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Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Hillsboro Aviation

Airbus H145 Mechanic - Fleet

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$26.50 - $33.75/hr

Our missions include search and rescue, short-haul (human external cargo, natural disaster relief ... As a Type 2 Medium Helicopter Mechanic with an A&P certificate you will work closely with the Fleet ...

Hillsboro Aviation

Fleet Aircraft Mechanic

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$26.50 - $33.75/hr

... helicopter and airplane services comprised of five divisions: contract & charter, aircraft sales ... Our missions include search and rescue, short haul (human external cargo, natural disaster relief ...

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How much do search rescue helicopter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for search rescue helicopter pilot in Oregon is $105,992.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,200.00 and $118,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a search rescue helicopter pilot?

A Search and Rescue (SAR) Helicopter Pilot operates helicopters to locate and assist individuals in distress, often in remote or hazardous environments. Their duties include flying in various weather conditions, coordinating with rescue teams, and performing emergency evacuations. They work for military, government, or private organizations, responding to emergencies such as natural disasters, lost hikers, or maritime incidents. Extensive training, flight experience, and certifications are required to ensure safety during high-risk operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a search rescue helicopter pilot?

To thrive as a Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot, you need advanced piloting skills, a thorough knowledge of aeronautical navigation and meteorology, and a commercial or air transport pilot license with specialized search and rescue (SAR) training. Proficiency with GPS navigation systems, night vision equipment, hoist operations, and radio communications is essential. Strong decision-making abilities, teamwork, and calmness under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe and effective mission execution in challenging and often life-threatening situations.

What are the typical working hours and conditions for a search rescue helicopter pilot?

Search Rescue Helicopter Pilots often work irregular hours, including weekends, nights, and holidays, as emergencies can occur at any time. The role can involve long shifts and rapid response to urgent calls, with time spent both in-flight and on standby at a base. Pilots typically operate as part of a highly coordinated team, collaborating closely with crew members, paramedics, and ground rescue personnel. Work conditions can be physically and mentally demanding, especially in adverse weather or challenging terrain, but the position is rewarding for those who are passionate about saving lives and making a tangible impact.

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For Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Search Rescue Helicopter Pilot job openings in Oregon as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $105,992 per year, or $51 per hour.

Airbus H145 Mechanic - Fleet

Hillsboro, OR • On-site

Hillsboro Aviation
Aviation • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Hillsboro Aviationexternal

$26.50 - $33.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

About Hillsboro Aviation

Founded in 1980, Hillsboro Aviation offers complete helicopter and airplane services comprised of five divisions: contract & charter, aircraft sales & management, service center, FBO, and parts sales. Serving domestic and international markets in the government, commercial, and private sectors, we have over 85 employees and 10 turbine aircraft. We operate out of our award-winning headquarters at the Portland-Hillsboro Airport (KHIO).

Our Vision

We believe in the power of a personal approach. We passionately purvey the notion of flight, a dream demanding creativity, persistence, resilience, and intent. We strive to foster a legacy of innovative thought, leadership, mentorship, service, and sustainability. We are dedicated to providing opportunity and growth for our team, our customers, and our community by providing extraordinary and memorable experiences in the air and on the ground.

The Position

Hillsboro Aviation’s contract & charter division provides services to the United States Forest Service (USFS), the Department of Interior (DOI), FEMA, large national utility (powerline & infrastructure), and high-tech companies as well as smaller companies and individuals. Our missions include search and rescue, short-haul (human external cargo, natural disaster relief, construction support, aerial firefighting, natural resource surveys, film/photo/news, and heli-skiing. Our fleet is comprised of Airbus H145D3, Bell 205 A-1++, Bell 407, Bell 407HP, and Airbus AS350B3e.

As a Type 2 Medium Helicopter Mechanic with an A&P certificate you will work closely with the Fleet Maintenance team to assist with maintaining Hillsboro Aviation's fleet aircraft. You will report to the Director of Maintenance and will be responsible for the following, including but not limited to:

  • Inspection and repair of helicopter and components to be maintained with the highest standards of the FAR's, manufacturer's programs, Hillsboro's AAIP, and repair station guidelines
  • Airbus H-145/ UH-72 / BK117 aircraft maintenance qualified
  • Ability to use computer databases and software programs to track ongoing maintenance

Ideal candidates are trained on the Airbus H-145/UH-72/ BK117, willing to travel for frequent short, long duration, and/or seasonal trips in support of ongoing contractual requirements, and willing to work remotely on extended stays in field environments during the summer months. Position can be full-time or seasonal depending on the qualifications and needs of the applicant.


Job Responsibilities:

  • Ability to work a 12/12 (12 days on / 12 days off) or a 12/2 (12 days on, 2 days off) shift in remote field locations for the duration of fire season (typically April – September)
  • Ability to work in a hanger environment as part of a maintenance team for full-time employment outside of contract demands
  • Inspection and repair of helicopter and components to be maintained with the highest standards of the FAR's, manufacturer's programs, Hillsboro's AAIP, and repair station guidelines
  • Airbus H-145/ UH-72/ BK117 aircraft maintenance qualified
  • Familiar with USFS/DOI contract coverage as a field mechanic
  • Ability to use computer databases and software programs to track ongoing maintenance

Qualifications/Licenses: 

  • Valid FAA A&P Certificate issued at least 24 months prior to the application date

Required Skills/Experience: 

  • Documented evidence of maintaining an Airbus H-145/UH-72 within the previous 10 years
  • At least 18 months out of the last 24 months must have been actively engaged in helicopter maintenance
  • At least 12 months experience as an A&P mechanic maintaining helicopters
  • At least 12 months experience maintaining a H-145/UH-72/ BK117
  • At least 3 months experience as an A&P within the past 2 years
  • At least 1 full season of experience under “field” conditions within the previous 10 years
  • At least 3 months experience maintaining a helicopter away from an operator’s principal base of operations
  • Ability to obtain a USFS / interagency mechanic card

Preferred Skills/Experience: 

  • H-145/UH-72/ BK117 factory training courses (field maintenance, component overhaul, and electrical maintenance) or military AIT
  • Management or shop lead level experience/desire
  • Willingness to adjust work schedule in order to be available for after-hour callouts as needed. This duty is shared with other mechanics
  • Willingness to learn and contribute in maintaining the other aircraft in Hillsboro Aviation's fleet as needed
  • Extensive sheet metal experience
  • CDL Class C with HAZMAT endorsement is preferred

Benefits:

  • Competitive salary
  • Paid vacation, sick days, and holidays
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Wellness benefits, including alternative care and lifestyle discounts
  • 401(k) + match
  • Monthly team-building events, including BBQs
  • Exercise, shower facilities, and locker rooms at headquarters


Hillsboro Aviation’s growth and sustainability is rooted in its commitment to attracting a diverse set of talent from around the world. To that end, we encourage qualified individuals from all walks of life to apply. We are an equal opportunity employer (EEO) and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

This job will remain open until filled. Please do not call regarding the status of your application.