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Forestry Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Helicopter Pilot

Corydon, IN · On-site

$82K/yr

The area is also surrounded by scenic landscapes, including nearby caves, forests, and rolling ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Surrounded by the sprawling Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, it's a paradise for hiking, wildlife ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ

$85K - $106K/yr

Surrounded by the sprawling Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, it's a paradise for hiking, wildlife ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

WI · On-site

$90 - $150/hr

With its sprawling forests, pristine lakes, and endless hiking trails--including the breathtaking ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Alamogordo, NM

$85K - $106K/yr

... Forest, go fishing and wildlife watching at Sacramento Mountains, tour the NM Museum of Space ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Farmington, NM · On-site

$79K - $99K/yr

... Forest and De-Na-Zin Wilderness, biking along the Animas Riverwalk, or visiting the rich cultural ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Hazleton, PA · On-site

$89K - $111K/yr

The region's picturesque landscapes, including nearby mountains and forests, provide ample ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Farmington, NM · On-site

$79K - $99K/yr

... Forest and De-Na-Zin Wilderness, biking along the Animas Riverwalk, or visiting the rich cultural ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Corydon, IN · On-site

$82 - $105/hr

The area is also surrounded by scenic landscapes, including nearby caves, forests, and rolling ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Carlsbad, NM · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

... Natl Forest, trails for bikers, hikers, runners and backpackers, an Antique Flea Market, Arts ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Silver City, NM · On-site

$84K - $105K/yr

... Forest, Continental Divide Trails, La Esperanza Vineyard and Winery, Jordan Hot Springs, Lake ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Silver City, NM · On-site

$84K - $105K/yr

... Forest, Continental Divide Trails, La Esperanza Vineyard and Winery, Jordan Hot Springs, Lake ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Carlsbad, NM · On-site

$75K - $94K/yr

... Natl Forest, trails for bikers, hikers, runners and backpackers, an Antique Flea Market, Arts ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ · On-site

$85K - $106K/yr

Surrounded by the sprawling Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, it's a paradise for hiking, wildlife ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Newark, DE · On-site

$88K - $109K/yr

With its sprawling forests, pristine lakes, and endless hiking trails--including the breathtaking ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Sidney, NY · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Residents enjoy a serene lifestyle, surrounded by lush forests, scenic hiking trails, and the ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Showing results 41-60

Forestry Pilot information

See salary details

$29K

$41.5K

$53.5K

How much do forestry pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for forestry pilot in the United States is $41,544.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,500.00 and $46,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a forestry pilot do?

A forestry pilot is a specialized aviator who operates aircraft in support of forestry operations such as aerial surveys, wildfire detection and suppression, mapping, and resource monitoring. They may fly small airplanes or helicopters over forests to help locate fires, drop water or fire retardant, and assist in reforestation efforts. Forestry pilots must have strong flying skills, knowledge of forestry management practices, and the ability to work in challenging and sometimes dangerous conditions. Their work is crucial for protecting forest resources and supporting environmental conservation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forestry pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forestry Pilot, you need a commercial pilot's license with specialized training in low-level flying, aerial navigation, and experience in forestry or wildfire operations. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, aerial mapping tools, and radio communications equipment is essential. Strong situational awareness, decision-making under pressure, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring safety, accurate operations, and effective coordination during aerial forestry missions and emergency responses.

What are some common challenges faced by forestry pilots during aerial operations?

Forestry pilots often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, low-altitude flying, and navigating over rugged or densely forested terrain. These factors require strong situational awareness and quick decision-making to ensure safety and mission effectiveness. Additionally, working closely with ground crews and adapting to various aerial tasks, such as wildfire suppression or surveying, are integral to the role and demand excellent communication skills.

What is the difference between Forestry Pilot vs Forest Ranger?

AspectForestry PilotForest Ranger
CredentialsCommercial pilot license, forestry knowledgeHigh school diploma, conservation training
Work EnvironmentAircraft, remote forest areasGround patrols, parks, forests
Employer & IndustryForestry companies, aviation servicesGovernment agencies, conservation organizations

Forestry Pilots primarily operate aircraft to monitor forests, while Forest Rangers work on land management and conservation on the ground. Both roles support forestry but differ in work environment and required skills.

How much do forestry pilots make?

Forestry pilots typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often operate specialized aircraft for tasks like aerial firefighting and forest management, requiring certifications such as a commercial pilot license and knowledge of forestry operations.
More about Forestry Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Forestry Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Forestry Pilot job openings:

What states have the most Forestry Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Forestry Pilot jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Forestry Pilot jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Forestry Pilot jobs are:

Infographic showing various Forestry Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,544 per year, or $20 per hour.

Lead Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Rural Metro Fire Department

Placerville, CA • On-site

$107 - $117/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

HAA Lead Pilot Full-Time Opportunity

If your passion is flying and you want to work in an environment where every second counts,

We’re hiring a Helicopter Pilot to provide medical air transportation services for REACH customers. Safety is a key pillar of our services.

Incentives
  • $106,511 - $117,162 Salaryincluding20%Geo Modifier
  • 15K Sign on Bonus, subject to eligibility
  • Retention Bonus Plans ($40,000 after 3 years, plus additional retention bonuses once completed)
  • Eligible for a $5000 Fire Stipend (Upon successful completion of the required Fire Check Ride, subject to applicable eligibility requirements)
  • $5K Lead Pilot Stipend (subject to applicable eligibility requirements)
  • On Duty Housing (for select locations)
  • 7Days On and7 Days OffSchedule
Responsibilities
  • Working with a team of medical experts to safely transport customers to and from locations and facilities
  • Ensure aircraft readiness for flight dispatches as described in the appropriate manuals, including all FAR and REACH requirements, and aircraft cleanliness duties
  • Maintain accurate REACH and regulatory documentation and record keeping
  • Effectively communicate and collaborate with dispatch, flight crews, facilities, and partners
  • Provide shift change info to successive pilot and team following protocol for recording A REACH change board details
  • Accountable to maintain required certifications and ongoing training
Minimum Requirements
  • Current Rotorcraft FAA Commercial Certificate
  • Helicopter instrument rating
  • Current FAA Class I or II Medical Certificate
  • Must meet U.S. Forest Service carding requirements:
    • 100 flight hours in the past 12 months
    • 50 hours in the AS350
    • 200 hours of mountain flight time (as defined by AIM
  • 2,000 Total Flight Hours
  • 2,000 Helicopter Hours
  • 1,000Helicopter PICHours
  • 1000 Turbine Helicopter Hours
  • 200 helicopter hours night hours aided or unaided
  • 230 poundweight limit with flight gear
Preferred Qualifications
  • AS350/H125Aircraft Experience
  • High School Diploma/Equivalent or Higher
Why Choose REACH?

As a leader in helicopter air ambulance services, REACH is one of Global Medical Response (GMR) family of solutions. Our GMR teams deliver compassionate, quality medical care, primarily in the areas of emergency and patient relocation services. View the stories on how our employees provide care to the world at www.AtaMomentsNotice.com.

GMR’s Core Behaviors

keep care at the center, raise your hand, seek to understand, find a way together and be accountable unite our teams and set us apart in emergency medical services.

Global Medical Response and its family of companies are an Equal Opportunity Employer, which includes supporting veterans and providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with a disability.

Competitive starting salaries from $106,511 – $117,162; 20% geo modifier included, not additional.

Check out our careers site benefits page to learn more about our benefit options.

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