I got my CPL & IR late last year. with the minimum number of hours. within 5 weeks of getting the IR I had 3 job offers, 2 from N sea operators and one from an on shore company. I took the latter, multi crew & multi engine scheduled flights as it was closer to home. I count myself very lucky, I never imagined myself in this position the whole way through my training.
I guess the FI/IR & N sea debate is also down to personal choice. I never felt comfortable with the fact that 'fresh out of the box' I would be teaching someone else to fly and operate a helicopter when I had no real experience myself. I know there are those who do, but it just wasn't for me.
If you know where you would like your career to go, thats great, investigate all the options and do what you feel comfortable with. Above all, network and get yourself known, there is a lot of competition for jobs and you stand a much better chance if you have a good reputation.
All the best
MOTS
