SAR Career Enquiry

[Maverick2212]

Hi
I am very interested in the career of a winchmen on a SAR helicopter, i am just wondering if people could share some information about how to get into this job, the requirments, whether they accept new recruits or ex-military etc.
Any information people could share would be greatly appreciated.

[cyclic gal]

As you can see, from certain old and bolds on this site you will generally receive more criticism of your posting, spelling, grammar etc. than sensible, objective information and advice. Call Bristows, CHC and or Forces careers offices. Google will give you the numbers. They (the civilian organisations) will occasionally take 'new recruits' but there are a lot of ex-mil guys who already have experience looking for jobs and they will no doubt be in front of you in the queue. It's not impossible though and if you want it badly enough it's there, but you've got to work hard, go after it and try not to be put off by small minded smart ass 1-holes who've nothing better to do than be obstructive and unhelpful.

[Mr Point]

Maverick,

Have a look at this THREAD (http://www.pprune.org/forums/showthread.php?t=202356&highlight=sar+winchman). As CyclicGal has said, there are relatively few opportunities for direct entry into civilian SAR (Bond Jigsaw were accepting winchmen with no previous SAR helo experience a while back) but if you don't ask......

The RAF do not accept direct applications for SAR crewmen. You can apply for WSOp and take your chances, but you could end up on fixed wing aircraft. Very few direct entrants are streamed SAR, but it does happen.

Mr P.