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Aerial Firefighter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Coulson Aviation

CH47-Pilot In Command

Portland, OR · On-site

About Coulson Aviation Coulson Aviation is a global leader in aerial firefighting, operating across ... Pilots may live anywhere in the U.S. we provide travel to and from assignments. Position Overview ...

Coulson Aviation

S61-Pilot In Command

Portland, OR · On-site

S-61 Pilot in Command (PIC) About Coulson Aviation Coulson Aviation is a global leader in aerial firefighting, operating across the United States, Canada, Australia, and South America. Our diverse ...

Coulson Aviation

CH-47D Pilot in Command

Portland, OR · On-site

We own, operate and maintain aerial firefighting assets, consisting of both fixed-wing and rotary ... Rotary wing pilots with CH-47D Pilot in Command experience for full-time, year-round employment.

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.

AA Command Pilot

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

Hillsboro Aviation

B205A1++ Fire/Utility Pilot

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

... aerial firefighting, natural resource surveys, film/photo/news, and heli-skiing. Our fleet is ... As a B205A-1++ Fire Fighting and Utility Pilot, you will work closely with the Contract & Charter:

Bridger Aerospace

Air Attack A&P Mechanic II - Rotational

$29.50 - $38.75/hr

It was founded in 2014 to support front-line firefighters with world-leading technology and aerial ... Collaborate with pilots, maintenance planners, and inspectors to ensure aircraft readiness.

Coulson Aviation

CH47 Flight Mechanic

Portland, OR · On-site

$30.50 - $40/hr

In this role, you'll work alongside pilots and ground crews to ensure aircraft are mission-ready ... and aerial firefighting systems such as fixed water tanks, hydraulic snorkels, buckets, and sling ...

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Aerial Firefighter Pilot information

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$28.5K

$59.6K

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How much do aerial firefighter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 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.

Can firefighters make $100,000?

Aerial firefighter pilots, a specialized type of firefighting pilot, can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced certifications, and working for large agencies or private companies. However, salaries vary based on location, employer, and flight hours, and many entry-level positions pay less. High-risk, specialized roles tend to offer higher compensation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Aerial Firefighter Pilot position, and why are they important?

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.

How to become an aerial firefighter pilot?

To become an aerial firefighter pilot, individuals typically need a commercial pilot license with an instrument rating, experience flying large aircraft, and specialized training in aerial firefighting operations. Many pilots gain experience flying cargo or firefighting aircraft and may need additional certifications or endorsements specific to firefighting missions.

What are some of 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.

Is 30 too old to become a wildland firefighter?

Aerial firefighter pilots and wildland firefighters often have varied age ranges, and 30 is not considered too old to start training or join the profession. Physical fitness, relevant certifications, and experience are more important factors than age, and many agencies value diverse backgrounds and skills. Age limits are generally flexible as long as candidates meet health and fitness requirements.

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.

How much do aerial firefighting pilots make?

Aerial firefighting pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, employer, and the complexity of the aircraft operated. Experienced pilots with specialized certifications and those working during peak fire seasons tend to earn higher wages. Compensation may also include benefits such as hazard pay and overtime due to the demanding nature of the job.
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Aerial Firefighter Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerial Firefighter Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Large Airtanker Pilot - C-130 IA Captain

Coulson Aviation

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Large Airtanker Pilot – C-130 Initial Attack

Coulson Aviation

When wildfires ignite, you’re among the first in the air.

Coulson Aviation is seeking exceptional C-130 Initial Attack Airtanker Captains to join our world-class aerial firefighting team. If you bring prior C-130 PIC experience or are USFS Initial Attack (IA) carded as an Airtanker Captain, this is your opportunity to fly one of the most powerful and capable aerial firefighting platforms in service today.

This is a mission-critical role supporting rapid initial attack wildfire suppression, complex fire environments, and large-scale coordinated aerial operations. If you thrive in high-tempo operations, precision low-level flying, and dynamic multi-aircraft environments, this is where your experience truly matters.

Why This Role Matters

Initial attack saves forests, communities, and lives.
As a C-130 Initial Attack Pilot, your decisions and execution in the first hours of a fire can change the outcome entirely. You’ll be entrusted with one of the most capable firefighting aircraft in the world, operating at the sharp end of wildfire response. Supporting ground firefighters is our passion, and we need you to help us help them—so together, we can protect our communities and our state and national forest lands, not only here at home, but internationally as well

The Mission

Conduct time-critical wildfire response missions delivering retardant with our specialized water/retardant dropping tanking systems in the most challenging terrain and congested airspace environments you’ll see as a professional aviator. You’ll work shoulder-to-shoulder with Air Attack, ground resources, and agency partners to slow fire growth when it matters most.

Key Responsibilities

  • Execute initial attack aerial firefighting missions in the C-130 Airtanker with precision, discipline, and professionalism
  • Operate at low level in mountainous and high-threat environments in accordance with approved SOPs and tactics
  • Coordinate closely with Air Attack to manage complex, congested fire traffic areas
  • Identify, assess, and mitigate operational hazards while actively supporting the Safety Management System (SMS)
  • Maintain aircraft and crew readiness for rapid deployment during peak fire activity
  • Complete flight logs, mission records, and required operational documentation
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of wildfire tactics, SOPs, and operational procedures

Qualifications

Required

  • FAA ATP, or FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument Rating appropriate to C-130 operations
  • 2,000+ hours total flight time
  • 1,000+ hours of multi-engine experience
  • 500 hours of IFR experience

Preferred

  • 4,000+ hours total flight time
  • Previous C-130, LAT, or VLAT experience
  • Initial Attack aerial firefighting experience
  • Low-level tactical flying in complex or mountainous terrain
  • Multi-crew, crew-resource-management–intensive cockpit experience

What Sets You Apart

  • Exceptional CRM, threat and error management, and sound aeronautical decision-making
  • Calm, decisive communicator under pressure
  • High situational awareness in rapidly evolving fire environments
  • Safety-driven, mission-focused, and ready for on-call deployment during peak fire seasons

Ready to be first over the fire?

Apply now and join the front line of aerial wildfire suppression with Coulson Aviation.