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- Tasks: Fly modern helicopters for critical energy inspections across the UK.
- Company: Join a specialised aviation team at National Grid.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, pension contributions, and generous leave.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national energy infrastructure while flying.
- Qualifications: 1500 hours helicopter experience and valid UK pilot licence required.
- Other info: Enjoy a balanced work-life with structured duty patterns.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 90000 £ per year.
Join one of the UK's most specialised aviation teams, operating at the heart of National Grid's mission to keep energy flowing across England and Wales. As a Helicopter Pilot in our Aerial Survey Unit, you'll fly modern twin engine aircraft on low level, mission critical inspection operations covering more than 7,000 km of transmission network. This is a rare opportunity to combine technical flying with real world national impact - all as part of a small, expert crew entrusted with a multi million pound asset.
What You’ll Do
- Fly low speed survey profiles alongside highly trained observers using advanced optical, video and thermal imaging systems.
- Take operational ownership of each week's mission plan, using your judgement to balance task priorities, weather windows, and logistical factors.
- Depart from Turweston Aerodrome at the start of your duty period, overnighting near forward operating bases before returning the aircraft for scheduled maintenance at the end of the cycle.
- Support occasional external load operations transporting powerline technicians for specialist repair tasks.
- Operate confidently in the low level environment, with strong situational awareness around powerlines, terrain and airspace constraints.
- Use modern avionics and flight management systems during transits, including instrument flight when required.
We operate a structured duty pattern that ensures a balance between flying periods and time spent on the ground for reset and preparation. This includes a regular two week / one week cycle that supports both operational tempo and work-life balance.
What you’ll bring:
- Minimum 1500 hours helicopter multi engine time
- UK CAA ATPL(H) or CPL(H) with Class 1 Medical
- Full UK valid driving license
- Ability to live within 90 minutes of Turweston Aerodrome
- Desirable
- 250 hrs on type (B429)
- Valid Part FCL Instrument Rating
- Background in Police, HEMS, Military or specialist survey flying
- Experience with external sling load operations
Pay and Benefits
- Approx. £75,000 salary
- Up to 30% bonus
- Contribution pension up to a total of 18%
- Company car
- 28 days annual leave + 8 statutory days
Ready to Make an Impact? Apply now and help safeguard the energy infrastructure that millions depend on.
Helicopter Pilot employer: National Grid
Contact Detail:
National Grid Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Helicopter Pilot
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow pilots, aviation professionals, or even those in the energy sector. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and situational awareness skills. Be ready to discuss how you’d handle specific scenarios related to low-level flying and operational challenges.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience with advanced imaging systems and external load operations. Highlighting these skills can set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows you’re serious about joining our expert crew at National Grid.
We think you need these skills to ace Helicopter Pilot
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant flying experience and qualifications. We want to see your 1500 hours of multi-engine time and any specific skills that relate to the role, like your experience with advanced imaging systems or external load operations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this role and how your background in aviation aligns with our mission at National Grid. Don’t forget to mention your ability to operate confidently in low-level environments!
Showcase Your Judgement Skills: In your application, highlight instances where you've had to make quick decisions under pressure. We need pilots who can balance task priorities and weather conditions, so share examples that demonstrate your situational awareness and operational ownership.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Grid
✨Know Your Aircraft Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of the helicopter model you'll be flying, especially the B429 if you have experience on it. Brush up on its systems, performance characteristics, and any quirks that might come up during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Situational Awareness
Be prepared to discuss how you maintain situational awareness in low-level flying environments. Share examples from your past experiences where your judgement helped navigate challenging conditions or complex airspace.
✨Showcase Your Mission Planning Skills
Highlight your ability to take operational ownership of mission plans. Discuss how you balance task priorities, weather considerations, and logistical factors, as this is crucial for the role in the Aerial Survey Unit.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to flight management systems and avionics. Brush up on your knowledge of modern systems and be ready to explain how you’ve used them in previous roles, especially in instrument flight scenarios.