ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Seasonal Aerial Firefighting Jobs in Oregon (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.

All JobsAerial Firefighting JobsSeasonal Aerial Firefighting JobsSeasonal Aerial Firefighting Jobs in Oregon

Seasonal Aerial Firefighting information

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.

What are popular job titles related to Seasonal Aerial Firefighting jobs in Oregon?

For Seasonal Aerial Firefighting jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

Seasonal Aerial Firefighting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Seasonal Aerial Firefighting job openings in Oregon as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Airbus H145 Mechanic - Fleet

Hillsboro Aviation

Hillsboro, OR • On-site

$26.50 - $33.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 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.


Apply