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Helicopter Firefighting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Firefighter EMT

Globe, AZ · On-site

$47K - $52K/yr

Free Helicopter Emergency Flight Coverage * Annual Merit Based Raises up to 2.5% after 1 year ... No 05 Do you have an Arizona Firefighter certification? * Yes * No Required Question

Fire Pilot

Irvine, CA

$122K - $164K/yr

... firefighting, crew/equipment transport, reconnaissance, medical rescue, disaster mitigation and ... Helicopter flight control systems and equipment; Interagency Helicopter Operations Guidelines;

Fire Pilot

Buena Park, CA · On-site

$84K - $114K/yr

... firefighting, crew/equipment transport, reconnaissance, medical rescue, disaster mitigation and ... Helicopter flight control systems and equipment; Interagency Helicopter Operations Guidelines;

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Showing results 1-20

Helicopter Firefighting information

See salary details

$59.5K

$96.4K

$102.5K

How much do helicopter firefighting jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for helicopter firefighting in the United States is $96,397.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $98,500.00 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.

More about Helicopter Firefighting jobs
What cities are hiring for Helicopter Firefighting jobs? Cities with the most Helicopter Firefighting job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Helicopter Firefighting jobs? The most popular types of Helicopter Firefighting jobs are:
What states have the most Helicopter Firefighting jobs? States with the most job openings for Helicopter Firefighting jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Helicopter Firefighting jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Helicopter Firefighting jobs are:
Infographic showing various Helicopter Firefighting job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,397 per year, or $46.3 per hour.

$47K - $52K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Salary: $47,654.00 - $52,539.00 Annually
Location : Globe
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 26-15
Department: Fire
Opening Date: 07/17/2026
FLSA: Non-Exempt
General Purpose
The Globe Fire Department is recruiting qualified applicants to fill a full-time vacancy. The City of Globe is growing! We are a fast-paced rural fire department. If you are seeking to work in a busy rural community, come join us and be part of our Team. Grade 14 - step 1
Examples of Duties
POSITION - Firefighter/EMCT
SCHEDULE - 48/96 Shift Schedule
FIRST YEAR FIREFIGHTERS - 5% Salary Increase on Completion of 1 Year Probation; 2.5% steps thereafter
PARAMEDIC PAY - Additional $9,366, if Qualified
Required Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Must be 18 years of Age at time of employment
High School Graduate or GED Certificate
Must possess and maintain a Valid Driver's License
AZ Certified Firefighter
State of AZ or National Registry EMCT or Paramedic
Current (within 6 months of hire date) CPAT Card
Strong Computer Skills
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Associate's Degree or Greater in Fire Science, Paramedicine or Business
Basic Wildlife Firefighter Certifications (S-130-190)
Supplemental Information
In addition to general benefits provided by the City of Globe to its employees, the Fire Department offers the following:
- Public Safety Retirement (PSPRS)
- Special Deployment Pay
- Technical Team Pay available
- No Social Security withholding
- Overtime opportunities available
- Armed Services Deployment Hold on Positions with Military Paid Leave Time
- Uniform allowance
We offer a complete benefits package to all employees who work over 30 hours per week.
  • State Pension Plan (ASRS or PSPRS)
  • Low-Cost Healthcare Option for Individual Employees and Dependents
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield Plans Include HMO, PPO, High-Deductible Plan
  • High-Deductible plan has HSA Employer Match of up to $1,500 Annually
  • FSA Plans Available for Pre-Tax Contributions
  • Free Cardiovascular Ultrasounds for Self and Dependents
  • Free Helicopter Emergency Flight Coverage
  • Annual Merit Based Raises up to 2.5% after 1 year probation is completed
  • $40 Stipend for Employee Gym Membership
  • Paid Vacation Time, Sick Leave and 11 Paid Holidays
  • Overtime opportunity available
  • Uniform allowance for some positions

01
Do you have a valid driver license?
  • Yes
  • No

02
The information provided in your application must support your selected answers in the supplemental questions. The information you provide will be verified and documentation may be required. Please be as honest and accurate as possible. You may be asked to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a work sample or during an interview. By completing this supplemental questionnaire you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate. Any misstatements, omissions, or falsification of information may eliminate you from consideration or result in dismissal.
  • Yes, I understand and agree
  • No, I do not agree

03
Are you able to work a flexible work schedule that includes nights, weekends, holidays, and includes varying shifts?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have a High School diploma or GED?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have an Arizona Firefighter certification?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question