Instructor Pilot, AH-64E Apache (Aviation Training & Standardization)
Position Summary
This critical position seeks a highly experienced and certified Instructor Pilot (IP) specializing in the AH-64E Apache attack helicopter and associated simulation devices. The successful candidate will spearhead the execution of comprehensive aviation training programs, ensuring rigorous adherence to the US Army Aircrew Training Manual (ATM) and specific modernization plan requirements. The role mandates the delivery of initial and continuation training, the Initial Aircraft Qualification Course (AQC), Aircraft Qualification Training (AQT), and performance evaluations for both employee and customer aircrews. The Instructor Pilot must expertly deliver academic and hands-on training, including contact, basic instrument, and basic combat skills instruction, striving for exceptional aircrew proficiency and readiness while meticulously managing the Individual Aircrew Training Folder (IATF).
Core Responsibilities
The Instructor Pilot manages the full spectrum of the Aircrew Training Program (ATP) lifecycle, focusing on standardization, mentorship, and operational excellence. Key duties include:
- Conducting high-fidelity flight instruction and evaluation of AH-64E pilots, strictly adhering to US Army ATM and specific unit ATP guidelines.
- Supporting the development and successful execution of the Aviation Aircrew Training Program in accordance with customer strategic guidance.
- Ensuring meticulous verification and currency of all required flight training publications and maintaining training documentation.
- Executing and assessing individual readiness level progression tasks, including complex instrument flight maneuvers conducted during day, night, Night Vision System (NVS), and Night Vision Goggle (NVG) conditions, adhering to Instrument Flight Rules (IFR).
- Preparing crewmembers through realistic mission training flight maneuvers under local environmental conditions, including specialized desert training such as dust landings.
- Providing advanced aircrew proficiency training within Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC), operating safely under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulations.
- Acting as an ATP mentor within company standardization and battalion standardization teams, as required by the customer, which may include Master Gunner training and mentorship.
- Recommending highly qualified candidates for Aviation Instructor Pilot and Pilot in Command (PIC) appointments to customer leadership.
- Performing duties at various on-site and off-site locations as necessitated by program and customer operational requirements.
- Assuming project leadership roles or engaging in technical writing of essential aviation documents to support program objectives within the guidance of the Performance Work Statement (PWS).
Minimum Qualifications and Experience
Candidates must meet stringent flight experience and certification requirements for this specialized role:
- Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is mandatory; additional education or specialized training in a related field is highly beneficial.
- Pilot Status: Must have been qualified as a Pilot in Command (PIC).
- IP Qualification: Successful graduation from the AH-64 Instructor Pilot Course (IPC) / Methods of Instruction (MOI) course administered by an authorized U.S. Army Aviation Proponent School, or successful completion of an equivalent Instructor Pilot evaluation administered by a standardization instructor pilot selected by the Directorate of Evaluations and Standardization (DES).
- Aircraft Qualification: Current and qualified on the AH-64E Series Aircraft is required.
- Flight Hours: A minimum of 1,500 total flight hours (Total Time) is required, including a minimum of 500 flight hours as an Instructor Pilot (IP time) and a minimum of 250 flight hours utilizing NVS/NVG.
- Civilian Certifications: A valid FAA Commercial Pilot certificate is required.
- Medical Requirements: Must successfully pass the FAA Class II Flight Physical upon hiring and annually thereafter.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior qualification in the Master Gunner course is highly desirable, with Master Gunner experience at the battalion or brigade level strongly recommended.
- Possession of an FAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) rating is recommended.
- Experience in Mission operations (Attack, Observation, Utility, Multi-Mission) is preferred.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
The hiring organization maintains a profound commitment to equal employment opportunity, inclusive of protection for Veterans and individuals with disabilities. The environment fosters an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are treated with fairness, respect, and dignity, recognizing the strength derived from a workforce rich in diverse experiences, perspectives, and skills. This commitment ensures adherence to core values and enables the organization to leverage differences, encourage innovation, and successfully serve clients globally.