantage of programs that recognize certain military helicopter qualifications. For instance, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has a military competency program that allows military pilots to earn a commercial pilot certification based on their military training and testing.

Remember, effective networking and job searching are often as important as training and certification. Make sure to leverage your military experience as much as possible in job applications. Furthermore, reaching out to industry professionals, participating in associated job fairs, and setting up informational interviews can also help to open up opportunities. Be sure to utilize veteran resources as well; many organizations are dedicated to helping veterans transition to civilian careers.