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Forestry Service Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Quanta Services

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA

$32 - $36/hr

With a fleet of more than 50 aircraft, PJH primarily supports the utility, forestry, and ... service. From project planning through execution, PJ Helicopters works closely with clients to ...

Quanta Services, Inc.

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$120 - $150/hr

With a fleet of more than 50 aircraft, PJH primarily supports the utility, forestry, and ... service. From project planning through execution, PJ Helicopters works closely with clients to ...

PJ Helicopters, Inc

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$32/hr

With a fleet of more than 50 aircraft, PJH primarily supports the utility, forestry, and ... service. From project planning through execution, PJ Helicopters works closely with clients to ...

PJ Helicopters, Inc

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$32 - $36/hr

With a fleet of more than 50 aircraft, PJH primarily supports the utility, forestry, and ... service. From project planning through execution, PJ Helicopters works closely with clients to ...

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Forestry Service Pilot information

What does a forestry service pilot do?

A Forestry Service Pilot operates aircraft to support forestry and wildfire management efforts. Their primary duties include conducting aerial surveys, transporting personnel and equipment, and assisting in firefighting by dropping water or fire retardant. They play a critical role in early wildfire detection, monitoring forest health, and supporting search and rescue missions. Forestry Service Pilots must have specialized training in aviation and a strong knowledge of forestry operations and safety protocols.

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

To thrive as a Forestry Service Pilot, you need a commercial pilot’s license, extensive flight hours (often over 1,500), strong navigation skills, and knowledge of aerial firefighting or surveillance. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, radio communications, and specialized firefighting or mapping equipment is typically required, along with certifications like the FAA Part 135 or 137. Exceptional decision-making, situational awareness, stress management, and teamwork abilities help ensure safety during challenging missions. These skills are vital for performing complex aerial operations, maintaining safety, and effectively supporting wildfire management and conservation efforts.

What are some unique challenges forestry service pilots face during wildfire operations?

Forestry Service Pilots often encounter rapidly changing weather conditions, limited visibility from smoke, and challenging terrain during wildfire operations. These factors require quick decision-making, excellent situational awareness, and close coordination with ground crews and other aerial units. Pilots must also manage fatigue during long shifts and ensure strict adherence to safety protocols to protect themselves and their teams. Effective communication and adaptability are essential to safely and efficiently support firefighting efforts.

What is the difference between Forestry Service Pilot vs Forest Ranger?

AspectForestry Service PilotForest Ranger
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, FAA certifications, specialized forestry knowledgeState or federal law enforcement certifications, forestry management training
Work EnvironmentAircraft operation in remote forest areas, aerial surveys, firefightingGround patrols, conservation efforts, public education in forests
Employer & Industry UsageFederal agencies like US Forest Service, private forestry companiesUS Forest Service, state parks, conservation agencies

Forestry Service Pilots primarily operate aircraft to support forestry activities such as firefighting and aerial surveys, requiring specialized pilot certifications. In contrast, Forest Rangers work on the ground managing forest resources, enforcing laws, and educating the public. Both roles are vital in forestry management but differ significantly in work environment and required credentials.

What are popular job titles related to Forestry Service Pilot jobs in California?

For Forestry Service Pilot jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Forestry Service Pilot jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Forestry Service Pilot jobs?

Cities in California with the most Forestry Service Pilot job openings:

Forestry Service Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forestry Service Pilot job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Lead Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Rural Metro Fire Department

Placerville, CA • On-site

$107 - $117/hr

Other

Posted 5 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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