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Helicopter Firefighting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Blackhawk Mechanic

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$90K - $135K/yr

Formal 15T UH 60 Utility Helicopter Repairer training * Experience supporting utility, firefighting, or company aviation operations * FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) * Experience supporting ...

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Helicopter Firefighting information

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$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.
SEASONAL FIREFIGHTER 2 - UNDERFILL - ELKO/ELY/CARLIN

SEASONAL FIREFIGHTER 2 - UNDERFILL - ELKO/ELY/CARLIN

State of Nevada (NV)

Carson City, NV

$48K - $71K/yr

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago


State Of Nevada rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 50 rated states


Job description

***THIS RECRUITMENT MAY CLOSE WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE DEPENDING ON THE NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS RECEIVED. APPLICANTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE*** Job Summary This recruitment is for the Seasonal Firefighter 2 underfilling Seasonal Firefighter 3 in the Nevada Division of Forestry (NDF) Fire Program in Elko, Ely and Carlin. This recruitment is open to fire and fuels crews, and engine program.

The Seasonal Firefighter performs in a trainee capacity to acquire the knowledge, skills, and abilities in this occupation. The incumbent is responsible for supporting safe and effective wildfire response, facilitating fire adapted community improvements and maintaining healthy and resilient forest, rangeland and watershed ecosystems. When not assigned to a wildland fire, a Seasonal Firefighter's duties will be working as a crew member to implement hazardous fuel reduction and ecosystem restoration projects.

This will involve thinning excess vegetation, piling thinned material, using prescribed burning, applying herbicides, seeding and planting, and other methods that reduce the risk of wildfires, restore health ecosystems and protect communities in the wildland urban interface. This agency does not fight structure fires. Seasonal Firefighters assist in wildland fire suppression, fire prevention and education, medical and hazardous materials emergencies, pre-suppression, hazardous fuels management, wildland fire aviation, equipment and facility maintenance, and forestry and fire law enforcement activities.

Essential Qualifications Graduation from high school or equivalent education, completion of certifications as required by the agency, and one year of firefighting experience; OR one year of experience as a Seasonal Firefighter II in Nevada State service. Job Duties Assist in wildland and structural fire suppression operations; lay hose and direct hose streams; construct and patrol fire control lines; protect property and natural resources. Assist in structural and vehicle fire suppression operations; raise and climb ladders; use fire extinguishers; ventilate structures; perform overhaul and salvage work.

Participate in pre-suppression activities; conduct inspections of division and volunteer fire department equipment; perform daily clean-up and maintenance of equipment, buildings, and vehicles; check inventory and supplies in order to maintain equipment and prepare for fire suppression response. Participate in hazardous fuels management projects; operate woodchippers, chainsaws and other forestry tools and equipment to mitigate fire hazard and improve forest health. Participate in wildland fire aviation; manifest cargo and passengers; load and unload helicopters; coordinate helicopter bucket drops and sling loads.

Instruct students, campground users, and public groups in fire prevention; post, paint, install and maintain danger and prevention signs; conduct home defensible space inspections to identify hazards and recommend corrective measures; patrol areas to identify and reduce potential hazards in order to reduce the incidence of wildland fires. Assist in forestry and fire law enforcement; observe people or vehicles and their activities in order to detect and report violations; preserve evidence and protect and control fire scenes. Assist with medical emergencies, hazardous materials incidents and traffic accidents; provide first aid and cardiovascular pulmonary resuscitation (CPR); operate rescue and extrication tools; assist with other all-risk emergencies to protect life and property.

Perform related duties as assigned. Under supervision, Seasonal Firefighter III's have completed all necessary certifications required by the agency, serve as Engine Boss or Lead Helitak Crewmember, and perform the full range of duties outlined above. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities This job specification lists the major knowledge, skills and abilities of the job and is not all inclusive.

Incumbent(s) will be expected to have knowledge, skills and abilities from a previous level. Working knowledge of: hand and power tools, and facilities maintenance. Ability to: perform basic maintenance to vehicles and equipment; haul and pack fire equipment and supplies; read and follow written procedures and operations guidelines; communicate effectively both orally and in writing; establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others; demonstrate manual dexterity and stamina in performing physical labor for extended periods of time.

Recruiter Contact Information: Quinn Ashley - q.ashley@admin.nv.gov The State of Nevada is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building diverse, inclusive, and innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, national origin, religion or belief, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, domestic partnership, genetic information (GINA), or compensation and/or wages. Please send direct Inquiries or correspondence to the recruiter listed on this announcement.


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About State of Nevada

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Nevada isn't a company in the traditional sense, but rather a governing body that manages and directs the operations of the state of Nevada. Its headquarters are located in Carson City, NV, United States. The organisation is engaged in various sectors like education, transportation, business and industry, health and human services, conservation and natural resources, and many more. It is responsible for implementing and maintaining the law and order of the state, in addition to providing essential services to its residents.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carson City, NV, US

Year founded

1864