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Contract Aviation Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

AFOQT Tutor

Reno, NV ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... military aviation and officer career qualifications. * Strategic Test-Taking & Problem-Solving ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

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Contract Aviation information

See Reno, NV salary details

$20.9K

$55.1K

$91.2K

How much do contract aviation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract aviation in Reno, NV is $55,106.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,900.00 and $63,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is contract aviation?

Contract aviation jobs are temporary or project-based roles within the aviation industry, such as pilots, mechanics, flight attendants, or ground crew who are hired on a contractual basis rather than as permanent employees. These positions often fill short-term needs, such as seasonal demand, special projects, or coverage during staff shortages. Contract aviation professionals may work for airlines, private charter companies, maintenance providers, or government agencies. This type of employment offers flexibility and the opportunity to work with various organizations but may lack some of the benefits associated with full-time positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract aviation professional?

To thrive as a Contract Aviation Professional, you need a solid understanding of aviation operations, relevant licenses or certifications (such as an FAA Airframe and Powerplant certificate or pilot license), and compliance with industry regulations. Familiarity with aviation management systems, flight planning software, and maintenance tracking tools is commonly required. Excellent problem-solving, attention to detail, and strong communication skills set top professionals apart in coordinating with diverse teams and ensuring safety. These skills and qualifications are essential for maintaining operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and safety in the dynamic aviation environment.

What are some common challenges faced by contract aviation professionals, and how can they be managed effectively?

Contract aviation professionals often face challenges such as adapting quickly to new teams and procedures, managing irregular work schedules, and ensuring regulatory compliance across different employers or locations. Building strong communication skills and maintaining up-to-date certifications can help ease transitions between assignments. Additionally, being proactive in understanding each client's safety protocols and company expectations is crucial for success. Networking with other contract professionals can also provide valuable support and industry insights.

What is the difference between Contract Aviation vs Contract Pilot?

AspectContract AviationContract Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), possibly ATP depending on roleCommercial Pilot License (CPL), possibly ATP depending on role
Work EnvironmentVarious aircraft types, multiple clients, short-term assignmentsSingle aircraft, specific operator, short-term or project-based
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, charter companies, private operatorsPrivate companies, charter services, aerial survey firms

Contract Aviation refers to the broader industry involving pilots working on a contractual basis across different aircraft and operators. Contract Pilot specifically describes pilots hired temporarily for specific flights or projects. While both roles require similar certifications, Contract Aviation encompasses a wider range of aviation services, whereas Contract Pilot focuses on individual pilot assignments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Aviation jobs in Reno, NV?

The most popular types of Aviation jobs in Reno, NV are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Aviation jobs in Reno, NV?

For Contract Aviation jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Contract Aviation job openings in Reno, NV as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Part Time. Highlights an 71% In-person, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,106 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Lead Wildland Firefighter (Helitack)

Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Service

Carson City, NV โ€ข On-site

$57K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead a small crew of trained firefighters in wildland fire suppression and wildland urban interface/intermix incidents.

  • Assist in developing burn plans and lead or support on-the-ground implementation of fire suppression activities.

  • Oversee aviation operations, including communication with pilots and performing technical fire suppression tasks such as helicopter rappelling, long line, felling, saw repair, or water handling.


Job description

These positions will be located at on a USDA Forest Service Unit.
The primary purpose of these positions is to lead a small crew of highly effective and trained firefighters in wildland fire suppression and wildland urban interface/intermix incidents.
See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION for Regional contacts.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-06 level: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-05) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may Include: Conducted training in the techniques of aviation, fire suppression, prescribed burning and fuels reduction methods; communicated critical information pertaining to incident objectives, situations, and tactics to pilot(s), crews and dispatchers; assist in developing burn plans, lead and/or assist with on the ground implementation.
For the GW-07:Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-06) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may Include: Oversaw helicopter service contract and enforced contract provisions; conducted training in the techniques of aviation, fire suppression, prescribed burning and fuels reduction methods; independently performed many technical specializations such as helicopter rappelling, long line, felling, saw repair or water handling used in fire suppression and prescribed burning; served on a specialty crew (hotshot, helitack, engines, etc.) or assigned to lead fire suppression under the most adverse conditions of climate, fuels, and terrain.
Selective Placement Factors
Successful completion of the Primary NWCG Core Requirement of Helicopter Crewmember (HECM) -AND- Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5). -AND- Successful completion of the Secondary NWCG Core Requirements of Firefighter 1 (FFT1).
Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) and Forest Service - Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) qualifications must be met by the time of selection. Most recent IQCS master record and/or signed Agency Certified task book must be attached to your application. If you are selected, you may be required to submit an updated IQCS master record or signed Agency Certified task book as proof of attainment of IFPM requirements prior to a final verbal offer.
In order to be considered for this position, copies of your Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS) Master Record (or equivalent training documents) which contain documented proof of the certification or attainment of the IFPM Selective Placement Factor for this position MUST be attached to your application. Red cards are not acceptable documentation. Currency Requirement: Required to maintain currency once hired into the position. Currency of NWCG qualifications is not required for selection. If not currently qualified, the applicant must provide documented evidence that they have been fully qualified in the past, and are able to regain currency within one year of being hired. Failure to provide this documentation will result in disqualification.
Primary firefighter positions include the following age requirements: Under age 37 -OR- less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service worked in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position -OR- a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and is requesting a waiver to the maximum age requirement -OR-currently occupy a permanent position with primary fire fighter retirement coverage.
For those who do not currently occupy a permanent Federal position covered under primary fire fighter retirement, you must be under age 37; less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position; or a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and requesting a waiver to the requirement.
This position has been identified as Forest Service Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) and is subject to selective placement factor requirements contained in the Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) Standard and Guide when filling this vacancy. IFPM or FS-FPM selective placement factors are made up of a primary and secondary National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) core Incident Management Qualifications and Required Training. The applicant must possess these qualifications at the applicable complexity level to be considered eligible for this position.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT COVERAGE: This is a primary/rigorous position covered under the special retirement provisions of 5 USC 8336(c) for the Civil Service Retirement System and of 5 USC 8412(d) for the Federal Employees Retirement System.
WORK CAPACITY TEST (WCT) for Wildland Firefighters: This position participates in wildland firefighting activities. Based on the type of work performed, TAKING and PASSING the WCT at the ARDUOUS, MODERATE, or LIGHT level is a condition of employment.
To receive consideration for this position, you must provide updated required documents and meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.Education:There is no substitution of education for specialized experience.Employment Type: OTHER