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A Firefighter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Test Pilot

Mountain View, CA ยท On-site

$180K - $225K/yr

Experience performing a secondary skillset while piloting (e.g. tactical aircraft, firefighting, cropdusting, SAR, ISR, law enforcement, etc.) * Current Second Class FAA Medical Certificate or higher ...

We offer a full benefits package including health, dental, 401(k) plan with employer match, tuition ... Previous experience with low level disbursement / aircraft firefighting experience. * Able to ...

Boat Pilot

Keota, OK ยท On-site

Livestock Nutrition Center, a leading regional feed manufacturer, is looking for qualified Harbor ... Ensure that all crewmembers are properly trained in the use of the firefighting and lifesaving ...

Livestock Nutrition Center, a leading regional feed manufacturer, is looking for qualified Harbor ... Ensure that all crewmembers are properly trained in the use of the firefighting and lifesaving ...

B205A1++ Fire/Utility Pilot

Hillsboro, OR ยท On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

We strive to foster a legacy of innovative thought, leadership, mentorship, service, and ... aerial firefighting, natural resource surveys, film/photo/news, and heli-skiing. Our fleet is ...

Police Officer

Bay City, MI ยท On-site

$27.65 - $36.75/hr

... Drone Pilot, Firearms Instructor, and many other specialty jobs and community outreach positions ... as a Firefighter I and II. * Be of good moral character. * Have not been dishonorably discharged ...

... Drone Pilot, Firearms Instructor, and many other specialty jobs and community outreach positions ... as a Firefighter I and II. * Be of good moral character. * Have not been dishonorably discharged ...

Verify serviceability of lifesaving equipment, fire detection, and firefighting systems. * Always ... Uphold a positive company image and maintain professional relationships with customers, pilots ...

Wheelhouse

Paducah, KY ยท Remote

Verify serviceability of lifesaving equipment, fire detection, and firefighting systems. * Always ... Uphold a positive company image and maintain professional relationships with customers, pilots ...

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A Firefighter Pilot information

See salary details

$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do a firefighter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for a firefighter pilot in the United States is $59,606.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a fire fighting pilot make?

Firefighting pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employing agency. They often require specialized certifications and operate aircraft such as helicopters or airtankers during wildfire seasons.

What is the difference between A Firefighter Pilot vs A Fire Inspector?

AspectA Firefighter PilotA Fire Inspector
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, firefighting trainingFire safety certifications, building inspection licenses
Work EnvironmentAircraft, firefighting operations, remote locationsBuildings, fire stations, inspection sites
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, emergency services, aerial firefightingMunicipalities, fire departments, safety agencies

While both roles are vital in fire safety, a Firefighter Pilot specializes in aerial firefighting using aircraft, requiring pilot licenses and firefighting training. In contrast, a Fire Inspector focuses on inspecting buildings for fire hazards, requiring safety certifications. Their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly, but both contribute to fire prevention and safety.

How can I be a firefighter pilot?

To become a firefighter pilot, you typically need to hold a commercial pilot license with experience flying aircraft such as helicopters or planes, and obtain specialized training in aerial firefighting techniques. Many firefighter pilots also have a background as a firefighter or emergency responder and may need additional certifications related to firefighting operations. Experience in aviation safety and navigation is essential for this role.

What is a firefighting pilot called?

A firefighting pilot is commonly referred to as an aerial firefighter or water bomber pilot. They operate aircraft such as helicopters or fixed-wing planes to drop water or fire retardant on wildfires, often requiring specialized pilot certifications and training in aerial firefighting techniques.

Do firefighters make $100,000 a year?

Firefighter pilots, a specialized role involving flying aircraft for firefighting operations, can earn salaries around or above $100,000 annually depending on experience, location, and employer. However, typical firefighter salaries vary widely, and most do not reach this level without additional qualifications or seniority.
More about A Firefighter Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for A Firefighter Pilot jobs? Cities with the most A Firefighter Pilot job openings:
What states have the most A Firefighter Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for A Firefighter Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching A Firefighter Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for A Firefighter Pilot jobs are:
Infographic showing various A Firefighter Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.
Command Pilot (PIC)

Command Pilot (PIC)

Billings Flying Service

Billings, MT โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 28 days ago


Billings Flying Service rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 53 rated aviation services


Job description

Summary

The Pilot-In-Command reports directly to the Chief Pilot/Assistant Chief Pilot and is responsible for the safe and efficient conduct of the flight assignment. The Chief Pilot/Assistant Chief Pilot may delegate certain functions to the PIC to be authorized to conduct business in the absence of the Chief Pilot/Assistant Chief Pilot to meet certain Company and FAA requirements. The PIC will be responsible for all duties and responsibilities required as a Pilot in Command in accordance with the BFS General Operations Manual (GOM).

Requirements

Qualifications

  • PIC must be able to maintain thorough understanding of Billings Flying Services policies and procedures and must embody, exhibit, and ensure Billings Flying Services core values in everyday work.
  • PIC must be highly knowledgeable of FAA regulations, Operations Specifications, Flight Manuals and to the content of all BFS General Operations Manual, Training Manual, Standard Operating Procedures, and Approved/Accepted FAA/USFS Manual.
  • Minimum of 3500 total time / 2500 PIC and 1500 Turbine. Tandem Rotor time a plus.
  • Must satisfy the applicable USFS hour requirements.
  • USFS Aerial Firefighting experience in Helicopters
  • Maintain a Second-Class Medical.
  • Type Rated in the CH-47D (BV234) is favorable.
  • Vertical Reference proficient
  • NVG qualified
  • Available for Domestic and International assignments.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Safety of Flight
  • Ability to maintain active Supervisory Responsibilities of field crew and copilots. Issue directives and notices to flight crews as required.
  • PIC may be requested to assist and perform OJT for flight crewmember training, PIC upgrade training, flight base audits/inspections, and any other aviation duties as directed by the Chief Pilot.
  • Participate in pilot training when qualified to do so.
  • Actively participate in ensuring Billings Flying Services Safety Management System (SMS) including reporting hazards and incidents encountered in daily operations; understanding, complying and promoting the Company Safety Policy and other safety duties as assigned.
  • Reviews flight assignments and obtain briefing information regarding the purpose of the flight, weather, operating procedures, and any special instructions.
  • Prepares or supervises preparation of flight plan considering such factors as altitude, terrain, weather, range, weight, cruise performance, airport facilities and navigational aids.
  • Ensures aircraft is preflight, inspected, loaded, equipped, and manned for the flight assignment.
  • Determine compliance with duty and flight time limitations, properly certificated, adequately rested and in proper dress.
  • Ensures that all required forms, equipment, and material are on board the aircraft prior to flight.
  • Records mechanical irregularities and discrepancies and ensures that maintenance personnel are informed of the item recorded.
  • Verifies before beginning any flight that recorded items have been procedurally complied with, deferred, or corrected by maintenance personnel in accordance with the approved Minimum Equipment List for that aircraft, as appropriate.
  • CFR 91.3 Responsibility and authority of pilot in command. The pilot in command of an aircraft is directly responsible for, and is the final authority as to, the operation of that aircraft, to include weather decisions.

Behavioral Competencies

ยท Embody BFS core values

  • Identifying hazardous or potentially hazardous situations and taking appropriate action to maintain a safe environment for self and others.
  • Working collaboratively with others to achieve organizational goals.
  • Dealing with situations and issues proactively and persistently, seizing opportunities that arise.
  • Listening and communicating openly, honestly, and respectfully with different audiences, promoting dialogue, and building consensus.
  • Treating others fairly, honestly, and respectfully, furthering the integrity of the organization and its relationships of trust with team members and the broader community.
  • Energizing and inspiring others to strive for excellence and commit to common goals and purposes, creating a sense of self-efficacy, resilience, and persistence in followers.
  • Assuming a leadership role in helping others achieve excellent results.
  • Recognizing the need for change, being open to new ideas and methods, and championing transformational change within the organization and beyond.

Work Environment/Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Work performed in austere field settings.
  • Exposure to shop environment such as noise, dust, odors, and fumes.
  • Occasionally required to lift items weighing as much as 50Lbs.
  • Regularly required to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about facilities.

Behavioral Competencies

ยท Embody BFS core values

  • Identifying hazardous or potentially hazardous situations and taking appropriate action to maintain a safe environment for self and others.
  • Working collaboratively with others to achieve organizational goals.
  • Dealing with situations and issues proactively and persistently, seizing opportunities that arise.
  • Listening and communicating openly, honestly, and respectfully with different audiences, promoting dialogue, and building consensus.
  • Treating others fairly, honestly, and respectfully, furthering the integrity of the organization and its relationships of trust with team members and the broader community.
  • Energizing and inspiring others to strive for excellence and commit to common goals and purposes, creating a sense of self-efficacy, resilience, and persistence in followers.
  • Assuming a leadership role in helping others achieve excellent results.
  • Recognizing the need for change, being open to new ideas and methods, and championing transformational change within the organization and beyond.

Work Environment/Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Work performed in austere field settings.
  • Exposure to shop environment such as noise, dust, odors, and fumes.
  • Occasionally required to lift items weighing as much as 50Lbs.
  • Regularly required to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about facilities.

Benefits

  • Full time employment with competitive compensation based on experience and credentials. Medical, dental and vision insurance. 401K with up to 4% company match.
  • These benefits are available after initial waiting period.