Become a Helicopter Pilot with the Mississippi National Guard
Are you a skilled aviator looking for a career that combines high-stakes mission success with community service? The Mississippi National Guard is currently recruiting a Helicopter Pilot to join the MS AVCRAD team in Gulfport, Mississippi. This role offers not just a competitive salary, but the chance to operate advanced rotary-wing aircraft in support of vital federal and state missions.
Job Responsibilities
As a GS-12 Helicopter Pilot, your primary duties include:
- Piloting diverse rotary-wing aircraft (e.g., AH-64, CH-47, UH-60).
- Conducting reconnaissance, test flights, and search-and-rescue operations.
- Performing maintenance operational checks to ensure airworthiness.
- Planning missions, analyzing weather data, and conducting crew briefings.
- Serving on aviation boards and contributing to standardization and safety programs.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must:
- Maintain active membership in the Mississippi National Guard.
- Possess FAA certifications or military aviation ratings.
- Demonstrate at least 36 months of specialized experience in aviation.
- Pass a military flight physical and drug screening.
- Secure and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Salary Overview
| Grade | Salary Range (Per Year) |
|---|---|
| GS-12 | $110,871 - $144,136 |
Benefits
Employees in this position benefit from federal service entitlements, including robust retirement planning, health coverage, and access to unique military aviation training programs.
Application Tips
- Focus on Experience: Clearly outline your flight hours and mission types in your resume.
- PDF Only: Your resume must be in PDF format. Do not use a mobile device for submission.
- Be Honest: Do not copy the job description into your resume; provide a unique account of your own career milestones.
Serving as a Helicopter Pilot for the Mississippi National Guard is a rewarding path for those who seek to push their aviation skills to the limit while serving the public. If you meet the qualifications, submit your application today and prepare to take command.
Why This Helicopter Pilot Job Matters
Take command of the skies in Gulfport: The Mississippi National Guard is seeking highly skilled Helicopter Pilots for a dynamic role in federal aviation.
Helicopter Pilot Job Overview
The Mississippi National Guard invites experienced aviators to join the MS AVCRAD as a Helicopter Pilot. This Title 32 Excepted Service position is a critical role responsible for operating rotary-wing aircraft in support of various military missions. From reconnaissance and search-and-rescue operations to essential cargo and passenger transport, you will play a vital part in regional readiness. This role requires active military membership and provides an opportunity to utilize your pilot certifications in a challenging, mission-focused environment.
Requirements for Helicopter Pilot
- Active membership in the Mississippi National Guard.
- Possession of valid FAA pilot certificates OR military aviation certifications.
- Minimum of 36 months of specialized experience in aviation.
- Current military flight physical and medical clearance.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Valid state driver's license for government vehicle operation.
- Completion of a pre-employment drug screening.
- Compliance with Lautenberg Amendment standards.
Preferred Qualifications for Helicopter Pilot
- Undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
- Advanced experience in main-frame military aircraft such as AH-64, CH-47, or UH-60 series.
- Proven track record in instructing other pilots in complex mission-specific tasks.
- Experience in aviation unit quality control and safety management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal employee health and retirement benefits
- ✓Competitive salary range
- ✓Professional growth and leadership opportunities
- ✓Access to comprehensive military aviation training facilities
- ✓Contribution to national and state-level emergency response
💡 How to Apply Helicopter Pilot Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Helicopter Pilot Job
- Log in or create a USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume in PDF format (avoid copying job descriptions).
- Ensure resume includes salary, hours worked, and specific dates of employment.
- Gather supporting documents: FAA certifications, DA 759 flight records, and transcripts.
- Complete the online Occupational Questionnaire.
- Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Avoid plagiarism: Write your resume in your own words; do not copy from the job announcement.
- Be specific: Clearly describe how your experience meets the 'specialized experience' criteria listed in the announcement.
- Document your flight hours: Ensure you have your DA 759 or equivalent record ready to upload.
- Check your status: Use the USAJOBS dashboard to monitor your application progress.
- Use a desktop computer: Avoid using mobile devices when uploading documents to ensure file integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is military membership required for this position?
Yes. This is a Title 32 Excepted Service position, which mandates that the selectee maintains a compatible military assignment within the National Guard.
What kind of aircraft will I be flying?
Duties involve operating various rotary-wing aircraft including the AH-64, CH-47, UH-60, and LUH-72 series, depending on unit assignment.
Can I substitute education for the flight experience?
No, there is no substitution of education for the required specialized aviation experience.
Job from Army National Guard Units
The National Guard is the oldest component of the U.S. Armed Forces. Serving both the nation and the local community, it provides a unique opportunity to defend our borders and assist our neighbors during emergencies. By joining the MS AVCRAD, you are stepping into a legacy of professionalism and excellence.