Aircrew Officer - Search and Rescue

About CHC Helicopter

CHC Helicopter is recognized for delivering exceptional helicopter services that enable clients to reach remote and demanding locations safely and reliably worldwide. With over 75 years of experience, CHC is dedicated to safety, innovation, and operational excellence across offshore energy, emergency medical, and search and rescue sectors.

Our culture is built on core values:

• Accountability: Taking ownership of our actions and outcomes.
• Collaboration: Fostering transparency, trust, and continuous improvement.
• Care: Ensuring a safe and sustainable workplace.
• Integrity: Upholding respect and ethical behavior.
• Excellence: Delivering quality services and leading industry standards.

Role Overview

The Aircrew Officer plays a crucial technical role, skilled in performing Search and Rescue (SAR), Emergency Medical Services (EMS), rappelling, sling loading, passenger transportation, and winching operations. Reporting to the aircraft captain, this position involves the safe and effective management of the rear cabin during flights in both onshore and offshore environments.

This role often involves responding to emergency situations under high-pressure and potentially traumatic conditions. The position demands versatility to meet client needs across multiple contracts that feature diverse work practices, including day and night shifts year-round. Maintenance of proficiency through training, physical fitness, and resilience is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain dual qualifications as Aircrew Officer and Rescue Crew Officer.
• Comply with all company policies, procedures, and relevant aviation regulations.
• Ensure safe flight operations according to company manuals.
• Assist in managing the aircraft's rear cabin and utility hoist operations during flights.
• Conduct flight safety briefings effectively.
• Operate and maintain expertise in SAR equipment safely and reliably.
• Perform pre-flight and post-flight inspections along with necessary documentation.
• Conduct aircraft preparation and post-flight care.
• Report operational and maintenance safety issues and assist in replacing unserviceable equipment.
• Provide first aid under demanding conditions when needed.
• Be available for travel to all CHC bases, including training and deployment sites.
• Maintain physical fitness to meet company standards periodically.
• Champion a strong safety culture by challenging unsafe behaviors and encouraging improvements.
• Undertake additional duties as required to support operational needs.

Qualifications and Skills

Essential:

• Current CASA Class II medical certificate.
• Current certification in Provide Advanced Resuscitation and Oxygen (HLTAID015).
• Current Provide First Aid certification (HLTAID011).
• Flight Radiotelephone Operators License (valid).
• CASA-approved hoist endorsement under CASR Part 133/138.
• SLS Bronze Medallion or Certificate II in Public Safety (Aquatic Rescue).
• Class 1 Driver’s License.

Desirable:

• Certificate IV in Aviation (CASA compliance).
• Experience in SAR and EMS operations.
• Training in Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET) and Emergency Breathing Systems (EBS).
• Qualification and experience with Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS) and night operations.
• Experience using FLIR imagery systems.

Experience and Attributes

• Minimum age of 18 years at time of selection.
• At least 500 flight hours in aircrew roles.
• Ability to pass company physical fitness evaluations.
• Strong communication, planning, and organizational abilities.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with relevant IT systems.
• Capacity to multitask and prioritize in urgent, complex scenarios.
• Commitment to safety as a primary value.
• Self-motivated to maintain physical and mental wellbeing.
• Adaptable, collaborative, and respectful team player.
• Resilient under pressure and able to work independently with minimal supervision.

Eligibility

Candidates must hold the legal right to work in Australia and comply with clearance requirements relevant to the position.

Diversity and Inclusion

CHC Helicopter welcomes diverse applicants, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, all genders, LGBTI+ community members, mature-aged workers, people with disabilities, and individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Recruitment Process

Applications are encouraged early as interviews may commence and vacancies may close once suitable candidates are found. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

Additional Information

The position involves exposure to potentially stressful and demanding tasks in emergency situations, requiring considerable physical and mental resilience. Aircrew Officers are expected to travel among various locations and complete ongoing proficiency training. Recruitment agencies are not engaged for this vacancy; unsolicited agency applications will not be accepted.