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Aerial Firefighting Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

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Aerial Firefighting information

See Arizona salary details

$26.6K

$55.5K

$93.2K

How much do aerial firefighting jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerial firefighting in Arizona is $55,546.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,400.00 and $64,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is aerial firefighting?

Aerial firefighting is the use of aircraft to combat wildfires from the air. Specialized planes and helicopters drop water or fire retardant chemicals directly onto fires or in strategic locations to slow their spread. These aircraft can also be used for reconnaissance, mapping, and transporting firefighters or equipment to hard-to-reach areas. Aerial firefighting is often coordinated with ground crews to maximize effectiveness and ensure safety. This method is essential in managing large, fast-moving, or remote wildfires.

What are aerial firefighting jobs?

Aerial firefighting jobs involve flying a plane or helicopter to extinguish wildfires, protect property, and save lives. Pilots fly as part of a crew and drop water or other fire retardants to contain the fire and minimize damage. Some aerial firefighters are “smokejumpers,” which means they parachute or rappel into wildfire areas to combat their spread. As an aerial firefighter, your responsibilities involve preserving woodlands and deserts while protecting the safety of residents and your crew, so these jobs are not for the faint of heart. You must be physically fit and able to endure stressful situations and harsh conditions for extended periods. Additionally, both roles require specialized training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in aerial firefighting?

To thrive in aerial firefighting, you need advanced piloting skills, knowledge of fire behavior, and completion of specialized firefighting and aviation training. Experience with aircraft like helicopters or fixed-wing air tankers, FAA certifications, and proficiency in using GPS navigation and radio communication systems are typically required. Outstanding teamwork, decision-making under pressure, and situational awareness are crucial soft skills for this high-risk environment. These abilities are essential to ensure safety, effective wildfire suppression, and coordination with ground crews during complex emergency missions.

What are some of the biggest challenges faced by aerial firefighting crews during wildfire season?

Aerial firefighting crews often contend with unpredictable weather conditions, rapidly changing fire behavior, and challenging terrain that can make flying and water drops both risky and complex. Coordinating with ground teams is essential, as is maintaining constant communication to ensure safety and maximize effectiveness. Additionally, long hours and high-stress situations require strong teamwork and adaptability, making both physical fitness and mental resilience key components of success in this role.

What is the difference between Aerial Firefighting vs Helicopter Pilot?

AspectAerial FirefightingHelicopter Pilot
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, Firefighting-specific trainingCommercial Pilot License, often with helicopter ratings
Work EnvironmentFire zones, remote areas, often during emergenciesVarious, including transport, surveillance, and firefighting support
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, government agencies, firefighting contractorsAirlines, charter companies, government agencies, firefighting services

While both roles involve piloting helicopters, aerial firefighting focuses on using aircraft to combat wildfires, requiring specialized firefighting training. Helicopter pilots may work in diverse sectors, including transportation and surveillance, with less emphasis on firefighting-specific skills. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the industry.

More about Aerial Firefighting jobs

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For Aerial Firefighting jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Aerial Firefighting jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Aerial Firefighting jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Aerial Firefighting job openings:

Aerial Firefighting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerial Firefighting job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,546 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Helicopter A&P Mechanic - Arizona

Heli Preflight

Prescott, AZ • On-site

$48 - $83/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Company: Guidance Aviation
Location: Prescott, Arizona, USA
Type: Permanent
Relocation: Available for the right candidate
Travel: Optional
Salary Range: $35 – $60

Description

Guidance Air Service is a Part 133, 135 & 137 helicopter operation providing tour, charter, utility & aerial fire fighting services in Arizona and the western United States. We are currently accepting applications for certificated A&P mechanics to support our fleet of Bell Helicopters

Current helicopters being operated include:
  • Bell 407
  • UH-1H

Home based in Prescott, Arizona, we are primarily looking for mechanics within the home region to support operations in Prescott during Fire season.

USFS/DOI Cardable mechanics may earn additional pay providing relief during the 2026 fire season.

Job Requirements:
  • FAA Mechanics Certificate with Airframe and Powerplant Ratings
  • IA preferred but not required
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
  • Can work extended periods safely on ladders and other elevated positions

Guidance Air Service provides charter, tour, utility, and aerial firefighting services in Arizona and the Western United States

Supported Manufacturers:

Bell & Robinson Helicopters

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