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Remote Aviation Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

If you are passionate about aviation, join our Columbia Family ! The 107 Command Pilot serves as ... Aerial firefighting experience . * Long-line operational experience . * Ability to work ...

Remote Aviation Firefighter information

See salary details

$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do remote aviation firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote aviation firefighter in the United States is $59,606.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Remote Aviation Firefighters?

Remote Aviation Firefighters are specialized professionals trained to respond to aircraft emergencies in remote or hard-to-reach locations. They are responsible for extinguishing fires, rescuing passengers and crew, and mitigating hazardous situations involving aircraft far from typical airport facilities. Due to the unique challenges of remote environments, they often work with limited resources and must be skilled in both aviation and wilderness firefighting techniques. Their role is critical for ensuring the safety of aviation operations in isolated areas.

What are some common challenges faced by remote aviation firefighters, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Remote aviation firefighters often work in isolated or hard-to-access locations, which can present challenges such as limited resources, unpredictable weather conditions, and extended response times. Effective communication and adaptability are crucial, as teams may need to coordinate with air traffic controllers, pilots, and emergency response units across distances. Applicants can prepare by gaining experience in remote or wilderness firefighting, maintaining strong physical fitness, and developing skills in operating specialized firefighting equipment designed for aviation incidents. Proactive training and familiarity with aviation safety protocols are also valuable for adapting to the unique demands of this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Remote Aviation Firefighter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Aviation Firefighter, you need specialized training in firefighting, aviation safety procedures, and emergency medical response, often supported by certifications such as NFPA 1003 or equivalent and EMT qualifications. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, radio communication systems, and aircraft rescue tools is essential. Strong situational awareness, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial to ensure effective emergency response, protect lives and property, and maintain safety standards in challenging and remote aviation environments.

What is the difference between Remote Aviation Firefighter vs Remote Airport Firefighter?

AspectRemote Aviation FirefighterRemote Airport Firefighter
CertificationsFirefighter certification, aviation safety trainingFirefighter certification, airport safety training
Work EnvironmentRemote aviation sites, aircraft rescueAirport fire stations, terminal areas
Employer & IndustryAirlines, aviation agencies, remote airstripsAirports, transportation authorities

Remote Aviation Firefighters and Remote Airport Firefighters share similar certifications and work environments focused on aircraft rescue and safety. However, Remote Aviation Firefighters typically operate in remote airstrips or aviation sites, while Remote Airport Firefighters work within airport facilities. Both roles are vital for aviation safety but differ mainly in their work locations and specific operational settings.

More about Remote Aviation Firefighter jobs
What cities are hiring for Remote Aviation Firefighter jobs? Cities with the most Remote Aviation Firefighter job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aviation Firefighter jobs? The most popular types of Aviation Firefighter jobs are:
What states have the most Remote Aviation Firefighter jobs? States with the most job openings for Remote Aviation Firefighter jobs include:
Infographic showing various Remote Aviation Firefighter job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.
BV 107 Command Pilot

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

For over 65 years, Columbia Helicopters has been a trusted provider of heavy-lift helicopter services. We create new aircraft, fly heavy-lift helicopters around the world, and provide maintenance support to ensure you are mission-ready for critical operations. If you are passionate about aviation, join our Columbia Family!
The 107 Command Pilot serves as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) of the Columbia Model 107 Chinook, supporting Columbia Helicopters' domestic and international flight operations. This role is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant flight operations while leading flight crews, supporting project objectives, and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and customer service. Assignments may include deployments within the United States and overseas in demanding operational environments.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
  • Serve as Pilot-in-Command, operating aircraft safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all applicable regulations and company policies.
  • Demonstrate sound Aeronautical Decision-Making (ADM), risk management, and situational awareness in all phases of flight operations.
  • Lead and coordinate flight operations and oversee personnel within the scope of assigned responsibilities.
  • Maintain the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and operational excellence.
  • Represent Columbia Helicopters positively with customers, partners, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders.
  • Proactively identify, communicate, and mitigate operational hazards and safety risks.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives that enhance safety, efficiency, and productivity.
  • Coordinate closely with project teams to ensure successful mission execution.
  • Complete required operational and administrative documentation accurately and on time.
  • Assist in all aspects of operational success and support site activities as needed.
  • Provide timely communication to management and key stakeholders regarding operational status and project activities.
  • Serve as Project Lead in the absence of the Site Manager.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by the Director of Flight Operations, Vice President of Operations, Chief Pilot, or Assistant Chief Pilot.

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU
  • Commercial Pilot Certificate or higher with Rotorcraft-Helicopter rating.
  • Current FAA Class II Medical Certificate (or higher).
  • Valid U.S. passport or equivalent passport with the ability to travel internationally.
  • Minimum of 1,500 hours Pilot-in-Command (PIC) helicopter flight time.
  • Heavy-lift helicopter operational experience.
  • Aerial firefighting experience.
  • Long-line operational experience.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to perform effectively in high-pressure, dynamic environments.
  • Strong leadership, supervisory, and crew coordination skills.
  • Ability to work in remote, austere, and potentially hazardous environments for extended periods.

WHAT YOU WILL LOVE ABOUT WORKING HERE
At Columbia, we believe great people do their best work when they feel supported, challenged, and valued. We're more than a workplace, we're a team built on trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to doing meaningful work.
Competitive Pay & Strong Benefits
We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial wellness, and work-life balance. Depending on your role, this may include medical, dental, and vision coverage, retirement plans with company contributions, paid time off, and employee wellness resources.
Growth & Career Development
We invest in our people. From training and development opportunities to internal mobility and leadership support, Columbia encourages continuous learning and long-term career growth.
Purpose-Driven Culture
Your work matters here. Every role contributes to our broader mission, and we believe in empowering employees to make an impact, share ideas, and help shape the future of the company.
A Team That Has Your Back
We foster a collaborative, inclusive environment where people are respected, encouraged, and supported. You'll work alongside talented teammates who care about doing great work, and doing it together.
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)