The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Aviation Division in Operations is seeking a skilled Airplane Pilot to provide critical aviation support for law enforcement operations. This role involves piloting multi-engine fixed-wing aircraft to detect, locate, and assess illicit narcotics-related trafficking activities across the United States and internationally.
About the Role
As an Airplane Pilot with the DEA, incumbents are responsible for the safe and effective operation of multi-engine fixed-wing aircraft. Key duties include transporting personnel and sensitive equipment, supporting air/ground surveillance, conducting airborne reconnaissance, and providing expert aviation advice to management. The role demands comprehensive pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight responsibilities, including aircraft inspections, fuel planning, weight and balance calculations, risk assessments, and operational planning for enforcement missions.
Requirements
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U.S. Citizenship is required.
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Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
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Subject to random drug testing.
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Must successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check.
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Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered or exempt from Selective Service.
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Must serve a probationary or trial period.
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Required to submit to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment.
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Must undergo an annual flight physical by a Designated Medical Examiner in compliance with FAA regulations.
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Must complete an annual DEA standardization check-ride.
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Must possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's license.
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Successful completion of a flight assessment with a DEA Instructor or Standardization Pilot.
Qualifications
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Possession of a current Commercial Pilot Certificate or appropriate military rating, including commercial licenses for single and multi-engine fixed-wing aircraft with an instrument rating. An Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate is also acceptable.
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Minimum flight hour requirements:
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Total Flight Time: 1500 hours
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Pilot-In-Command: 250 hours
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Night Flying: 75 hours
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Flying Time, Last 12 Months: 100 hours
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Multi-engine Airplane: 500 hours
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Instrument: 75 hours (at least 10 in actual instrument weather)
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Possession of a current first or second-class medical certificate in accordance with FAA regulations, dated within the previous 12 months.
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Selective Placement Factor (SPF): Must possess a Commercial Pilot Certificate or ATP and either a valid First or Second-Class Medical Certificate.
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GS-13 Grade Level: At least one full year of qualifying specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level, demonstrating proficiency in operating multi-engine fixed-wing airplanes over long distances, and at least one of the following: formulating flight plans, adhering to flight manual procedures, or conducting detailed post-flight inspections.