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Contract Search Rescue Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

B205A1++ Fire/Utility Pilot

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

Our missions include search and rescue, short-haul (human external cargo, natural disaster relief ... The contracts start at the beginning of May or June 2026 and run through the end of the fire season.

Fleet Aircraft Mechanic

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$26.50 - $33.75/hr

Our missions include search and rescue, short haul (human external cargo, natural disaster relief ... USFS/DOI contract coverage as field mechanic * Ability to use computer databases and software ...

In House Service/Repair Technician

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

... search-and-rescue teams do their jobs better. We're looking for passionate innovators eager to ... Attention to Detail is critical to ensure accuracy in Contracts, Proposals, and other ...

Quality Engineer

Wilsonville, OR

$74.50K - $96.20K/yr

... search-and-rescue teams do their jobs better. We're looking for passionate innovators eager to ... Develop test procedures and test reports per customer contract data requirements lists (CDRLs)

New

Quality Engineer

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$74.50K - $96.20K/yr

... search-and-rescue teams do their jobs better. We're looking for passionate innovators eager to ... Develop test procedures and test reports per customer contract data requirements lists (CDRLs)

Patrol Deputy

Newport, OR · On-site

$33.06 - $44.42/hr

... contract deputy, civil process server, Forest Patrol, bike patrol, Field Training Officer, Tactical Response Team member, Investigations, Major Crimes Team, Major Crash Team and Search and Rescue ...

Patrol Deputy

Newport, OR

$33.06 - $44.42/hr

... contract deputy, civil process server, Forest Patrol, bike patrol, Field Training Officer, Tactical Response Team member, Investigations, Major Crimes Team, Major Crash Team and Search and Rescue ...

Contract Search Rescue information

See Oregon salary details

$9

$30

$56

How much do contract search rescue jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract search rescue in Oregon is $30.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $40.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Contract Search Rescue job?

A Contract Search Rescue job involves working on a temporary or project-based basis to locate and assist missing persons, animals, or assets in emergencies. These professionals may be hired by government agencies, private organizations, or disaster response teams to provide specialized search and rescue services. Responsibilities can include conducting searches in various terrains, operating specialized equipment, and providing medical aid when needed. Contract workers may be deployed to disaster zones, wilderness areas, or urban settings depending on the mission. Qualifications often include certifications in search and rescue techniques, emergency medical training, and experience with navigation and survival skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Contract Search Rescue position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Search and Rescue professional, you need specialized training in emergency response procedures, navigation, and first aid, often supported by relevant certifications such as EMT, SARTECH, or similar. Familiarity with GPS mapping systems, two-way radios, and incident management software is typically required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to remain calm and decisive under pressure are essential soft skills. These skills and qualifications ensure effective, safe responses to emergency situations and increase the chances of successful search and rescue missions.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by Contract Search and Rescue professionals?

Contract Search and Rescue professionals often work in unpredictable and sometimes hazardous environments, such as dense forests, mountainous terrain, or disaster zones, which can present physical and logistical challenges. They may need to respond quickly to emergencies at any time of day and collaborate closely with other emergency personnel, requiring flexibility and strong communication skills. Adapting to changing weather conditions and managing fatigue can also be significant aspects of the job. However, these challenges are balanced by the rewarding nature of making a direct impact in life-saving situations and the opportunity to develop specialized expertise over time.
What are the most commonly searched types of Search Rescue jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Search Rescue jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Search Rescue jobs in Oregon? For Contract Search Rescue jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Search Rescue jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Search Rescue jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Contract Search Rescue jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Contract Search Rescue job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Search Rescue job openings in Oregon as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,977 per year, or $30.8 per hour.
B407 Short Haul - Fire Fighting and Utility Pilot

B407 Short Haul - Fire Fighting and Utility Pilot

Hillsboro Aviation

Hillsboro, OR

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

About Hillsboro Aviation
Founded in 1980, Hillsboro Aviation offers complete helicopter and airplane services comprised of five divisions: contract & charter, aircraft sales & management, service center, FBO, and parts sales. Serving domestic and international markets in the government, commercial, and private sectors, we have over 75 employees and 10 turbine aircraft. We operate out of our award-winning headquarters at the Portland-Hillsboro Airport (KHIO).
Our Vision
We believe in the power of a personal approach. We passionately purvey the notion of flight, a dream demanding creativity, persistence, resilience, and intent. We strive to foster a legacy of innovative thought, leadership, mentorship, service, and sustainability. We are dedicated to providing opportunity and growth for our team, our customers, and our community by providing extraordinary and memorable experiences in the air and on the ground.
The Position
Hillsboro Aviation's contract & charter division provides services to the United States Forest Service (USFS), the Department of Interior (DOI), FEMA, large national utility (powerline & infrastructure), and high-tech companies as well as smaller companies and individuals. Our missions include search and rescue, short-haul (human external cargo, natural disaster relief, construction support, aerial firefighting, natural resource surveys, film/photo/news, and heli-skiing. Our fleet is comprised of Airbus H145D3, Bell 205 A-1++, Bell 407, Bell 407HP, and Airbus AS350B3e.
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced pilot to support a variety of missions, including:
  • Search and rescue (SAR) operations
  • Human External Cargo (HEC) / short-haul missions
  • Wildland fire suppression and related support assignments
Position Details:
  • Aircraft: Bell 407HP
  • Contract Start Date: May 2026
  • Duration: Through the end of the 2026 fire season
  • Base Location: Western U.S. locations as needed
This is an exciting opportunity to work in challenging and rewarding environments while supporting critical aerial operations.
As a B407HP Short Haul - Fire Fighting and Utility Pilot you will work closely with the Contract & Charter team to perform search and rescue missions, human external cargo missions (short haul), wild-land firefighting activities and/or various utility operations. Ideal candidates are self-motivated and able to work independently within their areas of responsibility with limited supervision. They are enthusiastic about representing Hillsboro Aviation in front of key customers - including foreign governments, community leaders, and business partners - and are willing to support additional projects or duties as assigned.
Job Responsibilities
  • The pilot will work 12 days on / 12 days off schedule for the duration of the contract.
  • All travel and accommodations are covered by the company. The pilot will receive per diem for meals and incidentals.
  • Additional utility operations may be assigned based on project needs, with corresponding adjustments to the work schedule.
  • The pilot is expected to consistently represent Hillsboro Aviation and the aircraft in a professional manner to the U.S. Forest Service and all associated parties.
  • Strong judgment, a commitment to safety, and solid airmanship are essential for the successful and secure execution of all missions.
  • Strict adherence to SOPs, contractual requirements, and daily operational reporting procedures is mandatory.
  • Previous firefighting and short-haul experience is preferred but not required. We offer initial short-haul training and carding preparation for qualified pilots.

Qualifications/Licenses
  • COM or ATP certificate with Rotorcraft Helicopter Rating
  • Current medical (class 2 or class 1)
  • Driver's License
  • Passport (for OPS crossing into Canada or relocations to Alaska)
  • Ability to legally work in the U.S.
Required Skills/Experience
  • Helicopter Total Time: 1,500 hours
  • Last 12 Months: 100 hours PIC in helicopter
  • B407 PIC Time: 50 hours
  • Last 12 Months: 10 hours PIC in B407
  • Last 12 Months: 25 hours PIC performing vertical reference w/ precision placements
  • Mountainous Terrain: 200 hours PIC in helicopter
  • B407 PIC Mountainous Terrain: 10 hours
Preferred Skills/Experience
  • Currently or previously interagency carded for short haul operations
  • Precision placement vertical reference experience
  • Additional experience in AS350/B205/H145
  • Rotorcraft Instrument rating
  • Clean driving record
  • B407 factory training
Benefits
  • Competitive salary
  • Paid vacation, sick days, and holidays
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Wellness benefits, including alternative care and lifestyle discounts
  • 401(k) + match
  • Monthly team-building events, including BBQs
  • Exercise, shower facilities, and locker rooms at headquarters

Hillsboro Aviation's growth and sustainability is rooted in its commitment to attracting a diverse set of talent from around the world. To that end, we encourage qualified individuals from all walks of life to apply. We are an equal opportunity employer (EEO) and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.