Helicopter Pilot - External Load Operations

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Presencial; ZAR 2.480.000 - 4.408.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Per diem

Accommodation during deployments

Challenging projects with specialized-

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 in Welkom, Free State, is seeking an experienced Helicopter Pilot to conduct external load operations in demanding environments. You will plan missions, manage external loads, and ensure compliance with aviation regulations, safety policies, and operational procedures.

The role offers a contract with significant flight hours, per diem and accommodation during deployments, and opportunities to work on challenging projects with a specialized aircraft fleet.

Formación

• 2500 total flight hours, with at least 1000 hours in command.
• Minimum of 500 hours of verified external load operations experience.
• Experience with Bell 205/212/412, AS332 Super Puma, or S-64 Skycrane.
• Instrument Rating and NVG qualification preferred.
• Strong safety culture and regulatory knowledge.

Responsabilidades

• Pilot helicopters safely and efficiently, primarily conducting external load operations.
• Plan and execute flight missions, including route selection and fuel calculations.
• Manage securing and transport of external loads with proper rigging and balance.
• Maintain situational awareness, monitor weather, terrain, and ATC.
• Communicate with ground crews, clients, and air traffic control.
• Perform pre-flight and post-flight inspections and ensure airworthiness.
• Adhere to company policies, regulations, and SMS protocols.
• Troubleshoot and respond to in-flight emergencies and unexpected events.
• Maintain flight logs and operational records.

Conocimientos

Safety consciousness

Decision making

Risk management

Situational awareness

Educación

CPL/ATPL helicopter rating

Instrument Rating

NVG qualification

Descripción del empleo

About the Role Our client, a specialized aviation services provider, is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Helicopter Pilot to conduct external load operations in Welkom, Free State region. This demanding role requires exceptional piloting skills, meticulous attention to safety, and extensive experience in complex lifting operations, such as construction, mining support, or powerline construction. You will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the helicopter, managing the external load, and ensuring adherence to all flight regulations and operational procedures. This position is based in Welkom, Free State, an area known for its industrial and resource-based activities, requiring flexibility and adaptability. This is a contract position offering significant flight hours and operational challenges for a seasoned professional.

Key Responsibilities

• Pilot helicopters safely and efficiently, primarily conducting external load operations.
• Plan and execute flight missions, including route selection, fuel calculations, and risk assessments.
• Manage the securing and safe transport of external loads, ensuring proper rigging and load balance.
• Maintain constant situational awareness, monitoring weather conditions, terrain, and air traffic.
• Communicate effectively with ground crews, clients, and air traffic control.
• Perform pre-flight and post-flight inspections, ensuring the helicopter is airworthy.
• Adhere strictly to all company policies, aviation regulations, and safety management system protocols.
• Troubleshoot and respond to any in-flight emergencies or unexpected situations.
• Maintain accurate flight logs and operational records.
• Contribute to a culture of safety and continuous improvement within the operations team.

Requirements

• Valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) with helicopter rating.
• Minimum of 2500 total flight hours, with at least 1000 hours in command.
• Minimum of 500 hours of verified external load operations experience.
• Experience with specific helicopter types relevant to external load operations (e.g., Bell 205/212/412, AS332 Super Puma, S-64 Skycrane) is essential.
• Instrument Rating and Night Vision Goggle (NVG) qualification is highly preferred.
• Proven ability to manage complex flight operations in challenging environments.
• Excellent decision-making skills and a strong commitment to safety.
• Good physical condition and ability to pass rigorous medical examinations.
• Strong understanding of aviation regulations and risk management.
• Must possess or be eligible to obtain necessary security clearances and permits for operations in Welkom, Free State.

Benefits

• Highly competitive contract rate, reflecting experience and specialized skills.
• Significant flight hours and operational exposure.
• Per diem and accommodation allowances provided during deployments.
• Opportunity to work on diverse and challenging projects.
• Professional development and potential for future contract extensions.
• Work with a fleet of well-maintained specialized aircraft.
• Gain extensive experience in a critical niche of the aviation industry.