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Firefighting Helicopter Pilot Jobs in Georgetown, KY

Firefighting Helicopter Pilot information

See Georgetown, KY salary details

$64.6K

$90.5K

$111.5K

How much do firefighting helicopter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for firefighting helicopter pilot in Georgetown, KY is $90,522.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,300.00 and $101,100.00 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.
Infographic showing various Firefighting Helicopter Pilot job openings in Georgetown, KY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 84% In-person, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,522 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Helitack)

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Winchester, KY

$62K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


USDA Forest Service rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

161st of 295 rated public sector bodies


Job description

These positions are located on a USDA Forest Service Unit.
The incumbent serves as first line supervisor of a crew of helitack personnel/firefighters that are established to provide fast initial attack, and large fire support and utilizes helicopters in support of all types of incidents.
See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION for Regional contacts.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-07 level: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-06) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Oversaw helicopter service contract and enforced contract provisions; Conducted training in the techniques of aviation, fire suppression, prescribed burning and fuels reduction methods; Performed many technical specializations such as helicopter rappelling, long line, felling, saw repair or water handling used in fire suppression and prescribed burning independently; Communicated critical information pertaining to incident objectives, situations and tactics to pilot(s), crews and dispatchers.
For the GW-08 level: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-07) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Planned and coordinated complex fire and aviation operations at a temporary or fixed base work location; determined helicopter load limits, takeoff and landing sites, and estimated time requirements; analyzed fire conditions and determined attack methods and resources required; conducted hands-on training pertaining to program and personnel needs related to fire and aviation.
Selective Placement Factors
Successful completion of the Primary NWCG Core Requirement of Helicopter Manager, Single Resource (HMGB) and Incident Commander Type 4 (ICT4). In addition, successful completion of the Secondary NWCG Core Requirements of Helibase Manager Trainee (HEBM(t)).
Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) and Forest Service - Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) qualifications must be met by the time of selection. Most recent IQCS master record and/or signed Agency Certified task book must be attached to your application. If you are selected, you may be required to submit an updated IQCS master record or signed Agency Certified task book as proof of attainment of IFPM requirements prior to a final verbal offer.
In order to be considered for this position, copies of your Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS) Master Record (or equivalent training documents) which contain documented proof of the certification or attainment of the IFPM Selective Placement Factor for this position MUST be attached to your application. Red cards are not acceptable documentation. Currency Requirement: Required to maintain currency once hired into the position. Currency of NWCG qualifications is not required for selection. If not currently qualified, the applicant must provide documented evidence that they have been fully qualified in the past, and are able to regain currency within one year of being hired. Failure to provide this documentation will result in disqualification.
Primary firefighter positions include the following age requirements: Under age 37 -OR- less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service worked in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position -OR- a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and is requesting a waiver to the maximum age requirement -OR-currently occupy a permanent position with primary fire fighter retirement coverage.
For those who do not currently occupy a permanent Federal position covered under primary fire fighter retirement, you must be under age 37; less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position; or a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and requesting a waiver to the requirement.
This position has been identified as (HIGH) or (MODERATE) or (LOW) Complexity under the Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) or Forest Service Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) and is subject to selective placement factor requirements contained in the Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) Standard and Guide when filling this vacancy. IFPM or FS-FPM selective placement factors are made up of a primary and secondary National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) core Incident Management Qualifications and Required Training. The applicant must possess these qualifications at the applicable complexity level to be considered eligible for this position.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT COVERAGE: This is a primary/rigorous position covered under the special retirement provisions of 5 USC 8336(c) for the Civil Service Retirement System and of 5 USC 8412(d) for the Federal Employees Retirement System.
WORK CAPACITY TEST (WCT) for Wildland Firefighters: This position participates in wildland firefighting activities. Based on the type of work performed, TAKING and PASSING the WCT at the ARDUOUS, MODERATE, or LIGHT level is a condition of employment.
To receive consideration for this position, you must provide updated required documents and meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.Education:There is no substitution of education for specialized experience.Employment Type: OTHER

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