Aviation Safety Inspector (Rotorcraft-Helicopter) (Principal Operations Inspector (POI))

Spokane, WA · Senior

$126,432 – $164,366

Via USAJOBS, the federal government’s official jobs site, retrieved October 28, 2026. You apply through the official announcement on USAJOBS.

What this role is

This is a federal role overseeing helicopter operators' compliance with aviation safety regulations, involving certification, surveillance, investigation, and enforcement. It suits experienced helicopter pilots and flight instructors who want to transition into aviation safety oversight and regulatory work.

Our summary, not Federal Aviation Administration’s wording. The full posting is on their site.

What they ask for

Required

Airline Transport Pilot Certificate with Rotorcraft-Helicopter rating OR Commercial Pilot Certificate with Rotorcraft-Helicopter rating and Instrument-Helicopter rating
Valid, unexpired Flight Instructor Certificate with Rotorcraft-Helicopter rating and Instrument-Helicopter rating
Minimum 1,500 total flight hours as pilot-in-command or second-in-command, with at least 1,000 hours in helicopters
Minimum 200 hours of flight instruction in helicopters
Minimum 100 helicopter flight hours as pilot-in-command/second-in-command or simulator time in past five years
No more than two flying accidents with pilot error in past five years
No more than two FAA violations in past five years
Valid second-class medical certificate
Valid state driver's license
High school diploma or equivalent
At least one year specialized experience with FAR Part 135 air carrier certification, surveillance, investigation, or enforcement