Aviation Unit PIC — Law Enforcement & SAR

Merced County, CA; California; On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Merced County, CA seeks a Pilot for Sheriff’s Office aviation to support law enforcement, SAR, and emergency response. The role includes PIC responsibilities, real-time aerial surveillance, and coordination with ground units.

Applicants must have 500 PIC hours (50 night), a California driver license, and pass a background check. FAA certificates in current status are required at appointment; instrument rating and instructor ratings are desirable. Office duties span day to night operations.

Qualifications

• Must possess and maintain a valid California driver license.
• Background investigation successful completion.
• FAA certificates as listed below maintained at appointment.

Responsibilities

• Pilot Sheriff’s Office aircraft for law enforcement, SAR, and emergency responses.
• Support drug enforcement via real-time observations and aerial surveillance.
• Serve as PIC and make flight safety decisions during operations.
• Evaluate terrain, hazards, and conditions for safe tactical deployments.
• Provide aerial observation and real-time intelligence to deputies and command staff.
• Coordinate with ground units during pursuits and SWAT activations; maintain radio comms.
• Ensure operations comply with FAA and Sheriff’s Office policies.
• Maintain flight logs, pilot training files, maintenance docs, and FAA records.
• Oversee incident and mission documentation and video management.
• Maintain emergency procedure proficiency, including night operations and low-level flight.
• Coordinate and oversee scheduled and non-scheduled maintenance.
• Track staff training, recurrent training, medical certificates, and proficiency evaluations.
• Assist in training Aviation Unit staff when assigned.
• Prepare mission materials and distribute reports for briefings/debriefings.

Education

High school graduation or equivalent

500 PIC hours with at least 50 night hours

Job description

Merced County, CA seeks a Pilot for Sheriff’s Office aviation to support law enforcement, SAR, and emergency response. The role includes PIC responsibilities, real-time aerial surveillance, and coordination with ground units.

Applicants must have 500 PIC hours (50 night), a California driver license, and pass a background check. FAA certificates in current status are required at appointment; instrument rating and instructor ratings are desirable. Office duties span day to night operations.