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Freelance Air Attack Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KBR

AH-64E Instructor Pilot

Killeen, TX

S. Army programs, specializing in aviation and ground systems, integrated air and missile defense ... Our foreign military aviation training activity builds lethal attack helicopter units through ...

KBR, Inc.

AH-64E Instructor Pilot

Killeen, TX · On-site

S. Army programs, specializing in aviation and ground systems, integrated air and missile defense ... Our foreign military aviation training activity builds lethal attack helicopter units through ...

KBR

AH-64E Instructor Pilot

Killeen, TX

S. Army programs, specializing in aviation and ground systems, integrated air and missile defense ... Our foreign military aviation training activity builds lethal attack helicopter units through ...

KBR, Inc.

AH-64E Instructor Pilot

Killeen, TX · On-site

S. Army programs, specializing in aviation and ground systems, integrated air and missile defense ... Our foreign military aviation training activity builds lethal attack helicopter units through ...

SAIC

Military Air Operations Planner

San Diego, CA

$120K - $160K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking an experienced Military Air Operations Planner (pilot ... Responsible for producing exercise Master Air Attack Plans (MAAPs), Exercise Special Instructions ...

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SAIC

Military Air Operations Planner

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking an experienced Military Air Operations Planner (pilot ... Responsible for producing exercise Master Air Attack Plans (MAAPs), Exercise Special Instructions ...

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Freelance Air Attack Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do freelance air attack pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance air attack 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 freelance air attack pilot?

A Freelance Air Attack Pilot is a highly trained aviation professional who coordinates aerial firefighting operations, typically on a contract or project basis rather than as a permanent employee. They fly aircraft above wildfire incident areas, directing water or retardant drops by communicating with ground crews and other pilots. Their role is crucial in supporting firefighting efforts, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of aerial attacks on wildfires. These pilots must have extensive flight experience, specialized training in wildfire operations, and a strong understanding of fire behavior. Freelance Air Attack Pilots often work seasonally and may be contracted by government agencies or private firefighting companies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance air attack pilot?

To thrive as a Freelance Air Attack Pilot, you need extensive flight experience, a commercial pilot's license, and specialized training in aerial firefighting operations. Familiarity with GPS navigation, radio communication systems, and firefighting-specific aircraft, as well as relevant certifications like the Interagency Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS), is crucial. Exceptional decision-making, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this high-stakes role. These competencies ensure effective coordination with ground crews and safe, precise execution of wildfire suppression missions.

What are the typical challenges faced by freelance air attack pilots when coordinating with ground firefighting teams?

Freelance Air Attack Pilots often encounter challenges in real-time communication and coordination with ground teams, especially during fast-changing wildfire conditions. They must quickly interpret ground requests, relay accurate information to both air and ground crews, and adjust flight paths to ensure safety and effectiveness. Building trust with new ground teams is also essential, as freelancers may not always work with the same crew. Adaptability, clear communication, and situational awareness are crucial to overcoming these obstacles.

What is the difference between Freelance Air Attack Pilot vs Firefighting Pilot?

AspectFreelance Air Attack PilotFirefighting Pilot
CredentialsCommercial pilot license, specific air attack trainingCommercial pilot license, firefighting aircraft training
Work EnvironmentVarious locations, contract-based, aerial firefighting missionsFire zones, often during wildfire seasons, working with firefighting agencies
Employer/IndustryIndependent contractors, firefighting companies, government agenciesFire departments, government agencies, firefighting contractors

Both roles require a commercial pilot license and specialized firefighting training. Freelance Air Attack Pilots operate independently across multiple locations, providing aerial support for firefighting efforts. Firefighting Pilots are typically employed or contracted by firefighting agencies, focusing on wildfire suppression. While their skills overlap, their employment settings and contractual arrangements differ.

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Freelance Air Attack Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Air Attack Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Air Attack A&P Mechanic II - Rotational

Bridger Aerospace

Remote

$29.50 - $38.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Air Attack A&P Mechanic II - Rotational
About Bridger Aerospace
Bridger Aerospace is an aerial firefighting company based in Belgrade, Montana, located at the Bozeman Yellowstone Airport (KBZN). It was founded in 2014 to support front-line firefighters with world-leading technology and aerial fire suppression systems. We have grown from operating a single plane to commanding a significant Air Attack and the largest Super Scooper fleet in the U.S. in less than eight years. Bridger is a leader in fighting wildfires, specializing in Air Attack, Fire Suppression, and Aerial Fire-Mapping technologies. Our focus is to provide the most effective and modern capabilities to fight fires from the air. Meeting the needs of the growing threat of economic and environmental damage caused by wildfires and supporting ground-based firefighters is our priority.
About the Role
Bridger Aerospace is seeking a highly motivated individual with experience on King Air, Pilatus PC-12, and/or Kodiak 100 aircraft. This individual must be able to work well under pressure to meet quick deadlines with little outside guidance and supervision. In this role you are primarily responsible for maintaining our Air Attack and Multi-Mission aircraft fleet - supporting aircraft in the field during fire season and in the hangar during winter maintenance. This position works a 12 on/12 off schedule year-round and is open to candidates located anywhere in the United States.
Reports to: Maintenance Supervisor
Responsibilities:
  • Perform scheduled and unscheduled maintenance on Beechcraft King Air Series, Pilatus PC-12, and Kodiak 100 aircraft. King Air 350 experience a plus.
  • Troubleshoot and repair all aircraft discrepancies across multiple airframe types.
  • Conduct thorough phase inspections in accordance with FAA regulations and manufacturer maintenance manuals.
  • Maintain accurate and detailed maintenance records using Bridger Aerospace records system.
  • Ensure all work is performed in compliance with FAA regulations, company policies, and safety standards.
  • Conduct operational checks and engine runs to verify proper function post-maintenance.
  • Remove and installation of engines, props, and major components as required.
  • Collaborate with pilots, maintenance planners, and inspectors to ensure aircraft readiness.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area, ensuring tools and equipment are properly cared for.
  • Assist with aircraft modifications, STC installations, and compliance with service bulletins and ADs.

Requirements:
  • Airframe and Powerplant License / IA a plus
  • 5+ years Aircraft Maintenance Experience
  • Valid Driver's License and Passport
  • Ability to Pass a DOT drug screening
  • Ability to travel for extended periods of time
  • Ability to be insured on company vehicles
  • Thorough knowledge of U.S. FAR's
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Office
  • Ability to work under no supervision and under high pressure
  • Ability to lift 50lbs
  • Tools REQUIRED
  • Ability to pass a criminal background check

Benefits and Perks:
  • Competitive salary and growth opportunities
  • Company performance-based bonus plan
  • Equity stock-based compensation package
  • Employer funded comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance for employees and their dependents
  • Employer funded life and disability insurance coverage
  • Company HSA, FSA, Dependent Care, and 401k
  • Continuing education reimbursement

This position requires obtainment of an AOA Badge issued by Bozeman-Yellowstone Int'l Airport.
Bridger Aerospace Group Holdings and its family of companies does not discriminate or permit discrimination by any member of its community against any individual on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, marital status, age, disability, citizenship status, veteran status, genetic information or any other classification protected by federal or state law in matters of employment, promotion, services or activities it operates.

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