22 November 2025

Leidos | CL604/605 First Officer

Perth, AUS, United States

First Officer - Search and Rescue Aviation

Leidos Airborne Solutions Australia

Location: Perth, Melbourne, or Cairns

Overview

Leidos Airborne Solutions Australia invites experienced First Officers to elevate their aviation careers within a high-impact, life-saving Search and Rescue (SAR) fleet. This role offers exceptional career progression opportunities to Captain or Training Captain. Leidos is recognized as a 'Family Friendly' certified workplace, genuinely committed to work-life balance. Successful candidates will operate state-of-the-art Challenger 604 jets equipped with leading technology, contributing directly to critical missions across Australia's extensive SAR region.

The Opportunity: Do Work That Matters

Based in Perth, Melbourne, or Cairns, the First Officer will operate advanced Challenger 604 aircraft under contract with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). This vital role involves responding to offshore rescues, emergency situations, and humanitarian aid efforts, directly contributing to saving lives throughout Australia's vast Search and Rescue jurisdiction. This is a unique opportunity to engage in deeply meaningful aviation work.

Your New Role and Responsibilities

As a First Officer within the CL604 fleet, the incumbent will be responsible for:

  • Conducting search and rescue missions in dynamic and time-critical environments.
  • Operating advanced mission systems with precision and seamless teamwork.
  • Upholding the highest standards of aviation safety and professionalism.
  • Supporting aircraft readiness and mission planning in collaboration with the flight crew.
  • Contributing to the continuous innovation and enhancement of SAR capabilities.

Qualifications and Experience

To make a significant impact in this role, candidates should possess:

  • Australian Citizenship or Permanent Residency (subject to ITAR nationality restrictions).
  • Australian Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL(A)) and Multi-Engine Instrument Rating (MEA).
  • A valid CASA Class 1 Medical Certificate.
  • Eligibility for an Aviation Security Identity Card (ASIC).
  • A minimum of 2000 hours of total flying time, including 500 hours of Command/ICUS and 500 hours of Multi-Engine experience, or alternatively, at least 250 hours of turboprop experience or Grade 1 Flight Instructor Rating (FIR).
  • The ability to reside within a 30-minute radius of the assigned base when on night standby.

Compensation and Benefits

Leidos Airborne Solutions Australia offers competitive remuneration packages, including:

  • First Officer (Year 1): $112,449.98 plus 12% superannuation and generous allowances.
  • Captain (Year 1): $175,796.73 plus 12% superannuation and generous allowances.

Details on comprehensive employment benefits, including competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave, and Retirement plans, are available.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Leidos Australia cultivates a diverse and inclusive workplace where varied thoughts, experiences, and perspectives drive innovation. Inclusion is a core value, ensuring every team member feels welcomed, valued, respected, and has equal opportunities to thrive. The company actively encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disabilities, veterans, neurodiverse individuals, and people of all genders, sexualities, and age groups.

Recruitment Process and Next Steps

Interested candidates are invited to apply via the provided links or the Leidos Careers page. The recruitment process typically involves:

  • One behavioral-based interview (conducted online).
  • One simulator assessment (to be held in Melbourne).
  • Background checks, including a police check and a pre-employment medical examination.

Please note that applicants may be required to meet International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements, which can impact individuals with dual nationality, permanent residency, or former nationality of specific countries as per ITAR 126.1.

Leidos is committed to ensuring an accessible recruitment process for all candidates. For any additional support required during the application or recruitment stages, please contact the Careers team.

About Leidos

Leidos is a leading provider of innovative digital and mission solutions for government and commercial clients. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with a global workforce of approximately 47,000 employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025.

Important Security Notice

Be vigilant against fraudulent employment opportunities. Leidos will never request payment information during the application process or advance funds. Official communication will originate from Leidos.com automated systems. Report any suspicious communications.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Leidos is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Leidos will also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in accordance with applicable laws. Leidos is an equal opportunity employer/disability/vet.

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