At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead life-saving missions as a HEMS Commander flying AW169 helicopters.
- Company: Join Gama Aviation, a forward-thinking aviation business with a mission to save lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and full support for military licence conversion.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for personal growth and career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in critical care while developing your flying skills.
- Qualifications: Must hold relevant pilot licences and have significant flying experience.
Location: Redhill
Working Hours: Rostered Basis
Competitive Salary + Excellent Benefits!
Unique and fulfilling flying experience within an exciting, forward-thinking aviation business!
Opportunities for personal and professional development in a challenging yet supportive environment!
Type Rating and HEMS/NVIS training included!
Full support for Military transition, including funded licence conversion!
Gama Aviation is currently seeking skilled and quick-thinking HEMS Commanders to join our Special Mission Flight Crew for our prestigious charity partner, Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS). As HEMS Commander, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute directly to life-saving missions as part of a multi-pilot operation flying AW169 helicopters across Kent, Surrey and Sussex, day and night.
This is far more than a flying role, it’s a chance to make a real difference. You will be at the heart of life-saving missions for a charity known for its cutting edge approach to Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS). Flying in this fast paced and challenging environment offers not only professional development but also unmatched job satisfaction. If you’re passionate, adaptable, and eager to contribute to a life-saving operation, this role is for you.
We’re looking for flexible and committed individuals who are enthusiastic about delivering world class emergency services!
Gama Aviation is proud to support the Armed Forces Community. We actively support military personnel currently transitioning into civilian careers, and will fully fund and coordinate the conversion of military licences to their civilian equivalent for successful candidates.
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 £15.2M 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 4.8M people, plus a transient population of 90M people, KSS have 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.
By joining Gama Aviation in support of KSS, you’ll become part of a dedicated, passionate team working to save lives across Kent, Surrey and Sussex.
Skills, Qualifications and Experience required:
- 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:
- Civilian candidates: 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)
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 1000 hours as PIC of aircraft, of which 500 hours is as PIC on helicopters; OR, Minimum 1000 hours as co-pilot in HEMS operations of which 500 hours are as PICUS and 100 hours as PIC of helicopters
- Minimum 500 hours operating experience in helicopters, gained in an operational environment similar to the intended operation
- Minimum 20 hours of VMC at night as PIC
- 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
- 2000 hours total flight time
- Relevant type rating
- NVG experience
In addition to a Competitive Salary, we will offer you:
- Competitive Group Pension Scheme
- Comprehensive Life Assurance
- Comprehensive Income Protection
- Comprehensive Travel Insurance
- 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 (Subject to insurance underwriting)
AW169 HEMS Captain – England in Redhill employer: Heli Preflight
At Capital Air Services, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Oxford. Our commitment to safety and excellence is matched by our dedication to employee growth, providing ongoing training and development opportunities for our pilots. Join us to be part of a professional team that values collaboration, innovation, and a passion for aviation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land AW169 HEMS Captain – England in Redhill
✨Get Some Hands-On Experience
If you're looking to land that full-time gig in emergency medical services, don't underestimate the power of hands-on experience! Volunteering with local ambulance services or first aid organisations can give you a great insight into the field and show potential employers you’re dedicated.
✨Connect with EMS Communities
Join local EMS associations or online groups where professionals chat about job opportunities and trends. These communities are goldmines for networking, and you might just overhear about openings at places like Heli Preflight that aren't even advertised yet!
✨Showcase Your Skills Through Certifications
Make sure you’re up to date with your certifications—CPR, first aid, and any relevant EMS training. Having these on your CV or mentioned in interviews can really set you apart from the crowd when applying for that full-time role.
✨Leverage Local Job Fairs
Don’t forget about job fairs, especially those focused on healthcare and emergency services. These events are perfect for meeting representatives from companies like Heli Preflight face-to-face and making a lasting impression. Plus, they often have a ton of insider info about the hiring process!
We think you need these skills to ace AW169 HEMS Captain – England in Redhill
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Certifications:In the emergency medical services world, certifications like EMT or Paramedic are crucial. Make sure to prominently display any relevant qualifications on your CV to show you’re qualified and ready to jump in.
Showcase Your Experience in High-Pressure Situations:This isn’t just about ticking boxes; we want to see how you’ve handled emergencies. Share specific examples from your past roles, focusing on your ability to stay calm and effective under pressure—this will really make your CV stand out!
Craft a Personal Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for EMS. Share a brief story about why you got into this field and what drives you. This personal touch helps us connect with you beyond just your qualifications.
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication Skills:Being part of an EMS team means communication is key. Highlight your experiences working in teams, especially in stressful environments, and how you effectively communicate with both your team and patients. This will show us you can thrive in our fast-paced world.
How to prepare for a job interview at Heli Preflight
✨Brush Up on Your Medical Knowledge
As we're stepping into the emergency medical services world, it's crucial to have a solid grasp on medical protocols and procedures. Expect to face scenario-based questions where you'll need to demonstrate your decision-making skills in high-pressure situations, so reviewing your medical textbooks or guidelines might just give you the edge!
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
In EMS, teamwork and communication can literally save lives. Be prepared to discuss how you've effectively communicated in past settings or during training exercises. They might throw in questions about managing stressful interactions with patients or colleagues, so highlighting your soft skills could really set you apart.
✨Familiarise Yourself With Local Protocols
Since you'll be serving the community, knowing the specific EMS protocols and guidelines of Heli Preflight is key. Research their operations and any recent changes they might have implemented. Demonstrating that you're well-informed about local practices shows your commitment and readiness to hit the ground running.
✨Prepare for Practical Assessments
Don't be surprised if your full-time interview includes a hands-on assessment. Practising skills like CPR, patient assessment, and using EMS technology will show you're ready for the rigours of the job. So gather your training materials and maybe even practice with a mate to simulate the scenario-based tests you might encounter.
