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Heavy Lift Helicopter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

For over 65 years, Columbia Helicopters has been a trusted provider of heavy-lift helicopter services. We create new aircraft, fly heavy-lift helicopters around the world, and provide maintenance ...

Operator

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

AEC is committed to delivering high-quality, economical composite solutions for the F-35 Fighter Jet, the Sikorsky CH-53K Heavy-Lift Helicopter, and the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM)

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Heavy Lift Helicopter information

See salary details

$30.5K

$75.7K

$110.5K

How much do heavy lift helicopter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for heavy lift helicopter in the United States is $75,733.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $106,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are typical challenges faced by Heavy Lift Helicopter Pilots on the job?

Heavy Lift Helicopter Pilots often encounter challenging weather conditions, difficult terrain, and the complexities of transporting oversized or awkward loads to remote locations. Coordinating closely with ground crews, loadmasters, and operations teams is crucial for safe and precise cargo delivery. Pilots must also handle unexpected flight plan changes and maintain a strong focus on safety throughout each mission. Being able to adapt quickly and maintain composure under pressure helps ensure both mission success and safety for all involved.

What is a Heavy Lift Helicopter job?

A Heavy Lift Helicopter job involves operating or supporting helicopters designed to transport heavy cargo, equipment, or personnel in challenging environments. These pilots and crew work in industries like construction, oil and gas, forestry, and military operations. Responsibilities may include precision flying, load management, and ensuring safety during transport missions. It requires specialized training, certifications, and often experience with external load operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Heavy Lift Helicopter position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Heavy Lift Helicopter Pilot, you need advanced piloting skills, a commercial helicopter license, and extensive flight hours with large, multi-engine helicopters. Familiarity with specialized navigation systems, load calculation software, and equipment for external load operations is crucial. Strong decision-making abilities, situational awareness, and effective communication are vital soft skills for safe and efficient missions. These qualifications are essential to ensure the secure transport of heavy cargo and personnel, often in challenging or remote environments.

More about Heavy Lift Helicopter jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Lift Helicopter jobs? The most popular types of Heavy Lift Helicopter jobs are:
What states have the most Heavy Lift Helicopter jobs? States with the most job openings for Heavy Lift Helicopter jobs include:
Infographic showing various Heavy Lift Helicopter job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,733 per year, or $36.4 per hour.
BV 107 Command Pilot

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

For over 65 years, Columbia Helicopters has been a trusted provider of heavy-lift helicopter services. We create new aircraft, fly heavy-lift helicopters around the world, and provide maintenance support to ensure you are mission-ready for critical operations. If you are passionate about aviation, join our Columbia Family!
The 107 Command Pilot serves as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) of the Columbia Model 107 Chinook, supporting Columbia Helicopters' domestic and international flight operations. This role is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant flight operations while leading flight crews, supporting project objectives, and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and customer service. Assignments may include deployments within the United States and overseas in demanding operational environments.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
  • Serve as Pilot-in-Command, operating aircraft safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all applicable regulations and company policies.
  • Demonstrate sound Aeronautical Decision-Making (ADM), risk management, and situational awareness in all phases of flight operations.
  • Lead and coordinate flight operations and oversee personnel within the scope of assigned responsibilities.
  • Maintain the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and operational excellence.
  • Represent Columbia Helicopters positively with customers, partners, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders.
  • Proactively identify, communicate, and mitigate operational hazards and safety risks.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives that enhance safety, efficiency, and productivity.
  • Coordinate closely with project teams to ensure successful mission execution.
  • Complete required operational and administrative documentation accurately and on time.
  • Assist in all aspects of operational success and support site activities as needed.
  • Provide timely communication to management and key stakeholders regarding operational status and project activities.
  • Serve as Project Lead in the absence of the Site Manager.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by the Director of Flight Operations, Vice President of Operations, Chief Pilot, or Assistant Chief Pilot.

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU
  • Commercial Pilot Certificate or higher with Rotorcraft-Helicopter rating.
  • Current FAA Class II Medical Certificate (or higher).
  • Valid U.S. passport or equivalent passport with the ability to travel internationally.
  • Minimum of 1,500 hours Pilot-in-Command (PIC) helicopter flight time.
  • Heavy-lift helicopter operational experience.
  • Aerial firefighting experience.
  • Long-line operational experience.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to perform effectively in high-pressure, dynamic environments.
  • Strong leadership, supervisory, and crew coordination skills.
  • Ability to work in remote, austere, and potentially hazardous environments for extended periods.

WHAT YOU WILL LOVE ABOUT WORKING HERE
At Columbia, we believe great people do their best work when they feel supported, challenged, and valued. We're more than a workplace, we're a team built on trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to doing meaningful work.
Competitive Pay & Strong Benefits
We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial wellness, and work-life balance. Depending on your role, this may include medical, dental, and vision coverage, retirement plans with company contributions, paid time off, and employee wellness resources.
Growth & Career Development
We invest in our people. From training and development opportunities to internal mobility and leadership support, Columbia encourages continuous learning and long-term career growth.
Purpose-Driven Culture
Your work matters here. Every role contributes to our broader mission, and we believe in empowering employees to make an impact, share ideas, and help shape the future of the company.
A Team That Has Your Back
We foster a collaborative, inclusive environment where people are respected, encouraged, and supported. You'll work alongside talented teammates who care about doing great work, and doing it together.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)