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Freelance Air Attack Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 · 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 ...

Army National Guard Units

$131.84K - $171.40K/yr

... air; air-to- ground; mortar-to-arm escort; surveillance; reconnaissance; surface attack; killer ... Experienced in piloting manned or unmanned aircraft. Experiences may include the traditional "stick ...

RAVN Aerospace

Pilot (PT) - El Paso

El Paso, TX

... Air Defense Anti-Aircraft Warfare) and Close Combat Attack Sorties (CCAS). This role will involve ... Pilot in Command, Instructor Pilot, or Stan/Eval Flight Examiner. * FAA Class II medical rating.

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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 May 28, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Air Attack Pilot, and why are they important?

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 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 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.

More about Freelance Air Attack Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Air Attack Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Air Attack Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Air Attack Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Air Attack Pilot jobs are:
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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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% Full Time, 73% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 9% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Modeling and Simulation Specialist

Modeling and Simulation Specialist

Corps Solutions

Oceanside, CA • On-site

$75K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Modeling and Simulation Specialist (JTAC/Forward Observer)
Camp Pendelton, CA
We are seeking a former U.S. Marine with experience as a JTAC, JFO, Air Officer, FAC, Attack Pilot, or other Fire Support Marine to instruct and support fires-focused, simulation-based training. This role integrates operational fire support expertise with advanced modeling & simulation systems such as ASCOT, JVFT, VBS4, etc.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Operate and support simulation systems that replicate close air support, artillery, mortars, and combined arms fires.
  • Apply JTAC/FO experience to develop realistic fire support scenarios and ensure doctrinal accuracy.
  • Assist in exercise setup, database preparation, fires replication, and event execution.
  • Provide fires focused feedback and support after action reviews.
  • Cross train on additional modeling & simulation platforms as required.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
  • Prior experience as a JTAC, JFO, Air Officer, FAC, Attack Pilot, or other Fire Support Marine.
  • Extensive hands-on experience coordinating or controlling ground, naval and/or air delivered fires.

CORE SKILLS/COMPETENCIES
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of Marine Corps fire support doctrine and MAGTF level operations.
  • Prior experience as a formal Marine Corps instructor preferred.
  • Familiarity with simulation supported fires training (DVTE/JVFT/VBS4) preferred.

WORKING CONDITIONS
  • Work is conducted on site, in a government facility.
  • Required to sit or stand for extended periods of time and maintain focus.
  • May be required to lift, carry and move computer and associated equipment.
  • Must be able to support irregular schedules to accommodate exercises, including nights, weekends, and extended shifts.

SPECIAL POSITION NOTATIONS
  • Ability to work extended hours during training exercises.
  • Valid driver's license required; must qualify as an authorized company driver.
  • Daily local travel may be required.
  • Occasional CONUS/OCONUS travel may be required.

SECURITY CLEARANCE
  • A current NATO-Secret security clearance is required for this position.

ESTIMATED COMPENSATION
  • $75,000-$99,000

This position description outlines the general responsibilities and requirements for the stated position and in no way is an exhaustive list. The company maintains the right to assign or reassign responsibilities to this position at any time.

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