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Cal Fire Helicopter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Air Evac Lifeteam

Helicopter Pilot

Watson, IL

$87K - $95K/yr

... 1000 hours helicopter pilot in command 500 hours turbine 100 hours night unaided, or 50 hours ... We provide end-to-end medical transportation as well as fire services, integrated healthcare ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

Helicopter Pilot

Watson, IL

$87K - $95K/yr

... 1000 hours helicopter pilot in command 500 hours turbine 100 hours night unaided, or 50 hours ... We provide end-to-end medical transportation as well as fire services, integrated healthcare ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

Helicopter Pilot

Quincy, IL

$87K - $95K/yr

... 1000 hours helicopter pilot in command 500 hours turbine 100 hours night unaided, or 50 hours ... We provide end-to-end medical transportation as well as fire services, integrated healthcare ...

Ventura County, CA

Sheriff's Helicopter Pilot

Ventura, CA · On-site

$125K - $176K/yr

Possession of a USDA/USDI Interagency or Cal Fire carded in aerial ignition. * Employed for one (1) year as a helicopter pilot by a Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) Part 135 Operator. * Possession ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Moberly, MO · On-site

$79K - $99K/yr

... 1000 hours helicopter pilot in command 500 hours turbine 100 hours night unaided, or 50 hours ... We provide end-to-end medical transportation as well as fire services, integrated healthcare ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Dallas, TX · On-site

$88K - $97K/yr

... 1000 hours helicopter pilot in command 500 hours turbine 100 hours night unaided, or 50 hours ... We provide end-to-end medical transportation as well as fire services, integrated healthcare ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Moberly, MO

$79K - $99K/yr

... helicopter pilot in command500 hours turbine100 hours night unaided, or 50 hours unaided with 100 ... We provide end-to-end medical transportation as well as fire services, integrated healthcare ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Seminole, OK · On-site

$88K - $97K/yr

... helicopter pilot in command500 hours turbine100 hours night unaided, or 50 hours unaided with 100 ... We provide end-to-end medical transportation as well as fire services, integrated healthcare ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Athens, AL · On-site

$88K - $97K/yr

... 1000 hours helicopter pilot in command 500 hours turbine 100 hours night unaided, or 50 hours ... We provide end-to-end medical transportation as well as fire services, integrated healthcare ...

Air Evac Lifeteam

AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Duncan, OK · On-site

$88K - $97K/yr

... 1000 hours helicopter pilot in command 500 hours turbine 100 hours night unaided, or 50 hours ... We provide end-to-end medical transportation as well as fire services, integrated healthcare ...

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All JobsCal Fire Helicopter Pilot Jobs

Cal Fire Helicopter Pilot information

See salary details

$71.5K

$100.2K

$123.5K

How much do cal fire helicopter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for cal fire helicopter pilot in the United States is $100,249.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a helicopter pilot for CAL FIRE?

To become a helicopter pilot for CAL FIRE, candidates typically need a commercial helicopter pilot license, a minimum of 1,000 flight hours, and experience in aerial firefighting or emergency response. Additional requirements include passing medical exams, background checks, and often completing specialized training in wildfire suppression and safety protocols.

What is a Cal Fire Helicopter Pilot job?

A Cal Fire Helicopter Pilot operates helicopters for aerial firefighting, search and rescue, and emergency response missions. They transport crews, equipment, and water or fire retardant to combat wildfires across California. Pilots must have extensive flight experience, knowledge of fire suppression tactics, and the ability to perform in high-pressure environments. They work closely with ground crews and incident commanders to support fire suppression efforts safely and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cal Fire Helicopter Pilot position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cal Fire Helicopter Pilot, you need advanced piloting skills, a strong understanding of wildfire behavior, and extensive flight experience—typically supported by a commercial helicopter pilot license and relevant flight hours. Familiarity with specialized firefighting equipment, GPS navigation systems, and radio communication is required, along with completion of specific CAL FIRE and FAA certifications. Exceptional decision-making, calm under pressure, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this position. These capabilities help ensure operational safety, precise coordination during emergencies, and the successful execution of critical firefighting missions.

Is 40 too old to become a helicopter pilot?

Cal Fire helicopter pilots typically need a commercial pilot's license, flight experience, and physical fitness. Age limits vary by agency, but many employers accept applicants in their 40s if they meet the experience and health requirements, making 40 generally not too old to pursue a career as a helicopter pilot.

How much does a helicopter pilot make?

In California, helicopter pilots, including those working as Cal Fire pilots, typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. Firefighting pilots often receive additional compensation for emergency response duties and may work irregular hours during wildfire seasons.

What are the typical work hours and conditions for Cal Fire Helicopter Pilots?

Cal Fire Helicopter Pilots often work long shifts that can include weekends, holidays, and extended hours during peak wildfire seasons. The role involves rapid response to emergencies, which means pilots must be ready to mobilize quickly and operate in variable weather and challenging terrain. Work is typically team-oriented, partnering closely with ground crews, air attack supervisors, and dispatch operations. While demanding, the dynamic environment offers a rewarding sense of purpose and the opportunity to make a significant impact on public safety and environmental protection.

How much do helicopter pilots for CAL FIRE make?

Cal Fire helicopter pilots typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and seniority. They often work in demanding environments and require specialized training in aerial firefighting and navigation tools.
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Cal Fire Helicopter Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cal Fire Helicopter Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,249 per year, or $48.2 per hour.
Helicopter Pilot

Helicopter Pilot

Air Evac Lifeteam

Watson, IL

$87K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

We invite you to join a team of highly skilled emergency medical experts, pilots and mechanics!
Our mission of providing care to the world at a moment‘s notice is at the heart of everything we do. We are caregivers, first and foremost, and we will be there when you need us.

This posting is for multiple Visual Flight Rules (VFR) positions, we have many other opportunities available!  By applying through this posting, we are able to move your application to the open location of your choosing.  This is not a Float Pilot position.

Starting Salary Range: $87,019 – $95,720

Up to 30% geographic modifier, depending on location

15K Sign on Bonus
40K Retention Bonus after 3 years

On Duty Housing at all locations

7/7 Schedule at most locations

JOB SUMMARY

 

Ensures all operations involving Company aircraft are in compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations, Air Evac EMS Operations Manual, and all state and municipal regulations.

  • Operates the aircraft in a safe and efficient manner, with emphasis on compliance with the Rotorcraft Flight Manual
  • Monitors forecast changes and current weather situations
  • Conducts preflight of the aircraft prior to starting shift and/or accepting transports or flights. Preflight will be conducted utilizing the appropriate rotorcraft flight manual. Discrepancies noted during the pre-flight will be noted in the engineering log with a notification to maintenance of the discrepancy and what corrective action is being taken
  • Reports to his/her shift rested and prepared for duty and stays current of weather and forecast changes


QUALIFICATIONS

Experience:

 

2000 hours total flight time
1500 hours helicopter time
1000 hours helicopter pilot in command
500 hours turbine
100 hours night unaided, or 50 hours unaided with 100 hours aided
Previous HAA experience or equivalent – preferred
Education and Credentials:


Rotorcraft-Helicopter Commercial Certificate
Rotorcraft-Helicopter Instrument Rating

High school diploma or equivalent
Other:

230-pound weight limit dressed in flight suit and boots

Upload your Pilot License and FAA Medical Certificate

 

Global Medical Response teams deliver compassionate, quality medical care, primarily in the areas of emergency and patient relocation services around the world. We provide end-to-end medical transportation as well as fire services, integrated healthcare solutions and disaster response.

This is an evergreen role with no anticipated close date. 

EEO Statement:

Global Medical Response and its family of companies are an Equal Opportunity Employer, which includes supporting veterans and providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with a disability. Pilots

More Information about this Job:

Check out our careers site benefits page to learn more about  our comprehensive benefit options, which include medical, vision, dental, 401k, disability, FSA, HSA, EAP, vacation and paid time off.