Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of increasing environmental concerns, the demand for Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilots is on the rise.

As we push to conserve our natural resources, the call for skilled pilots who can navigate, monitor, and protect our wildlife habitats grows louder.

But what exactly is expected from a Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager creating a profile for the ideal candidate,
• Or simply interested in the fascinating field of wildlife conservation from the air,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot Duties and Responsibilities

Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilots use their aviation skills to support conservation efforts, wildlife management, and ecological research.

Their responsibilities often involve surveying wildlife populations, tracking animals, and assisting in firefighting and rescue operations in remote or hard-to-reach environments.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Flying helicopters in a safe and efficient manner, adhering to all aviation regulations
• Conducting aerial surveys to monitor and record wildlife populations and movements
• Assisting in the capture and relocation of animals as part of wildlife management programs
• Transporting scientists, conservationists, and other team members to remote locations for research or conservation activities
• Performing emergency operations, such as firefighting or rescue missions in wilderness areas
• Assisting in the implementation of habitat management plans, such as controlled burns or reseeding operations
• Maintaining regular communication with ground teams and air traffic control
• Performing routine maintenance checks on the helicopter and reporting any technical issues
• Mapping flight paths and documenting observations or activities for future reference

 

Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot to support our wildlife preservation efforts.

The successful candidate will operate helicopters to assist in the management, capture, transport, and tracking of wildlife.

The ideal candidate will possess an unwavering commitment to conservation efforts, coupled with extensive helicopter flying experience, preferably in diverse terrains.

 

Responsibilities

• Operate helicopters for wildlife management purposes, including aerial surveys, animal capture and transport, and monitoring of wildlife populations.
• Perform flight planning and risk assessments, taking into account weather conditions, aircraft maintenance status, and flight regulations.
• Conduct regular maintenance checks and basic repairs on the helicopter to ensure flight safety.
• Work closely with wildlife biologists, providing aerial support for research and conservation projects.
• Document flight logs, wildlife observations, and any unusual occurrences during flights.
• Comply with all safety procedures and regulations set by the Federal Aviation Administration and the organization.
• Assist in emergency rescue operations as needed.
• Participate in continuous training to stay current with changes in aviation technology and wildlife conservation methods.

 

Qualifications

• Commercial Helicopter Pilot License required, with Instrument Rating preferred.
• Minimum of 500 hours of helicopter flight time, with experience in wildlife management or related fields highly desirable.
• Knowledge of wildlife species and habitats, and an understanding of conservation principles.
• Strong observational skills, with the ability to spot and identify wildlife from the air.
• Physical fitness and the ability to handle challenging flight conditions.
• Exceptional communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team of professionals.
• Strong commitment to safety and adherence to aviation regulations.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuous training and professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot
• Work Environment: Field work, including remote locations and challenging weather conditions. Regular travel is required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Conservation Program Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $90,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• 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 a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot Do?

A Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot primarily works in the field of environmental conservation and protection, using their flying skills to aid in the study, monitoring, and management of wildlife and their habitats.

These pilots often work for government agencies, conservation organizations, or private companies, undertaking a variety of unique tasks.

Their duties often involve aerial surveying of wildlife populations, tracking and monitoring animal migration patterns, and assisting in the relocation of certain animal species when necessary.

They also play a significant role in protecting wildlife by conducting patrols to prevent poaching, illegal logging, or other activities that harm the environment.

They may also be tasked with performing emergency rescues of stranded or injured animals.

Part of their job can involve dropping supplies or equipment to remote field teams, assisting in scientific research by collecting aerial data, or supporting firefighting efforts in forested areas to preserve wildlife habitats.

Moreover, these pilots are responsible for maintaining the safe operation of their aircraft, conducting pre-flight checks, planning flight paths, and coordinating with ground teams to ensure the success of conservation missions.

Their unique role requires them to have not only excellent piloting skills but also a deep understanding of wildlife behavior and conservation principles.

They often work in challenging weather conditions and tough terrains, which requires resilience, resourcefulness, and a commitment to wildlife conservation.

 

Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot Qualifications and Skills

A Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot should have the qualifications and skills that align with the job role, such as:

• Flying skills for navigating helicopters in various weather conditions and terrains, often including remote and environmentally sensitive areas
• Good knowledge of wildlife biology and environmental conservation to understand the requirements of wildlife spotting, tracking and management
• Interpersonal and communication skills to effectively work with ground crew, conservation officers, and researchers, and to relay important information effectively
• Observation skills to spot wildlife from the air and monitor their behavior or movement
• Physical fitness to manage the physical demands of flying, including long hours in the cockpit and potential emergency situations
• Problem-solving and decision-making skills to handle emergency situations, technical problems, and unexpected wildlife behaviours
• Adequate technical skills to perform maintenance checks on the helicopter and resolve minor technical issues
• Regulatory compliance knowledge to adhere to federal aviation regulations and environmental protection laws

 

Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot Experience Requirements

Entry-level Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilots typically require at least 2 to 3 years of experience, often acquired through various piloting roles or aviation training programs.

These professionals gain valuable experience in handling helicopters, learning basic aviation rules, and developing a keen understanding of flight safety protocols.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience may have a solid foundation in handling a variety of aircraft, including helicopters.

They may have also gained exposure to conservation efforts, wildlife management, or related environmental programs.

Those with more than 5 years of experience have usually accumulated significant flight hours, often in challenging terrains and weather conditions.

They may have direct experience with wildlife tracking, aerial surveying, or working on coordinated efforts with ground-based conservation teams.

Experienced pilots often have a deep understanding of conservation principles, wildlife behavior, and ecosystem dynamics.

They may also have a background in working with different wildlife species and have developed an aptitude for identifying animals from the air.

In addition to flight experience, these professionals may also have leadership or team coordination experience, making them suitable for supervisory roles in the field.

Their job experience may also include liaising with conservation authorities, performing emergency rescue operations, and facilitating scientific research.

 

Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot Education and Training Requirements

Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilots typically require a high school diploma or equivalent as a base educational requirement.

The most critical requirement is obtaining a commercial helicopter pilot license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which includes passing a knowledge test, demonstrating flight proficiency, and meeting minimum flight hour requirements.

A degree or coursework in aviation, conservation science, environmental science, or wildlife management may be beneficial.

Since this role demands a unique blend of piloting and ecological skills, additional training or certification in wildlife management or environmental conservation can prove advantageous.

This can include courses in ecology, wildlife conservation, habitat assessment, and the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in conservation efforts.

Experience or training in flying helicopters in challenging environments, such as remote, rugged, or forested areas, may also be necessary given the nature of the work.

Lastly, many employers appreciate pilots who continue to update their skills and knowledge through ongoing training and professional development in both aviation and conservation sectors.

 

Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot Salary Expectations

A Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot can expect an average salary of around $77,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can significantly vary depending on factors such as the pilot’s level of experience, specific location, and the employing organization.

In addition, the complexity of the tasks performed and the type of helicopter flown can also influence the salary.

 

Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot need?

A Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot should have excellent flying skills with a special emphasis on low-altitude navigation and precision flying.

They should also have a good understanding of wildlife behavior and conservation principles.

This role requires good decision-making skills, ability to work under pressure, and excellent communication skills to liaise effectively with ground teams.

 

Do Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilots need a degree?

While not always a requirement, having a degree in a relevant field such as biology, environmental science, or wildlife management can be beneficial.

Regardless, all Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilots must possess a commercial pilot’s license and often require a specific number of flight hours.

Additional qualifications like a sling-load or long-line certification may also be needed.

 

What should you look for in a Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot resume?

Look for evidence of relevant flight experience, particularly in low-altitude and precision flying.

Any additional certifications, such as sling-load or long-line, are valuable.

Experience in wildlife management or conservation projects is a significant plus.

Also, check for a commercial pilot’s license and ensure they have the requisite flight hours.

 

What qualities make a good Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot?

A good Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot is patient, observant, and has a deep respect for wildlife.

They should be comfortable working in remote and potentially harsh environments.

Good navigational skills, decision-making ability, and precision flying skills are also critical.

Finally, they should have a passion for conservation and a commitment to wildlife protection.

 

What are the daily duties of a Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot?

Daily duties may vary significantly based on the current project.

Typical tasks may include surveying wildlife populations from the air, tracking and monitoring tagged animals, transporting teams or equipment to remote locations, and assisting with wildlife management efforts such as controlled burns or reforestation efforts.

They may also need to liaise with ground teams to coordinate efforts and report findings.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve soared through the skies to discover what being a Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot truly entails.

And guess what?

It’s not just about manning the controls.

It’s about safeguarding our planet’s biodiversity, one flight at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot job description template and real-world examples, you’re primed to take off.

But why touch down now?

Soar higher with our job description generator. It’s your launchpad to precision-crafted job listings or refining your resume for the perfect landing.

Remember:

Every flight is a mission for the greater good.

Let’s protect our planet. Together.

How to Become a Conservation and Wildlife Management Helicopter Pilot (Complete Guide)

Time Transformers: The Most Flexible Jobs in Today’s Market

The Human Firewall: Jobs That AI Can’t Breach

The Stress List: Jobs That Demand Everything You’ve Got and More!

The Dream Jobs: Enjoyable Careers That Feel Like a Day Off