At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a First Officer, flying life-saving missions in AW169 helicopters.
- Company: Gama Aviation, a leader in helicopter emergency medical services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private healthcare, and paid volunteering days.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by saving lives and gaining valuable flight experience.
- Qualifications: Minimum 500 flight hours and relevant UK CAA licenses required.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for training and career progression.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
First Officer – HEMS
Gama Aviation is currently seeking skilled and quick‑thinking First Officers to join our Special Mission Flight Crew for our prestigious charity partner, Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS). With a minimum requirement of 500 flight hours, you’ll contribute directly to life‑saving missions as part of a multi‑pilot operation flying AW169 helicopters across Kent, Surrey and Sussex, day and night. We provide full Type Rating and HEMS/NVIS training for this exciting and dynamic role.
Responsibilities
- Provide safe, compliant and efficient flight operations in support of HEMS operations
- Conduct Company duties with diligence and professionalism, and operate in accordance with the Company operations manuals and other regulatory requirements
- Be responsible for actively engaging with the Company safety reporting scheme, taking a proactive stance on risk management, and reporting any events which may contribute towards continual improvement in safety
- Display kindness and professionalism whilst acting as a representative of the Company and actively engage with our charity partners and other industry stakeholders
Licensing Requirements
- Current UK CAA Part‑FCL ATPL (H) or CPL(H) with ATPL(H) theoretical exams, plus current UK CAA IR(H) plus current UK CAA Class 1 Medical
- Military candidates:
Current Qualified Military Pilot (Helicopters) with Unrestricted Green Instrument Rating (Helicopters)
Validity period current ATPL(H) theoretical exams plus current UK CAA Class 1 Medical
For the right candidate who does not hold ATPL(H) theoretical exams and/or current UK CAA Class 1 Medical, Gama will fully fund and coordinate the pathway to achieve these
Additional Requirements
- Minimum of 500 hours total time, with 70 hours as pilot‑in‑command
- Willingness to work on a rostered basis including working night shifts
- Minimum Level 4 English Language proficiency standard
- EU/UK Driving Licence
- Right to live and work in the UK
Advantageous
- MCC qualification, or equivalent military credit, highly desirable but can be provided for the successful candidate
- 500 hours as pilot‑in‑command
- NVG experience
Compensation and Benefits
- Competitive Salary + Excellent Benefits!
- Comprehensive Private Healthcare (after successful passing of probation)
- 2 Paid Volunteering Days each calendar year (subject to line manager approval)
- Full support for conversion to a civilian licence will be provided for military candidates
- Investment in Training, Qualifications and Professional Development
About Gama Aviation
Gama Aviation is a hugely diverse business that offers more than just flight operations. We fly, we save lives, provide mission‑critical intelligence, and build systems that deliver decisive advantage. With operations in the UK, Jersey, Europe and the Middle East, a career with us can offer travel, personal growth opportunities and the ability for long‑term progression in a fast‑paced and dynamic service industry.
About the Charity
Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) is a world leader in Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS), delivering critical care with innovation and expertise. Operating 24/7, 365 days a year, it costs £15.2 M annually to keep this vital service running, with 86 % of the funding raised through the incredible generosity of KSS’s supporters. KSS serves a population of 4.8 M people plus a transient population of 90 M people, and has been tasked with over 38 ,000 incidents over the last 30 years. Their fleet of helicopters and Rapid Response Vehicles ensures that specialist doctors and paramedics can reach patients quickly, providing life‑saving care in crucial moments before they reach the hospital.
Job Information
Due to the volume of applications received, only candidates selected for interview will be contacted. If you do not hear from us within 20 working days then your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.
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HEMS First Officer (KSS) employer: Gama Aviation
Contact Detail:
Gama Aviation Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HEMS First Officer (KSS)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Gama Aviation or KSS on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical knowledge and HEMS operations. We want to see that you’re not just a pilot, but someone who understands the mission and values of our charity partner.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your soft skills! Being a First Officer isn’t just about flying; it’s about teamwork and communication. Think of examples where you’ve demonstrated these skills in high-pressure situations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace HEMS First Officer (KSS)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your flight hours and any relevant experience in your application. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to customise your application for this specific role. Mention why you’re excited about working with Gama Aviation and our charity partner, KSS. It shows us you’re genuinely interested!
Be Professional and Personable: Remember, we’re looking for candidates who can represent us well. Keep your tone professional but friendly, and let your personality shine through. We love seeing applicants who are both skilled and kind!
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gama Aviation
✨Know Your Aircraft
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of the AW169 helicopter. Familiarise yourself with its systems, performance characteristics, and emergency procedures. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you're serious about the role.
✨Demonstrate Safety Awareness
Since safety is paramount in HEMS operations, be prepared to discuss how you’ve contributed to safety in previous roles. Bring examples of how you've engaged with safety reporting schemes or managed risks effectively. This will highlight your proactive approach to safety.
✨Showcase Teamwork Skills
As a First Officer, you'll be part of a multi-pilot operation. Be ready to share experiences where you’ve successfully worked as part of a team, especially in high-pressure situations. This will demonstrate your ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with others.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your quick-thinking abilities. Practice responding to hypothetical situations related to flight operations and emergency management. This will help you articulate your thought process and decision-making skills during the interview.