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Seasonal Aerial Firefighting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hillsboro Aviation

Airbus H145 Mechanic - Fleet

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$26.50 - $33.75/hr

... aerial firefighting, natural resource surveys, film/photo/news, and heli-skiing. Our fleet is ... Position can be full-time or seasonal depending on the qualifications and needs of the applicant.

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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 Aug 28, 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 is seasonal aerial firefighting?

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 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 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 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.

More about Seasonal Aerial Firefighting jobs

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:

What job categories do people searching Seasonal Aerial Firefighting jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Seasonal Aerial Firefighting jobs are:

Seasonal Aerial Firefighting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Seasonal Aerial Firefighting job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Lockheed C130 Hercules A&P Mechanic

Coulson Aviation

Thermal, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Join the Elite Team Supporting the Legendary C130 Hercules in the Fight Against Wildfires!

Coulson Aviation is opening opportunities to qualified Top-tier Mechanics to maintain our growing fleet of C130 Hercules—the backbone of aerial firefighting worldwide.

At Coulson Aviation, we don’t just fly—we fight wildfires across the globe with one of the most advanced fleets in the industry. With a fleet consisting of Boeing 737 FIRELINERS™, Hercules C130, Citation, King Air, CH-47D Chinooks and UH-60 Blackhawks, we deliver rapid-response aerial support in Canada, the USA, Chile, and Australia.

The Lockheed C130 Hercules is an admired aviation icon —and our fleet is expanding! At Coulson Aviation, we proudly operate and maintain these aircraft to the highest standards, continuing to lead the aerial fire suppression industry with unmatched capability.

Why Join Us?

  • Equal time on/Off schedules – Work hard, rest well.
  • Year round, competitive salary - No seasonal uncertainty.
  • No Relocation Needed – We fly you in and out.
  • Comprehensive Health & Retirement Benefits – We've got your back.
  • Adventure & Purpose – Be part of a global firefighting mission.

Once Here, You’ll:

  • Travel with aircraft when dispatched while on fire contract, by ground or air
  • Perform field maintenance and daily checks of the aircraft
  • Manage and maintain spares, inventory, and ordering for parts trailer as required
  • Operate truck and trailer when aircraft is repositioned
  • Grow with us in on-the-job and external training programs
  • Nurture and uphold a safe working culture

What You Bring:

  • AME or A&P license (or ability to obtain)
  • Ability to obtain CDL Class A drivers license (pick up and trailer combo only)
  • Previous industry experience with similar aircraft type
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Valid passport
  • Willingness to travel internationally on predetermined work schedules
  • Preference will be given to candidates with a C130 maintenance background

Interested in joining us? Apply now!

We are committed to providing accommodation for people with disabilities. If you require accommodation through any element of the job application process, please notify us and we will work with you to meet your needs.

Due to the volume of applications we receive, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please.

Apply