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Part Time Firefighting Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Part Time Firefighting Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do part time firefighting pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for part time firefighting pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by part-time firefighting pilots, and how can they prepare for them?

Part-time firefighting pilots often face challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, the unpredictable nature of wildfires, and the need for seamless coordination with ground crews and other aircraft. Maintaining proficiency with specialized aircraft and firefighting equipment, despite fewer flight hours than full-time pilots, is essential. To prepare, pilots should actively participate in regular training sessions, stay updated on current firefighting protocols, and build strong communication skills to ensure safe and effective multi-agency collaboration during emergency responses.

What is the difference between Part Time Firefighting Pilot vs Part Time Firefighter?

AspectPart Time Firefighting PilotPart Time Firefighter
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, firefighting trainingFirefighter certification, EMT or paramedic license
Work EnvironmentAircraft, aerial firefighting operationsGround-based fire stations, urban or rural areas
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, aerial firefighting agenciesLocal fire departments, emergency services

While both roles support firefighting efforts, a Part Time Firefighting Pilot operates aircraft for aerial firefighting, requiring pilot licenses and aviation experience. In contrast, a Part Time Firefighter works on the ground, focusing on direct fire suppression and rescue. The roles differ mainly in work environment and certifications but share the goal of combating fires efficiently.

What are part time firefighting pilots?

Part time firefighting pilots are trained aviation professionals who operate aircraft, such as helicopters or airplanes, to assist in fighting wildfires on an as-needed or seasonal basis. They are responsible for dropping water or fire retardant over fire zones, conducting reconnaissance missions, and supporting ground firefighting teams. Working part time allows these pilots to balance other careers or personal commitments while still contributing their expertise during peak wildfire seasons or emergency situations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Part Time Firefighting Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Part Time Firefighting Pilot, you need a commercial or airline transport pilot license, extensive flight hours, and specialized training in aerial firefighting operations. Familiarity with aircraft such as air tankers or helicopters, GPS-based navigation systems, and wildfire suppression procedures is typically required. Strong situational awareness, decision-making under pressure, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient, and coordinated responses to wildfires, protecting both lives and property.
What are the most commonly searched types of Firefighting Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Firefighting Pilot jobs are:
Infographic showing various Part Time Firefighting Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Part Time Airport Maintenance Tech

Eau Claire County, WI

Eau Claire, WI โ€ข On-site

$23.75 - $27.71/hr

Part-time

Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Salary: $23.75 - $27.71 Hourly
Location : Chippewa Valley Regional Airport, 3800 Starr Avenue, Eau Claire, WI
Job Type: Part-Time
Job Number: 26-00528
Department: Airport
Opening Date: 06/23/2026
Closing Date: 7/7/2026 11:59 PM Central
POSITION SUMMARY
The Airport Operations & Maintenance Technician performs maintenance and custodial duties to ensure airport facilities and equipment are in good repair and in a clean, orderly, and safe condition. This position is trains on aircraft rescue and firefighting equipment and respond in an emergency.
Hours of the position are Monday-Friday-3:30am-7:30 am or Monday/Wednesday 3:30-11 am and Tuesday 3:30-10 am.
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Applies knowledge of facilities maintenance to inspect and perform routine maintenance on electrical, mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, architectural features/finishes, carpentry, grounds, and other systems for the facility and tenants therein.
  • Utilizes heavy equipment operation skills and routine maintenance knowledge to operate and preserve equipment used in maintaining the airport; operates testing and equipment for all snow and ice removal on runways, taxiways, roadways, and sidewalks.
  • Employs knowledge and experience of custodial procedures in a commercial setting to perform custodial duties, including general cleaning, throughout the facility.
  • Exercises expertise in safety control; attends initial and annual certified live fire training to meet federal standards for aircraft rescue and firefighting; responds to and operates airport crash truck and fire extinguishment equipment during Aircraft Rescue emergencies in compliance with federal regulations and in cooperation with other local emergency response organizations.
  • Responds to and operates airport crash truck and fire extinguishment equipment during Aircraft Rescue emergencies in compliance with federal regulations and in cooperation with other local emergency response organizations.
  • Directs learning and compliance abilities to complete federal training requirements for airport operations and maintenance personnel and maintains recurrent training to meet federal requirements.
  • Executes exceptional oral and written communication skills to inform pilots of irregular operations via the Notice to Airman (NOTAM) system.
  • Applies logic and attention to detail to complete various inspections to inspect airfield and runway to ensure federal standards are being met; prepares necessary paperwork to document airport conditions and maintenance.
  • Performs other related duties as required or assigned.

TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • One (1) year of paid, full-time experience in operating and performing routine maintenance on heavy equipment and/or one (1) year of commercial facility maintenance work.
  • Appointment will be conditional upon successful completion of a background check, including fingerprinting, to obtain and maintain a 49 CFR Part 1542.209 mandated Security Identification Display Area badge for access to airport facilities.
  • Position will be subject to pre-hire, random, and post-accident drug and alcohol testing during the course of employment.
  • This position requires availability for overtime, call-in assignments, and emergency response situations, including inclement weather events, as operational needs dictate.
  • Position will require a pre-employment physical with 50-pound lifting ability, and include testing required to wear Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).
  • Possess and maintain a valid Wisconsin driver's license and acceptable driving record.
  • Possess, or ability to obtain, and maintain a valid Wisconsin Class B Commercial Driver License without "L" restriction for plowing duties within six (6) months of hire.
  • Certified in, or ability to become certified in Aircraft Rescue and Fire Firefighting (ARFF) within three (3) months of hire and maintain certification thereafter.

DESIRED TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience in airport maintenance and operations.
  • Experience or training in electrical system repairs and heating/cooling system maintenance.
  • Commercial custodial experience.

Eau Claire County is not only a great place to work,
but has many exciting benefits!

Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrual is based on years of service with the County and on hours worked per pay period.
Voluntary Short- and Long-term disability insurance, Accident, and Critical Illness Insurance: May be purchased at group rates.
Life Insurance: The County provides the opportunity to purchase Whole Life Insurance plans for themselves and their dependents.
Other Benefits: Deferred Compensation and Roth IRA, Employee Assistance Program, EdVest, other leaves, and Corporate Discounts.
Workers' Compensation
Social Security: The County matches employees' social security compensation.
AN IMPORTANT NOTE: This information gives only a brief summary of the plans in effect for regular, part-time Non-Represented employees of Eau Claire County and may not be all-inclusive. Eau Claire County's policies and County Code govern if there are differences between this information and the policies.
01
Do you have a high school diploma or equivalent?
  • YES
  • NO

02
Do you have one (1) year of paid, full-time experience in operating and performing routine maintenance on heavy equipment and/or one (1) year of commercial facility maintenance work.
  • YES
  • NO

Required Question