ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Per Diem Firefighting Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Parish Transport LLC

Pilot Car Escort

Ellisville, MS · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

As a Heavy Haul Pilot Car Driver, you will play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient ... Competitive salary ($75,000 - $90,000 annually) based on experience + per diem when away from ...

Parish Transport LLC

Pilot Car Escort

Ellisville, MS · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

As a Heavy Haul Pilot Car Driver, you will play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient ... Competitive salary ($75,000 - $90,000 annually) based on experience + per diem when away from ...

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.

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.

Soliant

Per Diem Staff Pharmacist - Lakewood, OH

Lakewood, OH · On-site

$53.50 - $63/hr

A new pilot staffing partnership presents an excellent opportunity for reliable pharmacists to ... Located in Lakewood, OH, this per diem role offers flexible scheduling with a focus on consistent ...

New

PJ Helicopters, Inc

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$32/hr

Call when needed pilots will have an opportunity to participate in Fire Suppression, Utility and ... Per diem, lodging, and work-related travel to be provided by PJ Helicopters. * Our benefits package ...

Quanta Services, Inc.

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$120 - $150/hr

Call when needed pilots will have an opportunity to participate in Fire Suppression, Utility and ... Per diem, lodging, and work-related travel to be provided by PJ Helicopters. * Our benefits package ...

PJ Helicopters, Inc

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$32 - $36/hr

Call when needed pilots will have an opportunity to participate in Fire Suppression, Utility and ... Per diem, lodging, and work-related travel to be provided by PJ Helicopters. * Our benefits package ...

Quanta Services

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA

$32 - $36/hr

Call when needed pilots will have an opportunity to participate in Fire Suppression, Utility and ... Per diem, lodging, and work-related travel to be provided by PJ Helicopters. * Our benefits package ...

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 ...

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 ...

Soliant

Per Diem Staff Pharmacist in Lorain, OH

Lorain, OH · On-site

$55 - $64.50/hr

This per diem opportunity offers pharmacists the chance to provide vital ongoing PRN coverage in a ... Initially focused on a location in Canton, OH, this pilot staffing partnership has potential to ...

New

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All Jobsper diem JobsGovernment JobsEmergency Services JobsEmergency Services Professional 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 Sep 4, 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a per diem firefighting pilot?

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 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 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

Pilot Car Escort

Parish Transport LLC

Ellisville, MS • On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Description

Job Summary:

We are looking for experienced and safety-conscious Heavy Haul Pilot Car Drivers to join our team. As a Heavy Haul Pilot Car Driver, you will play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient transport of oversized and heavy loads. Your primary responsibility will be to escort and guide the movement of heavy haul vehicles, providing warnings and assistance to ensure the safety of the convoy and other road users. The ideal candidate should have a deep understanding of traffic laws, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards.

 Compensation and Benefits:

  • Competitive salary ($75,000 - $90,000 annually) based on experience + per diem when away from terminal
  • Full benefits package including:

 Medical, dental, and vision insurance

 401(k) retirement plan

 Paid vacation and holiday


Requirements

Qualifications:

 Must have 3 years current verifiable Heavy Haul Escort experience 

  • Must have a current Pilot Car certification
  • WITPAC Certification preferred but not required
  • HIGH POLE experience 
  • Regular Drivers License with clean MVR

Responsibilities:

Lead and Escort: Operate a pilot car to lead and/or follow heavy haul vehicles, providing a clear path and warning to other drivers on the road.

Safety Protocols: Ensure compliance with all state and federal regulations, including obtaining necessary permits, and adhere to safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure the safe transport of oversized loads.

Route Planning: Work closely with heavy haul drivers and logistics teams to plan and review routes, identifying potential obstacles, low clearances, and other hazards.

Communication: Maintain clear and constant communication with the heavy haul driver, monitoring radio channels, and using signals to convey important information.

Traffic Control: Implement traffic control measures as necessary, including the use of flags, signs, and lights to direct traffic and create a safe path for the heavy haul convoy.

Emergency Response: Be prepared to respond to emergencies or unexpected situations, such as road closures, accidents, or equipment malfunctions, and coordinate with relevant authorities.

Documentation: Keep detailed records of travel routes, issues encountered, and communication logs to ensure accurate reporting and compliance.

Equipment Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance checks on the pilot car, ensuring that it is in good working condition and equipped with the necessary safety features.

Customer Service: Interact professionally with heavy haul drivers, clients, and law enforcement, representing our company in a positive and courteous manner.





Apply