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Entry Level Firefighter Helicopter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pilot I

Naples, FL · On-site

$73K - $127K/yr

The salary shown in the represents the full range for this position, from entry-level to later ... The ideal candidate is an FAA Commercial Pilot with Rotorcraft-Helicopter and Airplane Multi-Engine ...

B205A1++ Fire/Utility Pilot

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

About Hillsboro Aviation Founded in 1980, Hillsboro Aviation offers complete helicopter and ... aerial firefighting, natural resource surveys, film/photo/news, and heli-skiing. Our fleet is ...

CH47 Flight Mechanic

Portland, OR · On-site

$30.50 - $40/hr

... helicopter-based emergency response missions worldwide. In this role, you'll work alongside pilots ... firefighting systems such as fixed water tanks, hydraulic snorkels, buckets, and sling loads.

Knowledge of shipboard safety procedures and use of all firefighting and safety equipment, highly ... Ability to multi task between multiple helicopter pilots, monitoring current and any approaching ...

Police Trainee

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$85K/yr

... Pilot, Helicopter Observer Duty, (Field Training Officer (FTO), Gang Detail, and Special ... O.S.T. Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) * By submitting a T-score for a ...

We are a full service agency, offering a variety of specialized assignments - from helicopter pilot ... This entry level, non-sworn classification participates in pre-academy training and the actual ...

Involves shipboard operations, rigging for helicopter operations, and deck seamanship. Bowhead ... This is an opportunity to serve and support the training and development of a pilot's skills in ...

Involves shipboard operations, rigging for helicopter operations, and deck seamanship. Bowhead ... This is an opportunity to serve and support the training and development of a pilot's skills in ...

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Entry Level Firefighter Helicopter Pilot information

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$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do entry level firefighter helicopter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level firefighter helicopter pilot in the United States is $59,606.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Firefighter Helicopter Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Firefighter Helicopter Pilot, you need a commercial helicopter pilot license, a solid understanding of aviation safety, and basic firefighting knowledge. Familiarity with GPS navigation, firefighting communication systems, and specialized aerial firefighting equipment is typically required. Strong decision-making, teamwork, and stress management skills make candidates stand out in this high-risk environment. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and coordinated aerial firefighting operations that protect lives and property.

What are entry level firefighter helicopter pilots?

Entry level firefighter helicopter pilots are professionals who operate helicopters to assist in wildfire suppression and other emergency response operations. They are responsible for flying aircraft to transport firefighters, drop water or fire retardant on wildfires, and conduct aerial reconnaissance. These pilots are typically at the beginning of their careers in aerial firefighting and work under the supervision of more experienced pilots. They must have a commercial pilot's license, specialized training in helicopter operations, and knowledge of firefighting procedures. Their role is critical in supporting ground crews and protecting lives and property during fire emergencies.

What is the difference between Entry Level Firefighter Helicopter Pilot vs Entry Level Firefighter Helicopter Pilot?

AspectEntry Level Firefighter Helicopter Pilot

Since the comparison is with itself, the roles are identical at the entry level, focusing on firefighting operations from helicopters, requiring pilot certifications and firefighting training. Both involve working in emergency environments, often for fire departments or agencies, with similar certifications and work settings. Entry level positions typically require a helicopter pilot license, basic firefighting training, and experience in emergency response. The roles are designed for individuals starting their careers in aerial firefighting, emphasizing safety, navigation, and emergency procedures.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level firefighter helicopter pilots during their first year on the job?

As an entry level firefighter helicopter pilot, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing emergency scenarios, effectively communicating with ground and air crews, and mastering specialized aerial firefighting maneuvers. Balancing the demands of flying in difficult conditions—like low visibility or high winds—while executing precise water drops can be particularly demanding. New pilots also need to quickly become familiar with the protocols and teamwork required for coordinated wildfire response, which often involves long hours and irregular schedules.
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What states have the most Entry Level Firefighter Helicopter Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Firefighter Helicopter Pilot jobs include:
HELICOPTER PILOT (MERIT, T32)

$148K/yr

Other

Posted 15 days ago


United States Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 486 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

THIS IS A MERIT ARMY NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 32 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION
UNIT: AASF #1
LOCATION: Saint Paul, Minnesota
SELECTING OFFICIAL: LTC Jed A. Gadient, (651)281-3402
ARMY NATIONAL GUARD MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED

Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. 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). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. In describing your experience, please be clear and specific. We will not make assumptions regarding your experience. Do not copy and paste the duties, specialized experience, or occupational assessment questionnaire from this announcement into your resume as that will not be considered a demonstration of your qualifications for this position.
MILITARY GRADES: WO1-CW3
Failure to obtain a compatible MOS may result in termination of employment.
GENERAL AND SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS REQUIREMENTS:
GS-10 through GS-13 Army National Guard Warrant Officer Positions. Must have a high school diploma or general education development (GED) diploma. An undergraduate degree from an accredited college/university is optimum. Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs OR must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools.
Mandatory Qualification Requirements - Eligibility requirements for Dual Status technician positions in this occupation are based on the candidate's possession of Federal Aviation Administration pilot certificates -OR- appropriate military certifications, military ratings in the main-frame military aircraft of employment, and the required competencies (knowledge, skills, and abilities).
General Experience - An applicant must have a competent understanding of the occupation's basic principles and concepts. Applicants should have a minimum of one year on-the-job experience in the grade (or a comparable military rank) immediately below the next higher level.
Specialized Experience - Is experience that prepares the applicant to perform the Dual Status technician duties and responsibilities. To qualify, an applicant's educational-degree study program, military professional and technical training schools or academies, and aviation certifications may apply as substitutions for some specialized experience factors.
GS-10 through GS-11 Army National Guard Warrant Officer Positions:
Applicants must demonstrate the specialized experience competencies (skills, knowledge, and abilities) to qualify for entry-level appointments to GS-2181-10 or GS-2181-11 Army National Guard Dual Status Warrant Officer positions. Qualification competencies are determined by three factors: The aircraft operated; the nature and purpose of assignments; and, the degree of hazard. For Army National Guard positions, must have working experiences in civilian aviation programs; or, military service aviation programs (active duty or reserve components); or, in the Army National Guard Aviation Support facility; or, in Air National Guard Wing/ Operations Group. To qualify, the applicant must have competencies in operating a specific main-frame military aircraft, mission planning, and mission preparation. Must have competence to review and analyze mission tasks, intelligence, and weather information. Experienced in supervising and/or filing of flight plans and conducting crew briefings. Experiences include aircraft preflight inspections, aircraft loading, and equipment assessments. Experienced in performing or supervising work procedures involved in navigation, in-flight refueling, search and rescue operations, surveillance, and/or reconnaissance. Skilled to conduct training of crew members in simple to complex mission specific tasks. Experiences may include developing plans and policies, monitoring operations, and advising commanders. Experienced in flight theory, air navigation, meteorology, flying directives, mission tactics, and operating procedures. Experienced in the unit flying, explosive, and ground safety programs in accordance with Department of Defense, Department of the Army, National Guard Bureau, and/or Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies, regulations, and directives.
GS-12 through GS-13 Army National Guard Warrant Officer Positions Applicants must demonstrate the following specialized experience competencies (skills, knowledge, and abilities) to qualify for entry appointments to GS-2181-12 or GS-2181-13 Army National Guard Dual Status Warrant Officer positions. Qualification competencies are determined by three factors: The aircraft operated; the nature and purpose of assignments; and, the degree of hazard. For Army National Guard positions, must have working experiences in civilian aviation programs; or, in military service aviation programs (active duty or reserve components); or, in the Army National Guard Aviation Support facilities; or, in Air National Guard Wing/ Operations Groups. To qualify, the applicant must have at least two years specialized competencies in operating a specific main-frame military aircraft, mission planning, and mission preparation. Experienced in reviewing and analyzing mission tasking, intelligence, and weather information. Experienced in filing flight plans and conducting crew briefings. Experienced in aircraft preflight inspections, aircraft loading, and equipment assessments. Experienced in performing or supervising work procedures involved in navigation, in-flight refueling, search and rescue operations or surveillance and reconnaissance. Competent in conducting or supervising the training of crew members in simple to complex mission specific tasks. Experienced in developing plans and policies, monitoring operations, and advising commanders. Knowledge is required in flight theory, air navigation, meteorology, flying directives, mission tactics, and operating procedures. Experienced in the unit flying, explosive, and ground safety programs in accordance with Department of Defense, Department of the Army, National Guard Bureau, and/or Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies, regulations, and directives.
Please request the full Specialized experience requirements.Education:EDUCATION: Must have a high school diploma or general education development (GED) diploma. An undergraduate degree from an accredited college/university is optimum. Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs or must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools. A Graduate Degree from an accredited civilian academic college or from an equivalent professional military education school is optimum. Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs OR must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools.
You must provide transcripts or other documentation to support your Educational claims. To receive credit for Education, you must provide documentation of proof that you meet the Education requirements for this position.Employment Type: OTHER

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National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

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Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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