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Firefighting Helicopter Pilot Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Weyerhauser Co

Blackhawk Pilot

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$108K - $162K/yr

Act as PIC or Co-pilot of S-70 (UH-60L) Black Hawk helicopter in firefighting operations both day and night and other missions as required by the company. * Conduct aerial work operations such as ...

Weyerhaeuser Company

Blackhawk Pilot

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$108K - $162K/yr

Act as PIC or Co-pilot of S-70 (UH-60L) Black Hawk helicopter in firefighting operations both day and night and other missions as required by the company. * Conduct aerial work operations such as ...

Weyerhaeuser Company

Blackhawk Pilot

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$108K - $162K/yr

Act as PIC or Co-pilot of S-70 (UH-60L) Black Hawk helicopter in firefighting operations both day and night and other missions as required by the company. * Conduct aerial work operations such as ...

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 ...

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Firefighting Helicopter Pilot information

See Oregon salary details

$75.6K

$106K

$130.6K

How much do firefighting helicopter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for firefighting helicopter pilot in Oregon is $105,992.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,200.00 and $118,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a firefighting helicopter pilot?

Firefighting helicopter pilots are highly trained professionals who operate helicopters to support firefighting efforts, particularly in combating wildfires. Their responsibilities include transporting water or fire retardant, conducting aerial drops over burning areas, and assisting with crew transport and evacuation. These pilots work closely with ground crews and must have specialized training to navigate challenging conditions such as smoke, high temperatures, and variable weather. Their work is crucial for controlling large fires in areas that are difficult to reach by traditional means.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a firefighting helicopter pilot?

To thrive as a Firefighting Helicopter Pilot, you need a commercial pilot's license with helicopter ratings, extensive flight hours (often 1,500+), and specialized training in aerial firefighting and external load operations. Proficiency with navigation systems, GPS mapping, radio communications, and firefighting equipment like Bambi Buckets is typically required. Critical thinking, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring safe and effective aerial firefighting operations in high-risk and dynamic environments.

What are some common challenges faced by a firefighting helicopter pilot during wildfire operations?

Firefighting helicopter pilots often contend with rapidly changing weather conditions, low visibility due to smoke, and flying at low altitudes over rugged terrain, all while coordinating closely with ground crews and other aircraft. Pilots must make quick decisions to ensure safety and efficiency, especially when dropping water or fire retardant near active fire lines. Effective communication, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential for success in this dynamic and high-risk environment.

What is the difference between Firefighting Helicopter Pilot vs Search and Rescue Helicopter Pilot?

AspectFirefighting Helicopter PilotSearch and Rescue Helicopter Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, rotorcraft ratings, specialized firefighting trainingCommercial Pilot License, rotorcraft ratings, rescue operation training
Work EnvironmentFire zones, rugged terrains, wildfire areasDisaster zones, remote locations, mountainous regions
Employer & IndustryFire departments, government agencies, firefighting contractorsRescue organizations, coast guard, emergency services

Both Firefighting Helicopter Pilots and Search and Rescue Helicopter Pilots require similar certifications and often operate in challenging environments. The main difference lies in their focus: firefighting pilots combat wildfires, while rescue pilots perform emergency evacuations and locate missing persons. Their skills overlap, but their operational objectives differ significantly.

How do you become a firefighting helicopter pilot?

To become a firefighting helicopter pilot, you typically need a commercial helicopter pilot license, experience flying in various conditions, and specialized training in aerial firefighting techniques. Many pilots also obtain certifications such as a Class 1 medical certificate and gain experience in emergency response and navigation skills relevant to firefighting missions.

What are popular job titles related to Firefighting Helicopter Pilot jobs in Oregon?

For Firefighting Helicopter Pilot jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Firefighting Helicopter Pilot jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Firefighting Helicopter Pilot jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Firefighting Helicopter Pilot jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Firefighting Helicopter Pilot job openings:

Firefighting Helicopter Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Firefighting Helicopter Pilot job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,992 per year, or $51 per hour.

Firefighting Helicopter Pilot - UH-60/S-70 PIC (Seasonal/FT)

La Grande, OR • On-site

MHM Publishing Inc
See more jobs at MHM Publishing Incexternal

$150 - $200/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Requirements

OAS Carded S70/H602500 hours PIC in helicopters.100 hours PIC in helicopters preceding 12 months100 hours in type100 hours in weight classFire fighting experience

Job Description

Columbia Basin Helicopters currently has H60 PIC positions available for the 2026 fire season.
CBH operates UH60L and UH-1 Airframes.
Seasonal, and full time positions available.

Full-time employees are eligible for health insurance benefits after 30 days of employment, as well as dental, and vision.
Qualified candidates include those with experience flying safely in the Fire Fighting environment and experience in the UH-60/S-70. Only applicants who meet minimum qualifications will be considered.

BlueSky Helicopters in Los Angeles currently has a PIC position open for our H60 fire/utility contracts. The company operates H-60L, A+, AS350 and Bell 407 airframes. Aircraft are based in the Los Angeles area. Living in Los Angeles is not mandatory, but is preferred. We offer a competitive full-time compensation...

Vertical Reference ( Long Line) lift work Crew transport Power line patrol Wildland Fire Suppression And various other mountain helicopter operations. Central Copters, Inc. is an FAA approved Air Carrier (FAR Part 135), Certified External Load Operator (FAR Part 133), and contracted with the USFS for Wildland Fire Suppression. We...

Firehawk Helicopters has openings for S-70/UH-60 Black Hawk SIC/co-pilot positions. This is a full time position with a 12/12 schedule. Competitive Pay and Benefits with profit sharing/401K, extended, travel, lodging, per diem, as well as health Insurance. Applicant can live anywhere in lower 48, must be within 90 minutes of...

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