Helicopter Pilot

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) offers an attractive benefits package. The benefits package includes competitive compensation, health insurance, prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, short and long term disability and life insurance, as well a strong retirement benefit and savingsoptions. Employees are also eligible for our employer contributed 401a plan after one year of employment. Additional perks such as discounts on wireless carriers, gym memberships, amusement park tickets and much more! Additional information can be found at: DCHR Benefits

This position is located in the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), Special Operations Division, Homeland Security Bureau (HSB). The purpose of this position is to operate a helicopter in the performance and support of aerial surveillance, search and rescue operations, traffic monitoring and reporting as well as the timely dissemination of information to involved law enforcement units.

The incumbent pilots an Airbus AS350B3 helicopter in support of law enforcement duties, including the protection of life and property, prevention and apprehension of law violators.

This Helicopter Pilot position is covered under the National Association of Government Employees (NAGE) bargaining unit and you may be required to pay an agency fee through direct payroll deductions.

The incumbent will be responsible for the following:

• The incumbent in command of the aircraft is the final authority to the safe operation of the aircraft, interpreting weather reports from the National Weather Service and other weather reporting services to determine altitude, deviation from the planned route and determining a flight route to ensure safety.
• Assists ground units and provides airborne support for missions including patrol, aerial search and rescue missions, surveillance and information gathering.
• Operates as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) for high-risk and dynamic aviation missions, providing critical air support for real-time tactical surveillance, fleeing suspect tracking, executive protection, major event overwatch (such as inaugurations and marches), search and rescue operations in both urban and wooded environments, and aerial assistance for perimeter security and crowd control during large-scale public events.
• Executes flights in complex Class B, Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA) and Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ) airspace with enhanced security protocols, FAA coordination, and interagency communication.
• Conducts flight missions during day and night-time conditions to search for subjects; identifies police locations; and searches for suspects and critical missing persons. Utilizes Night Vision Goggles (NVG) and Forward-Looking Infrared (FLIR) camera systems to conduct operations in total darkness and/or limited visibility environments.
• Transports personnel and equipment as required for specialized missions, including Emergency Response Team (ERT), K-9, Dive Team, Crime Scene Search, or other departmental personnel as needed.
• Provides live video downlink to the Joint Operations Command Center (JOCC) or other command centers as well as small size mobile receivers.
• Maintains written and computerized flight logs and pilot records in compliance with applicable regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), unit standard operating procedures, and other agencies as necessary.
• Reads and keeps abreast of publications and airworthiness directives from the FAA. Makes necessary adjustments to helicopter operations based on information and directives. Provides direct support to vehicle pursuits from the aircraft, which allows supervisors to manage the pursuit under departmental guidelines. Conducts aerial searches of the Washington, DC area to locate suspects that have gone in hiding in a particular area.
• Periodically conducts river and traffic observations of major thoroughfares to include, snow emergencies, highway accidents, utility road work, waterways, etc. Observes and reports roadway conditions that are severely impeding traffic. When app ropriate contacts the Department of Public Works and other local agencies or jurisdictions to advise of traffic impediments.
• Works with law enforcement officials from other District and Federal government agencies, state and local jurisdictions. Serves as a liaison with air traffic control facilities and the Transportation Security Administration as necessary.
• Subject to testify in a court of law.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

1. Criminal background check;
2. Traffic record check (as applicable);
3. Consumer credit check (as applicable);
4. Reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol test; and
5. Post-accident or incident drug and alcohol test.