Chief Pilot
Summary
| Title: | Chief Pilot |
|---|---|
| ID: | 1575 |
| Department: | Law Enforcement Operations |
| Salary Range: | Grade: 54 ($66,136 - $95,785) |
Description
HERNANDO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
AL NIENHUIS, SHERIFF
JOB TITLE: CHIEF PILOT
BUREAU: LAW ENFORCEMENT BUREAU
SUPERVISED BY: SPECIALIZED OPERATIONS LIEUTENANT
PAY GRADE: 54 CREATED:
FLSA STATUS: NON-EXEMPT REVISED: 06/06/2025
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS:
Under the general supervision of the Lieutenant of the Specialized Operations Section, this position involves advanced technical and supervisory responsibilities in overseeing the operations of the Aviation Unit. Duties include conducting surveillance, transporting personnel and prisoners, providing training, participating in search and rescue missions, and supporting road patrol deputies. The Chief Pilot requires a high degree of independent judgment and initiative in carrying out established procedures.
[NOTE]: These examples are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
- Supervises and/or assist in the training of aviation unit members; undergoes proficiency check rides. Provide instruction, assigns tasks, and monitor performance of subordinate personnel through direct observation and review of reports.
- Operates both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft with a high level of proficiency.
- Conducts pre-flight, weather, and post-flight inspections to ensure safety and readiness of aircraft operations.
- Oversees the maintenance of accurate flight and personnel records; prepares administrative and activity reports as required.
- Manages unit inventory and ensures all certifications are current and compliant.
- Maintains constant awareness of aircraft status and operational readiness. Evaluates and schedules maintenance inspections in accordance with manufacture maintenance directives and Sheriff’s Office requirements, inspects maintenance work performed.
- Leads or supports search and rescue missions; performs aerial surveillance and general patrol deputy in support of law enforcement objectives.
- Files flight plans and submits required reports in a timely manner.
- Exercises final authority on the execution of aviation assignments, ensuring sound judgment and operational safety.
- Conducts periodic evaluations of subordinate performance, equipment condition, personnel appearance, and adhere to procedures. Ensures compliance with Sheriff’s Office policies, rules, regulations and directives through close supervision and regular assessments.
- Manages and monitors the Aviation Unit budget to include costs of fuel, maintenance, parts, supplies and equipment.
QUALIFICATIONS:
A. Training and Experience
- Previous supervisory experience preferred.
- High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.
- Two (2) years of flight experience.
- 1000 hours of flight time, to include both fixed and rotary wing.
- Possess current and valid first or second class medical.
B. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Ability to effectively supervise and manage unit personnel.
- Ability to conduct periodic inspections to ensure the safety and airworthiness of all aircraft.
- Knowledge of aircraft maintenance for both fixed and rotary wing aircraft.
- Knowledge of radio procedures; skilled in the use of radio equipment.
- Knowledge of emergency procedures.
- Ability to fly at night as well as during the day.
- Ability to make sound judgment based on past experience and knowledge.
- Ability to adhere to all Federal Aviation Regulations.
ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL SKILLS:
- 20/20 vision (with or without correction).
- Ability to hear normal language level (with or without correction)
- Ability to crawl ten (10) yards.
- Ability to drag, lift, or carry 150 pounds 25 feet.
- Ability to run 100 yards unassisted.
- Ability to scale a five (5) foot fence.
- Ability to walk unassisted.
- Manual dexterity.
- Normal color perception.
Equal Opportunity Employer
