Tactical Flight Officer

About the Role

The Tactical Flight Officer (TFO) is a member of the Flight Operations Section responsible for air-ground coordination of law enforcement operations. As a member of the flight crew, the TFO primarily operates aircraft onboard surveillance and observation equipment.

Responsibilities

• Operates thermal imaging cameras, mapping systems, radio systems, searchlights, and digital video recorders.
• Operates radios between helicopters, ground units, dispatch, and other agencies.
• Assists the pilot with navigation, monitoring weather conditions, identifying obstacles, and performing emergency procedures.
• Completes flight logs, mission reports, records video footage, documents evidence, and testifies in court.
• Provides real-time intelligence on suspect locations, vehicle pursuits, and perimeter management to K-9 and ground personnel.
• Provides basic lifesaving support to transported patients as necessary.
• Assists with conducting pre-flight inspections of aircraft and ground equipment.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Law enforcement experience is not required (but preferred).
• Must have a valid Florida Driver’s License.
• Must complete flight competency assessment and physical assessment prior to selection.
• Due to flight capability restrictions, candidates must meet height and weight requirements to ensure airworthiness (recommended: under 6-feet tall and equal to or less than 190 pounds).
• Must complete Tactical Flight Officer (Phase I TFO Training), Emergency Flight Procedures Training (Phase II TFO Training), and PFD/HEEDs familiarization.
• Must demonstrate the ability to use all TFO-related equipment and multi-task under actual or simulated mission conditions during training.
• Must be able to function in all-weather/environmental conditions, including exposure to noise, fumes, and physiological effects of flight.
• Must be able to swim and tread water while wearing flight gear.
• Must be able to climb up and down on aircraft during preflight to a height of approximately 12 feet.
• Must be able to position aircraft (with assistance) using ground handling equipment.
• Must have basic computer skills for flight and call data entry, report completion, and log maintenance.
• Must be able to gain access to the FCIC/NCIC system.
• Must have excellent written communication skills to complete detailed reports and maintain logs.
• Must demonstrate strong oral communication skills, including proficiency in radio procedures during high-stress situations.
• Must be willing to complete TAC-Med training upon selection.
• Must work rotating shifts, nights, weekends, holidays, and adapt to schedule changes on short notice.
• Must maintain physical standards to ensure weight and balance of the aircraft.

Pilot certifications are preferred but not required.