Duties and Responsibilities:
The Tactical Flight Officer (TFO) is a member of the Flight Operations Section responsible for air-ground coordination of law enforcement operations. As a member of the flight crew, the TFO primarily operates aircraft onboard surveillance and observation equipment.
Tactical Flight Officer Responsibilities:
- Operates thermal imaging cameras, mapping systems, radio systems, searchlights, and digital video recorders;
- Operates radios between helicopters, ground units, dispatch and other agencies;
- Assists the pilot with navigation, monitoring weather conditions, identifying obstacles and performing emergency procedures;
- Completes flight logs, mission reports, records video footage, documents evidence and testifies in court;
- Provides real time intelligence on suspect locations, vehicle pursuits, and perimeter management to
K-9 and ground personnel;
- Provides basic lifesaving support to transported patients as necessary;
- Assist with conducting pre-flight inspections of aircraft and ground equipment;
- Performs all other duties as assigned.
Minimum Selection Criteria:
- Law enforcement experience is not required as this is a Professional Support Role (but preferred);
- Must have a valid FL Drivers License.
Special Selection Criteria:
- Candidate must complete flight competency assessment and physical assessment prior to selection;
- Due to flight capability restrictions of the aircraft, candidates must be within height and weight to ensure airworthiness. *Recommended: Under 6-feet tall and equal to or less than 190 pounds;
- The Candidate will be required to complete a Tactical Flight Officer (Phase I TFO Training) program, Emergency Flight Procedures Training (Phase II TFO Training) and PFD / HEEDs familiarization;
- Must successfully demonstrate during the training period, the ability to use all TFO related equipment installed on board the aircraft, and the ability to multi-task under actual or simulated mission conditions;
- Must be able to function in all-weather / environmental conditions, be exposed to noise, fumes and the physiological effects of flight;
- Must be able to swim and tread water while wearing flight gear;
- Must be able to climb up and down on aircraft during preflight to a height of approximately 12 feet;
- Must be able to position aircraft (with assistance from others) with the use of ground handling equipment;
- Must have basic computer skills to facilitate flight and call data entry, complete reports, etc.;
- Must be able to gain access to the FCIC/ NCIC system;
- Must have excellent written communications skills, ability to accurately complete detailed reports and correctly maintain logs and activity reports;
- Must demonstrate good oral communication skills with a high proficiency in radio procedures during high stressful situations;
- Must be willing to complete TAC-Med training upon selection;
- This position requires you to work rotating shifts, nights, weekends, holidays and change work schedules on short notice;
- Must be able to maintain physical standards to ensure weight and balance of aircraft;
- Pilot certifications are preferred but not required as a qualification for this assignment.
The Flagler County Sheriff's Office is committed to providing its citizens with a diverse, competent, trained and professional workforce by hiring highly qualified candidates. The FCSO is an Equal Opportunity Employer and strives to reflect the diversity found in the community we serve.
