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Forest Fire Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA ยท On-site

With a fleet of more than 50 aircraft, PJH primarily supports the utility, forestry, and ... Call when needed pilots will have an opportunity to participate in Fire Suppression, Utility and ...

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA ยท On-site

$32/hr

With a fleet of more than 50 aircraft, PJH primarily supports the utility, forestry, and ... Call when needed pilots will have an opportunity to participate in Fire Suppression, Utility and ...

With a fleet of more than 50 aircraft, PJH primarily supports the utility, forestry, and ... Call when needed pilots will have an opportunity to participate in Fire Suppression, Utility and ...

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA ยท On-site

$32 - $36/hr

With a fleet of more than 50 aircraft, PJH primarily supports the utility, forestry, and ... Call when needed pilots will have an opportunity to participate in Fire Suppression, Utility and ...

Blackhawk Pilot

Mcminnville, OR ยท On-site

$108K - $162K/yr

Conduct aerial work operations such as Aerial Fire Suppression, Dispensing operations, External ... About Weyerhaeuser We sustainably manage forests and manufacture products that make the world a ...

Conduct aerial work operations such as Aerial Fire Suppression, Dispensing operations, External ... About Weyerhaeuser We sustainably manage forests and manufacture products that make the world a ...

Blackhawk Pilot

Mcminnville, OR ยท On-site

$108K - $162K/yr

Conduct aerial work operations such as Aerial Fire Suppression, Dispensing operations, External ... About Weyerhaeuser We sustainably manage forests and manufacture products that make the world a ...

FORESTER

Chino Valley, AZ ยท On-site +1

$21.14 - $29.50/hr

Forestry/Wildland Fire/Natural Resources DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY AND FIRE MANAGEMENT Manage and ... Learn more about the Paid Parental Leave pilot program here. For a complete list of benefits ...

REACH Helicopter Pilot - HAA

CA ยท Remote

$92K - $114K/yr

Eligible for a $5000 Fire Stipend (Upon successful completion of the required Fire Check Ride ... Forest Service carding requirements: * 100 flight hours in the past 12 months * 50 hours in the ...

Job Page

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$21.14 - $30.76/hr

DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY AND FIRE MANAGEMENT Manage and reduce fire risk to protect Arizona's people ... pilot program, learn more at hr.az.gov/family-leave-expansion). * Vacation time accrued at 4.00 ...

Showing results 21-40

Forest Fire Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do forest fire pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for forest fire 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 forest fire pilot?

Forest Fire Pilots are specialized aviators trained to operate aircraft during wildfire emergencies. They play a crucial role in wildfire management by flying airplanes or helicopters to drop water or fire retardant on affected areas, transport firefighting crews and equipment, and conduct aerial reconnaissance. Their work requires advanced piloting skills, knowledge of fire behavior, and the ability to make rapid decisions under challenging and dangerous conditions. Forest Fire Pilots often work for government agencies, firefighting services, or private contractors, and their efforts are essential to controlling wildfires and protecting lives, property, and natural resources.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a forest fire pilot?

To thrive as a Forest Fire Pilot, you need an advanced pilot's license (such as a commercial or air transport pilot license), extensive flight hours, and specialized training in aerial firefighting operations. Familiarity with firefighting aircraft, GPS navigation, communication systems, and wildfire management protocols is critical. Exceptional decision-making, stress management, and teamwork skills help pilots navigate dangerous environments and coordinate with ground crews. These competencies are crucial for ensuring pilot safety, effective wildfire suppression, and successful mission outcomes under high-pressure conditions.

What challenges do forest fire pilots face during firefighting missions?

Forest Fire Pilots often work in rapidly changing and hazardous environments, where visibility can be poor due to smoke, and weather conditions may shift unexpectedly. Pilots must maintain precise navigation and communication with ground crews while maneuvering aircraft at low altitudes over rugged terrain. The role demands quick decision-making, strong teamwork with other pilots and firefighting personnel, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Regular training and strict adherence to safety protocols are essential to mitigate risks and ensure effective firefighting operations.

What is the difference between Forest Fire Pilot vs Forest Fire Fighter?

AspectForest Fire PilotForest Fire Fighter
Required CertificationsPilot license, wildfire suppression trainingFirefighter certification, wildfire training
Work EnvironmentAircraft operation, aerial firefightingGround firefighting, wildfire suppression
Employer & Industry UsageWildfire agencies, forestry servicesFire departments, forestry agencies

In summary, a Forest Fire Pilot operates aircraft to combat wildfires, requiring pilot licenses and aerial firefighting training. In contrast, a Forest Fire Fighter works on the ground to suppress fires, needing firefighter certifications. Both roles are vital in wildfire management but differ significantly in work environment and required skills.

What are popular job titles related to Forest Fire Pilot jobs?

For Forest Fire Pilot jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Forest Fire Pilot job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Stationary Engineer

Fresno, CA โ€ข On-site

$6.0K - $8.4K/mo

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Please see the attached duty statement for details on this postion.
Contact Deputy Chief Tony Jones at (909) 915-4797 or by email at Tony.Jones@fire.ca.gov for questions related to this position.
Candidate may be selected by resume review.
This position is located at the Pilot Rock Fire Center in Hesperia, CA.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
Maintains the Arduous Fitness Standard in accordance with Department Policy. The incumbent is required to wear respiratory protection equipment, including self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). As such, Cal/OSHA requires that the incumbent be annually medically cleared to be fit tested for respiratory protection equipment. May be subject to working nights, weekends, or holidays as well as extensive travel.
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • STATIONARY ENGINEER
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-530665
Position #(s):
541-334-6712-002
Working Title:
Stationary Engineer
Classification:
STATIONARY ENGINEER $6,088.00 - $7,707.00 A
$6,696.00 - $8,477.00 B
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
San Bernardino County
Telework:
In Office
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Facility:
San Bernardino Unit
Department Information
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is California's fire department and resource management agency. The organization is comprised of nearly 12,000 permanent and seasonal employees. The mission of the Department is to serve and safeguard the people and protect the property and resources of California.
When you join CAL FIRE, you join a family of employees that function as a team. You will build trust and friendship with your co-workers, as together you respond to emergencies and challenging situations. CAL FIRE provides employees with a variety of career choices and opportunities. CAL FIRE offers well-paying careers and opportunities for advancement. We hope that you will consider a rewarding and challenging career with CAL FIRE!
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 9/11/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Forestry & Fire Protection
CAL FIRE Southern Region Hiring
Attn: BDU 541-334-6712-002
1234 East Shaw Avenue
Fresno , CA 93710
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Forestry & Fire Protection
CAL FIRE Southern Region Hiring
Attn: BDU 541-334-6712-002
1234 East Shaw Avenue
Fresno , CA 93710
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is required and must be included.
  • Other -
    Authorization to Release Information Form (PO-299) : This form may be found at https://www.fire.ca.gov/-/media/D817B8E27D8049C3BC35297686467FB9
  • Other -
    Education Documentation-Degree and/or transcripts: If using education to meet minimum qualifications, include a copy of your formal (unofficial) transcripts and/or degree.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
Waste Water Operator, Water Distribution Operator, Water Treatment Operator, Refrigerant License, C-20, EPA 608 Refrigerants, Fire Alarms Technician, and Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester and Repair.
Benefits
Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Salary Range B - This range shall only apply to incumbents in positions with direct responsibility for work supervision, on-the-job training, and work performance evaluation of at least 2 inmates, wards, or resident workers.
In July 2025, the State of California implemented the Personal Leave Program (PLP) 2025. This program temporarily reduces employees' monthly base pay in exchange for paid leave credits. This position is subject to PLP 2025 and will have a monthly base pay reduction of 3% in exchange for 5 hours of leave credits through June 2027. The salary ranges shown on this job posting do not reflect the salary reduction .
Contact Information
The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Hiring Unit Contact:
Linda Hang
(559) 243-4104
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Reasonable Accommodation Coordinator
(916) 767-8359
ReasonableAccommodations@fire.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Application Instructions
You must submit a completed State Application (STD. 678) [please include WORKING TITLE and POSITION # ], Resume, Education/Apprenticeship/Licenses, and Authorization to Release Information Form (PO-299): https://www.fire.ca.gov/-/media/D817B8E27D8049C3BC35297686467FB9
If using education/apprenticeship/licenses to meet minimum qualifications, include a copy of your formal (unofficial) transcripts and/or degree, or documents.
Submit the required documents to the following address or submit electronically:
CAL FIRE Southern Region Hiring
ATTN: 541-334-6712-002
1234 E. Shaw Ave
Fresno, CA 93710
Applications/Resumes postmarked after the final filing date may not be considered. Failure to follow directions for any portion of the required application package may result in disqualification from the hiring process.
Applicants are highly encouraged to complete a Recruitment Questionnaire, located at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HLYSH8V
Who may apply:
To be eligible for consideration, you must meet one of the following eligibility criteria:
  • Taken and passed the examination for this classification and be on a current certified list;
  • Eligible to transfer;
  • Eligible to reinstate.

  • Applicants that successfully pass the examination will be placed on an eligibility list. Obtaining list eligibility does not guarantee employment. Those interested in obtaining employment must apply and compete through the State recruitment process.
    For information about the exam, and exam application process, please see link below.
    CalCareers - Stationary Engineer Exam Bulletin
    Equal Opportunity Employer
    The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
    It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.