Join the Coast Guard > Aviation Survival Technician (AST)

ASTs function operationally as helicopter rescue swimmers and emergency medical technicians basic. ASTs may find themselves being deployed into a myriad of challenging rescues ranging from hurricanes and cliff rescues, to emergency medical evacuations from ships at sea. ASTs also provide all survival training to aviators such as swim tests, survival lectures and shallow-water egress training. Other aircrew positions include HC-130H dropmaster, loadmaster, sensor systems operator, HU-25A dropmaster, and basic aircrewman. In addition, ASTs perform ground handling and servicing of aircraft, and conduct routine aircraft inspections, and aviation administrative duties. ASTs inspect, service, maintain, troubleshoot and repair cargo aerial delivery systems; and drag parachute systems, aircraft oxygen systems, helicopter flotation systems, dewatering pumps, survival equipment for air-sea rescue kits, and special-purpose protective clothing. ASTs also store aviation ordnance and pyrotechnic devices. Types of Duty ASTs are stationed at Coast Guard air stations throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. ASTs also are assigned to the Polar Operations Division in Mobile, Ala., in support of ice-breaking operations. ASTs may serve at large or small air stations servicing HC-130H (Hercules), HH-60J (Jayhawk), and HH-65A (Dolphin) aircraft. Training Available The 16-week AST 'A' School is followed by three weeks of emergency medical technician training at a training center in Petaluma, Calif. Qualifications An AST must be in superior physical shape with no chronic orthopedic problems, and must possess a high level of mental acuity and outstanding military bearing. Training is extremely stressful and is designed to identify those candidates who possess the physical and mental skills to handle the rigors of being a rescue swimmer. The member must pass an aircrew-candidate physical and qualify for a "secret" security clearance. Related Civilian Jobs Emergency Medical Technician Aircraft Ground Handler Land & Water Survival Instructor Parachute Rigging and Repair Life Support Equipment Technician Commercial Aircraft Life Support Technician Paramedic