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Aerial Firefighting Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Coulson Aviation

Export Compliance Officer

Thermal, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

From our headquarters on Vancouver Island, our team helps protect communities through industry-leading aerial firefighting operations across Canada, the United States, Australia, and Chile. We are ...

City of Santee

Firefighter Paramedic

Santee, CA · On-site

$91K - $120K/yr

Position ground ladders and climb ground and aerial ladders; Use various hand and power tools to ... to learn firefighting techniques, policies, practices and operation of equipment Ability to:

City of Santee, CA

Firefighter Paramedic

Cottonwood, CA · On-site

$91K - $120K/yr

Position ground ladders and climb ground and aerial ladders; * Use various hand and power tools to ... to learn firefighting techniques, policies, practices and operation of equipment. Ability to:

City of Merced, CA

Fire Captain I/II

Merced, CA · On-site

$72K - $97K/yr

Drive, operate and maintain all firefighting and suppression apparatus and equipment, including aerial trucks; prepare for pumping operations and operate pumps to maintain proper water flow and ...

City of Merced

Fire Captain I/II

Merced, CA · On-site

$72K - $97K/yr

Drive, operate and maintain all firefighting and suppression apparatus and equipment, including aerial trucks; prepare for pumping operations and operate pumps to maintain proper water flow and ...

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

$72K/yr

Developed specific aerial ignition plans for burning projects after analyzing conditions ... This position participates in wildland firefighting activities. Based on the type of work performed ...

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All JobsAerial Firefighting JobsAerial Firefighting Jobs in California

Aerial Firefighting information

See California salary details

$28.1K

$58.8K

$98.7K

How much do aerial firefighting jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerial firefighting in California is $58,826.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,900.00 and $68,100.00 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

What are the most commonly searched types of Aerial Firefighting jobs in California?

The most popular types of Aerial Firefighting jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Aerial Firefighting jobs in California?

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

What job categories do people searching Aerial Firefighting jobs in California look for?

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

What cities in California are hiring for Aerial Firefighting jobs?

Cities in California with the most Aerial Firefighting job openings:

Aerial Firefighting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerial Firefighting job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,826 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Export Compliance Officer

Coulson Aviation

Thermal, CA • On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

At Coulson Aviation, we’re proud to provide skilled employment opportunities supporting wildfire response operations around the world. From our headquarters on Vancouver Island, our team helps protect communities through industry-leading aerial firefighting operations across Canada, the United States, Australia, and Chile.

We are looking for a full-time, in office Export Compliance Officer, responsible for identifying risks with international trade activity as well as mitigating damages related to Canadian and American customs and regulations. Other responsibilities include the effective development, documenting, amendment, compliance monitoring, analysis and mapping of all Canada/USA customs processes required in support of Coulson operations.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

  • Designated and carry out duties as the Company’s Empowered Official
  • Monitor and manage accounts with Canadian, US & Global customs brokers
  • Liaise with vendors to ensure compliance to CBSA requirements for inbound freight and documentation requirements
  • Utilization of commercial/customs invoices upon arrival at our facilities supporting customs clearance mandate
  • Work with our broker during Customs audits
  • Liaise with our broker regarding trade eligibility and restrictions, valuation and taxation implications, free trade agreements and duty/HS tariff classification
  • Work with our broker’s staff to identify customer owned material shipments and 100% of customer owned material on Customs and freight invoices
  • Ensure that Coulson Aviation, as a high-volume importer/exporter, is responsive to CBSA and other jurisdiction regulations and not put at risk of increased audits or potential monetary penalties due to errors on documentation from misclassification
  • Develop, update & map Customs processes to ensure Coulson Aviation meets the certification requirements in support of CBSA, US Customs, Transport Canada, FAA and other applicable regulatory requirements
  • Coordinate after hours clearances with Customs brokers
  • Identify options for reducing Customs billing costs
  • Review customs, duties, and freight invoices to validate charges for approval
  • Take the initiative to provide the best possible service to internal and external customers.
  • Analyze and monitor national and international export control regulations for relevance and applicability to the Aviation division of companies and how they relate to ex-military aircraft. 
  • Represent the Company as a technical expert when speaking with the Department of State, Department of Commerce & ATF Representatives.
  • Apply for all export & import licenses, maintains required export and import documentation according to U.S. law and Company policy
  • Ensure that the export classification of each item that may be exported is current

WHAT YOU'LL BRING:

  • Bachelor of Commerce or equivalent
  • Certified Customs Specialist (CCS)
  • Min 3 years experience in Logistics, International Trade and Customs processes
  • Working knowledge of the U.S. GT regulations including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
  • Expertise in US Export Control Laws and Regulations and working knowledge of Canada and EU Export Control regulations.
  • Demonstrated experience with CBSA / US Customs regulations an asset
  • Experience specific to freight HS tariff classifications an asset
  • Working knowledge of aircraft industry an asset
  • Demonstrated use of integrated business ERP systems
  • Intermediate to advanced computer skills in MS Office & process mapping programs
  • Proactive problem solving and advanced trouble shooting skills
  • Demonstrated interpersonal communication skills at all levels
  • Demonstrated conflict resolution and decision-making skills
  • Strong customer service orientation
  • Strong planning and organizing skills
  • High level of attention to detail
  • Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment
  • High level of Accountability & Dependability 
  • High attention given to Compliance & Quality

WHY JOIN COULSON AVIATION?

  • Pay based on experience
  • Company-paid health and dental benefits.
  • 5% employer-matching pension plan.
  • Supportive and collaborative team environment.
  • Opportunities to develop practical skills and gain experience within the aviation industry.


We support diversity, equity, and a workplace that is free from harassment and discrimination. We are committed to providing accommodation for people with disabilities. If you require accommodation during any stage of the application process, please notify us, and we will work with you to meet your needs.