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Remote Cal Fire Aviation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The position will support numerous facets of the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Fire Life ... Remote position Up to 50% travel within central US Candidate is preferred to be located anywhere ...

The position will support numerous facets of the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Fire Life ... Remote position Up to 50% travel within central US Candidate is preferred to be located anywhere ...

The position will support numerous facets of the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Fire Life ... Remote position Up to 50% travel within central US Specific subject areas where services are needed ...

The position will support numerous facets of the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Fire Life ... Remote position Up to 50% travel within central US Specific subject areas where services are needed ...

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Remote Cal Fire Aviation information

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$17

$27

$43

How much do remote cal fire aviation jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote cal fire aviation in the United States is $27.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $27.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is remote Cal Fire aviation?

Remote Cal Fire Aviation jobs refer to positions with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) that support the agency's aviation operations from remote or off-site locations. These roles can include aviation dispatchers, analysts, coordinators, or support staff who manage flight schedules, monitor aircraft, coordinate resources, and provide critical information to pilots and crews without being physically present at air bases. Working remotely allows these professionals to contribute to wildfire suppression and emergency response efforts using advanced communication and data systems. These positions are essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of Cal Fire’s aerial firefighting operations.

What skills and qualifications are needed for remote Cal Fire aviation?

To thrive as a Remote Cal Fire Aviation Specialist, you need expertise in aviation operations, wildfire suppression tactics, and typically hold relevant pilot licenses and certifications. Familiarity with aerial firefighting equipment, GPS navigation systems, and emergency communication tools is essential. Strong decision-making, teamwork, and situational awareness are crucial soft skills for managing high-pressure, dynamic environments. These abilities are vital to ensure safe, efficient, and effective aerial support during wildfire emergencies.

What are common challenges faced by professionals in remote Cal Fire aviation?

Professionals in Remote Cal Fire Aviation roles often face challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, coordinating effectively with ground crews, and maintaining clear communication despite working in remote or rugged environments. Operating specialized aircraft to support wildfire suppression requires adaptability, quick decision-making, and a strong understanding of safety protocols. Additionally, the role often involves irregular hours and the need to be on call during high-risk fire seasons, which can be demanding but also offers valuable experience in emergency response.

What is the difference between Remote Cal Fire Aviation vs Cal Fire Pilot?

AspectRemote Cal Fire AviationCal Fire Pilot
CredentialsTypically requires FAA pilot certifications, such as Commercial Pilot License and specific aircraft ratingsRequires FAA pilot certifications, including Commercial Pilot License, and Cal Fire-specific training
Work EnvironmentRemote, administrative, and coordination roles often involving dispatch, planning, and supportOn-site, operational roles involving flying aircraft during fire seasons and emergency response
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by Cal Fire for remote support, planning, and coordinationUsed by Cal Fire for active firefighting and aerial suppression missions

Remote Cal Fire Aviation roles focus on support, planning, and coordination from remote locations, requiring pilot certifications but not flying aircraft directly. In contrast, Cal Fire Pilots are actively involved in flying aircraft during firefighting operations. Both roles require FAA pilot certifications, but their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

More about Remote Cal Fire Aviation jobs

What cities are hiring for Remote Cal Fire Aviation jobs?

Cities with the most Remote Cal Fire Aviation job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Cal Fire Aviation jobs?

The most popular types of Cal Fire Aviation jobs are:

What states have the most Remote Cal Fire Aviation jobs?

States with the most job openings for Remote Cal Fire Aviation jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Remote Cal Fire Aviation jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Cal Fire Aviation jobs are:

Infographic showing various Remote Cal Fire Aviation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,520 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Wildland Firefighter (Aviation Operations Specialist)

Forest Service

Klamath Falls, OR • On-site, Remote

$72K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


USDA Forest Service rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

159th of 297 rated public sector bodies


Job description

Summary
This position is located on a USDA Forest Service Unit within the Pacific Northwest Region, Region 6.
Serves as an assistant to the Forest Aviation Officer in directing the complex aviation management program of the Fire & Aviation Operations on Forest Service unit(s). Incumbent provides leadership, coordination, and direction to aerial projects and fire management activities.
For additional information about the duties of this position, please contact Shalyn Whitson at shalyn.whitson@usda.gov
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Duties
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  • Provides information and technical direction for all planned and continuing Forest aviation operations. Maintains close liaison with the Regional Fire UAS Specialist and the Regional Resource Management UAS Specialist.
  • Develops Project Aviation Safety Plans (PASP/MASP) to support National, Regional, and local UAS projects and missions according to agency policy.
  • Maintains close liaison with other aviation managers, Forest Fire Management Officer(s), Deputy Forest FMO(s), Interagency Dispatch Center Manager(s), and Dispatch Coordinators to exchange information on current aviation operations.
  • Develops and evaluates sensors and data collection and processing of equipment and techniques for UAS activity.
  • Provides input to the regional and forest Aviation Operations and Safety Plan. Assists with the preparation of the Forest level supplements to FSM 5700, the Regional Aviation Management Plan, and the Regional Aviation Mishap Prevention Plan.
  • Coordinates with the Forest Aviation Officer and Regional aviation management on Forest aviation operations, technical guidance, special projects for aviation support personnel, and other aviation related aspects.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
  • Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service or exempt.
  • Subject to satisfactory adjudication of background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
  • Per Public Law 104-134 all Federal employees are required to have federal payments made by direct deposit to their financial institution.
  • Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit E-Verify.
  • Must be 18 years of age.
  • This is a drug testing designated position. You will be subject to pre-employment and random drug testing. Appointment is based on a negative result. This announcement constitutes 30 days advance notice.
  • Secondary Coverage: Prior wildland firefighting experience is required.
  • Willing to live/work in remote locations (volatile/unpredictable).
  • Some Fire positions may have Conditions of Employment such as: a valid state driver's license; a commercial driver's license (CDL); pre-appointment and random drug testing; or a physical or medical examination.
  • As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your probationary period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.

Qualifications
In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-09: You must have one-year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-07 in the Federal service OR a master's or equivalent graduate degree or 2 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree or LL.B. or J.D., if related; OR an appropriate combination of specialized experience and education (only graduate education in excess of 18 semester hours may be used to qualify applicants for this grade level).
Examples of Specialized Experience are: Administrative processing of flight clearances; limited advice to pilots on geographic locations of assignments and related weather conditions; and support duties such as posting and announcing plane arrivals and departures, tracking automated flight following system, maintaining passenger and cargo manifest records, and maintaining flight requests. Applies technical knowledge to mobilize numerous personnel with supporting supplies, equipment, aircraft, and services on short notice in order to effectively and efficiently suppress wildfires.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT COVERAGE: This is a secondary firefighter position under 5 USC 8336 (CSRS) and 8412(d) (FERS). Prior wildland firefighting experience is required. There is no age limit for entry into secondary positions. Firefighter retirement coverage of the incumbent depends upon his or her individual work history.
To receive consideration for this position, you must provide updated required documents and meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.
Education
Additional information
Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP), Reemployment Priority List (RPL), or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP): To exercise selection priority for this vacancy, CTAP/RPL/ICTAP candidates must meet the basic eligibility requirements and all selective factors.
Government housing and federal day care facilities may be available.
The duty station for this position will be at one of the duty locations listed in this announcement. Salary range as shown is the locality pay Rest of U.S. (RUS). Pay rates vary by location. Please visit the Office of Personnel Management's website for additional information on pay rates.
Recruitment or Relocation Incentive may be authorized. Final determination to pay an incentive will be made by the hiring official at time of job offer.
The Forest Service may use certain incentives and hiring flexibilities, currently offered by the Federal government, to attract highly qualified candidates. Additional Information is available on the OPM Website.
Selectee will be responsible for tax obligations related to payments for moving expenses - 2017 Tax Cuts and Job Act, Public Law 115-97. Questions should be directed to the Travel Help Desk, 877-372-7248, Option 1, or email SM.FS.asc_tos@usda.gov
Positions filled from this announcement may be a bargaining or a non-bargaining unit position represented by either NFFE, AFGE or NAGE.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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