Check Airman

About the role

HeliService USA is a veteran-owned and operated aviation company established in 2022, built on a foundation of discipline, expertise, and mission-driven performance. With more than half of its team comprised of military veterans, the company brings a high level of professionalism and operational excellence to every mission. Headquartered in North Kingstown (Quonset), Rhode Island, HeliService USA operates across multiple locations including Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts; Texas; Virginia; and Ohio, supported by a growing workforce of over 100 professionals. The company provides a comprehensive range of specialized helicopter services using the Leonardo AW169, including offshore wind support as the first and only dedicated U.S. operator in this sector, helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS), air ambulance operations (HAA), and harbor pilot transfers involving precision hoisting to maritime vessels.

The Check Airman is responsible for conducting FAA-required training, evaluations, and proficiency checks for pilots operating under 14 CFR Parts 135 and 133. This role ensures pilot compliance with regulatory, company, and operational standards through standardized instruction, evaluation, and mentoring. The Check Airman works under the direction of the Director of Training and in coordination with the Chief Pilot, Director of Operations, and Safety Manager to support pilot qualification, standardization, and ongoing proficiency across assigned aircraft and mission profiles.

Responsibilities

• Conduct ground, simulator, and flight evaluations
• Evaluate pilot proficiency and compliance
• Provide mentoring and remedial training as needed
• Maintain training and checking records
• Coordinate training with the Director of Training
• Travel to the simulator as well as all bases will be required
• Full time Check Airmen will also act as a relief pilot on the line to support operations as needed

Requirements

Education

• Associate’s degree in aviation, aeronautics, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• Preferred: Bachelor’s degree in aviation, aeronautics, or a related field (or equivalent experience)

Experience

• Minimum 3 years’ experience as a PIC under 14 CFR Part 135
• FAA-approved Check Airmen designation or ability to qualify
• 1–3 years’ experience in Helicopter Air Ambulance
• 1–3 years’ experience with vertical reference/long-line/external load/hoisting/SAR
• Preferred: 5 years’ experience as a PIC under 14 CFR Part 135
• Preferred: 3 years’ experience as a Check Airman
• Preferred: 3 years’ experience in Helicopter Air Ambulance
• Preferred: 3 years’ experience with vertical reference/long-line/external load/hoisting/SAR

Skills

• Strong instructional, communication, and evaluation skills
• Extensive knowledge of FAA regulations

Licenses & Certifications

• FAA ATP – Rotorcraft Helicopter
• FAA First Class Medical
• Preferred: CFII or ability to obtain

Training & Specific Activities

• Conduct training and evaluations under 14 CFR 135.293, 135.297, and 135.299
• Conduct simulator and in-aircraft evaluations
• Ensure procedural and operational standardization
• Complete accurate training documentation
• Complete annual training as required by company policy and law on an annual basis in a timely manner
• Read all newsletters and bulletins to remain current on policies, procedures, and developments as well as to meet all company compliance standards

Work Authorization

Applicants must be legally authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. Currently, the company is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa.

Pre-employment Requirements

• Pre-employment drug testing must be completed with verified negative results in full compliance with applicable DOT and FAA regulations prior to performing any safety-sensitive functions
• Employment is contingent on successful completion of training and release to the line by the Director of Training and Chief Pilot at the completion of the required line training period

Performance expectations

• Meets all safety standards to achieve zero aircraft mishaps or incidents
• 100% FAA compliance
• High pilot proficiency and standardization
• Successful FAA audits with no findings
• Zero training-related safety deficiencies

Work environment

Work Modality: Position is home based, but with extensive travel to any company base location, or location with simulators or training centers HeliService USA utilizes for training.

Possible Work Hazards:

• Exposure to high noise levels from aircraft operations
• Proximity to moving aircraft, ground support equipment, and vehicles
• Potential exposure to aviation fuel, fumes, oils, and other chemicals
• Slip, trip, and fall hazards within hangar and ramp areas
• Prolonged periods of sitting and computer use, including repetitive motion tasks

Physical Demands: Extensive sitting, standing, walking, lifting, carrying, reaching, pushing, and pulling, keyboarding, speaking. Additional physical demands may be required as these are a general description. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Benefits

• Group medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Voluntary coverage options: life, short-term disability, accident, and cancer insurance
• 401(k) plan eligibility following the standard waiting period (effective the first of the month after hire)
• Paid time off (PTO) for 14/14 schedule employees: 10 days annually, accrued throughout the year, and prorated during the first calendar year based on date of hire

Pay

Salary range: $110,000–$145,000 depending on experience. Additionally, once the individual is qualified as a Check Airman, they will receive an annual stipend of $7,500.00, paid in equal installments over 26 pay periods.