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Per Diem Firefighting Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Float Pilot Region 4

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site +1

$83K - $104K/yr

... hiring a Helicopter Pilot to provide medical air transportation services Air Evac Lifeteam ... 50.00/Day Per Diem and paid travel/accommodations while on shift Retention Bonus plans ($40,000 ...

Paid training, including transportation, lodging, and per diem * Company paid Type-Rating * Reimbursement for Pilot Medical Certificate (not retroactive to pre-hire) * Medical, Dental, and Vision ...

Pilot Incentives: • Salaried position • 15% geographical modifier to base pay • $22,750.00 annual stipend • Travel and per diem paid for all shifts • 24-hour pilot housing provided • ...

Float Pilot Region 2

Frankfort, KY · On-site

$78K - $97K/yr

... hiring a Helicopter Pilot to provide medical air transportation services Air Evac Lifeteam ... 50.00/Day Per Diem and paid travel/accommodations while on shift Retention Bonus plans ($40,000 ...

Float Pilot Region 4

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$83K - $104K/yr

... hiring a Helicopter Pilot to provide medical air transportation services Air Evac Lifeteam ... 50.00/Day Per Diem and paid travel/accommodations while on shift Retention Bonus plans ($40,000 ...

Salaried position 15% geographical modifier to base pay $22,750.00 annual stipend Travel and per diem paid for all shifts 24-hour pilot housing provided Schedule 14-on/14-off JOB SUMMARY The Rotor ...

Float Pilot Region 2

Frankfort, KY · On-site +1

$78K - $97K/yr

... hiring a Helicopter Pilot to provide medical air transportation services Air Evac Lifeteam ... 50.00/Day Per Diem and paid travel/accommodations while on shift Retention Bonus plans ($40,000 ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 15, 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?

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:

BE-1900 Captain - Cargo Pilot

Ameriflight LLC

Pampa, TX

$87K/yr

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Description


Ameriflight, LLC is the nation's largest Part 135 cargo airline and the leading provider of scalable, outsourced aviation services for the regional express airfreight market. Our diverse portfolio enables major cargo integrators, manufacturers, aircraft operators, and freight forwarders to adapt quickly to the demands of today's fast-moving supply chain.


Operating a fleet of more than 120 aircraft-including the Saab 340B, Embraer 120, Fairchild SA227, Beechcraft 1900, and Beechcraft 99-Ameriflight delivers reliable service from bases across the U.S.


About the position:

  • Captain in Beechcraft BE1900 
  • Outstation domiciled in PPA, operating to AMA and LBB M-F evening and returning the following morning
  • Occasionally repositions to DFW for maintenance
  • Base salary is $87,006 annually

Pilot Benefits:

  • Ameriflight is a proud partner of the UPS Flightpath Pathway Program
  • Career advancement opportunities, including training and leadership positions
  • Paid training, including transportation, lodging, and per diem
  • Ability to bid specific base, equipment and domicile
  • Jumpseat privileges with CASS partners, including American, Alaska, Allegiant, Atlas Air, FedEx, Frontier, Horizon, JSX, Omni Air, Southwest, UPS Airlines and more
  • Known Crew Member (KCM) privileges available
  • Reimbursement for Pilot Medical Certificate (post-hire only)
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits
  • Company provided Life Insurance
  • Vacation
  • 401K plan

Requirements

  • Must meet FAR 135.243(c) requirements for PIC in IFR conditions
  • Commercial Pilot License multi-engine land with instrument rating, high performance and complex endorsements
  • 1,800 TT, 1000 PIC, 500 hours XC, 250 multi, 100 turbine PIC, 100 hours instrument (50 must be in aircraft), 100 hours night
  • Previous FAR121/135 experience required
  • Instrument Proficiency Check or 121/135 recurrent within past 6 months
  • First or Second Class medical. First Class required for all Charter / ESCS positions and international operations
  • FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit
  • Current Passport
  • English Proficient
  • Must be eligible to work in the U.S. and travel unrestricted in and out of the U.S.
  • Must meet airport badging requirements, including a TSA Security background check 
  • Successful completion of pre-employment required DOT drug screening and other required background checks
  • May drive company provided vehicles - must have a valid Driver's License and meet all company insurance criteria

 We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and business needs without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.