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Remote Air Tanker Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

ZME Remote Pilot Operator

Memphis, TN · Remote

Public Trust Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE Description * PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS ... The RPO plays the role of the pilot and other controllers in the Air Traffic Controller training ...

SAIC

CLT Remote Pilot Operator

Charlotte, NC · Remote

Public Trust Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE Description * PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS ... The RPO plays the role of the pilot and other controllers in the Air Traffic Controller training ...

SAIC

ZNY Remote Pilot Operator

Ronkonkoma, NY · Remote

$40K - $80K/yr

Public Trust Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE Description * PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS ... The RPO plays the role of the pilot and other controllers in the Air Traffic Controller training ...

SAIC

S46 Remote Pilot Operator

Burien, WA · Remote

$40K - $80K/yr

Public Trust Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE Description * PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS ... The RPO plays the role of the pilot and other controllers in the Air Traffic Controller training ...

SAIC

PHL Remote Pilot Operator

Philadelphia, PA · Remote

Public Trust Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE Description * PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS ... The RPO plays the role of the pilot and other controllers in the Air Traffic Controller training ...

SAIC

ZLC Remote Pilot Operator

Salt Lake City, UT · Remote

Public Trust Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE Description PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS, UAV ... The RPO plays the role of the pilot and other controllers in the Air Traffic Controller training ...

SAIC

ZAN Remote Pilot Operator

Anchorage, AK · Remote

Public Trust Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE Description * PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS ... The RPO plays the role of the pilot and other controllers in the Air Traffic Controller training ...

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Remote Air Tanker Pilot information

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$48K

$87.1K

$133K

How much do remote air tanker pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote air tanker pilot in the United States is $87,144.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $102,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Remote Air Tanker Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Air Tanker Pilot, you need a commercial pilot license with multi-engine and instrument ratings, significant flight hours, and specialized training in aerial firefighting operations. Familiarity with advanced avionics, GPS navigation systems, and tanker-specific equipment is typically required, along with recurrent certifications. Exceptional situational awareness, decision-making under pressure, and strong teamwork skills help pilots safely and efficiently coordinate with ground crews. These competencies are vital for executing precise aerial drops in challenging environments and ensuring crew and public safety during wildfire suppression missions.

Do pilots make $400 an hour?

Remote air tanker pilots can earn around $200 to $400 per hour, depending on experience, certification, and the company. High-demand seasons and specialized skills may lead to higher pay, but $400 an hour is at the upper end of the range for this role.

What is a Remote Air Tanker Pilot?

A Remote Air Tanker Pilot is a specialized pilot who operates aircraft, often remotely or via advanced avionics, to drop water or fire retardant on wildfires. These pilots play a critical role in aerial firefighting, helping to control and suppress wildfires, often in challenging and hazardous environments. Their responsibilities include flying large air tankers, coordinating with ground crews, and ensuring precise delivery of firefighting materials. Remote Air Tanker Pilots typically require extensive flight experience, specialized training in wildfire operations, and a strong understanding of aviation safety protocols.

What is the difference between Remote Air Tanker Pilot vs Remote Firefighting Pilot?

AspectRemote Air Tanker PilotRemote Firefighting Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, Type Ratings for Tanker AircraftCommercial Pilot License, Type Ratings for Firefighting Aircraft
Work EnvironmentRemote aerial firefighting missions, often in remote areasRemote firefighting operations, often in wildfire zones
Employer & IndustryAir tanker companies, firefighting agenciesFirefighting agencies, private firefighting contractors

Both roles involve piloting aircraft for firefighting purposes, requiring similar certifications and working in remote, high-risk environments. The main difference lies in the specific aircraft and operational focus: Air Tanker Pilots operate large tankers for aerial fire suppression, while Firefighting Pilots may operate various aircraft for wildfire suppression. Both roles demand specialized skills and certifications, with overlapping work environments and industry usage.

How to become an air tanker pilot?

To become an air tanker pilot, candidates typically need a commercial pilot certificate with an airplane multiengine rating, significant flight experience, and specialized training in aerial firefighting operations. Many employers also require experience flying large aircraft and knowledge of safety protocols, often gained through military or civilian pilot training programs. Certifications from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and ongoing training are essential for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by Remote Air Tanker Pilots during wildfire response operations?

Remote Air Tanker Pilots often encounter rapidly changing weather conditions, limited visibility due to smoke, and challenging terrain while responding to wildfires. Coordinating with ground crews and other aircraft in congested airspace requires strong communication skills and quick decision-making. Pilots must also manage fatigue during long shifts and remain adaptable as mission priorities can change quickly depending on fire behavior and containment strategies.

How much do air tanker pilots make?

Air tanker pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, employer, and flight hours. Experienced pilots with specialized certifications and extensive flight hours tend to earn higher salaries, especially during wildfire seasons or in remote environments.

Is there still a pilot shortage in 2026?

The aviation industry, including remote air tanker pilots, has experienced pilot shortages due to increased demand for wildfire suppression and aerial firefighting. This trend is expected to continue as the need for specialized pilots with relevant certifications and experience grows, making pilot roles in this field potentially more available in 2026.
More about Remote Air Tanker Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Remote Air Tanker Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Remote Air Tanker Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Air Tanker Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Air Tanker Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Remote Air Tanker Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Remote Air Tanker Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Remote Air Tanker Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Air Tanker Pilot jobs are:
Remote Air Tanker Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Air Tanker Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 33% In-person, and 67% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,144 per year, or $41.9 per hour.
ZME Remote Pilot Operator

ZME Remote Pilot Operator

SAIC

Memphis, TN • Remote

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 210 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2613785

Location: Memphis, TN, US

Date Posted: 2026-06-17

Category: Information Technology

Subcategory: Computer Operator

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: No

Minimum Clearance Required: None

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Public Trust

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

  • PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position.

We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Memphis ARTCC (ZME), located in Memphis, TN, supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Job Description:

The RPO plays the role of the pilot and other controllers in the Air Traffic Controller training simulator.  The RPO operates a combination of a simulated radar display and voice communication system to simulate the actions and communication of pilots and remote ATC facilities during medium and high-fidelity training exercises. RPOs receive voice commands from students, input proper entries into the automated system to simulate pilot actions, translate displayed information into appropriate ATC terminology, and respond to the student via the VCS utilizing proper phraseology.

The candidate will be required to complete the following certifications: Classroom (pass test on airspace and procedures) and Lab (perform as a Remote Pilot Operator on all positions).

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic control specialists provide the flying public with a high level of safety and professionalism. A well-trained Air Traffic Control (ATC) workforce plays an essential role in fulfilling this responsibility. The FAA employs more than 14,000 air traffic controllers. They work in air traffic facilities of varying sizes, safely separating more than 50,000 aircraft in the National Airspace System (NAS) each day.

To provide such air traffic services, the FAA trains new air traffic control specialists and provides recurrent training to current air traffic control specialists. The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.S. and its Territories to ensure these training needs are met. The scope of the contractor-provided services includes all training and training program support to successfully train and prepare students to become fully certified air traffic controllers. SAIC must provide training and training related support services as required for all types and levels of ATC facilities.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Candidates for this position must have a minimum of a high school diploma (or equivalent) and demonstrate basic computer proficiency. Candidates must possess an ability to read and interpret materials such as diagrams and manuals and have the ability to speak clearly and be understood
  • US Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance

Desired Skills and Experience:

  • Experience working in a multidisciplinary team (Multimedia Developers, Quality Assurance, Instructions System Designers, Subject Matter Experts, Instructors)
  • Experience and certification in ATC Tower, TRACON or En Route simulation lab is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective oral and written communications skills
  • Working knowledge of the FAAO JO 7110.65 is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective team building skills
  • MS Office Suite Proficiency (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization of current technologic tools (tablets, notebooks, applications, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization or experience with pilot/controller communications or phraseology

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