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Seasonal Aerial Firefighting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GENERAL PURPOSE Performs a wide variety of working-level firefighting duties related to protecting ... Must be Apparatus Aerial certified within two years of hire. Must be a Fire Inspector or Company ...

... and efficient aerial solutions for its customers. With a fleet of more than 50 aircraft, PJH ... Seasonal or Full-time permanent positions available. PJH is known for our state-of-the art ...

UH-60 Firefighting Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$140K - $150K/yr

... and efficient aerial solutions for its customers. With a fleet of more than 50 aircraft, PJH ... Seasonal or Full-time permanent positions available. PJH is known for our state-of-the art ...

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Seasonal Aerial Firefighting information

See salary details

$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do seasonal aerial firefighting jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for seasonal aerial firefighting 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 some unique challenges faced by seasonal aerial firefighters, and how can new team members prepare for them?

Seasonal aerial firefighters often encounter intense physical and mental demands, such as working long hours in hazardous conditions and rapidly changing weather. New team members should be prepared for frequent travel, quick deployments, and close collaboration with ground crews and pilots. Building strong communication skills, maintaining physical fitness, and being adaptable to shifting priorities are essential for success in this fast-paced environment. Many organizations offer pre-season training and mentorship to help new hires acclimate to these challenges.

What is the difference between Seasonal Aerial Firefighting vs Helicopter Pilot?

AspectSeasonal Aerial FirefightingHelicopter Pilot
CertificationsFirefighting and pilot licenses, specialized wildfire trainingCommercial pilot license, rotorcraft ratings
Work EnvironmentWildfire zones, remote areas, seasonal operationsVarious industries including transport, construction, firefighting
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, government agencies, firefighting contractorsAirlines, private companies, government agencies

Seasonal Aerial Firefighting involves pilots specifically trained to combat wildfires during peak seasons, focusing on firefighting tactics. Helicopter Pilots operate aircraft across various industries, including firefighting, but their role isn't limited to wildfire seasons. While both roles require pilot licenses, firefighting pilots need additional wildfire-specific training. The key difference lies in the specialized seasonal firefighting focus versus broader aviation roles.

What are seasonal aerial firefighting jobs?

Seasonal aerial firefighting jobs involve working as part of a team that uses aircraft to combat wildfires, typically during peak fire seasons. These roles may include pilots, co-pilots, mechanics, and support crew who operate or maintain airplanes and helicopters equipped with water or fire retardant. The positions are often temporary, lasting for the duration of the fire season, and require specialized training and certifications. Workers in these jobs play a critical role in quickly responding to and suppressing wildfires to protect land, property, and lives.

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

To thrive as a Seasonal Aerial Firefighter, you need strong physical fitness, knowledge of wildfire behavior, and specialized training in aerial firefighting techniques, often supported by certifications such as Firefighter Type 2 (FFT2) and a valid pilot’s or crew member’s license. Familiarity with GPS navigation, radio communication systems, and aerial firefighting equipment like water or retardant drop mechanisms is essential. Teamwork, quick decision-making, and stress management are critical soft skills for operating in high-pressure, rapidly changing environments. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safety, effective fire suppression, and coordinated response during wildfire emergencies.
What cities are hiring for Seasonal Aerial Firefighting jobs? Cities with the most Seasonal Aerial Firefighting job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aerial Firefighting jobs? The most popular types of Aerial Firefighting jobs are:
What states have the most Seasonal Aerial Firefighting jobs? States with the most job openings for Seasonal Aerial Firefighting jobs include:
Infographic showing various Seasonal Aerial Firefighting job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.
Hazmat CDL Driver (seasonal)

Other

Posted 3 days ago


Billings Flying Service rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 52 rated aviation services


Job description

About Billings Flying Service

Billings Flying Service (BFS) is a solutions provider for the aviation industry, specializing in CH-47 aerial firefighting and heavy lift services. The BFS fleet of Eight CH-47Ds, one UH-60A, are capable of fighting wildfires by either bucket or tank.

About the Role

Billings Flying Service is hiring truck drivers to deliver fuel and/or supplies and tooling to various locations in support of aviation operations. You will be required to be out of town for extended periods of time, with employer paying lodging and per diem.

Requirements

What You'll Do

  • Responsibly drive and manage a fuel tanker and/or truck and trailer to support aviation operations.
  • Work hand in hand with the flight crew to facilitate aircraft sustainment and operation.

Your Required Qualifications

  • Must have a valid Class A-1 CDL with Hazmat and Tanker endorsements.
  • Must have DOT medical exam certification.
  • Must be able to pass pre-employment screening.
  • Must be able to be on-call.

Benefits

seasonal openings are available. Wage and benefits depend on qualifications.