Mountain Rescue Program Coordinator

Proudly part of CommonSpirit Health, Flight For Life Colorado® was the first civilian, hospital-based emergency medical helicopter program in the United States. For over 50 years, we have set the standard for over 300 air medical services worldwide that have modeled our concept. We proudly partner with search and rescue agencies, offering specialized services such as aerial search support and our Avalanche Deployment Program. Our reputation for rigorous training, comprehensive coverage, and proven expertise has made us the air medical program of choice for hospitals, EMS agencies, ski patrols, and rescue teams. With industry leading technology and a highly experienced team, we provide critical care transport across several states in the Rocky Mountain Region, including the Denver Metro area, Summit County, Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Durango, northern New Mexico, southeastern Utah, and western Kansas. 

As our Mountain Rescue Program Coordinator, you will be a vital asset to Flight for Life (FFL), directly supporting program leadership and crew as a dedicated subject matter expert in backcountry helicopter search and rescue (SAR) operations. You will play a crucial role in enhancing the safety and effectiveness of our critical mountain rescue missions, contributing significantly to our life-saving services.

Every day, you will actively monitor backcountry SAR safety issues and emerging trends, developing and delivering essential safety education for helicopter SAR operations. You'll contribute your expertise to discussions aimed at improving safety protocols and training, not only within Flight for Life but also across Colorado. This role demands a proactive approach to identifying potential risks and implementing best practices to safeguard our teams and the public.

To be successful in this role, you will possess a deep understanding of backcountry helicopter SAR operations and a strong commitment to safety. Exceptional communication skills are key for collaborating with FFL leadership, crew, and external stakeholders. Ideal candidates will demonstrate a proactive mindset, an ability to analyze complex safety data, and a passion for continuous improvement in mountain rescue practices.

• Serves the Flight for Life Program Director, leadership, and staff in development of all backcountry helicopter SAR Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs).
• Develops operational checklists and SAR member checkoff protocols of key FFL interagency SAR training programs.
• Serves as Subject Matter Expert and develops SOPs/SOGs, checklists, and internal Operational Policies for SAR technology.
• Makes recommendations pertaining to backcountry helicopter SAR operations to ensure safety of FFL crew and SAR rescuers.
• Communicates protocols and procedures to the mountain rescue community, and represents Flight for Life on issues pertaining to backcountry helicopter SAR operations.
• Serves on the Flight for Life Safety Committee, participating on matters pertaining to backcountry helicopter SAR operations, including review and assessment of specific SAR rescues as well as incident After Action Reviews as necessary.

Required

• High School Diploma/G.E.D.
• Two (2) years Mountain Search and Rescue experience
• Helicopter SAR Operations experience
• Valid Colorado driver's license and ability to pass the annual review of driving record for safe vehicle operations
• Search and Rescue Technician or HEMS Certificate

Preferred

• Degree in Emergency Management, EMS, or equivalent
• Prehospital experience
• Air Medical and/or Rotorwing experience in alpine environments