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Firefighting Pilot Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

... use firefighting equipment and spill containment equipment. * Enter and exit hatches/ doorways ... Communicate with co-workers, Captains, Pilots, Wheelman, Dispatchers, Port Engineers, Coast Guard ...

... use firefighting equipment and spill containment equipment. * Enter and exit hatches/ doorways ... Communicate with co-workers, Captains, Pilots, Wheelman, Dispatchers, Port Engineers, Coast Guard ...

Firefighting Pilot information

See Texas salary details

$46.1K

$122K

$187.3K

How much do firefighting pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for firefighting pilot in Texas is $121,969.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,200.00 and $144,400.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Firefighting Pilot jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Firefighting Pilot jobs in Texas are:
What are popular job titles related to Firefighting Pilot jobs in Texas? For Firefighting Pilot jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Firefighting Pilot jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Firefighting Pilot job openings:
Infographic showing various Firefighting Pilot job openings in Texas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,969 per year, or $58.6 per hour.
Pilot - Gulf Division

Pilot - Gulf Division

CAMPBELL TRANSPORTATION COMPANY INC

Channelview, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description


Captains and Pilots are primarily responsible for the safety of vessel employees, the vessel, cargo and the environment. The primary responsibility is to navigate the vessel safely at all times, in all weather conditions, while navigating the inland waterways.


Essential Responsibilities:

  • Ensure compliance with Company safety protocols during watch duty.
  • Safely operate and manage crew, vessel, and tow efficiency.
  • Complete, submit, and maintain required records, logs, and reports.
  • Execute duties as per the Vessel Security Plan as the designated security officer.
  • Familiarize crew with cargo and associated hazards among towed barges.
  • Verify serviceability of lifesaving equipment, fire detection, and firefighting systems.
  • Always maintain safe and clean accommodations and require crew to do the same.
  • Organize and conduct necessary training, drills, and exercises.
  • Adhere to established vessel management policies and procedures, including budget management.
  • Provide clear direction to subordinates and conduct periodic performance evaluations.
  • Conduct and report results of periodic vessel audits and inspections.
  • Maintain continual communication with crew, land-based personnel, USCG, or lock personnel for information sharing.
  • Prepare vessel and crew for emergency responses.
  • Operate and maintain the assigned vessel in alignment with quality, safety, security, and environmental policies and procedures.
  • Uphold a positive company image and maintain professional relationships with customers, pilots, terminal personnel, and the public.
  • Ensure adequate vessel manning and watch schedules.
  • Perform other assigned duties as required.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Valid USCG Merchant Mariner’s Credential with Towing Endorsement
  • Valid TWIC
  • Valid Radar Endorsement
  • Must pass pre-employment drug test and submit to random DOT testing requirements.
  • Must meet USCG physical examination requirements and pass pre-employment physical.
  • Ability to collaborate, effectively manage and work well with others.
  • Strong time management skills, able to handle multiple tasks, set priorities and meet deadlines.
  • Possess strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to clearly follow instructions, both written and verbal.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Prior experience in a similar position within the marine transportation industry
  • Prior experience in a safety sensitive position

Physical Requirements:

The unpredictable, ever-changing, and inherently dangerous nature of towboat operations requires the crew members to be physically qualified to ensure his/her own safety, as well as that of the vessel and entire crew. Specific physical requirements include:

  • Traverse boats, barges, and tows a minimum of two (2) miles per day, including on wet or slick surfaces.
  • Transport equipment of 60 to 100 pounds up to 1000 feet.
  • Ascend/Descend a 90 degree ladder up to 40 feet.
  • Move, transport, and position equipment up to 100 pounds.
  • Position self to move through 18-inch diameter hatch.
  • Move two (2) feet horizontally and vertically.
  • Maintain constant communication with crew members.
  • Ability to recognize and identify distant objects and recognize distances between objects.
  • Constantly work in outdoor weather conditions.
  • Work shifts a min. of 12 hrs. (could be up to 15).

Applicable to crews assigned to the gulf division only:

  • Maintain ongoing respirator fit clearance and undergo annual fit testing.
  • Completion of pre-employment Benzene clearance required, followed by participation in the annual Benzene Monitoring Program.

Note that nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time, and the list of job tasks is not all-inclusive. Other duties may be assigned by management as needed.

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AAP/EEO Statement

Campbell Transportation Company, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.