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Per Diem Firefighting Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Parish Transport LLC

Pilot Car Escort

Ellisville, MS · On-site

$52K - $57K/yr

As a Heavy Haul Pilot Car Driver, you will play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient ... Competitive salary ($52,000-$57,200 annually) based on experience + per diem when away from ...

Parish Transport LLC

Pilot Car Escort

Ellisville, MS · On-site

$52K - $57K/yr

As a Heavy Haul Pilot Car Driver, you will play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient ... Competitive salary ($52,000-$57,200 annually) based on experience + per diem when away from ...

Alpine Air

Floater Pilot - B1900

Provo, UT

$90K/yr

First year pilots can typically expect to earn $90,000 per year , utilizing compensation programs like rate per route, per diem, etc. Some Alpine Air pilots make substantially more than this figure.

Alpine Air

Floater Pilot - B1900

Provo, UT · On-site

$90K/yr

First year pilots can typically expect to earn $90,000 per year , utilizing compensation programs like rate per route, per diem, etc. Some Alpine Air pilots make substantially more than this figure.

DuPage Aerospace

Be Seen First

Gulfstream G200 Pilots

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$175K - $225K/yr

The Pilot in Command (PIC) reports directly to the Chief Pilot. The PIC prepares and ensures the ... Compensation consists of a base salary, plus a fixed rate per duty day worked and a per diem for ...

Weyerhauser Co

Blackhawk Pilot

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$108K - $162K/yr

We manage our flight hours per year, with safety and work life balance in mind, to allow for paid ... Act as PIC or Co-pilot of S-70 (UH-60L) Black Hawk helicopter in firefighting operations both day ...

Weyerhaeuser Company

Blackhawk Pilot

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$108K - $162K/yr

We manage our flight hours per year, with safety and work life balance in mind, to allow for paid ... Act as PIC or Co-pilot of S-70 (UH-60L) Black Hawk helicopter in firefighting operations both day ...

New

Asplundh

Pilot

Georgetown, SC · On-site

Aerial Saw Pilot Our company is seeking highly skilled and experienced MD500 pilots with long-line ... Competitive compensation package, including per diem and travel accommodations * Comprehensive ...

Asplundh Tree Expert

Pilot

Georgetown, SC · On-site

Description Aerial Saw Pilot Position Overview Our company is seeking highly skilled and ... Competitive compensation package, including per diem and travel accommodations * Comprehensive ...

Asplundh

Pilot

Georgetown, SC · On-site

Description Aerial Saw Pilot Position Overview Our company is seeking highly skilled and ... Competitive compensation package, including per diem and travel accommodations * Comprehensive ...

Asplundh

Pilot

Georgetown, SC · On-site

Description Aerial Saw Pilot Position Overview Our company is seeking highly skilled and ... Competitive compensation package, including per diem and travel accommodations * Comprehensive ...

Asplundh Tree Expert

Pilot

Georgetown, SC · On-site

Description Aerial Saw Pilot Position Overview Our company is seeking highly skilled and ... Competitive compensation package, including per diem and travel accommodations * Comprehensive ...

Asplundh Tree Expert

Pilot

Georgetown, SC · On-site

Description Aerial Saw Pilot Position Overview Our company is seeking highly skilled and ... Competitive compensation package, including per diem and travel accommodations * Comprehensive ...

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All JobsPer Diem Firefighting Pilot Jobs

Per Diem Firefighting Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do per diem firefighting pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for per diem 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 is a per diem firefighting pilot?

A per diem firefighting pilot is a professional pilot who is hired on a temporary, as-needed basis to operate aircraft during wildfire suppression operations. These pilots typically fly planes or helicopters equipped to drop water or fire retardant over wildfires. Their schedules are not fixed, and they are compensated based on the number of days worked, rather than a regular salary. Per diem firefighting pilots play a crucial role in augmenting full-time firefighting crews during peak wildfire seasons or emergencies.

What are some unique challenges faced by per diem firefighting pilots compared to full-time pilots?

Per diem firefighting pilots often face the challenge of quickly adapting to different crews, aircraft, and operating environments since they may be called in on short notice and work irregular schedules. Building rapport with new teams and staying updated on varying local protocols can be demanding. Additionally, per diem pilots must maintain a high level of readiness and flexibility, as wildfire conditions and deployment locations can change rapidly, requiring swift decision-making and adaptability.

What is the difference between Per Diem Firefighting Pilot vs Wildland Firefighter?

AspectPer Diem Firefighting PilotWildland Firefighter
Required CertificationsFAA pilot certifications, firefighting aviation trainingFirefighter certification, basic wildland training
Work EnvironmentAircraft, aerial firefighting operationsGround, forested areas, wildfire suppression
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, firefighting aviation servicesFederal, state, or local fire departments

Per Diem Firefighting Pilots operate aircraft to combat wildfires, requiring specialized pilot certifications and aviation training. Wildland Firefighters work on the ground in forested areas, focusing on direct fire suppression. Both roles are essential in wildfire management but differ significantly in work environment and required skills.

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

To excel as a Per Diem Firefighting Pilot, you need a commercial pilot's license, extensive flight hours (often in low-level and challenging environments), and specialized training in aerial firefighting. Familiarity with aircraft such as air tankers or helicopters, GPS navigation systems, and firefighting-specific certifications like Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB) approval are typically required. Strong decision-making, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills. These qualifications ensure safe and effective aerial firefighting operations, protecting both ground crews and communities at risk.
What cities are hiring for Per Diem Firefighting Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Per Diem Firefighting Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Firefighting Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Firefighting Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Per Diem Firefighting Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Per Diem Firefighting Pilot jobs include:
Per Diem Firefighting Pilot jobs near you
Drone Pilot

Drone Pilot

Madden Industrial Craftsmen Inc

Rio Grande City, TX • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Posted: 05/18/2026 Job Number: 149240
Job Description
Madden Industrial Craftsmen is seeking Drone Pilots for our client supporting industrial coating and pressure washing operations in Rio Grande City, TX and surrounding project locations. This role supports large-scale industrial work utilizing specialized paint and pressure washing drones on infrastructure and field projects. The ideal candidate is safety-focused, dependable, and comfortable working long hours in outdoor environments while operating drone equipment as part of a traveling crew.
Pay & Schedule
Pay: $25-$30/hour DOE (Prevailing Wage / Davis-Bacon project)
Shift: Approximately 12-hour shifts based on project needs
Position Type: Project-Based / Full-Time
Per Diem: $140/day
Travel: Travel required throughout project areas; company transportation provided to and from job sites
Key Responsibilities
  • Operate industrial paint and pressure washing drones safely and efficiently
  • Conduct drone operations in accordance with company procedures and job specifications
  • Support industrial coating and cleaning operations on large-scale field projects
  • Monitor drone performance and communicate operational issues to the crew
  • Follow all safety procedures and PPE requirements during operations
  • Work as part of a 4-person field crew in outdoor and industrial environments
  • Maintain awareness of surroundings including overhead hazards, weather, and job site conditions
  • Support project production goals while maintaining safe operating practices

Required Qualifications
  • Experience operating drones or related remote-operated equipment preferred
  • Ability to work outdoors in physically demanding environments for extended shifts
  • Comfortable working around industrial equipment and active job sites
  • Ability to travel consistently for project work
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
  • Strong communication skills and ability to work as part of a team
  • Steel-toed boots required
  • Ability to work long hours and maintain reliable attendance

Preferred Qualifications
  • FAA Part 107 Drone License
  • Experience operating industrial, agricultural, surveying, or specialty drones
  • Experience in industrial painting, pressure washing, construction, or field service environments
  • Valid driver's license preferred

Benefits
  • Prevailing Wage Opportunity
  • Per Diem Provided
  • Company Transportation to Job Sites
  • Overtime Opportunities

Work Environment
This role operates in outdoor industrial and infrastructure environments supporting coating and pressure washing operations. Work includes exposure to weather, heights, industrial equipment, and physically demanding conditions. PPE and safety compliance are required at all times.
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