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Air Attack Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Department of the Air Force

... piloting of highly advanced military Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) which involves such functions as launch and recovery, surveillance, surface attack, full scale weapons employment, mortar to arm ...

Astrion

Avionics Penetration Tester - Midlevel

Edwards, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

... Air Force. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS Core qualifications * Technical BS Degree and 3-10 ... Knowledge of common vulnerabilities and attack vectors in aviation systems, including but not ...

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Air Attack Pilot information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$129.2K

$198.4K

How much do air attack pilot jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for air attack pilot in California is $129,202.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,700.00 and $153,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Air Attack Pilot do?

An Air Attack Pilot is responsible for directing aerial firefighting operations from the air, coordinating water and retardant drops, and ensuring the safety of ground crews. They work closely with incident commanders and other aircraft to manage fire suppression efforts effectively. Their role requires excellent situational awareness, strong communication skills, and extensive training in wildfire behavior and aviation operations.

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

To thrive as an Air Attack Pilot, you need a commercial pilot license (CPL) or higher, strong flying proficiency, and experience performing low-level aerial operations in challenging conditions. Familiarity with specialized firefighting aircraft, mapping software, communication radios, and wildland fire management systems is critical. Excellent decision-making, situational awareness, clear communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help pilots excel in this demanding role. These skills ensure the safety, coordination, and effectiveness of aerial firefighting missions where precision and teamwork are crucial.

What does a typical workday look like for an Air Attack Pilot during fire season?

During fire season, an Air Attack Pilot's day often begins with briefings on weather, fire behavior, and mission objectives, followed by pre-flight checks and coordination with ground and aerial teams. Once assigned to a fire, you will fly above the incident, directing air tankers and helicopters, relaying critical information to ground crews, and continuously assessing safety conditions. Work hours may be irregular due to the unpredictable nature of wildfire activity, and swift responses are often required. You'll collaborate closely with incident commanders, dispatchers, and fellow pilots to effectively manage aerial support. This dynamic work environment requires adaptability, teamwork, and a strong commitment to safety.
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Air Attack Pilot jobs near you
Modeling and Simulation Specialist

Modeling and Simulation Specialist

Corps Solutions

Oceanside, CA • On-site

$75K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Modeling and Simulation Specialist (JTAC/Forward Observer)
Camp Pendelton, CA
We are seeking a former U.S. Marine with experience as a JTAC, JFO, Air Officer, FAC, Attack Pilot, or other Fire Support Marine to instruct and support fires-focused, simulation-based training. This role integrates operational fire support expertise with advanced modeling & simulation systems such as ASCOT, JVFT, VBS4, etc.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Operate and support simulation systems that replicate close air support, artillery, mortars, and combined arms fires.
  • Apply JTAC/FO experience to develop realistic fire support scenarios and ensure doctrinal accuracy.
  • Assist in exercise setup, database preparation, fires replication, and event execution.
  • Provide fires focused feedback and support after action reviews.
  • Cross train on additional modeling & simulation platforms as required.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
  • Prior experience as a JTAC, JFO, Air Officer, FAC, Attack Pilot, or other Fire Support Marine.
  • Extensive hands-on experience coordinating or controlling ground, naval and/or air delivered fires.

CORE SKILLS/COMPETENCIES
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of Marine Corps fire support doctrine and MAGTF level operations.
  • Prior experience as a formal Marine Corps instructor preferred.
  • Familiarity with simulation supported fires training (DVTE/JVFT/VBS4) preferred.

WORKING CONDITIONS
  • Work is conducted on site, in a government facility.
  • Required to sit or stand for extended periods of time and maintain focus.
  • May be required to lift, carry and move computer and associated equipment.
  • Must be able to support irregular schedules to accommodate exercises, including nights, weekends, and extended shifts.

SPECIAL POSITION NOTATIONS
  • Ability to work extended hours during training exercises.
  • Valid driver's license required; must qualify as an authorized company driver.
  • Daily local travel may be required.
  • Occasional CONUS/OCONUS travel may be required.

SECURITY CLEARANCE
  • A current NATO-Secret security clearance is required for this position.

ESTIMATED COMPENSATION
  • $75,000-$99,000

This position description outlines the general responsibilities and requirements for the stated position and in no way is an exhaustive list. The company maintains the right to assign or reassign responsibilities to this position at any time.

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