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Helicopter Firefighting Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

B205A1++ Fire/Utility Pilot

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

About Hillsboro Aviation Founded in 1980, Hillsboro Aviation offers complete helicopter and ... aerial firefighting, natural resource surveys, film/photo/news, and heli-skiing. Our fleet is ...

Fleet Aircraft Mechanic

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$26.50 - $33.75/hr

... aerial firefighting, natural resource surveys, film/photo/news, and heli-skiing. Our fleet is ... Inspection and repair of helicopter and components according to the highest standards of the FAR ...

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Helicopter Firefighting information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in helicopter firefighting?

To excel in Helicopter Firefighting, you need a strong background in aviation, emergency response, and firefighting procedures, often requiring a commercial pilot’s license and specialized fire suppression training. Familiarity with helicopter avionics, water-dropping systems, and safety protocols is crucial, along with certifications such as FAA ratings and wildfire firefighting courses. Superior teamwork, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills in this demanding field. These qualifications ensure operational safety, effective fire suppression, and the ability to respond rapidly to changing wildfire conditions.

What is helicopter firefighting?

A helicopter firefighting job involves piloting or assisting in aerial operations to combat wildfires and other large-scale fires. These professionals use helicopters to drop water or fire retardant, transport firefighters and equipment, and conduct reconnaissance of fire-prone areas. Pilots and crew members must have specialized training in wildfire behavior, aviation safety, and emergency response. The job requires physical endurance, quick decision-making, and adherence to strict safety protocols. Helicopter firefighting is a critical part of wildfire management and often demands long hours in challenging conditions.

What are the typical challenges faced by helicopter firefighting crews?

Helicopter firefighting crews often work in rapidly changing and hazardous environments, facing challenges such as unpredictable weather, limited visibility due to smoke, and difficult terrain for navigation. Team members must coordinate closely with ground firefighting teams and follow precise communication protocols for safety and mission success. Long shifts, physical demands, and heightened stress levels during active wildfire seasons are also common. However, many find the role deeply rewarding due to its critical impact on protecting communities and natural resources.

What are popular job titles related to Helicopter Firefighting jobs in Oregon?

For Helicopter Firefighting jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Helicopter Firefighting jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Helicopter Firefighting jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Helicopter Firefighting jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Helicopter Firefighting job openings:

Infographic showing various Helicopter Firefighting job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Airbus H145 Mechanic - Fleet

Hillsboro Aviation

Hillsboro, OR • On-site

$26.50 - $33.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

About Hillsboro Aviation

Founded in 1980, Hillsboro Aviation offers complete helicopter and airplane services comprised of five divisions: contract & charter, aircraft sales & management, service center, FBO, and parts sales. Serving domestic and international markets in the government, commercial, and private sectors, we have over 85 employees and 10 turbine aircraft. We operate out of our award-winning headquarters at the Portland-Hillsboro Airport (KHIO).

Our Vision

We believe in the power of a personal approach. We passionately purvey the notion of flight, a dream demanding creativity, persistence, resilience, and intent. We strive to foster a legacy of innovative thought, leadership, mentorship, service, and sustainability. We are dedicated to providing opportunity and growth for our team, our customers, and our community by providing extraordinary and memorable experiences in the air and on the ground.

The Position

Hillsboro Aviation’s contract & charter division provides services to the United States Forest Service (USFS), the Department of Interior (DOI), FEMA, large national utility (powerline & infrastructure), and high-tech companies as well as smaller companies and individuals. Our missions include search and rescue, short-haul (human external cargo, natural disaster relief, construction support, aerial firefighting, natural resource surveys, film/photo/news, and heli-skiing. Our fleet is comprised of Airbus H145D3, Bell 205 A-1++, Bell 407, Bell 407HP, and Airbus AS350B3e.

As a Type 2 Medium Helicopter Mechanic with an A&P certificate you will work closely with the Fleet Maintenance team to assist with maintaining Hillsboro Aviation's fleet aircraft. You will report to the Director of Maintenance and will be responsible for the following, including but not limited to:

  • Inspection and repair of helicopter and components to be maintained with the highest standards of the FAR's, manufacturer's programs, Hillsboro's AAIP, and repair station guidelines
  • Airbus H-145/ UH-72 / BK117 aircraft maintenance qualified
  • Ability to use computer databases and software programs to track ongoing maintenance

Ideal candidates are trained on the Airbus H-145/UH-72/ BK117, willing to travel for frequent short, long duration, and/or seasonal trips in support of ongoing contractual requirements, and willing to work remotely on extended stays in field environments during the summer months. Position can be full-time or seasonal depending on the qualifications and needs of the applicant.


Job Responsibilities:

  • Ability to work a 12/12 (12 days on / 12 days off) or a 12/2 (12 days on, 2 days off) shift in remote field locations for the duration of fire season (typically April – September)
  • Ability to work in a hanger environment as part of a maintenance team for full-time employment outside of contract demands
  • Inspection and repair of helicopter and components to be maintained with the highest standards of the FAR's, manufacturer's programs, Hillsboro's AAIP, and repair station guidelines
  • Airbus H-145/ UH-72/ BK117 aircraft maintenance qualified
  • Familiar with USFS/DOI contract coverage as a field mechanic
  • Ability to use computer databases and software programs to track ongoing maintenance

Qualifications/Licenses:

  • Valid FAA A&P Certificate issued at least 24 months prior to the application date

Required Skills/Experience:

  • Documented evidence of maintaining an Airbus H-145/UH-72 within the previous 10 years
  • At least 18 months out of the last 24 months must have been actively engaged in helicopter maintenance
  • At least 12 months experience as an A&P mechanic maintaining helicopters
  • At least 12 months experience maintaining a H-145/UH-72/ BK117
  • At least 3 months experience as an A&P within the past 2 years
  • At least 1 full season of experience under “field” conditions within the previous 10 years
  • At least 3 months experience maintaining a helicopter away from an operator’s principal base of operations
  • Ability to obtain a USFS / interagency mechanic card

Preferred Skills/Experience:

  • H-145/UH-72/ BK117 factory training courses (field maintenance, component overhaul, and electrical maintenance) or military AIT
  • Management or shop lead level experience/desire
  • Willingness to adjust work schedule in order to be available for after-hour callouts as needed. This duty is shared with other mechanics
  • Willingness to learn and contribute in maintaining the other aircraft in Hillsboro Aviation's fleet as needed
  • Extensive sheet metal experience
  • CDL Class C with HAZMAT endorsement is preferred

Benefits:

  • Competitive salary
  • Paid vacation, sick days, and holidays
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Wellness benefits, including alternative care and lifestyle discounts
  • 401(k) + match
  • Monthly team-building events, including BBQs
  • Exercise, shower facilities, and locker rooms at headquarters


Hillsboro Aviation’s growth and sustainability is rooted in its commitment to attracting a diverse set of talent from around the world. To that end, we encourage qualified individuals from all walks of life to apply. We are an equal opportunity employer (EEO) and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

This job will remain open until filled. Please do not call regarding the status of your application.