An Australian company recently advertised for line pilots (turbines) and got very few replies from Oz; however, a good number from NZ drivers who had the qualifications. A puzzle to say the least and this problem has occurred before. A lot of NZ instructors are coming over to work in Australian schools. So why is this so? Where are the boys from Oz?
Some observers suggest that CHC and other large companies are sucking the system dry of these mid level blokes.
Another said that the CASA needs (paperwork) for a Chief Pilot or a CFI were too onerous when there was plenty of flying without the need to go up that next rung of the career ladder.
So how will a specialised power line company fare when their Chief Pilot moves to a job closer to home. The cupboard seems bare to say the least in Oz.
Anyhow the good news is that an advert will appear in an Australian newspaper on Fri 26 Jan '07. I believe they are a good company, doing a difficult job in the electrical distribution industry and are recognised through out the world as being good at their work. With ten machines and some overseas work; they are somewhat different (more professional) than some of the other operators.
This is due in part to the strict auditing and QA imposed on them by their clients, so everything has to be by the book.
So if you can go up that "next rung" on your career ladder, then give it a go!
The about to be advertised job reads as follows:
CHIEF PILOT
Aeropower is Australia's leading electrical contractor with extensive
experience in power line maintenance and construction. The Chief Pilot will
be responsible for more than ten helicopters in this very specialized
industry.
Minimum requirements:
. Commercial Helicopter Licence
. Relevant power line experience
. 2,000 hours on helicopters
. 100 hours MD500/H369D/E and 100 hours low level.
Attractive salary package based on experience and qualifications will be offered.
Please direct all enquiries by 02/02/07 to:
[email protected]
(07) 3204 1280