Lead helicopter SAR operations in Nelson/Marlborough region with H145 crew

H145 SPIFR NVG HEMS/SAR Pilot – New Zealand

Helicopter (Rotary Wing) Pilot – IFR desirable

Company: GCH Aviation Ltd – Christchurch Location: Nelson Central, Tasman Type: Full time Posted: 14 hours ago

With our recent announcement of the purchase of four new H145 D2/3 helicopters, GCH Aviation is looking for an experienced helicopter pilot to join the amazing team supporting the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter operation based in Nelson. Our preferred applicant will be a Single Pilot IFR Helicopter Pilot with a passion for emergency services and teamwork.

GCH Aviation is a proudly family-owned aviation company operating emergency medicine, commercial and scenic helicopter services, certified flight training, and fixed-wing air ambulance, corporate jet, and FBO operations throughout New Zealand and the South Pacific. For more than three decades, we have maintained one of New Zealand's most respected helicopter safety records.

Our Mission Statement: Enrich lives through our expertise in aviation.

Our Values:

  • Safety – Safety is paramount in aviation. Everyone takes a proactive approach through sound decision-making and our no commercial pressure policy.
  • Family – We treat our workmates with respect and care while offering support whenever needed.
  • Pride – We are accountable to our peers and the communities we serve every day.
  • Quality – We continually strive to improve and execute every detail better than before.
  • Legacy – We look to the future and aim to leave a lasting legacy for the next generation.

About You:

You will:

  • Align strongly with our company values
  • Be self-motivated, adaptable, and an excellent communicator
  • Demonstrate initiative and thrive within a close-knit team
  • Remain calm under pressure
  • Value teamwork, family, and community involvement

You will also hold:

  • Helicopter CPL
  • Class 1 Medical
  • Multi Engine endorsement
  • Unrestricted Night Rating with minimum 50 hours night
  • Minimum 2,000 hours rotary wing PIC
  • H145 type rating preferred (similar twin-engine experience considered)
  • NVG endorsement
  • Clean criminal record suitable for Airport Identity Card requirements

Highly Desirable:

  • IFR (RW) Rating with minimum 100 hours IFR
  • Previous HEMS experience
  • New Zealand South Island flying experience
  • 20 hours rotary PIC IMC
  • Winch endorsement
  • ATPL(H)
  • Instructor or Flight Examiner endorsement with ME
  • Unrestricted driver licence

The Role:

This position is based in Nelson supporting critical rescue helicopter operations across the Nelson and Marlborough regions. The successful applicant may occasionally be required to travel to support operations at other GCH Aviation bases. Our operation runs on a Kelly Shift roster pattern, with pilots required to remain on base while on duty.

Why Join Us?

Health and Safety is at the core of everything we do — both on the ground and in the air. GCH Aviation is proud to be the only helicopter company in New Zealand to hold a Diamond Safety Award. We are a true family business and regularly host quiz nights, BBQs, open days, and team events so our people and families can stay connected. We offer:

  • Competitive remuneration package
  • Southern Cross Health Insurance
  • Free parking
  • Uniform provided
  • Opportunity to operate brand-new H145 aircraft
  • Supportive, values-driven culture
  • The chance to genuinely make a difference every day

If you're looking to join an exceptional team and contribute to life-saving operations in one of New Zealand's most beautiful regions, apply now via Seek – we'd love to hear from you.

Source: Seek

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