The Sheriff's Department is seeking qualified candidates for
SHERIFF'S HELICOPTER/AIRPLANE MECHANIC - GENERAL MECHANIC
Sheriff's Helicopter/Airplane Mechanics play a critical role in ensuring the safety, reliability, and performance of the aircraft operated by the Sheriff's Office. These skilled professionals maintain and repair airframes, engines, and essential components, keeping Sheriff's Office helicopters mission ready.
The ideal candidate is a collaborative team player with a strong commitment to continuous learning and a drive for excellence. Experience in maintaining Bell Huey 205 and 407 series helicopters is highly desirable, along with specialized training in helicopter repair, avionics expertise, and FAA Inspection Authorization.
Click here for the complete job description including minimum qualifications, examples of duties, working conditions, etc.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- The possession of a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airframe and Power Plant License is required at the time of application; AND,
- The successful completion of training or education, from an agency or organization recognized by the FAA, in helicopter and aircraft maintenance; AND,
- The possession of a valid California class C driver's license, which must be maintained throughout employment in this class; AND,
- One (1) year of paid experience repairing and maintaining helicopters for an agency or organization.
REQUIRED LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS, OR REGISTRATIONS:
Required licenses, certifications and registrations must be maintained throughout employment in this class.
- The possession of a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airframe and Power Plant License, which must be maintained throughout employment in this class, is required at the time of application.
- The possession of a valid California Class C driver's license, which must be maintained throughout employment in this class, is required at time of appointment. Employees in this class may be required to use their own vehicle.
NOTE: For your education to be considered, you must attach a copy of your degree, transcripts, diploma, or foreign degree equivalency to your application. Required attachments submitted on or after February 29, 2008 do not need to be resubmitted. Please submit only the documents required. Additional documentation, such as awards, letters of recommendation, unsolicited certifications, etc. will not be added to your application file.
The Department of Human Resources removes personally identifiable information from all recruitments. This practice, called Blind Applicant Screening, hides a candidate’s personal information that could influence or bias a hiring decision. Personal information includes name, phone number, address, gender, age and race. This process helps contribute to a fair and equitable selection process leading to a more diverse and inclusive workforce.
The most highly qualified candidates, based on the evaluation results, will be referred for an interview. Be sure to include your experience in meeting the minimum requirements in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire section of the Application.
Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application Work History and/or supplemental questionnaire.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Incumbents in this class will generally be working in a climate controlled repair hanger located at Gillespie Field in El Cajon. Work may take place during evenings and weekends to perform emergency repairs. Incumbents may be required to perform repairs in the outdoors at offsite locations, and in backcountry areas as needed. When working outdoors, incumbents will be exposed to varying weather conditions. Work involves travel to rural, remote, or backcountry locations within the County region; and occasional travel outside of the County region. Work involves exposure to flammable or hazardous liquids or materials, such as fuel, gasoline, or lubricants. Incumbents may be required to wear protective clothing or equipment.
CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT
As part of the County of San Diego’s pre-employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check (including fingerprinting) and a pre-employment medical screening prior to beginning County employment. Additional types of background investigations may be conducted based on the job-related activities of the position.
EVALUATION
Qualified applicants will be placed on a six (6) month employment list based on scores received during the evaluation of information contained in the employment and supplemental applications. Please ensure all information is complete and accurate as the responses you provide on the supplemental application form will be reviewed using an automated evaluation system. If you are successful in the initial screening process your application will be reviewed individually to confirm that the information you provided is accurate and qualifying.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of a job, on a case-by-case basis.

As an employer of over 19,000 employees, the County of San Diego is an organization committed to veteran hiring, retention, and professional development. We recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by our veterans and value the unique expertise and leadership qualities they bring to our workforce. We strive to provide veterans with the resources and tools necessary to maximize their employment opportunities, and to assist veterans with their transition into civilian life by applying the valuable skills, knowledge and training acquired in service to positions and career paths at all levels within our large organization. Click on the resource links below to learn more about how the County of San Diego supports its veterans.
Veteran’s Preference PolicyThe County of San Diego offerspreferential credits for military service to assist qualified applicants in transitioning from military to civilian careers with the County of San Diego.
Military Skills Translator Do you need assistance translating your military experience into civilian experience? This tool can help!
The County of San Diego and its employees embrace the vision of: a just, sustainable, and resilient future for all. Our values include: integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence, and sustainability. Each of which are infused throughout our operations. While also embracing a mission of strengthening our communities with innovative, inclusive, and data driven services through a skilled and supported workforce. Click here for more information on our Strategic Plan (sandiegocounty.gov) (Download PDF reader) as well as our commitment to serve everyone, to build a Framework for the Future that will create a County that works for all.
DISASTER WORKER
Under California Government Code Sections 3100 - 3109, public employees are designated as disaster service workers. The term "public employees" includes all persons employed by the state or any county, city, state agency, or public district. Disaster service workers are required to participate in such disaster service activities as may be assigned to them by their employer or by law.

DIVERSITY
The County of San Diego is committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion because our diverse workforce is our greatest asset and our customers are our number one priority.