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Chinook Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Coulson Aviation

CH-47D Pilot in Command

Thermal, CA

Rotary wing pilots with CH-47D Pilot in Command experience for full-time, year-round employment ... A valid passport * 2500 hours RW PIC, of which 250 hours is on BV234/CH47D Chinook * Current 2nd ...

Coulson Aviation

CH-47D Pilot in Command

Thermal, CA · On-site

Rotary wing pilots with CH-47D Pilot in Command experience for full-time, year-round employment ... A valid passport * 2500 hours RW PIC, of which 250 hours is on BV234/CH47D Chinook * Current 2nd ...

Avion Solutions

Test/Analyst Engineer

Huntsville, AL

Directly relevant experience as an Army Aviation flight test engineer, Experimental Test Pilot, or operational pilot (Green Suiter) on Chinook, Blackhawk, Apache, or Fixed Wing platforms. * Directly ...

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do chinook pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for chinook 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chinook Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chinook Pilot, you need thorough knowledge of helicopter flight operations, aviation safety, and navigation, typically supported by a commercial or military pilot license and specialized Chinook training. Familiarity with avionics, flight management systems, and mission planning software is crucial for operating the aircraft safely and efficiently. Outstanding decision-making, teamwork, and communication abilities help pilots excel, especially in complex or high-pressure missions. These skills ensure the safe and effective transport of personnel and equipment, mission success, and the well-being of all crew members.

What are some common challenges faced by Chinook pilots during multi-crew operations?

Chinook pilots often work in multi-crew environments where effective communication and coordination with co-pilots and crew members are essential. One common challenge is maintaining situational awareness during complex missions, especially in adverse weather or low-visibility conditions. Additionally, managing the aircraft's heavy-lift capabilities while ensuring safety for both the crew and cargo requires precise teamwork. Regular training and debriefings help crews address these challenges and improve operational efficiency.

What are Chinook pilots?

Chinook pilots are trained professionals who operate the Boeing CH-47 Chinook, a twin-engine, tandem-rotor heavy-lift helicopter primarily used by military forces. Their responsibilities include flying missions that transport troops, equipment, and supplies, as well as performing medevac, disaster relief, and search and rescue operations. Chinook pilots must complete rigorous flight training and maintain proficiency in a variety of challenging environments to ensure safe and effective missions.

What is the difference between Chinook Pilot vs Black Hawk Pilot?

AspectChinook PilotBlack Hawk Pilot
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, Rotorcraft-Helicopter Rating, Type Ratings for ChinookCommercial Pilot License, Rotorcraft-Helicopter Rating, Type Ratings for Black Hawk
Work EnvironmentMilitary and civilian transport, heavy-lift missions, cargo and troop transportMilitary operations, tactical missions, troop transport, reconnaissance
Employer & IndustryMilitary, defense contractors, government agenciesMilitary, defense contractors, government agencies

Both Chinook and Black Hawk pilots require similar certifications and often work in military or defense sectors. The main difference lies in their aircraft type and mission focus: Chinook pilots operate heavy-lift helicopters for cargo and troop transport, while Black Hawk pilots focus on tactical and reconnaissance missions. Understanding these distinctions helps pilots choose the right career path within rotorcraft aviation.

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What job categories do people searching Chinook Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chinook Pilot jobs are:
Chinook Pilot jobs near you

CH-47D Pilot in Command

Coulson Aviation

Thermal, CA

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

During times of crisis, Coulson Aviation provides first class, rapid response delivery across the globe, and you can be a part of the mission!
We own, operate and maintain aerial firefighting assets, consisting of both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. This includes Boeing 737 FIRELINERSTM, Lockheed C-130H Hercules, Cessna Citations, Boeing CH-47D Chinooks, Sikorsky S-76's and Sikorsky S-61's, across the globe.
Guided by a successful past and a long-term innovative vision, our future success is driven by our people and our strategic approach to our work.
WE'RE LOOKING FOR:
Rotary wing pilots with CH-47D Pilot in Command experience for full-time, year-round employment. Applicants must be willing and able to work in the USA and overseas on fire assignments as scheduled and required.
BESIDES OPERATING ONE OF THE HEAVIEST ROTARY AIRCRAFT IN THE INDUSTRY, YOU'LL ALSO:
  • Professionally interact with stakeholders such as the USFS and other national or local agencies
  • Ensure aircraft readiness for dispatches, as described in the appropriate manuals but not limited to: FAR requirements, customer requirements, company requirements, flight crew requirements
  • Accurately complete the required paperwork, such as daily flight reports, load manifests, weight and balance, time sheet, logbooks, etc.

YOUR PREFERRED EXPERIENCE :
  • Firefighting and/or utility experience
  • Low level and mountain terrain experience
  • Water or retardant load and drop experience

REQUIREMENTS:
  • A valid passport
  • 2500 hours RW PIC, of which 250 hours is on BV234/CH47D Chinook
  • Current 2nd class medical
  • Current driver license with clean driving record
  • Security background check required
  • Applicant must be previously interagency carded in CH47D/BV234

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