VFR Lead Pilot

PHI Health, LLC; Sierra Vista (AZ); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-on bonus up to $50,000

Annual safety bonus

Competitive base pay and shift bonuses

Job summary

PHI Health, LLC in Sierra Vista, AZ, is seeking a Lead Pilot to operate in a 24-hour VFR/NVG cockpit, ensuring compliance and skilled staffing. The role includes coordinating operations, staffing, and maintaining safety across missions.

Applicants should have commercial helicopter ratings, a First Class medical certificate, and exceed 2,000 flight hours. A sign-on bonus of up to $50,000 is offered, along with competitive pay and benefits.

Qualifications

• 2,000 total flight hours, 1,500 in helicopter, 1,000 PIC in helicopter, 500 turbine hours.
• Weight restriction of 235 lbs. or less.
• Must pass pre-placement physical exam, functional-capacity exam, drug screening, and background check.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a skilled pilot staff in accordance with regulations.
• Coordinate efficient operation of the EMS base.
• Supervise pilots for professional development and compliance.
• Prepare and distribute monthly schedules and manage shifts.
• Participate in safety meetings and maintain flight safety.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Customer-service skills

Education

Commercial and Instrument Helicopter Ratings

First Class Medical certificate

Job description

Join our life-saving team in Sierra Vista, AZ and take advantage of a sign‑on bonus up to $50,000. PHI Health is seeking exceptional pilots to deliver critical care with speed, precision, and unwavering commitment. You will be at the forefront of life‑saving missions, operating from the cockpit and making a profound impact on patient outcomes.

Job Summary

Lead Pilot duties for PHI Air Medical in a 24‑hour VFR/NVG cockpit with an IS-only instrument rating. The successful applicant will work under the supervision of the Air Medical Base Supervisor, Business Operations Manager, Area Operations Manager, Director of Operations, Chief Pilot, and Scheduling Manager to maintain a competent and compliant pilot staff.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a skilled pilot staff in accordance with the General Operations Manual and FAA regulations.
• Coordinate business planning, marketing, and efficient operation of the EMS base.
• Supervise pilots for professional development, assessments, counseling, and disciplinary action.
• Assist with scheduling, occupational health compliance, safety training, and recurrent training arrangements.
• Prepare and distribute monthly schedules, manage work‑over assignments, sick call, vacation, and open‑shift coverage.
• Ensure quick coverage of open shifts when off‑duty or unavailable pilots cannot serve.
• Manage approval of bonus and expense voucher requests and audit base bills for payment.
• Guarantee accurate, neat, and timely submission of all paperwork and reports.
• Enforce compliance with FAA regulations and company policies by all supervised personnel.
• Keep Area and Maintenance Managers informed of aircraft operational status.
• Participate in safety meetings and assist aids in maintaining flight safety, a safe workplace, and safety audits.
• Support the Safety Management System, Destination Zero, and other safety campaigns.
• Provide safe, efficient, courteous, and reliable service to both internal and external customers.

Qualifications

• Commercial and Instrument Helicopter Ratings.
• First Class Medical certificate.
• CAMTS flight-hour requirements: 2,000 total, 1,500 in helicopter, 1,000 PIC in helicopter, 500 turbine, 100 unaided night (or 50 unaided + 100 NVG).
• Weight restriction of 235 lbs. or less.
• Strong communication and customer‑service skills; acceptance by customer/PHI management.
• Pass pre‑placement physical exam, functional‑capacity exam (including lift 100 pounds), drug screening, and background check.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base pay, shift bonuses, and shift incentives.
• Annual safety bonus and employee bonus.
• Additional benefits and incentive programs.

Schedule / Location

Regular 7/7 schedule with day‑of‑week shifts that may change. Must reside within a one‑hour commute of the base.

Core Competencies

• Safe: Zero accident commitment via Destination Zero.
• Efficient: Responsible resource use for productivity and profitability.
• Quality: Commitment to excellent performance and reliability.
• Service: Dedication to customers, communities, and teammates.

Company Overview

PHI Health is the leading air ambulance provider in the United States, transporting more than 22,000 patients annually from over 80 bases nationwide. With a record of safety excellence and a comprehensive training program, PHI continues to set industry standards in aviation and medical care.

EEO Statement

PHI, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Disclaimer

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed. They are not exhaustive and do not list all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.