Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced energy sector, the role of offshore oil support helicopter pilots has never been more crucial.

As offshore oil exploration and extraction operations continue to grow, so does the demand for skilled helicopter pilots who can provide essential support and ensure safety in often challenging environments.

But what exactly is expected from an offshore oil support helicopter pilot?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring pilot looking to understand the specifics of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the operational dynamics of offshore oil helicopter piloting,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we provide a tailored offshore oil support helicopter pilot job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot Duties and Responsibilities

Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilots are responsible for transporting personnel and equipment to and from offshore drilling platforms, conducting surveillance and providing emergency support when necessary.

The work can be challenging due to the often harsh and unpredictable weather conditions.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Flying fixed-wing aircraft or helicopters to transport personnel and equipment to offshore oil and gas platforms
• Carrying out pre-flight checks on the navigation systems, weather, and safety systems of the aircraft
• Monitoring the performance of the aircraft during flights and making necessary adjustments
• Communicating with air traffic control and platform personnel for takeoff, landing and during flight
• Ensuring that all cargo is properly loaded, secured, and within the weight limits of the aircraft
• Carrying out emergency procedures when necessary, such as during technical malfunctions or in unfavorable weather conditions
• Recording details of flights in logbooks, including any incidents or issues
• Conducting surveillance of the offshore platform and surrounding area for safety and security
• Providing emergency support, such as search and rescue services, when required
• Regularly updating skills and knowledge, including on safety procedures and new navigation tools

 

Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a highly-skilled and experienced Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the safe transportation of offshore staff to and from oil rig platforms, performing pre-flight checks, and maintaining helicopter equipment.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of helicopter operations, navigational technology, and significant experience in similar roles.

Safety and precision are of utmost importance in this role.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct pre-flight checks and inspections of the helicopter
• Transport offshore staff to and from oil rig platforms safely and efficiently
• Navigate using onboard instruments and visual references
• Coordinate with air traffic control and ground support
• Monitor and manage fuel usage
• Perform emergency procedures when necessary
• Adhere to all aviation regulations and safety standards
• Document flight logs and maintenance records
• Conduct post-flight checks and report any issues or incidents

 

Qualifications

• Commercial Pilot’s License (CPL) with a helicopter rating
• Instrument rating (IR) is desirable
• Previous experience as an offshore helicopter pilot, ideally in an oil and gas environment
• Knowledge of helicopter operating procedures and emergency response techniques
• Excellent communication and decision-making skills
• Ability to work under pressure in challenging weather conditions
• Physical fitness and ability to pass regular medical examinations

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot
• Work Environment: This role involves work in a helicopter cockpit and exposure to various weather conditions. Regular travel to offshore oil rig platforms is required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief Pilot or Operations Manager.
• Salary: The salary is commensurate with 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 in 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 an Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot Do?

Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilots are responsible for transporting staff and equipment between the mainland and offshore oil rigs or platforms.

These pilots must be experienced in flying helicopters in a variety of weather conditions, as offshore operations can often be subject to adverse weather.

They ensure that all safety procedures are closely followed during flights, including pre-flight inspections, safe take-offs and landings, and in-flight monitoring of the helicopter systems.

They must also communicate effectively with air traffic control and the offshore platform staff.

The pilot’s role also includes ensuring that the helicopter is maintained according to manufacturers’ specifications and aviation regulations.

This involves regular checks and maintenance of aircraft systems, maintaining accurate flight logs, and reporting any technical issues or malfunctions promptly.

Transporting cargo is another crucial part of an Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot’s role.

They must ensure that all cargo is properly loaded, secured and unloaded, and that cargo weight is accurately calculated and balanced for safe flight.

In case of emergency situations, the pilot is responsible for conducting search and rescue missions or evacuating staff from the offshore platform.

As such, they must be trained in emergency procedures and first aid.

Overall, Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilots play a key role in ensuring the smooth operation of offshore oil platforms by providing safe and reliable transport of personnel and equipment.

 

Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot Qualifications and Skills

An Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot must possess a unique set of skills and qualifications to ensure the safety and efficiency of their missions, which include:

• Pilot certification and relevant flight experience, particularly with flying helicopters in offshore or marine environments.
• Strong communication skills to effectively coordinate with ground control and other aircraft, as well as to relay important information to passengers and crew members.
• Technical knowledge of helicopter mechanics and electronics to manage and troubleshoot equipment issues and perform regular maintenance checks.
• Physical fitness and stamina to endure long hours of flying, often under challenging and stressful conditions.
• Knowledge of weather patterns and the ability to make critical decisions based on changing weather conditions.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness to operate the helicopter safely and efficiently.
• Problem-solving skills and quick thinking to handle emergencies or unexpected situations during flight.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and procedures, both in general aviation and specific to offshore oil operations.

 

Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot Experience Requirements

To qualify as an Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot, candidates are typically required to have substantial flight experience, often ranging from 1000 to 2000 hours of total flight time.

This should include significant time spent in helicopters, with a particular emphasis on multi-engine, instrument flight rules (IFR) operations.

Entry-level candidates may have gained their flight hours through military service, civilian flight training, or a combination of both.

They might also have experience in other relevant aviation roles such as flight instructors or emergency medical service pilots.

Those with 3 to 5 years of experience as helicopter pilots are often preferred for offshore oil support roles, as these positions require a high level of skill and precision.

Some companies may require pilots to have specific experience in offshore, mountainous, or other challenging environments.

Pilots with more than 5 years of experience may also have additional qualifications, such as an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license or a helicopter instrument rating.

These pilots are often tasked with leadership responsibilities and may also have experience training or mentoring other pilots.

In addition to these experience requirements, offshore oil support helicopter pilots must have a thorough understanding of the latest navigation technology and must be physically fit to handle the rigorous demands of the job.

As safety is a top priority in this role, pilots must also have a clean flight record and a strong commitment to following all safety protocols and procedures.

 

Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot Education and Training Requirements

To become an Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot, individuals must first gain a private pilot license (PPL) which includes both theoretical and practical training.

The theoretical component includes subjects such as meteorology, navigation, and flight planning.

The practical training involves a minimum of 45 hours flight time.

Following this, they need to obtain a commercial pilot license (CPL) with a helicopter rating, which requires an additional 105 hours of flight time.

Some of the flight hours can be replaced by simulator training.

Furthermore, they must have an instrument rating (IR), which demonstrates their ability to fly in poor visibility using only the instruments within the aircraft.

Specifically for the offshore oil industry, pilots must also complete an advanced training program for operating in these environments.

The training covers topics like emergency procedures, crew resource management, and landing on offshore platforms in various weather conditions.

It’s also essential to maintain a certain level of physical fitness as the job can be physically demanding, and pilots must pass regular health checks.

Beyond these mandatory licenses and ratings, many pilots also pursue type ratings, which allow them to fly specific models of helicopters, and provide them with an advantage when applying for jobs.

Finally, given the high-risk nature of the job, oil companies often require pilots to have a significant amount of flying experience, often several thousand hours, before they will be considered for offshore roles.

 

Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot Salary Expectations

The average salary for an Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot is $93,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary significantly based on the pilot’s experience, geographical location, and the employing oil company.

Furthermore, salary can also be influenced by the complexity of the tasks performed, and the type of aircraft being piloted.

 

Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot need?

Pilots in this role need to have strong navigation skills, excellent hand-eye coordination, and a good understanding of helicopter mechanics.

They must possess the ability to make quick decisions under pressure, as well as excellent communication skills to interact with the ground crew and passengers.

They also need to have strong physical stamina and the ability to remain calm in potentially dangerous situations.

 

Do Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilots require any specific qualifications?

Yes, Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilots need to have a professional pilot’s license, and many employers also require a degree in aviation or a related field.

They also need to have a certain number of flight hours, which can often be obtained through training programs.

Additionally, pilots may need to pass a physical examination and drug and alcohol screenings.

 

What should you look for in an Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot resume?

Apart from the necessary qualifications and flight hours, you should look for experience in similar roles or environments, especially offshore or remote locations.

Any additional certifications, such as a rating in instrument flight rules (IFR), are also beneficial.

Finally, look for evidence of good decision-making, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work well under pressure.

 

What qualities make a good Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot?

A good pilot in this role is highly responsible, as they need to ensure the safety of the helicopter and all passengers.

They must be able to remain calm under pressure and make quick, effective decisions in potentially dangerous situations.

They need to have good physical stamina and mental resilience to handle the rigors of flying in often challenging weather conditions.

Excellent communication skills are also crucial.

 

What are the daily duties of an Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot?

An Offshore Oil Support Helicopter Pilot’s day usually starts with a pre-flight inspection of the helicopter to ensure it is safe for operation.

They then fly to offshore oil platforms, transporting personnel and cargo as needed.

During the flight, they are responsible for monitoring the helicopter systems and weather conditions.

Once at the platform, they coordinate with ground staff for safe landing and takeoff.

After completing the assignments, they return to base, ensure the helicopter is properly refueled and ready for the next mission.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve given you an inside look into the thrilling world of offshore oil support helicopter pilots.

Surprising, isn’t it?

It’s not just about flying helicopters.

It’s about braving the elements, playing a vital role in the oil industry, and ensuring the safety of offshore personnel, one flight at a time.

With our comprehensive offshore oil support helicopter pilot job description template and realistic examples, you’re ready for a career that truly soars.

But don’t stop there.

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your next destination for meticulously-crafted job listings or refining your resume to stand out.

Remember:

Every flight you take is a vital part of a larger mission.

Let’s navigate that journey. Together.

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