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Aerial Firefighter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Weyerhauser Co

Blackhawk Pilot

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$108K - $162K/yr

Act as PIC or Co-pilot of S-70 (UH-60L) Black Hawk helicopter in firefighting operations both day and night and other missions as required by the company. * Conduct aerial work operations such as ...

Weyerhaeuser Company

Blackhawk Pilot

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$108K - $162K/yr

Act as PIC or Co-pilot of S-70 (UH-60L) Black Hawk helicopter in firefighting operations both day and night and other missions as required by the company. * Conduct aerial work operations such as ...

Weyerhaeuser Company

Blackhawk Pilot

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$108K - $162K/yr

Act as PIC or Co-pilot of S-70 (UH-60L) Black Hawk helicopter in firefighting operations both day and night and other missions as required by the company. * Conduct aerial work operations such as ...

Orange County Fire Authority

Fire Pilot

Irvine, CA

$122K - $164K/yr

... aerial firefighting, crew/equipment transport, reconnaissance, medical rescue, disaster mitigation and related activities; maintains pilot flight logs and records; performs minor repairs and ...

Orange County Fire Authority, CA

Fire Pilot

Buena Park, CA · On-site

$122K - $164K/yr

... aerial firefighting, crew/equipment transport, reconnaissance, medical rescue, disaster mitigation and related activities; maintains pilot flight logs and records; performs minor repairs and ...

Wipaire Inc

Fire Boss Chief Pilot

South Saint Paul, MN · On-site

... and aerial firefighting techniques b. Flight training including, but not limited to: aircraft ... Commercial Pilot's Certification required, ATP preferred * 3,000 hours total flying time required ...

Columbia Helicopters, Inc.

BV 107 Command Pilot

The 107 Command Pilot serves as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) of the Columbia Model 107, supporting ... Aerial firefighting experience . * Long-line operational experience . * Ability to work ...

Metrea

Aviation Recruiter

Temecula, CA · On-site

... aerial firefighting, and advanced simulation. We own the whole stack: designing, building, and ... Position Summary At Metrea, we do not simply hire pilots - we build the talent pipelines that ...

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Aerial Firefighter Pilot information

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$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do aerial firefighter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerial 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.

What does an aerial firefighter pilot do?

An Aerial Firefighter Pilot operates specialized aircraft to combat wildfires by dropping water or fire retardant over affected areas. They work closely with ground crews and fire management teams to suppress fires and protect lives, property, and natural resources. These pilots must have advanced flying skills, often operating in hazardous conditions with low visibility, strong winds, and rugged terrain. Training, experience, and specific certifications are required to qualify for this demanding but essential role.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an aerial firefighter pilot?

To thrive as an Aerial Firefighter Pilot, you need advanced piloting skills, specialized wildfire suppression training, and a commercial pilot's license with appropriate ratings. Familiarity with aircraft navigation systems, GPS-, and communication equipment, as well as FAA certifications such as an Air Transport Pilot (ATP) or Commercial Pilot Certificate, are typically required. Exceptional decision-making abilities, stress management, and teamwork are vital soft skills in this high-pressure career. These competencies are essential for safe, effective operations in rapidly changing wildfire environments and for ensuring the safety of crew and communities.

What are the primary challenges faced by aerial firefighter pilots during wildfire suppression missions?

Aerial Firefighter Pilots often contend with rapidly shifting weather conditions, reduced visibility due to smoke, and rugged terrain that can make flying hazardous. These missions typically demand precise coordination with ground crews and other aircraft, requiring constant communication and adaptability. The work environment can be both physically and mentally demanding, frequently involving long shifts during peak fire season. However, pilots find the role rewarding, knowing they play a crucial part in protecting lives, property, and natural resources. Most employers provide comprehensive training and ongoing support to help pilots handle these challenges effectively.

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Aerial Firefighter Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerial Firefighter Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Blackhawk Pilot

Wimmer Solutions

Mcminnville, OR • On-site

$91K - $114K/yr

Other

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Details:

  • PIC of S-70 (UH-60L) Black Hawk helicopter in firefighting operations both day and night and other missions as required by the company.
  • Conduct aerial work operations such as Aerial Fire Suppression, Dispensing operations, External load, Reconnaissance.
  • Be able to work on a rotation away from home base for up to two weeks at a time.
  • Willing to fly other aircraft types if qualified and as required by the company.
  • Devote time to group or self-study of aircraft systems, EP’s, etc. and be available for training and check-flights as required by FAA/USFS and Weyerhaeuser.
  • Maintain written and computerized flight logs and records.
  • Ensure all flights, operations and other work follow FAA Regulations, Company Manuals, policies and Weyerhaeuser SOP’s and are achieved safely, effectively and efficiently.
  • Maintains state of readiness for dispatch to emergency and non-emergency operations; or to any other assigned locations as required by the company at short notice.
  • Perform any other duties during scheduled shift as requested by Aviation Operations
    Manager (aka Director of Operations) or Chief Pilot (aka Head of flying Operations).
  • Relocate to Northwest Oregon area with the ability to report to the McMinnville Oregon base (approximately within ~60 minutes) for daily duties.

Requirements:

  • Commercial Rotorcraft Pilot Certificate with Instrument (Helicopter) rating
  • 3,000+ total rotary-wing flight hours
  • 500 minimum hours Part 133 sling load / external load operations
  • Minimum 3 years / 500 hours in aerial work operations, including firefighting
  • Class II FAA Medical Certificate
  • Crew Resource Management (CRM) training
  • Ability to obtain USDA Firefighting Carding for the S-70
  • Willingness to fly other aircraft types if qualified and required
  • Ability to relocate to Northwest Oregon and report to the McMinnville base within ~60 minutes
  • UH60/ S70 Blackhawk Type rating or current CFR 61.58 as PIC
  • 100+ hours UH60/ S70 Blackhawk
  • Aerial Firefighting experience

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