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Firefighter Helicopter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Coulson Aviation

CH47-Pilot In Command

Portland, OR · On-site

... firefighting or utility helicopter experience - Experience supervising crews Work Environment - Field-based operations in dynamic and remote environments - Exposure to noise, dust, fumes, and varying ...

Coulson Aviation

S61-Pilot In Command

Portland, OR · On-site

S-61 Pilot in Command (PIC) About Coulson Aviation Coulson Aviation is a global leader in aerial ... firefighting or utility helicopter experience - Experience supervising crew and copilots Work ...

Columbia Helicopters, Inc.

AA Command Pilot

The AA Command Pilot serves as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) of the Columbia Model 107 Chinook, supporting ... Heavy-lift helicopter operational experience. * Aerial firefighting experience. * Long-line ...

Hillsboro Aviation

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 ...

Coulson Aviation

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.

Bowhead

Captain

Mobile, AL · On-site

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 ...

Bowhead

Captain

Fairhope, AL

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 ...

Bowhead

Captain

Mobile, AL

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 ...

Collier County

Paramedic I

Naples, FL

$60K - $68K/yr

Establishes clear helicopter landing zone for air ambulance transport of patient. Complies with ... piloting air transport, and/or other duties as assigned. Assists with community events such as ...

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How much do firefighter helicopter pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for firefighter helicopter pilot in the United States is $19.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do firefighter plane pilots make?

Firefighter helicopter pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the employing agency. Salaries can increase with additional qualifications, specialized skills, and overtime opportunities, especially during peak wildfire seasons.

What is a Firefighter Helicopter Pilot job?

A Firefighter Helicopter Pilot operates helicopters to support firefighting efforts by transporting crews, dropping water or fire retardant, and conducting aerial surveillance. They play a critical role in wildfire suppression, often flying in challenging conditions such as high winds, smoke, and rugged terrain. Pilots must have specialized training, significant flight experience, and certifications, including a commercial pilot’s license. Their work helps protect lives, property, and natural resources from fires.

How much do helicopter pilots make fighting fires?

Firefighter helicopter pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Experienced pilots with specialized certifications and skills in aerial firefighting can earn higher salaries, especially during peak fire seasons or with federal agencies.

Is 40 too old to become a helicopter pilot?

Firefighter helicopter pilots typically need a commercial pilot's license and relevant flight experience, with many entering the field in their 30s or 40s. Age can be a factor, but physical fitness, training, and experience are often more important; some agencies may have age limits or preferences. It is possible to become a helicopter pilot at 40 if the individual meets the certification and health requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Firefighter Helicopter Pilot position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Firefighter Helicopter Pilot, you need advanced piloting skills, extensive flight hours, and specialized training in aerial firefighting tactics, often supported by a commercial or ATP helicopter license. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, aerial water drop equipment, and emergency radio communications is essential. Strong decision-making skills, resilience under pressure, and clear team communication set outstanding pilots apart. These competencies are vital for ensuring safety, effectiveness, and coordination during critical and dynamic wildfire response operations.

What are some of the unique challenges faced by Firefighter Helicopter Pilots during wildfire suppression missions?

Firefighter Helicopter Pilots regularly encounter challenging flight conditions, including poor visibility, unpredictable weather, and intensive heat and smoke from active fires. Coordination with ground crews and other aircraft is essential, requiring constant radio communication and precise maneuvering in often crowded airspace. The role may also demand long hours during peak fire season and rapid deployment to various locations. Overcoming these challenges is rewarding, as successful missions directly contribute to protecting communities and natural resources while developing highly sought-after aerial firefighting experience.

What is the highest paid helicopter pilot job?

The highest paid helicopter pilot jobs are typically in corporate or executive transport, where pilots can earn over $150,000 annually, especially with extensive experience and advanced certifications. Emergency medical services and offshore oil rig operations also offer high salaries, often exceeding $100,000, depending on location and complexity of the missions.
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Firefighter Helicopter Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Firefighter Helicopter Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,998 per year, or $19.2 per hour.
Alaska Seasonal Helicopter Pilot - Field Ops, Housing

Alaska Seasonal Helicopter Pilot - Field Ops, Housing

TEMSCO Helicopters Inc.

Ketchikan, AK • On-site

Other

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Seasonal Tour Pilot Positions

Seasonal tour positions are available from April through September. All applicants must be commercially rated, have 1000 hrs. PIC Helicopter time and meet all FAR Part 135 requirements. No turbine experience is required.

Seasonal contract positions are available from May through September. Contracts and charters can involve mining support, crew transport, firefighting, precision sling, surveys, animal capture, and photography. Contract pilots fly throughout all of Alaska and the lower 48 using H500Ds, AStars, and Bell Mediums.

All applicants must be commercially rated, and have 1500 hrs. PIC Helicopter time and meet all FAR Part 135 requirements. Vertical reference, longline external load experience, OAS cardable preferred.

MechanicsSeasonal Positions

Seasonal Positions are available from May 1st to October 1st in beautiful Southeast Alaska. The positions provide support for TEMSCO’s Tour and FAR Part 135 Operations at Juneau and Skagway Bases.

Work with our established FAA Part 135 Operation of over 30 years. FAA Repair Station with Airbus, Turbomeca, McDonnell Douglas, Bell, and Allison Service Center Ratings.

We have an established Fleet of Airbus AS350s, Hughes 500s and H130s. Good wages, great facility, and work atmosphere. Benefits provided by TEMSCO Helicopters, Inc. include travel to and from Alaska and housing while you’re here.

Experienced Field Technicians

Experienced Field Mechanics are also needed for remote sites throughout Alaska with our Part 135 Charter Operations.

Primarily working on MD500D’s, Bell212’s, Bell214B1, and AS350’s.

Benefits provided by TEMSCO Helicopters, Inc. include travel to and from Alaska and housing while you’re here.

Seasonal Support Staff

Other Seasonal Staff Positions. All seasonal positions will be in Juneau, Skagway, or Denali.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
TEMSCO Helicopters, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, which does not discriminate in employment based on race, age, color, sex, religion, national origin, or other protected classification including disability or handicap.

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