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Fire Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Air Methods

$82K - $93K/yr

Overview Big Bear Fire B407(IFR) 130% ACCRA Off Duty Housing $15,000 Sign On Bonus (External Pilots) AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE! As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Big Bear City, CA · On-site

$82K - $86K/yr

Big Bear Fire B407(IFR) 130% ACCRA Off Duty Housing $15,000 Sign On Bonus (External Pilots) AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE! As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks ...

Air Methods

$82K - $93K/yr

Big Bear Fire B407(IFR) 130% ACCRA Off Duty Housing $15,000 Sign On Bonus (External Pilots) AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE! As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks ...

Air Methods

$82K - $86K/yr

Overview Big Bear Fire B407(IFR) 130% ACCRA Off Duty Housing $15,000 Sign On Bonus (External Pilots) AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE! As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Big Bear City, CA · On-site

$83 - $93/hr

Overview Big Bear Fire B407(IFR) 130% ACCRA Off Duty Housing $15,000 Sign On Bonus (External Pilots) AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE! As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods ...

Rural Metro Fire Department

Helicopter Pilot

Modesto, CA · On-site

$142 - $156/hr

Pilot Incentives - This is pilot life at Global Medical Response: * Potential to earn up to $85,000 bonus * Up to half the year at home * On duty housing * Saving lives in HEMS If your passion is ...

Rural Metro Fire Department

Fixed Wing Pilot

Bishop, CA · On-site

$109 - $120/hr

This pilot will be qualified to fly our PC12 aircraft. Scheduled shifts run 7/7 and service day or night trips. Safety is a key pillar of our services; therefore, all of our pilots work on a quality ...

Rural Metro Fire Department

Fixed Wing Pilot

Redding, CA · On-site

$113.82 - $125.20/hr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Redding, California Airframe: King Air B200 Schedule: 7 Days On / 7 Days Off Annual Salary Range: $113,820.92 - $125,203.02 Bonuses: * 15,000 Sign-On Bonus (must complete ...

Valar Atomics

Fire Protection Engineer

Torrance, CA

$86K - $117K/yr

Our first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah will demonstrate how advanced nuclear systems and fuel ... The Role We're seeking a highly skilled Fire Protection Engineer to join our Engineering team and ...

Valar Atomics

Fire Protection Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$112K - $137K/yr

Our first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah will demonstrate how advanced nuclear systems and fuel ... The Role We're seeking a highly skilled Fire Protection Engineer to join our Engineering team and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsFire Pilot JobsFire Pilot Jobs in California

Fire Pilot information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$129.2K

$198.4K

How much do fire pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire pilot in California is $129,202.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,700.00 and $153,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fire pilot?

Fire Pilots are specialized pilots trained to operate aircraft in support of firefighting operations. They fly planes or helicopters to drop water or fire retardants over wildfires, transport firefighters and equipment, and conduct aerial surveillance of fire zones. Their work is critical in controlling and suppressing large-scale wildfires, often requiring quick decision-making and flying in challenging and dangerous conditions. Fire Pilots typically work for government agencies, firefighting services, or private contractors.

What does a fire pilot do?

As a fire pilot or air tanker pilot, you respond to wildfires by providing water drops, fire retardant, and other fire suppression materials from your aircraft. In most cases, you spend the bulk of your day standing by and waiting to respond to an alert that indicates the probability of wildfire. Depending on probability, you may need to stay on-site or remain within a specified distance of the base. When the call comes, your responsibilities include completing the pre-flight checklist, loading the details in your GPS, and then completing the flight according to the directions received.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fire pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Pilot, you need advanced piloting skills, a commercial pilot’s license, and specialized training in aerial firefighting operations. Familiarity with aircraft like air tankers or helicopters, navigation systems, and wildfire management protocols is essential. Strong decision-making, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient support for firefighting teams while minimizing risk during high-stress, unpredictable wildfire missions.

What are some common challenges faced by fire pilots during wildfire suppression missions?

Fire Pilots often face rapidly changing weather conditions, limited visibility due to smoke, and challenging terrain when flying over wildfire zones. Coordinating closely with ground crews and other aircraft is essential to ensure safety and effective fire suppression. Additionally, Fire Pilots must remain vigilant for hazards such as sudden wind shifts, updrafts, and the risk of engine overheating during extended low-altitude flights. These challenges require strong situational awareness, excellent communication skills, and the ability to adapt quickly under pressure.

What is the difference between Fire Pilot vs Firefighter?

AspectFire PilotFirefighter
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, Firefighting trainingFirefighter certification, EMT/paramedic license
Work EnvironmentAircraft, firefighting helicopters or planesFire stations, emergency scenes, buildings
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, aerial firefighting companiesMunicipal fire departments, rescue services

Fire Pilots operate aircraft to combat wildfires from the air, requiring pilot licenses and specialized firefighting training. Firefighters work on the ground, handling rescue and suppression tasks, and need firefighting certifications. Both roles are vital in firefighting but differ significantly in work environment and required credentials.

How much do fire pilots get paid?

Fire pilots, also known as aerial firefighters, typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. They often require specialized training and certifications, such as a commercial pilot license and firefighting qualifications, which can influence salary levels.

Is it hard to become a fire pilot?

Becoming a fire pilot requires extensive training, including obtaining a commercial pilot license, gaining experience in aviation, and often specialized wildfire or aerial firefighting certifications. The process is demanding and competitive, requiring strong flying skills, safety knowledge, and physical fitness.
More about Fire Pilot jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Pilot jobs in California?

The most popular types of Fire Pilot jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Fire Pilot jobs in California?

For Fire Pilot jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fire Pilot jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Fire Pilot jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Fire Pilot jobs?

Cities in California with the most Fire Pilot job openings:

Fire Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Pilot job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $129,202 per year, or $62.1 per hour.

Helicopter Pilot

Air Methods

On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Air Methods rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Overview
Big Bear Fire
B407(IFR)
130% ACCRA
Off Duty Housing
$15,000 Sign On Bonus (External Pilots)
AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE!
As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our communities. We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high-performing culture, sparked by teammates who deliver on being the best!
Location
Big Bear, California, offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and year-round outdoor adventure. Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, it's surrounded by towering pines and centered around the sparkling Big Bear Lake, making it ideal for boating, fishing, and relaxing in the summer, and skiing or snowboarding in the winter. The charming mountain village atmosphere, fresh alpine air, and abundance of hiking and wildlife viewing make it a beloved getaway for those seeking both excitement and tranquility just a few hours from Southern California's cities.
Job Summary
Responsible to ensure aircraft and weather conditions are airworthy to transport medical crew and patient to receiving hospital within an assigned operational area. Responsible for compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR), Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), General Operations Manual guidelines (GOM), and thorough knowledge of Air Methods policies and procedures.
Responsibilities
Essential Functions and Responsibilities include the following:
  • Operates Air Methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner.
  • Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by sign off of Daily Flight Log. Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight and upon completion of each flight.
  • Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and equipment.
  • Must be thoroughly familiar with all aircraft and medical systems of backup aircraft utilized at operational area and also ensures that the medical flight team is familiar and comfortable with the medical interior and systems.
  • Responsible for completion of required documentation.
  • Able to conduct detailed flight planning with little notice to exacting standards.
  • Participates regularly in Air Methods meetings, activities, projects, committees and community outreach.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Additional Job Requirements
  • Regular scheduled attendance. (7/7 schedule - 12 hour shifts)

Subject to applicable laws and Air Method's policies, regular attendance is an essential function of the position. All employees must follow Air Methods' employment practices and policies.
Supervisory Responsibilities
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
Qualifications
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. In accordance with applicable laws, Air Methods will provide reasonable accommodations that do not create an undue burden so disabled employees may perform the essential functions of the position.
Pay Scale
Based upon flight and EMS experience.
  • STEP A: $82,900
  • STEP B: $86,216
  • STEP C: $89,665
  • STEP D: $93,251

Education & Experience
  • Associate's degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school and two to five years' related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Bachelor's degree preferred

Operation and Safety Requirements:
  • As a member of the Flight Crew, any person employed in this position shall maintain a weight not to exceed 250 pounds and shall be less than seventy (70) years old.

Skills
  • Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment
  • Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months

Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) Program:
  • 2500 total flight hours with minimum of 2000 flight hours in category
  • 1000 hours PIC in category
  • 500 hours of rotor wing turbine time
  • 500 hours of cross-country flight time, at least 50 hours of which were at night
  • 100 hours unaided night as PIC (50 hours of unaided can be substituted for by 100 hours of NVG time, but cannot be reduced below 50 hours of unaided time)
  • 75 hours of actual or simulated instrument time at least 50 hours which were in flight in an aircraft including 20 hours in actual instrument conditions in category

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
  • Instrument rating (for category and class of aircraft)(ATP rating in category meets this requirement)
  • Fixed wing multiengine rating is required for twin engine aircraft
  • Commercial single engine land is required for single engine aircraft
  • First OR Second Class FAA Medical certificate required.

Internal Bidding Ends: 8/6/2026
Minimum pay
USD $82,900.00/Yr.
Maximum Pay
USD $93,251.00/Yr.
Benefits
For more information on our industry-leading benefits, please visit our benefits page here.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

What Air Methods employees say

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About Air Methods

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Air Methods is the most responsive and reliable provider of critical care transportation solutions. We partner with our EMS and hospital customers to solve the challenges of patient logistics and save lives. We deliver industry-leading performance in safety, clinical quality, and patient advocacy, committing to zero balance bills. In addition to caring for others, we care for our own teammates: building a high-performing culture where people are passionate about their work and always bring their best. We can't be the industry-leading air medical company without you.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Englewood, CO, US

Year founded

1980

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