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Fire Pilot Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

PILOT 3

Carson City, NV · On-site

$76K - $114K/yr

Pilots fly missions and aircraft which vary with the department to which the position is assigned ... Flying duties may be performed in any of the aircraft utilized by the agency in conducting fire ...

Hands and Feet Admin

Sparks, NV · On-site

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

... DC, MUX & Fire Proof Safe) • MUX room cleanup • DC cleanup • Check and maintain Power and ... material available • Pilot and test the new process; Prepare training material, support ...

Tape Movement to Fire Proof Safe * ATS Installation * ATS Configuration * PDU Installation ... Pilot and test the new process; Prepare training material, support socialization of the same across ...

... fire, police, highway patrol) and ground ambulance personnel; patients and their families; and with ... Accompanies the Care Flight Nurse and Pilot on flights but does not fly without the flight nurse on ...

Fire Pilot information

See Reno, NV salary details

$49.4K

$130.5K

$200.4K

How much do fire pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire pilot in Reno, NV is $130,532.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,700.00 and $154,500.00 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.

What job categories do people searching Fire Pilot jobs in Reno, NV look for?

The top searched job categories for Fire Pilot jobs in Reno, NV are:

What cities near Reno, NV are hiring for Fire Pilot jobs?

Cities near Reno, NV with the most Fire Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Fire Pilot job openings in Reno, NV as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,532 per year, or $62.8 per hour.

PILOT 3

Carson City, NV • On-site


State of Nevada (NV)
Health Care and Social Assistance • 501 - 1,000 employees

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 50 rated states

Good employer

Paid breaks

Respectful managers


$76K - $114K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

***THIS RECRUITMENT MAY CLOSE WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE DEPENDING ON THE NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS RECEIVED. APPLICANTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE*** Job Summary Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW), Game Management Division is recruiting for a rotorcraft pilot position. Primary flying duties will be assisting Department staff in conducting wildlife survey activities and habit improvement projects.

These activities require flying for extended periods over mountainous and variable terrain, often at low altitudes above the ground and sometimes with obscured visibility resulting from weather conditions, dust and fires. This position requires a minimum of 3500hours PIC (Pilot-In-Command) rotorcraft helicopter experience. The Department owns and operates two Bell 407 HP helicopters.

Pilots fly missions and aircraft which vary with the department to which the position is assigned. Pilots must maintain current certification to fly agency aircraft which may include jets, turboprop single- and/or multi-engine airplanes, rotorcraft helicopter or other equipment owned or leased by the agency. Essential Qualifications Graduation from high school or equivalent education, and 3,500 hours logged, pilot-in-command total rotorcraft or fixed-wing multi- and/or single-engine aircraft flight time, as designated by the agency at the time of recruitment.

Flight experience must include 250 hours low-level flight; 250 hours conducting external load operations; 500 hours mountain flying above 5,000 feet mean sea level; and 100 hours of flight time within the preceding 12 months. Job Duties Perform pre-flight and post-flight activities which include scheduling routes; monitoring weather conditions; calculating load and fuel requirements; performing routine pilot inspections to ensure the aircraft is in airworthy condition; fueling and preheating aircraft as necessary; securing aircraft in hangar or covering and tying down aircraft after completion of flight. Pilot jet, piston and turbine aircraft which may include helicopters and fixed-wing single-engine and/or multiengine aircraft.

Maintain operation and component records for agency aircraft by recording date and hours of operation and when change of components occurred. Perform airframe and powerplant inspection of the airplanes and/or helicopters at specified intervals and perform aircraft servicing, routine repairs, and field repairs as a result of problems detected during inspections or in response to problems that occurred while the aircraft was in operation. Examples of inspection/aircraft servicing activities are: changing the oil in the engine and gear boxes; lubricating of the aircraft; inspecting electrical systems.

Review and maintain files of information regarding Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, aeronautical charts, factory and vendor service bulletins, airworthiness directives, and agency operating procedures in order to remain current and implement existing and new rules, regulations and techniques affecting the operation and maintenance of aircraft. Participate in training and recertification activities as needed to maintain current ratings required to pilot assigned aircraft. Perform related duties as assigned.

Under general supervision, incumbents perform the duties described in the series concept and are trained and qualified to pilot assigned agency aircraft which may include rotorcraft, fixed-wing multi-engine and/or single-engine aircraft. Flying duties may be performed in any of the aircraft utilized by the agency in conducting fire suppression and wildlife survey activities. Such activities require flying for extended periods at high and/or low altitudes, over mountainous and variable terrain, and with obscured visibility resulting from fires and weather conditions.

The Pilot III is distinguished from the Pilot II by responsibility for flying both fire suppression and wildlife survey missions as described below in the class concepts for Pilot II - Options A: NDF and B: NDOW. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities This job specification lists the major knowledge, skills and abilities of the job and is not all inclusive. Incumbent(s) will be expected to have knowledge, skills and abilities from a previous level.

Detailed knowledge of: FAA rules, regulations and operating procedures governing flight operations and aircraft servicing; air traffic control rules and procedures; flight theory as applicable to multi- and/or single- engine fixed-wing aircraft and rotorcraft; design, components, system and performance limitations and maintenance requirements of the aircraft utilized by the agency. Working knowledge of: principles of loading and weight distribution and the effect on aircraft operation. Recruiter Contact Information: Susan Ashley - q.ashley@admin.nv.gov The State of Nevada is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building diverse, inclusive, and innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them

All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, national origin, religion or belief, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, domestic partnership, genetic information (GINA), or compensation and/or wages. Please send direct Inquiries or correspondence to the recruiter listed on this announcement.


State of Nevada logo

About State of Nevada

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Nevada isn't a company in the traditional sense, but rather a governing body that manages and directs the operations of the state of Nevada. Its headquarters are located in Carson City, NV, United States. The organisation is engaged in various sectors like education, transportation, business and industry, health and human services, conservation and natural resources, and many more. It is responsible for implementing and maintaining the law and order of the state, in addition to providing essential services to its residents.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carson City, NV, US

Year founded

1864


What State Of Nevada employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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