Entergy Aviation began in 1927 with a 2-seat enclosed cabin modified biplane to a department today that manages the safe operation of all company-owned, contracted, and sub-contracted aviation equipment used for the expeditious business transport of Entergy personnel and for the operation, maintenance, and construction of the enterprise electric system. The five focus areas of the department are Aviation Corporate Jets, UAS Department, Safety & Governance, Maintenance, and Operations Control Center, comprising 26 team members. Entergy’s corporate jet division was the first corporate flight department in North America to achieve IS-BAO certification and the first flight department in the world to achieve Stage III in the IS-BAO system. The very heart of both the Aviation department and the enterprise of Entergy is the safety culture. Safety is a shared responsibility; and every team member always remains vigilant to assure a safe environment around aviation equipment and to ensure every passenger and employee returns home uninjured at the end of the day.

Job Summary/Purpose

Helicopter Pilot for Power Line Patrol (Transmission & Distribution Infrastructure)

The Helicopter Pilot for Power Line Patrol will conduct aerial inspections of high-voltage transmission and distribution lines, ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of critical power infrastructure. This role involves operating helicopters to survey power lines, substations, and related equipment, identifying any issues, hazards, or potential failures. The pilot will work closely with ground teams and inspectors, following strict safety protocols and adhering to FAA regulations.

This position requires expertise in low-altitude maneuvering, precision flying, and navigating around complex structures while flying in the wire environment. Experience in power line patrol, aerial inspection, or utility operations is preferred. The ideal candidate will demonstrate exceptional situational awareness, attention to detail, and a commitment to ensuring the continuous functionality of vital infrastructure systems.

Job Duties/Responsibilities

• Directly responsible for the operation, safety, and security of the aircraft as well as the safety of all passengers, crewmembers, equipment, and cargo onboard during all associated flight activities. Conduct job duties and responsibilities in accordance with federal, state, and local laws as well as company policy
• Supervises the operation of assigned aircraft and flight crew, including all pre-flight, in-flight and post flight activity.
• Evaluate flight plans, performance calculations, weather considerations, checks NOTAMs / TFRs.
• Completes Flight Risk Assessment and checks any other information pertinent to the safe operations of the aircraft.
• Performs pre-mission planning, flight notifications, pre-job briefings, pre-flight and post-flight inspections respectively, risk assessments, debriefings, and post-mission reporting in accordance with the Helicopter Patrol SOP.
• Uses effective Crew Resource Management and Aeronautical Decision Making to ensure safety of crew and passengers and company property.
• Ensures that mission requirements are within the capability of assigned aircraft. Calculates aircraft weight and balance, fuel and performance required for acceptable margins of safety, ensuring that all flight planning requirements have been met.
• Become an integral part of Safety Culture by participating in the Safety Management System to include Helicopter specific incident/accident reporting.
• Complete collateral duties, as assigned, and company administrative and training requirements in a timely and professional manner.
• Communicate effectively with clients, team members, and stakeholders and present Helicopter Patrol inspection findings in clear and concise format.
• Any additional duties as assigned from the Operations Manager and/or the Director of Aviation.

Please note: Authorization to work in the United States is a precondition to employment in this position. Entergy will not sponsor candidates for work visas for this position.

Requirements

• FAA Certification: Valid Commercial Rotorcraft License.
• Flight Hours: Minimum of 1,500 total flight hours, with at least 500 hours in low-level flying (below 500 feet AGL) and 200 hours of experience in power line patrol, utility, or similar specialized operations.
• Technical Knowledge: In-depth understanding of transmission and distribution infrastructure, including knowledge of power line inspection techniques, hazards, and FAA regulations specific to low-level utility operations.
• Navigation and Situational Awareness: Proficiency in using GPS navigation, mapping software, and real-time communication systems. High situational awareness in challenging flight environments with potential obstacles.
• Safety and Compliance: Strong knowledge of aviation safety procedures, emergency protocols, and regulatory compliance (FAA and OSHA), with a commitment to adhering to company safety standards.
• Communication Skills: Ability to communicate effectively with ground teams, inspectors, and air traffic control. Skilled at providing detailed verbal reports and completing required documentation.
• Physical Fitness: Ability to handle the physical demands of long flight hours in potentially adverse weather and environmental conditions.
• Problem Solving and Attention to Detail: Demonstrated ability to identify potential infrastructure issues and act quickly in identifying solutions or coordinating maintenance responses.
• Proficient with technology and PC applications, including but not limited to iPad, Foreflight, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and other forms of electronic communication.

Preferred experience, certificates, licenses, etc. 

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent 
• Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) or equivalent military experience
• Instrument Rating
• 2,000 hours PIC Rotorcraft-Helicopter
• Low Level Flying in the Wire Environment experience.
• Bell 429 Experience
• Safety Management or Instructor Pilot experience.
• Effective Management Skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Extensive Flight Experience: Over 2,500 total flight hours with 1,000+ hours in low-level operations and aerial inspections, specifically in utility or power line patrol.
• Formal training in Flight in the Wire and Obstacle Environment (FIWOE)
• Familiarity with power line inspection techniques, obstacle avoidance, and emergency procedures related to transmission and distribution infrastructure.
• Experience with Specialized Aircraft: Proficiency with helicopters typically used for power line patrols, such as Bell 429.
• Knowledge of Utility Industry Standards: Familiarity with NERC/FERC standards, as well as OSHA and utility industry safety standards specific to aerial inspections of critical infrastructure.
• Strong Safety Record: Proven track record of safety and adherence to protocols, with experience in safety audits or contributions to safety program development in aerial operations.
• Technical Skills in Inspection Technology: Experience with FLIR, LIDAR, or other aerial imaging and diagnostic technologies to identify infrastructure defects and potential hazards.
• Adaptability and Problem Solving in Adverse Conditions: Demonstrated ability to handle unexpected weather changes, terrain challenges, or maintenance issues, with a calm and solution-oriented approach.
• Strong Communication and Collaboration Skills: Experience working in a team environment with utility personnel, ground crews, and technical inspectors, and providing detailed, accurate inspection reports.
• Flexibility with Travel and Scheduling: Willingness to accommodate irregular schedules, extended shifts, and travel as required for patrol assignments across diverse regions.