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Firefighting Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UH-60 Firefighting Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$140K - $150K/yr

We take great pride in hiring the most talented and professional pilots. PJ Helicopters, Inc. has been an aviation industry leader throughout the United States for over 50 years. Industries supported ...

We take great pride in hiring the most talented and professional pilots. PJ Helicopters, Inc. has been an aviation industry leader throughout the United States for over 50 years. Industries supported ...

UH-60 Firefighting Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$140K - $150K/yr

We take great pride in hiring the most talented and professional pilots. PJ Helicopters, Inc. has been an aviation industry leader throughout the United States for over 50 years. Industries supported ...

UH-60 Firefighting Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$140K - $150K/yr

We take great pride in hiring the most talented and professional pilots. PJ Helicopters, Inc. has been an aviation industry leader throughout the United States for over 50 years. Industries supported ...

Pilot

Manhattan, NY · Remote

$180 - $300/hr

Expression of Interest - Survey Pilot, Dayton, OH Aerial Firefighting Head of Crew Training Oklahoma, United States $40,001.00-$80,000.00 1 day ago Aerial Firefighting Head of Flight Operations ...

S-61 Pilot in Command (PIC) About Coulson Aviation Coulson Aviation is a global leader in aerial firefighting, operating across the United States, Canada, Australia, and South America. Our diverse ...

S-61 Pilot in Command (PIC) About Coulson Aviation Coulson Aviation is a global leader in aerial firefighting, operating across the United States, Canada, Australia, and South America. Our diverse ...

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Showing results 1-20

Firefighting Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do firefighting pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for firefighting pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Firefighting Pilot job?

A Firefighting Pilot operates specialized aircraft to combat wildfires by dropping water or fire retardant on flames and creating containment lines. They work closely with ground crews and emergency responders to suppress fires and protect lives, property, and natural resources. These pilots fly in challenging conditions, including low visibility, turbulent air, and high heat. Extensive flight training, aerial firefighting certification, and experience in low-altitude operations are typically required.

What are typical challenges faced by Firefighting Pilots during wildfire season?

Firefighting Pilots often contend with rapidly changing weather conditions, unpredictable fire behavior, and limited visibility due to smoke, which can make every flight uniquely challenging. Missions require precise maneuvers at low altitudes, as well as close coordination with ground crews and other aircraft to maximize effectiveness and ensure safety. The job also involves extended hours during peak wildfire season, with possible deployments to remote or rugged locations. Adaptability, teamwork, and a strong commitment to safety are essential for navigating these challenges and successfully supporting firefighting operations.

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

To thrive as a Firefighting Pilot, you need advanced piloting skills, extensive hours of flight experience (especially in challenging weather and low-visibility conditions), and a valid commercial pilot’s license with the required ratings. Familiarity with specialized firefighting aircraft, GPS navigation, and communication systems is essential, as is certification in aerial firefighting operations. Critical thinking, calmness under pressure, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for making quick decisions in dynamic and hazardous environments. These skills and qualifications ensure mission safety, successful coordination with ground crews, and the effective containment of wildfires.

More about Firefighting Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Firefighting Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Firefighting Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Firefighting Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Firefighting Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Firefighting Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Firefighting Pilot jobs include:

UH-60 Firefighting Pilot

Ampacity

Red Bluff, CA • On-site

$140K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Pj Helicopters Fire Fighting Pic

PJ Helicopters is seeking experienced candidates for UH-60 Fire Fighting Pilot In Command positions flying in support of Fire Suppression, for the 2026 fire season. Seasonal or full-time permanent positions available.

PJH is known for our state-of-the art helicopter external load capabilities. We have established ourselves as an industry leader in safe and successful missions. We take great pride in hiring the most talented and professional pilots.

PJ Helicopters, Inc. has been an aviation industry leader throughout the United States for over 50 years. Industries supported include utility, forestry, construction, defense, charter, and many more. Employees at PJH have access to over 40 airframes from a range of manufacturers including Airbus, Boeing, Bell, Sikorsky, Pilatus, Cessna, etc. From flying an 407 in the utility wire environment, drill support in an AS350, to precision external load in a UH-60, it's our diverse fleet, wide range of customers, and opportunities for advancement that contribute to an overall great work environment.

Full-time employees are eligible for our comprehensive insurance benefits package after 30 days of employment with PPO and HSA options, as well as dental, vision, life insurance, and other ancillary policies. Full-time employees are eligible for 401k Program with Employer-Matching, Vacation, Holiday Pay Upon Hire, California Overtime rules, and more. The PJH base in Red Bluff, CA encompasses 100,000+ sq. feet of operations and maintenance hangars, including an employee fitness center.

Our facility is located 1.5 hours north of Sacramento, and 30 minutes south of Redding, CA, both commercial airline destinations. PJH fulfills multiple contracts annually throughout the United States with concentration in the Western US.

Seasonal positions are available and those that are hired on with the qualifications (or obtain the qualifications during their initial assignment) may advance to full-time status and would be eligible for the benefits package above.

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.

Type rating in the S-70/UH-60

PIC time in UH-60: 100Hrs

PIC time: 2500 hrs.

VR time: 10 hrs.

Fire Fighting experience (preferred).

Fire Fighting Tank experience (preferred).

USFS/DOI carded or meet carding minimums.

Must have knowledge in CFR 133 /137.

Relocation (not required for qualified individuals).

2/2 schedule offering (for qualified individuals).

Only applicants that meet the minimum qualifications will be reviewed.

Medical

Dental

Vision

401k

The anticipated compensation for this position is USD $140,000.00/Yr. - USD $150,000.00/Yr. depending on experience and qualifications.

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company's Human Resources department.