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Forestry Service Pilot Jobs in Roy, UT (NOW HIRING)

Forestry Service Pilot information

See Roy, UT salary details

$27.7K

$39.6K

$51K

How much do forestry service pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for forestry service pilot in Roy, UT is $39,624.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,900.00 and $44,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 job categories do people searching Forestry Service Pilot jobs in Roy, UT look for?

The top searched job categories for Forestry Service Pilot jobs in Roy, UT are:

What cities near Roy, UT are hiring for Forestry Service Pilot jobs?

Cities near Roy, UT with the most Forestry Service Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Forestry Service Pilot job openings in Roy, UT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,624 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Lead Wildland Firefighter (Helitack)

Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Service

Mountain Green, UT • On-site

$57K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead a small crew of trained firefighters in wildland fire suppression and wildland urban interface/intermix incidents.

  • Assist in developing burn plans and lead or support on-the-ground implementation of fire suppression activities.

  • Oversee helicopter service contracts, conduct training in aviation and fire suppression techniques, and perform technical fire suppression specializations.


Job description

These positions will be located at on a USDA Forest Service Unit.
The primary purpose of these positions is to lead a small crew of highly effective and trained firefighters in wildland fire suppression and wildland urban interface/intermix incidents.
See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION for Regional contacts.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-06 level: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-05) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may Include: Conducted training in the techniques of aviation, fire suppression, prescribed burning and fuels reduction methods; communicated critical information pertaining to incident objectives, situations, and tactics to pilot(s), crews and dispatchers; assist in developing burn plans, lead and/or assist with on the ground implementation.
For the GW-07:Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-06) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may Include: Oversaw helicopter service contract and enforced contract provisions; conducted training in the techniques of aviation, fire suppression, prescribed burning and fuels reduction methods; independently performed many technical specializations such as helicopter rappelling, long line, felling, saw repair or water handling used in fire suppression and prescribed burning; served on a specialty crew (hotshot, helitack, engines, etc.) or assigned to lead fire suppression under the most adverse conditions of climate, fuels, and terrain.
Selective Placement Factors
Successful completion of the Primary NWCG Core Requirement of Helicopter Crewmember (HECM) -AND- Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5). -AND- Successful completion of the Secondary NWCG Core Requirements of Firefighter 1 (FFT1).
Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) and Forest Service - Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) qualifications must be met by the time of selection. Most recent IQCS master record and/or signed Agency Certified task book must be attached to your application. If you are selected, you may be required to submit an updated IQCS master record or signed Agency Certified task book as proof of attainment of IFPM requirements prior to a final verbal offer.
In order to be considered for this position, copies of your Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS) Master Record (or equivalent training documents) which contain documented proof of the certification or attainment of the IFPM Selective Placement Factor for this position MUST be attached to your application. Red cards are not acceptable documentation. Currency Requirement: Required to maintain currency once hired into the position. Currency of NWCG qualifications is not required for selection. If not currently qualified, the applicant must provide documented evidence that they have been fully qualified in the past, and are able to regain currency within one year of being hired. Failure to provide this documentation will result in disqualification.
Primary firefighter positions include the following age requirements: Under age 37 -OR- less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service worked in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position -OR- a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and is requesting a waiver to the maximum age requirement -OR-currently occupy a permanent position with primary fire fighter retirement coverage.
For those who do not currently occupy a permanent Federal position covered under primary fire fighter retirement, you must be under age 37; less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position; or a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and requesting a waiver to the requirement.
This position has been identified as Forest Service Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) and is subject to selective placement factor requirements contained in the Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) Standard and Guide when filling this vacancy. IFPM or FS-FPM selective placement factors are made up of a primary and secondary National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) core Incident Management Qualifications and Required Training. The applicant must possess these qualifications at the applicable complexity level to be considered eligible for this position.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT COVERAGE: This is a primary/rigorous position covered under the special retirement provisions of 5 USC 8336(c) for the Civil Service Retirement System and of 5 USC 8412(d) for the Federal Employees Retirement System.
WORK CAPACITY TEST (WCT) for Wildland Firefighters: This position participates in wildland firefighting activities. Based on the type of work performed, TAKING and PASSING the WCT at the ARDUOUS, MODERATE, or LIGHT level is a condition of employment.
To receive consideration for this position, you must provide updated required documents and meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.Education:There is no substitution of education for specialized experience.Employment Type: OTHER