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Full Time Air Attack Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Military Operations Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum ... ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking an experienced Military Air Operations Planner (pilot ...

Military Air Operations Planner

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

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

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Full Time Air Attack Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do full time air attack pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time 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 full time air attack pilot?

Full Time Air Attack Pilots are specialized pilots who operate aircraft to coordinate and direct aerial firefighting operations. They fly above wildfires to observe fire behavior, communicate with ground and air crews, and help deploy resources such as water bombers or helicopters. Their role is critical for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of firefighting missions, as they provide real-time intelligence and guidance. These pilots often work for government agencies, forestry services, or private contractors, and require extensive training in both aviation and wildfire management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time air attack pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Air Attack Pilot, you need an FAA commercial or airline transport pilot certificate, extensive experience in low-level and aerial firefighting operations, and strong situational awareness. Familiarity with specialized aircraft, GPS navigation systems, radio communication protocols, and often an Interagency Air Attack or similar certification is required. Excellent decision-making, teamwork, and stress management skills help pilots operate safely during high-pressure wildfire incidents. These qualifications and skills are critical for ensuring effective aerial coordination, protecting ground crews, and maximizing the safety and success of wildfire suppression missions.

What are some unique challenges air attack pilots face during wildfire operations, and how do teams support each other in these situations?

Air Attack Pilots often operate in high-stress environments, flying low and slow over unpredictable terrain while coordinating closely with ground crews and other aircraft. Rapidly changing weather, smoke, and fire behavior demand constant vigilance and quick decision-making. To manage these challenges, pilots work within highly coordinated teams, relying on clear communication and support from ground dispatch, air operations, and spotters to ensure safety and effectiveness. Ongoing training and debriefings help teams learn from each mission and strengthen collaboration.

What is the difference between Full Time Air Attack Pilot vs Part Time Air Attack Pilot?

AspectFull Time Air Attack PilotPart Time Air Attack Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, specific firefighting certificationsSame certifications, but may have less recent experience
Work EnvironmentFull-time employment, year-round or seasonal firefighting operationsOn-call or seasonal, limited hours
Employer & Industry UsageEmployed by firefighting agencies or private contractorsOften contracted or freelance roles within firefighting industry

Full Time Air Attack Pilots are employed on a permanent basis with consistent schedules, providing ongoing aerial support during firefighting seasons. In contrast, Part Time Air Attack Pilots work intermittently, often on a contractual or seasonal basis, with less consistent hours. Both roles require similar certifications and operate in the same industry environment, but differ mainly in employment structure and commitment level.

How much do full time air attack pilots make?

Full-time air attack pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. Salaries can vary based on the region, agency, and whether the pilot works for government agencies, firefighting organizations, or private contractors.
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What states have the most Full Time Air Attack Pilot jobs?

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Infographic showing various Full Time Air Attack Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% 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 Pilot - PC-12 (2026)

Bridger Aerospace

Belgrade, MT โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

About Bridger Aerospace

Bridger Aerospace is an aerial firefighting company based in Belgrade, Montana, located at 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 Pilot-in-Command on Pilatus PC-12 operating under Visual and Instrument Flight Rules. You will be required to fly specific assigned flight altitudes within the Fire Traffic Area to assist your government officer with providing aircraft separation over the incident. This role requires you to be away from home on a 11 on/11 off schedule for most of the year (Typically February-November). This position also requires you to be exclusively available to Bridger during a 4-month period (June 1 October 1). Compulsory spring training typically occurs in early March and lasts approximately 2 weeks. This job requires willingness to perform a multitude of different mission sets, primarily ranging from IFR point to point, cargo, surveillance and mapping on sensor equipped platforms with a crew, as well as Air Attack. The position reports directly to the specific platform Lead Pilots, the Chief Pilot, and the Director of Operations. Ideal candidates respond well when faced with a quickly changing environment and rely on their excellent judgement to complete the mission safely while following all Federal Aviation Regulations, company procedures and Standard Operating Procedures.

KeyResponsibilities:

  • Safely operate aircraft in accordance with the FAR Part 91/135, Standard Operating Procedures and Aircraft Flight Manuals
  • Ensure compliance as outlined in the Standard Operating Procedures, GOM, and OpSpecs
  • Be able to pass a Part 135 check ride; Complete a government carding check ride
  • Adhere to company performance expectations: Safety, Focus on Quality, Leadership, Interpersonal relationships, Professional Development, and Focus on Quality
  • Assess the operational environment to ensure that the required mission objectives are met in a safe and efficient manner
  • Apply good airmanship, sound pilot decision making skills and Crew Resource Management to ensure that a safe and efficient environment is maintained for both crew and aircraft
  • Work closely with the Operations Center and regional fire dispatch to maintain a regular flow of information regarding flight requirements, schedules and duty time limitations
  • Ensure all time-sensitive federal regulatory, administrative, financial reimbursement, company travel, and operational documentation is completed accurately without delay using various company programs and approved EFB (company-provided iPad, laptop, and various communication devices)
  • Maintain knowledge and currency of aircraft operating systems, avionics, weather and regulations
  • Assist maintenance with engine runs and aircraft repositions as needed
  • Perform ground operations: Fueling, Towing, Operational checks, and aircraft cleaning pre- and post-season, and during operational shifts.
  • Read, understand, and comply with the contracts our platforms operate under
  • Provide excellent service to our multiple customer agencies

What We Are Looking For:

  • 25+ Hours PIC in Pilatus PC-12
  • 1500 Total Time
  • 1200 hours in airplanes
  • 500 Cross-Country
  • 200 Category and Class
  • 200 PIC mountainous terrain
  • 100 PIC airplane within 365 days
  • 100 PIC in Turboprop
  • 100 Night
  • 75 IFR total
  • 50 IFR in-flight
  • 50 PIC make and model (not required for hire, but preferred)
  • High level of expertise with PIC decision making skills
  • Recent experience and proficiency with IFR flying skills
  • FAA ATP or Commercial License: airplane single land and instrument rating
  • First or Second-Class medical certification
  • Valid Passport
  • Must be able to provide PRIA access
  • Wildland fire background as pilot or ground crew
  • Alaska and/or backcountry experience
  • Formal aircraft risk-based education (Flight Safety, Human Factors course e.g.)

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 dependents
  • 401k with company match
  • Employer-funded life and disability insurance coverage
  • Heath Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), and Dependent Care FSA options

This position is subject to pre-employment background check and drug screen. Additionally, this position requires attainment 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.