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Helicopter Firefighting Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

... firefighting equipment. * The ability to read, interpret, and comprehend schematic diagrams ... A minimum of four years' working knowledge of helicopter maintenance operations is preferred.

... firefighting equipment. * The ability to read, interpret, and comprehend schematic diagrams ... A minimum of four years' working knowledge of helicopter maintenance operations is preferred.

... firefighting equipment. * The ability to read, interpret, and comprehend schematic diagrams ... A minimum of four years' working knowledge of helicopter maintenance operations is preferred.

... firefighting equipment. * The ability to read, interpret, and comprehend schematic diagrams ... A minimum of four years' working knowledge of helicopter maintenance operations is preferred.

Helicopter Firefighting information

See Washington salary details

$67.4K

$109.2K

$116.1K

How much do helicopter firefighting jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for helicopter firefighting in Washington is $109,179.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,600.00 and $111,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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 a Helicopter Firefighting job?

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 Washington? For Helicopter Firefighting jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Helicopter Firefighting jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Helicopter Firefighting jobs in Washington are:
Infographic showing various Helicopter Firefighting job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $109,179 per year, or $52.5 per hour.
Aircraft Mechanic II (CBA) with Security Clearance

Aircraft Mechanic II (CBA) with Security Clearance

Amentum

Andrews, MD • On-site

$51.37/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

The Aircraft Mechanic II is responsible for support of highly sensitive HQ USAF operational plans and safe air transportation for Cabinet Members, senior military leaders, and visiting foreign dignitaries. Essential Responsibilities: * Responsible for support of highly sensitive HQ USAF operational plans and safe air transportation for Cabinet Members, senior military leaders, and visiting foreign dignitaries. * Performs scheduled and unscheduled aircraft maintenance, performs repairs and modifications to aircraft structures and structural components of moderate difficulty, maintains and repairs aircraft components including but not limited to flight controls, engines, hydraulics, pneumatics, fuel systems, and mechanical components, applies technical knowledge of airframe and power plant systems in determining equipment malfunctions and applies comprehensive technical expertise to solve moderate to complex problems by interpreting technical documentation such as; blue prints or manufactures manuals. * Work typically requires a thoroughly comprehensive knowledge of aircraft mechanical component troubleshooting/repair procedures and replacement of components, a thorough knowledge of aircraft sheet metal/structural modification and repair and the ability to determine functionality of complex electrical systems. * Accomplishes inspections including, but not limited to preflight, thru-flight, basic post-flight, and phase inspections. * Assists aircrew in preparation for flight. * Launches and recovers aircraft as required. * Performs operational checks of all aircraft systems and maintains aircraft appearance and cleanliness. * Operates all associated ground support equipment and uses hand tools, special tools, and fixtures applicable to aircraft. * Performs all tasks associated with ground movement of aircraft. * Annotates maintenance actions in aircraft records/forms and completes associated Maintenance Information System (MIS) entries. * Practices good housekeeping, tool control, Foreign Object Damage awareness and prevention and safety at all times. * Performs other duties related to the occupational field as assigned to include temporary duty and travel. * Must be able to work day shift, second shift, third shift, and/or weekend shifts as required. Minimum Requirements: * A minimum of a High School Diploma or GED is required. * Knowledge of the use of aircraft hand tools, special tools, and test equipment is required. * Must have a working knowledge of aircraft safety requirements and know how to operate portable firefighting equipment. * The ability to read, interpret, and comprehend schematic diagrams, drawings, charts, and technical publications are required. * Occasional lifting of objects weighing up to 50 pounds is required. * Must be able to obtain and maintain a secret security clearance. Note: US Citizenship is required to obtain the clearance. * Must be able to obtain & maintain a flightline driver's license. Preferred Qualifications: * A minimum of four years' working knowledge of helicopter maintenance operations is preferred. * Recent experience on the UH-1N, Bell 212 or UH-1 is preferred. * An FAA Airframe Certificate is highly preferred. Compensation & Benefits: HIRING HOURLY RANGE: $51.37 This position includes a competitive benefits package. For more detailed information on our Benefits and what it is like to work for Amentum: please visit our careers site: www.amentumcareers.com . Compensation Details:
51.37 The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws. Benefits Overview: Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include: * Health, dental, and vision insurance * Paid time off and holidays * Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching) * Educational reimbursement * Parental leave * Employee stock purchase plan * Tax-saving options * Disability and life insurance * Pet insurance Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits. Original Posting:
06/29/2026 - Until Filled
Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs. Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language at Labor Laws Posters .