Summary The Pilot-In-Command reports directly to the Chief Pilot/Assistant Chief Pilot and is ... USFS Aerial Firefighting experience in Helicopters * Maintain a Second-Class Medical. * Type Rated ...
Summary The Pilot-In-Command reports directly to the Chief Pilot/Assistant Chief Pilot and is ... USFS Aerial Firefighting experience in Helicopters * Maintain a Second-Class Medical. * Type Rated ...
Command Pilot (PIC)
Billings, MT · On-site
Summary The Pilot-In-Command reports directly to the Chief Pilot/Assistant Chief Pilot and is ... USFS Aerial Firefighting experience in Helicopters * Maintain a Second-Class Medical. * Type Rated ...
Quick apply
Command Pilot (PIC)
Billings, MT · On-site
Summary The Pilot-In-Command reports directly to the Chief Pilot/Assistant Chief Pilot and is ... USFS Aerial Firefighting experience in Helicopters * Maintain a Second-Class Medical. * Type Rated ...
Command Pilot (PIC)
Billings, MT · On-site
Summary The Pilot-In-Command reports directly to the Chief Pilot/Assistant Chief Pilot and is ... USFS Aerial Firefighting experience in Helicopters * Maintain a Second-Class Medical. * Type Rated ...
Command Pilot (PIC)
Billings, MT · On-site
Summary The Pilot-In-Command reports directly to the Chief Pilot/Assistant Chief Pilot and is ... USFS Aerial Firefighting experience in Helicopters * Maintain a Second-Class Medical. * Type Rated ...
Firefighting Pilot information
See Montana salary details
$45.4K - $58.1K
10% of jobs
$58.1K - $70.7K
7% of jobs
$70.7K - $83.4K
3% of jobs
$92.8K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$83.4K - $96K
6% of jobs
$96K - $108.6K
7% of jobs
$108.6K - $121.3K
5% of jobs
The median wage is $129.2K / yr.
$121.3K - $133.9K
17% of jobs
$141.1K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$133.9K - $146.6K
33% of jobs
$146.6K - $159.2K
5% of jobs
$159.2K - $171.8K
3% of jobs
$171.8K - $184.5K
2% of jobs
$45.4K
$120.2K
$184.5K
How much do firefighting pilot jobs pay per year?
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.

Other
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement
Re-posted 4 days ago
Billings Flying Service rating
6.9
Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
33rd of 63 rated aviation services
Job description
Summary
The Pilot-In-Command reports directly to the Chief Pilot/Assistant Chief Pilot and is responsible for the safe and efficient conduct of the flight assignment. The Chief Pilot/Assistant Chief Pilot may delegate certain functions to the PIC to be authorized to conduct business in the absence of the Chief Pilot/Assistant Chief Pilot to meet certain Company and FAA requirements. The PIC will be responsible for all duties and responsibilities required as a Pilot in Command in accordance with the BFS General Operations Manual (GOM).
Requirements
Qualifications
- PIC must be able to maintain thorough understanding of Billings Flying Services policies and procedures and must embody, exhibit, and ensure Billings Flying Services core values in everyday work.
- PIC must be highly knowledgeable of FAA regulations, Operations Specifications, Flight Manuals and to the content of all BFS General Operations Manual, Training Manual, Standard Operating Procedures, and Approved/Accepted FAA/USFS Manual.
- Minimum of 3500 total time / 2500 PIC and 1500 Turbine. Tandem Rotor time a plus.
- Must satisfy the applicable USFS hour requirements.
- USFS Aerial Firefighting experience in Helicopters
- Maintain a Second-Class Medical.
- Type Rated in the CH-47D (BV234) is favorable.
- Vertical Reference proficient
- NVG qualified
- Available for Domestic and International assignments.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Safety of Flight
- Ability to maintain active Supervisory Responsibilities of field crew and copilots. Issue directives and notices to flight crews as required.
- PIC may be requested to assist and perform OJT for flight crewmember training, PIC upgrade training, flight base audits/inspections, and any other aviation duties as directed by the Chief Pilot.
- Participate in pilot training when qualified to do so.
- Actively participate in ensuring Billings Flying Services Safety Management System (SMS) including reporting hazards and incidents encountered in daily operations; understanding, complying and promoting the Company Safety Policy and other safety duties as assigned.
- Reviews flight assignments and obtain briefing information regarding the purpose of the flight, weather, operating procedures, and any special instructions.
- Prepares or supervises preparation of flight plan considering such factors as altitude, terrain, weather, range, weight, cruise performance, airport facilities and navigational aids.
- Ensures aircraft is preflight, inspected, loaded, equipped, and manned for the flight assignment.
- Determine compliance with duty and flight time limitations, properly certificated, adequately rested and in proper dress.
- Ensures that all required forms, equipment, and material are on board the aircraft prior to flight.
- Records mechanical irregularities and discrepancies and ensures that maintenance personnel are informed of the item recorded.
- Verifies before beginning any flight that recorded items have been procedurally complied with, deferred, or corrected by maintenance personnel in accordance with the approved Minimum Equipment List for that aircraft, as appropriate.
- CFR 91.3 Responsibility and authority of pilot in command. The pilot in command of an aircraft is directly responsible for, and is the final authority as to, the operation of that aircraft, to include weather decisions.
Behavioral Competencies
Embody BFS core values
- Identifying hazardous or potentially hazardous situations and taking appropriate action to maintain a safe environment for self and others.
- Working collaboratively with others to achieve organizational goals.
- Dealing with situations and issues proactively and persistently, seizing opportunities that arise.
- Listening and communicating openly, honestly, and respectfully with different audiences, promoting dialogue, and building consensus.
- Treating others fairly, honestly, and respectfully, furthering the integrity of the organization and its relationships of trust with team members and the broader community.
- Energizing and inspiring others to strive for excellence and commit to common goals and purposes, creating a sense of self-efficacy, resilience, and persistence in followers.
- Assuming a leadership role in helping others achieve excellent results.
- Recognizing the need for change, being open to new ideas and methods, and championing transformational change within the organization and beyond.
Work Environment/Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Work performed in austere field settings.
- Exposure to shop environment such as noise, dust, odors, and fumes.
- Occasionally required to lift items weighing as much as 50Lbs.
- Regularly required to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about facilities.
Behavioral Competencies
Embody BFS core values
- Identifying hazardous or potentially hazardous situations and taking appropriate action to maintain a safe environment for self and others.
- Working collaboratively with others to achieve organizational goals.
- Dealing with situations and issues proactively and persistently, seizing opportunities that arise.
- Listening and communicating openly, honestly, and respectfully with different audiences, promoting dialogue, and building consensus.
- Treating others fairly, honestly, and respectfully, furthering the integrity of the organization and its relationships of trust with team members and the broader community.
- Energizing and inspiring others to strive for excellence and commit to common goals and purposes, creating a sense of self-efficacy, resilience, and persistence in followers.
- Assuming a leadership role in helping others achieve excellent results.
- Recognizing the need for change, being open to new ideas and methods, and championing transformational change within the organization and beyond.
Work Environment/Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Work performed in austere field settings.
- Exposure to shop environment such as noise, dust, odors, and fumes.
- Occasionally required to lift items weighing as much as 50Lbs.
- Regularly required to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about facilities.
Benefits
- Full time employment with competitive compensation based on experience and credentials. Medical, dental and vision insurance. 401K with up to 4% company match.
- These benefits are available after initial waiting period.
What Billings Flying Service employees say
Pay
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
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About Billings Flying Service
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Aviation
Company size
51 - 200 Employees
Headquarters location
Billings Metropolitan Area, MT, US
Year founded
1983