In reply to the thread title, Yes, Yes & Yes.
I was lucky enough in 1967 to get into the RN as a helicopter driver, and have had a variety of jobs around the world. Independence, variety, initiative and challenge are all features of our job, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Neither, I suspect, would any of you.
Youthful foolishness initially led me to the RAF for a career, and I still recall the utter astonishment shown by the selection board when I showed a preference for Helicopters. I swear a Group Captain just about fell off his chair! Needless to say, Dartmouth became more attractive than Cranwell.....
I cannot recall any job I've had as a helicopter pilot that has been poorly paid (although my wife may have other ideas...
), low on benefits, time off, variety (some offshore runs, but they change over a few months) or interest. The couple of times a year that I run up and down runways in a plank wing reminds me how lucky we are, and helps me value the jobs that we have in helicopters.