Operations Assistant Heliport · Cardiff Heliport

Wales Air Ambulance; Cardiff; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A dedicated air ambulance charity is seeking a motivated part-time Operations Assistant in Cardiff. The role involves conducting aircraft refueling operations, monitoring heliport activities, and ensuring safety compliance. Suitable candidates will need strong communication skills, physical fitness, and a valid driving license. Flexibility for weekend work is essential, and the role promises a dynamic work environment dedicated to aviation safety and customer service.

Qualifications

• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and bank holidays.
• Physically fit and capable of performing firefighting duties.
• Understanding of health and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct aircraft refueling operations to safety standards.
• Monitor heliport activities and assist with aircraft ground movements.
• Maintain cleanliness and safety of heliport facilities.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Ability to work under pressure

Basic IT proficiency

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Education

Valid driving license

Job description

Are you a motivated and committed individual with a passion for aviation and excellent customer service?

If so, we have an exciting opportunity to join our fantastic team at the Wales Air Ambulance Charity as an Operations Assistant.

This is a part time vacancy 24hrs per week - Frequent weekend working is necessary and a flexible approach to roster changes is required.

Click Here to download the full Job Description

About Us

Wales Air Ambulance delivers advanced lifesaving medical care to people across Wales, 24/7. We are the only air ambulance charity based in and dedicated to the people of Wales and rely entirely on your charitable donations to raise 11.2 million every year to keep the helicopters in the air and rapid response vehicles on the road.

We have successfully grown our service over the last twenty three years from a single aircraft operating five days a week from a single base in South Wales to the four aircraft 24/7 service model that we have today.

With a motto of "Serving Wales, Saving Lives", we are absolutely committed to delivering the very best service we can for the people of Wales.

Job Purpose

We are seeking a proactive Heliport Operations Assistant to support the safe and efficient running of daily heliport operations. This is a varied role suited to someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and is passionate about aviation safety and operations.

The Operations Assistant plays a vital role in supporting the day-to-day functioning of the heliport. This position involves a combination of operational, safety, administrative, and customer service responsibilities to ensure the heliport runs smoothly, safely, and in compliance with aviation regulations.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct aircraft refueling operations, ensuring adherence to safety and environmental standards.
• Complete routine fuel checks, including fuel quality sampling, and stock monitoring.
• Assist with fuel deliveries, including offloading, storage management, and documentation.
• Communicate with aircraft via radio providing situational awareness for pilots and operational information useful for the safe and efficient conduct of flights.
• Monitor heliport activities and assist with aircraft ground movements.
• Monitor and enforce heliport safety procedures and aviation regulations.
• Participate in emergency response drills and assist during incidents.
• Perform aviation firefighting duties, including operating firefighting equipment and responding to aircraft emergencies.
• Carry out statutory health and safety compliance checks, including inspections of equipment, facilities, and operational areas.
• Ensure all operations comply with aviation standards, health and safety legislation, and company policies.
• Assist in maintaining a secure heliport environment, monitoring site access and ensuring only authorised personnel enter restricted areas.
• Conduct routine security checks of the perimeter, facilities, and equipment.
• Report and respond to any suspicious activity or security breaches.
• Assist with the maintenance of airfield grounds, including vegetation control, surface inspections, and upkeep of key safety areas.
• Report any hazards or maintenance issues affecting operational safety.
• Support seasonal and weather-related maintenance tasks as required.
• Maintain cleanliness and tidiness of heliport facilities, including customer areas, staff facilities, and operational areas.
• Support general upkeep to maintain a professional and safe working environment.
• Escort visitors and contractors within the heliport in accordance with security and safety procedures.
• Provide safety briefings and site inductions to visitors as required.
• Ensure all visitor activities comply with heliport access and operational protocols.
• Maintain accurate fuel records, operational logs, and safety documentation.
• Assist with data entry, filing, and reporting for operational and compliance purposes.
• Liaise with pilots, customers, visitors, and contractors to ensure smooth operations.
• Any other such duties as may reasonably be required by the management team.

Training Requirements

• Occupational health assessment as part of onboarding and periodically thereafter.
• Completion of aviation firefighting training.
• Fuel handling and quality control training.
• Obtain a Radio Operator’s Certificate of Competence (ROCC).
• Aviation security awareness training.
• Manual handling and equipment operation training.
• Ongoing refresher training and competency assessments as required by regulatory and company standards.

Personal Specification - Essential Criteria

• Strong communication skills, including good command of written and spoken English.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing priorities.
• Basic IT proficiency (Microsoft Office, operational systems).
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and bank holidays.
• Physically fit and capable of performing firefighting duties.
• Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Attention to detail and pride in maintaining a clean and safe environment.
• Understanding of health and safety regulations and ability to carry out compliance checks.
• Willingness to undergo and maintain occupational health clearance.
• Professional and courteous approach to customers, visitors, contractors, and stakeholders.
• Ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
• Discretion and the ability to work in an environment with confidential and sensitive information.
• Valid driving license.
• An interest in the service and the work of the wider organisation.

Desirable Criteria

• Previous experience in aviation, transport, or logistics.
• Aviation safety training or certification.
• Experience in groundskeeping or airfield maintenance.
• Experience with aviation fuel systems.
• Health and safety qualification (e.g., IOSH, NEBOSH).
• Awareness of aviation security protocols and procedures.
• Holder of a first aid at work certificate.
• Fire-fighter experience.
• Holder of Radio Operator’s Certificate of Competence (ROCC).
• Experience of working in the Charity sector.
• Welsh speaker.