Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an ever-evolving world, the importance of Aeromedical Evacuation Pilots cannot be overstated.

As global health emergencies rise, so does the need for highly trained professionals who can navigate, operate, and ensure the safe evacuation of patients in critical medical conditions.

So, what exactly is expected from an Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricate dynamics of aeromedical evacuation,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot Duties and Responsibilities

Aeromedical Evacuation Pilots are responsible for the safe and efficient transport of patients and medical personnel in emergency situations.

These professionals must have expert knowledge of aviation and emergency medical procedures.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Operating aircraft in accordance with military or civil aviation regulations
• Performing pre-flight inspections and checking aircraft systems for malfunctions
• Collaborating with medical personnel to understand patient conditions and determine the best methods for transport
• Communicating with air traffic control and ground support to coordinate take-offs, landings and flight paths
• Developing flight plans considering weather conditions, aircraft performance, and medical requirements
• Administering in-flight care to patients under the direction of medical personnel, as necessary
• Performing emergency procedures during flight if required
• Maintaining accurate flight logs and records of patient transport
• Performing post-flight checks, reporting and rectifying any identified issues
• Continually updating knowledge of aviation technology and medical evacuation techniques

 

Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and highly skilled Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot to join our team.

The Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot will be responsible for operating aircraft for aeromedical evacuation missions, transporting critically ill or injured patients to medical facilities.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of aeromedical procedures, and possess excellent judgement and decision-making skills.

A significant part of this role involves ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of medical personnel and patients, adhering to all aviation regulations and standards.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct pre-flight checks and plan flights according to weather conditions and patient requirements.
• Operate aircraft during aeromedical evacuation missions, ensuring patient safety and comfort.
• Coordinate with medical staff to understand patient conditions and requirements during flight.
• Comply with all aviation regulations and standards, maintaining updated knowledge of changes and amendments.
• Perform emergency procedures when necessary, maintaining composure under pressure.
• Complete flight logs and other documentation as required.
• Conduct regular maintenance checks and ensure aircraft cleanliness and readiness.
• Participate in training and development programs to enhance skills and stay current with new practices and equipment.

 

Qualifications

• Commercial Pilot’s License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) is essential.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience as a pilot, with prior experience in aeromedical evacuation highly desirable.
• Strong knowledge of aeromedical procedures and aviation regulations and standards.
• Ability to remain calm and composed under pressure, especially during emergency situations.
• Excellent communication and team collaboration skills.
• Physical fitness and ability to pass a medical examination.
• Availability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot
• Work Environment: This role requires both indoor and outdoor work, with potential exposure to adverse weather conditions. The role also involves flying at high altitudes and potential exposure to emergency medical situations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief Pilot or Director of Operations.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and any applicable certifications to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot Do?

An Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot plays a crucial role in emergency and health services, primarily working for military, government agencies, or private medical evacuation services.

They are responsible for piloting aircraft to evacuate and transport critically ill or injured patients to a medical facility.

Their duties involve coordinating with the medical team aboard the aircraft to ensure patient safety during transportation.

It is their responsibility to review and plan flight paths, taking into account weather conditions and the urgency of the medical situation.

They must operate their aircraft under often stressful and time-sensitive circumstances, requiring precision and quick decision-making skills.

Aeromedical Evacuation Pilots also have to ensure that their aircraft is in excellent working order, which includes pre-flight inspections and coordinating regular maintenance.

They also have to communicate with air traffic control and ground services, maintain detailed flight logs, and comply with all aviation regulations.

Their priority at all times is the safety of their crew and the patients they are transporting.

 

Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot Qualifications and Skills

An Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot should possess a unique set of skills and qualifications that enable them to perform their role efficiently and safely.

These include:

• Extensive training and certification in flight school, as well as specific training for aeromedical evacuation missions, which includes handling complex emergency situations, patient care, and aviation medicine.
• Physical fitness and strong health to withstand the physical demands of flying, including coping with G forces, fatigue and irregular working hours.
• Exceptional flying skills, including proficiency in navigation, flight planning, aircraft systems, aerodynamics, and emergency procedures.
• Ability to think critically and make quick decisions under pressure, especially in emergency situations where a patient’s life may be at risk.
• Strong communication skills to liaise with ground crews, medical teams and air traffic control, and to keep passengers informed during flights.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to quickly and accurately identify and resolve issues that may arise during flight, such as mechanical problems or changes in weather conditions.
• High level of emotional resilience and stress management skills to cope with intense and often stressful situations.
• Knowledge of medical procedures and protocols, including basic patient care and life support procedures.

 

Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot Experience Requirements

Candidates for the role of an Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot typically require a substantial amount of flight experience, often with a minimum of 1,000 to 2,000 flight hours.

This experience can be obtained through military service, commercial aviation, or other piloting roles.

They must also possess a commercial pilot’s license and often need additional ratings for instruments and multi-engine aircrafts.

This requires completing an FAA-approved flight training program or aviation school, where they gain both theoretical knowledge and practical flight experience.

For entry-level positions, candidates may have been previously involved in roles such as Co-pilot, Flight Instructor or Air Traffic Controller, where they gained relevant experience and honed their piloting skills.

Candidates with more than 5 years of flight experience often have served in roles like Chief Pilot or Flight Operations Manager, where they have developed leadership and organizational skills.

The nature of Aeromedical Evacuation also demands experience or training in emergency medical procedures, as these pilots often work in high-stress situations to transport critically ill or injured patients.

Those with over 10 years of experience may be ready for senior or managerial positions, such as Director of Flight Operations, where they would oversee all aspects of an organization’s flight operations, including the planning, coordination, and execution of aeromedical evacuations.

 

Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot Education and Training Requirements

Aeromedical Evacuation Pilots are typically required to have a bachelor’s degree in aviation, aeronautical engineering, or a related field.

The initial step is obtaining a private pilot’s license, which involves a minimum of 40 hours of flight time, with at least 20 hours of flight with an instructor and 10 hours of solo flight time.

Following this, they must obtain a commercial pilot’s license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Commercial pilot training includes 250 hours of flight experience, passing a written exam, and demonstrating flying ability in an actual aircraft during a check-ride with an FAA examiner.

In addition to these basic requirements, an Instrument Rating (IR) is necessary for pilots intending to fly under instrument flight rules (IFR), typically necessary for aeromedical evacuation operations.

Most importantly, they need specialized training in aeromedical evacuation procedures, which can be obtained through military service or specialized civilian training programs.

While not always required, a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certification may be beneficial as it allows pilots to gain flight hours while being paid to instruct others, which is valuable for those aiming to progress in their aviation careers.

Furthermore, aeromedical evacuation pilots must keep their skills and qualifications up to date with regular training and re-certification as required by the FAA.

Finally, prior experience in emergency medical service or medical evacuation roles, or a background in nursing or paramedicine, can be beneficial for understanding the unique needs and challenges of aeromedical evacuation operations.

 

Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot Salary Expectations

An Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot can expect to earn an average salary of $78,000 (USD) per year.

The actual income can significantly vary depending on the number of flight hours, level of experience, qualifications, and the employer’s budget.

Geographical location also plays a crucial role in determining the salary of an Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot.

 

Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot need?

Aeromedical Evacuation Pilots need to possess excellent flying skills and should be adept at operating aircraft in all types of weather conditions.

They should also have strong decision-making skills, particularly in high-pressure situations.

Effective communication is critical as pilots must coordinate with medical staff, ground crew, and air traffic control.

They should have good physical health and stamina to handle the stress and rigours of the job.

 

Do Aeromedical Evacuation Pilots need a degree?

Most Aeromedical Evacuation Pilots need to have a degree in aviation or a related field.

They also need to have a pilot’s license and specific training for medical evacuation operations.

Some pilots may be required to have further qualifications, such as an instrument rating or a commercial pilot’s license.

 

What should you look for in an Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot’s resume?

In addition to the appropriate educational qualifications and licensing, look for experience in piloting aircraft under varying conditions.

They should also have experience or training in aeromedical evacuation or related fields.

They should be experienced in emergency procedures and have a good understanding of aviation regulations.

Additional certifications, such as in first aid or crisis management, can be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot?

A good Aeromedical Evacuation Pilot should have excellent stress-management skills and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure.

They should be compassionate and patient, with strong communication skills to liaise effectively with the medical team and patients.

A high level of physical fitness and resilience is also important due to the demands of the job.

 

Is it difficult to hire Aeromedical Evacuation Pilots?

Hiring Aeromedical Evacuation Pilots can be challenging, as the role requires a specific set of skills and qualifications, and the job can be physically and emotionally demanding.

It can be helpful to offer competitive compensation and benefits, as well as opportunities for ongoing training and professional development.

 

Conclusion

And so, we conclude.

Today, we’ve illuminated the role of an aeromedical evacuation pilot.

And here’s the thing:

It’s not just about flying aircraft.

It’s about navigating the skies to save lives, one mission at a time.

With our informative aeromedical evacuation pilot job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready for the journey.

But why end the exploration here?

Reach new heights with our job description generator. It’s your companion tool for creating precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Bear in mind:

Every mission you fly is a lifeline to someone.

Let’s make a difference. Together.

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