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Aviation Firefighting Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MD500 VRLL Fire/HEC/SAR Pilot - Hawaii

Hilo, HI ยท On-site

$91K - $114K/yr

The HCFD Aviation Department covers over 4000 square miles on the largest island in the State of ... Wildland firefighting experience * Experience in the AS-350 series * Experience flying in Hawaii ...

... aviation industry leader of diversified aviation services. Our products are used to convert ... Previous experience with low level disbursement / aircraft firefighting experience. * Able to ...

... aerial firefighting, and advanced simulation. We own the whole stack: designing, building, and ... Build and nurture long-term relationships with pilots, operators, and adjacent aviation talent ...

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Aviation Firefighting Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do aviation firefighting pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for aviation firefighting pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Aviation Firefighting Pilot vs Airport Firefighter?

AspectAviation Firefighting PilotAirport Firefighter
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, Firefighting training, specialized aircraft operation certificationsFirefighter certification, EMT/paramedic license, airport-specific training
Work EnvironmentOperate aircraft in firefighting missions, often in remote or hazardous conditionsStationed at airport fire stations, respond to aircraft and ground emergencies
Employer & IndustryAirlines, firefighting agencies, government aviation authoritiesAirport authorities, airlines, emergency services

While both roles focus on firefighting within the aviation industry, the Aviation Firefighting Pilot operates aircraft to combat fires, requiring specialized pilot certifications and flying skills. In contrast, the Airport Firefighter responds on the ground, handling emergencies at airports with firefighting equipment and medical skills. Both are vital but differ significantly in responsibilities and required credentials.

What are popular job titles related to Aviation Firefighting Pilot jobs?

For Aviation Firefighting Pilot jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Aviation Firefighting Pilot job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

MD500 VRLL Fire/HEC/SAR Pilot - Hawaii

Hilo, HI โ€ข On-site

$91K - $114K/yr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Description

Overview:

Hawaii County Fire Department is primarily responsible for fire protection and suppression, pre-hospital emergency medical services, land and sea search and rescue, hazardous materials response, ocean safety, fire prevention, and public education for the County of Hawaii.

The HCFD Aviation Department covers over 4000 square miles on the largest island in the State of Hawaii, and responds to ocean and land-based rescues, wildland/brushfires, EMS scene calls, and any other mission supporting Hawaii County.

We operate an MD-500E and an AS-350-B3e at two fire stations in Puako and Hilo under both Public Use and Part 135. We are looking for a full time pilot with MD-500 and Vertical Reference experience who exercises good judgement to complete flight missions safely. Our standard schedule is a 40 hour workweek split up between three days, but will sometimes have potential for overtime shifts.

Job Requirements:

  • Current Second or First Class Pilot Medical
  • Commercial or ATP Pilot Certificate
  • Rotorcraft Helicopter Instrument Rating
  • Ability to work in the United States

Flight Time:

  • 2000 hours PIC Helicopter
  • 1000 hours Turbine Helicopter
  • 500 hours in the MD-500 series
  • 100 hours of Vertical Reference Longline
  • 100 hours PIC helicopter in the last 12 months

Preferred Experience:

  • Previously OAS carded for longline in the MD-500 series
  • Human External Cargo/Short Haul experience
  • Wildland firefighting experience
  • Experience in the AS-350 series
  • Experience flying in Hawaii
  • 3000 hours PIC Helicopter
  • 1500 hours Turbine Helicopter
  • 1000 hours in the MD-500 series
  • 300 hours of Vertical Reference Longline
  • 300 hours PIC helicopter in the last 12 months
Company Details

We provide rapid helicopter emergency response across Hawaii Island, supporting aeromedical transport, land and sea rescue, and brushfire suppression. Our aircraft deliver advanced life support transport for critically ill and injured patients, ensuringโ€ฆ

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