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Fire Pilot Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

Parsons

Traffic Incident Management Specialist

Turin, GA · On-site

$35.96 - $62.93/hr

... TIM deployments, and pilot initiatives. * Coordinate field crews, contractors, and ... Act as a primary liaison among transportation agencies, law enforcement, fire/EMS, towing/recovery ...

All JobsFire Pilot JobsFire Pilot Jobs in Atlanta, GA

Fire Pilot information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$47.6K

$125.9K

$193.3K

How much do fire pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire pilot in Atlanta, GA is $125,895.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,200.00 and $149,100.00 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.
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What are popular job titles related to Fire Pilot jobs in Atlanta, GA?

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

What job categories do people searching Fire Pilot jobs in Atlanta, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Fire Pilot jobs in Atlanta, GA are:

Fire Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Pilot job openings in Atlanta, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,895 per year, or $60.5 per hour.

Line Pilot - AEL 117 Snellville, GA

Rural Metro Fire Department

Snellville, GA • On-site

$106.51 - $117.16/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Helicopter Pilot

We’re hiring a Helicopter Pilot to provide medical air transportation services to Air Evac Lifeteam’s customers. Safety is a key pillar of our services.

Compensation & Benefits
  • Salary range $106,511 - $117,162 including 20% Geo Modifier
  • $15K Sign on Bonus
  • Retention Bonus plans ($40,000 after 3 years plus additional retention bonuses once completed)
  • On Duty Housing
  • 7/7 Schedule
Responsibilities
  • Working with a team of medical experts to safely transport customers to and from locations and facilities.
  • Ensure aircraft readiness for flight dispatches as described in the appropriate manuals, including all FAR and Air Evac Lifeteam requirements, and aircraft cleanliness duties.
  • Maintain accurate AEL and regulatory documentation and record keeping.
  • Effectively communicate and collaborate with dispatch, flight crews, facilities, and partners.
  • Provide shift change info to successive pilot and team following protocol for recording Air Evac Lifeteam change board details.
  • Accountable to maintain required certifications and ongoing training.
Minimum Requirements
  • Current Rotorcraft FAA Commercial Certificate.
  • Helicopter instrument rating.
  • Current FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • 2,000 Total Flight Hours.
  • 1,500 Helicopter Hours.
  • 1,000 Helicopter PIC Hours.
  • 500 Turbine Helicopter Hours.
  • 100 hours night unaided, or 50 hours unaided with 100 hours aided.
  • 230 pound weight limit with flight gear.
Preferred Qualifications
  • B206 Aircraft Experience.
  • High School Diploma/Equivalent or Higher.
EEO Statement

Global Medical Response and its family of companies are an Equal Opportunity Employer, which includes supporting veterans and providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with a disability.

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