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Professional Wildlife Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Helicopter Pilot

Panacea, FL

$77K - $96K/yr

Marks National Wildlife Refuge and the scenic shores of Shell Point. In Crawfordville, you'll ... a friendly and professional working environment Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum ...

Helicopter Pilot

Panacea, FL · On-site

$77K - $96K/yr

Marks National Wildlife Refuge and the scenic shores of Shell Point. In Crawfordville, you'll ... a friendly and professional working environment Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum ...

Helicopter Pilot

Panacea, FL · On-site

$77K - $96K/yr

Marks National Wildlife Refuge and the scenic shores of Shell Point. In Crawfordville, you'll ... a friendly and professional working environment Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum ...

Helicopter Pilot

Panacea, FL

$77K - $96K/yr

Marks National Wildlife Refuge and the scenic shores of Shell Point. In Crawfordville, you'll ... a friendly and professional working environment Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum ...

Helicopter Pilot

Panacea, FL

$77K - $96K/yr

Marks National Wildlife Refuge and the scenic shores of Shell Point. In Crawfordville, you'll ... a friendly and professional working environment Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum ...

Helicopter Pilot

Panacea, FL

$77K - $96K/yr

Marks National Wildlife Refuge and the scenic shores of Shell Point. In Crawfordville, you'll ... a friendly and professional working environment Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum ...

$82K - $86K/yr

The charming mountain village atmosphere, fresh alpine air, and abundance of hiking and wildlife ... friendly and professional working environment * Pilots must have flown in category within the ...

Helicopter Pilot

Willcox, AZ · On-site

$85K - $106K/yr

Local highlights like Willcox Playa and nearby Twin Lakes bring rare wildlife, seasonal lakes, and ... a friendly and professional working environment Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ

$85K - $106K/yr

Surrounded by the sprawling Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, it's a paradise for hiking, wildlife ... a friendly and professional working environment Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ · On-site

$85K - $106K/yr

Surrounded by the sprawling Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, it's a paradise for hiking, wildlife ... a friendly and professional working environment Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum ...

Helicopter Pilot

Alamogordo, NM · On-site

$85K - $106K/yr

... wildlife watching at Sacramento Mountains, tour the NM Museum of Space History with artifacts from ... a friendly and professional working environment Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum ...

Aircraft Pilot 1 (Multi PCN)

Juneau, AK · On-site

$47.95 - $53.17/hr

... wildlife laws. The DPS strives to preserve the peace, enforce the law, prevent and detect crime ... In this fast-paced environment, you will work with a phenomenal team of professionals, both ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ

$85K - $106K/yr

Surrounded by the sprawling Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, it's a paradise for hiking, wildlife ... a friendly and professional working environment Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum ...

$82K - $93K/yr

The charming mountain village atmosphere, fresh alpine air, and abundance of hiking and wildlife ... friendly and professional working environment * Pilots must have flown in category within the ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ · On-site

$85K - $106K/yr

Surrounded by the sprawling Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, it's a paradise for hiking, wildlife ... a friendly and professional working environment Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ · On-site

$85K - $106K/yr

Surrounded by the sprawling Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, it's a paradise for hiking, wildlife ... a friendly and professional working environment Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ

$85K - $106K/yr

Surrounded by the sprawling Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, it's a paradise for hiking, wildlife ... a friendly and professional working environment Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum ...

$82K - $93K/yr

The charming mountain village atmosphere, fresh alpine air, and abundance of hiking and wildlife ... friendly and professional working environment * Pilots must have flown in category within the ...

Helicopter Pilot

Willcox, AZ · On-site

$85K - $106K/yr

Local highlights like Willcox Playa and nearby Twin Lakes bring rare wildlife, seasonal lakes, and ... a friendly and professional working environment Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ · On-site

$85K - $106K/yr

Surrounded by the sprawling Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, it's a paradise for hiking, wildlife ... a friendly and professional working environment Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum ...

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Professional Wildlife Pilot information

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How much do professional wildlife pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional wildlife pilot in the United States is $21.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional wildlife pilot?

Professional wildlife pilots are trained aviators who operate aircraft to support wildlife research, conservation, and management activities. They may conduct aerial surveys, track animal movements, transport personnel and equipment to remote locations, or assist with wildlife population monitoring. Their work is crucial for collecting data over large or inaccessible areas and often involves close collaboration with scientists and conservationists. The job requires specialized flying skills, knowledge of wildlife behaviors, and a strong commitment to environmental stewardship.

What is the difference between Professional Wildlife Pilot vs Wildlife Conservation Drone Operator?

AspectProfessional Wildlife PilotWildlife Conservation Drone Operator
CertificationsFAA drone pilot license, wildlife handling certificationsFAA drone license, conservation-specific training
Work EnvironmentAirborne, outdoor, often remote areasField sites, conservation projects, research areas
Employer & IndustryWildlife agencies, research institutions, environmental NGOsConservation organizations, research groups, NGOs

Both roles involve drone operation in wildlife settings, but the Professional Wildlife Pilot typically has broader certifications and may perform additional wildlife handling tasks. The Wildlife Conservation Drone Operator focuses more on data collection for conservation projects. While overlapping, the Professional Wildlife Pilot often has a wider scope of responsibilities and certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional wildlife pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Professional Wildlife Pilot, you need an FAA commercial pilot license, strong flight skills, and knowledge of wildlife management and aerial survey techniques. Familiarity with GPS navigation, aerial survey software, and specialized observation equipment is typically required. Excellent communication, situational awareness, and adaptability are vital soft skills for coordinating with biologists and responding to changing field conditions. These skills ensure accurate data collection, flight safety, and effective collaboration in challenging and dynamic environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by professional wildlife pilots when conducting aerial surveys?

Professional Wildlife Pilots often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, navigating remote or rugged terrain, and maintaining safety while flying at low altitudes to observe wildlife. Coordination with biologists and spotters is essential, as pilots must adjust flight paths to ensure accurate data collection without disturbing the animals. Additionally, adapting to varied schedules and extended periods away from home can be demanding, but these challenges are balanced by the unique opportunity to contribute to conservation efforts.
More about Professional Wildlife Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Professional Wildlife Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Professional Wildlife Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Wildlife Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Wildlife Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Wildlife Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Wildlife Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Professional Wildlife Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,859 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

$77K - $96K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Overview

Rotor Wing Pilot - AirLife 1 FloridaCrawfordville, FLEMS Air Medical Aircraft:  B407 (VFR) 

$15,000 Sign-on Bonus Available

AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE!

As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our communities. We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high-performing culture, sparked by teammates who deliver on being the best!

Discover the best of Florida's Forgotten Coast while flying a mission that truly matters in Crawfordville, where small-town charm meets endless outdoor adventure. Just minutes from the crystal-clear waters of the world-famous Wakulla Springs and the pristine Gulf Coast, every day offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife encounters. Enjoy easy access to the culture and amenities of Tallahassee, just a short drive away. Explore nearby gems like St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge and the scenic shores of Shell Point. In Crawfordville, you'll experience an unbeatable blend of meaningful flying, coastal living, and North Florida adventure.

Benefits

Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package created with the diverse needs of our teammates in mind:

  • Health, Dental and Vision
  • Competitive 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Flexible Spending Account Benefit Plans
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Full Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • AD&D Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Business Travel Accident Insurance
  • Voluntary Legal
  • Relocation Assistance
  • Employee Assistance and Benefit Concierge Service Programs

Job Summary

Responsible to ensure aircraft and weather conditions are airworthy to transport medical crew and patient to receiving hospital within an assigned operational area. Responsible for compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR), Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), General Operations Manual guidelines (GOM), and thorough knowledge of Air Methods policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

Essential Functions and Responsibilities 

  • Operates Air Methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner.
  • Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by sign off of Daily Flight Log. Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight and upon completion of each flight.
  • Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and equipment.
  • Must be thoroughly familiar with all aircraft and medical systems of backup aircraft utilized at operational area and also ensures that the medical flight team is familiar and comfortable with the medical interior and systems.
  • Responsible for completion of required documentation.
  • Able to conduct detailed flight planning with little notice to exacting standards.
  • Participates regularly in Air Methods meetings, activities, projects, committees and community outreach.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Additional Job Requirements

  • Regular scheduled attendance - 7 days on/7 days off (12-hour shifts)
Qualifications

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  In accordance with applicable laws, Air Methods will provide reasonable accommodations that do not create an undue burden so disabled employees may perform the essential functions of the position.

Education & Experience

  • Associate's degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school and two  to five years' related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Bachelor's degree preferred

 Skills

  • Pilots must have flown in category for a commercial operator or in the military within the previous 24 months
  • Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment

Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum Required Flight Times: 

  • 2000 total flight hours with minimum of 1500 flight hours in category
  • 1000 hours PIC in category
  • 500 hours of rotor wing turbine time
  • 200 hours of cross-country flight time, at least 50 hours of which were at night
  • 100 hours unaided night as PIC (50 hours of unaided can be substituted for by 100 hours of NVG time, but cannot be reduced below 50 hours of unaided time)
  • 50 hours total actual or hood instrument time in flight and in category (simulator time does not count) (for a RW candidate who is FW rated, 100 hours or greater of FW actual or hood Instrument time can reduce the RW required instrument time to 25 hours). 

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

  • Commercial & Instrument Rating (for category and class of aircraft)
  • ATP rating in category meets this requirement
  • First OR Second Class FAA Medical certificate required.

Operation and Safety Requirements:

  • As a member of the Flight Crew, any person employed in this position shall maintain a weight not to exceed 250 pounds and shall be less than seventy (70) years old.

Internal Bidding Ends: 7/8/2026

Minimum payMaximum PayBenefits

For more information on our industry-leading benefits, please visit our benefits page here. 

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Air Methods is an EEO/AA employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. 

This position will be open and posted until filled, with a minimum posting period of three days.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME