The City of Fort Worth is one of the fastest growing large cities in the U.S. Our employees serve the needs of nearly 1,000,000 residents, promoting our values of exceptional customer experience, mutual respect, embracing our diversity, continuous improvement, ethical behavior, and accountability.

A Helicopter Pilot position is available with the City of Fort Worth Police Department – Air Support Unit.  This position will contribute to the City’s strategic goals, mission, and vision by supporting the Police Department, providing 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, and various other law enforcement activities. This is a non-sworn, civilian position.

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 the 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, and various other law enforcement activities.
• Operates and maneuvers a helicopter for assigned police functions in a safe and effective manner. Performs aerial searches to locate and spotlight crime scenes as required.
• Prepares analytical and statistical reports on operations and activities.
• Provides aerial transportation support for various other departments as required.

• 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 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.