I would try some of the smaller utility operators like Minuteman Aviation and Brainerd Helicopters (in Minnesota, not Florida).

I got out of the Army this past year with right at 1000 hours turbine helicopter. Of that, I have about 500 PIC. I also have another 500 hours fixed wing leaving me with a grand total of 1500 hours. Having no piston time, but still not quite enough PIC to play with the big boys, I'm finding it very difficult to find jobs. My ultimate goal is HEMS, but I need another 500 PIC. I am open to anything and have been networking extensively. But without 1000 PIC in category or any Robbie time, it doesn't seem like there's a whole lot out there. Does anyone have any feedback on some good options for someone in my situation?

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I fly EMS helicopters in Houston. The pay for experienced pilots starts around $90,000. You’re going to spend a ton for the training and lose a ton of money building hours either paying for them or being an instructor. You can build hours as an offshore pilot making good money though. I’ve only been here a few months and I am already stating to look for other places to work. I’d stay with the higher paying job, this is a fun job, descent pay for what we do, but not worth what you’ll go through, IMHO. Plus, I’m not sure this career is stable for the long term. With the No surprises act and insurance reform, I’d be cautious putting my families financial future on the line.

Stay with your 6-figure job. It will be a loooooong time before you get enough hours, qualifications and general experience to be considerd for an EMS slot. And during that long time, you will be moving workplaces regularly, eating packet noodles, and kicking yourself for changing lifestyles as you head for the divorce court. They call it AIDS, the Aviation-Induced Divorce Syndrome.

Hey there! First off, congrats on considering such an exciting career change, it’s a big decision, but it sounds like you’ve got a solid head on your shoulders. Let’s break down your questions one by one: 1. Age and Timeline Is 30 too late? Not at all! Many pilots start their careers in their 30s or even later. The key is dedication and consistency. By the time you hit 2,000 hours, you’ll still have decades of flying ahead of you. Accelerating the process: The fastest way to build hours is to become a CFI (Certified Flight Instructor). Teaching others not only helps you log hours quickly but also sharpens your skills. Some accelerated flight schools can get you from zero to CFI in about 12-18 months if you’re fully committed. 2. Salary Expectations Lateral move in salary: EMS (Emergency Medical Services) and other helicopter pilot jobs can hit six figures, but it often takes a few years to get there. Starting salaries for low-time pilots (e.g., CFIs or tour pilots) are typically in the 30k−50k range. Once you gain experience and move into EMS, offshore, or corporate flying, salaries can range from 70k to 120k+, depending on the company and location. EMS-specific: EMS pilots often earn between 80k and 100k+, but it varies by region and operator. Houston might have competitive pay due to the high cost of living and demand. 3. Schedule and Vacation 7-on/7-off: This is a common schedule in EMS, and it’s great for work-life balance. Many operators also offer paid time off (PTO) on top of your 7-off schedule, so taking a 2-3 week vacation is usually doable. Just check with potential employers about their specific policies. 4. Job Market and Demand Current demand: Helicopter pilots are still in demand, especially in EMS, offshore oil/gas, and utility flying. Houston is a great location for helicopter jobs due to the energy industry and medical facilities. That said, you might need to relocate for your first job or two to build experience. EMS growth: EMS is a stable sector, and demand for pilots is expected to remain strong as older pilots retire. 5. Building Hours (200 to 2,000) How to get there: After getting your CFI/CFII, most pilots build hours by teaching. It’s the most cost-effective way since you’re getting paid to fly instead of paying for flight time. Other options include: Tour flying: Scenic tours in places like the Grand Canyon or Hawaii. Pipeline/powerline patrol: These jobs often hire low-time pilots. Part 135 operations: Some operators hire lower-time pilots for cargo or passenger flights. Costs: Once you’re a CFI, you shouldn’t have to pay for flight time, you’ll be earning while you build hours. 6. Balancing Your 9-5 and Flight Training Can you keep your job? It’s possible, but flight training is intense and time-consuming. If your job is flexible, you might be able to balance both, especially during the early stages (private pilot license, instrument rating). However, once you start working as a CFI or in another flying job, you’ll likely need to transition to full-time aviation. Accelerated vs. part-time training: If you want to speed things up, consider an accelerated program where you focus solely on flying for a few months. If you go part-time, it could take 2-3 years to get all your ratings. Final Thoughts Switching to a career as a helicopter pilot is a big leap, but it’s incredibly rewarding if you’re passionate about flying and helping others. Financially, it might take a few years to get back to your current salary, but the lifestyle and job satisfaction can make it worth it. If you’re serious, start by getting your private pilot license (PPL) and see how you like it, it’s a great way to dip your toes in without fully committing. Good luck

Here is a good resource for you that will answer quite a few of your questions. https://justhelicopters.com/Career-Development/Pilot-Ebooks

Hello Everyone, Not to give TMI, however its kind of relevant to my questions. I am 30 years old and I currently make about six figures in sales at a work from home job, and me and my wife are thinking about adding a little one soon. My sales help people and I like what I sell, but I want something more steady, more direct in helping the community, and kinesthetically demanding. I have just started looking into this career and I love the "IDEA" of it, yall are basically super heroes. There are just some questions that id like some updated information on, because a lot of the information I am finding has aged a bit. 1. I am 30, I realize that getting to 2,000 hours and a CFI & CFII certification can take me well into my 30s. Is that too late? Is there a specific thing that I can do to accelerate this, but still have the skills to be a dependable pilot? 2. I am looking to make a lateral move in Salary. I like my life financially and honestly the first time I've been here and i am scared of changing career's and losing that. Is this usually a six figure job? I see some people that say it is and some people that say it isn't so I am just seeing what current people in the profession make, round about of course. The job description is epic, so I think it would be a no brainer, but you never know. 3. I know a lot of EMS pilots work on 7-days on and 7-days on. Do you usually find that you accrue vacation time on top of that? like if I wanted to take 2-3 weeks off for a family vacation, is that possible since you already get so much time off? 4. Are helicopter pilots in high demand still? I know they were a few years ago, but things can change very quickly. I am currently in Houston, honestly I'd like to stay here, but beggars cant be choosers. So, what do you find the current job market is like? 5. Also, a big one. What is life like getting from 200 hours to 2,000 hours. Is it job flights, do you have to pay for flight time? How do you even get there when you have the bare minimum experience? 6. Last one I promise. Do you think I can keep my 9-5 while I take this journey? its pretty flexible and I am actually finishing my bachelors now and working full time so they are pretty accommodating, but will that be enough in your opinion?

I out this in the wrong topic, apologies!

Hello Everyone, Not to give TMI, however its kind of relevant to my questions. I am 30 years old and I currently make about six figures in sales at a work from home job, and me and my wife are thinking about adding a little one soon. My sales help people and I like what I sell, but I want something more steady, more direct in helping the community, and kinesthetically demanding. I have just started looking into this career and I love the "IDEA" of it, yall are basically super heroes. There are just some questions that id like some updated information on, because a lot of the information I am finding has aged a bit. 1. I am 30, I realize that getting to 2,000 hours and a CFI & CFII certification can take me well into my 30s. Is that too late? Is there a specific thing that I can do to accelerate this, but still have the skills to be a dependable pilot? 2. I am looking to make a lateral move in Salary. I like my life financially and honestly the first time I've been here and i am scared of changing career's and losing that. Is this usually a six figure job? I see some people that say it is and some people that say it isn't so I am just seeing what current people in the profession make, round about of course. The job description is epic, so I think it would be a no brainer, but you never know. 3. I know a lot of EMS pilots work on 7-days on and 7-days on. Do you usually find that you accrue vacation time on top of that? like if I wanted to take 2-3 weeks off for a family vacation, is that possible since you already get so much time off? 4. Are helicopter pilots in high demand still? I know they were a few years ago, but things can change very quickly. I am currently in Houston, honestly I'd like to stay here, but beggars cant be choosers. So, what do you find the current job market is like? 5. Also, a big one. What is life like getting from 200 hours to 2,000 hours. Is it job flights, do you have to pay for flight time? How do you even get there when you have the bare minimum experience? 6. Last one I promise. Do you think I can keep my 9-5 while I take this journey? its pretty flexible and I am actually finishing my bachelors now and working full time so they are pretty accommodating, but will that be enough in your opinion?