1

Seasonal Helicopter Firefighting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Seasonal Helicopter Firefighting information

See salary details

$59.5K

$96.4K

$102.5K

How much do seasonal helicopter firefighting jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for seasonal helicopter firefighting in the United States is $96,397.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Seasonal Helicopter Firefighting vs Fixed-Wing Firefighting Pilot?

AspectSeasonal Helicopter FirefightingFixed-Wing Firefighting Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), rotorcraft ratings, firefighting-specific trainingCommercial Pilot License (CPL), fixed-wing ratings, firefighting-specific training
Work EnvironmentHelicopter operations in rugged, remote areas during fire seasonFixed-wing aircraft in larger airfields or remote areas during fire season
Industry UsagePrimarily used for aerial suppression, water drops, and access in difficult terrainUsed for large-scale fire suppression, long-distance water drops, and monitoring

Seasonal Helicopter Firefighting involves piloting rotorcraft to combat wildfires in challenging terrains, requiring specific certifications and training. Fixed-Wing Firefighting Pilots operate larger aircraft for extensive fire suppression efforts. Both roles are vital in wildfire management but differ mainly in aircraft type, work environment, and operational scope.

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

To thrive as a Seasonal Helicopter Firefighter, you need strong physical fitness, wildfire suppression knowledge, and qualifications such as basic wildland firefighter certification (e.g., NWCG FFT2) and helicopter safety training. Familiarity with radio communication systems, GPS navigation, and personal protective equipment (PPE) is typically required. Exceptional teamwork, quick decision-making, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring personal safety, effective firefighting operations, and seamless coordination during high-risk, rapidly evolving wildfire situations.

What are some typical challenges faced by seasonal helicopter firefighting crews, and how are they addressed on the job?

Seasonal helicopter firefighting crews often face unpredictable working conditions, including rapidly changing weather, difficult terrain, and long hours during peak wildfire season. Effective communication and teamwork are essential to ensure safety and coordinate complex aerial operations with ground crews. Continuous training, adherence to safety protocols, and regular briefings help crews adapt quickly to evolving fire situations and mitigate risks. The dynamic nature of the role requires flexibility, resilience, and a strong commitment to safety.

What is seasonal helicopter firefighting?

Seasonal helicopter firefighting involves working as part of a team that uses helicopters to combat wildfires during peak fire seasons, typically in the summer months. These firefighters are responsible for flying in helicopters to perform tasks such as dropping water or fire retardant, transporting personnel and equipment, and conducting reconnaissance missions. The job is physically demanding and often requires long hours in challenging and hazardous conditions. Most positions are temporary and support government agencies or private contractors during high wildfire activity. Specialized training and certifications are typically required to ensure safety and effectiveness.
More about Seasonal Helicopter Firefighting jobs
What cities are hiring for Seasonal Helicopter Firefighting jobs? Cities with the most Seasonal Helicopter Firefighting job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Helicopter Firefighting jobs? The most popular types of Helicopter Firefighting jobs are:
What states have the most Seasonal Helicopter Firefighting jobs? States with the most job openings for Seasonal Helicopter Firefighting jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Seasonal Helicopter Firefighting jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Seasonal Helicopter Firefighting jobs are:
Infographic showing various Seasonal Helicopter Firefighting job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Temporary. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,397 per year, or $46.3 per hour.
Seasonal Helicopter Crewmember 2026-01271

Seasonal Helicopter Crewmember 2026-01271

State of Wyoming

Cheyenne, WY • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


State Of Wyoming rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 50 rated states


Job description

Description and Functions Open Until Filled GENERAL DESCRIPTION: The Office of State Lands and Investments, Wyoming State Forestry Division (WSFD) seeks a Seasonal Helicopter Crewmember to serve as a member of a wildland firefighting crew that provides wildland fire suppression, management, and control. The Helitack Firefighter is primarily transported by helicopter and is responsible for performing pre-suppression, fire prevention, and wildland fire suppression activities for WSFD. Working for the State of Wyoming offers more than a paycheck.

Our total compensation package includes: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance Paid vacation, sick leave, FMLA, and holidays Retirement - Pension and 457B plans that help you build a secure future Meaningful work that makes a difference for Wyoming communities and MUCH MORE. Click here for detailed information, or you can watch this short video to learn about our benefit package. Want to see the full value of your compensation beyond salary.

?. Explore our Total Compensation Calculator: https://compensationcalculator.wyo.gov Human Resource Contact: Ryan Scheer / 307-777-8570 / ryan.scheer2@wyo.gov ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function which may be performed at the job level. Performs wildland fire duties, including hand-line construction, water handling, general and aerial suppression support, prevention activities, equipment inspections, and training

Performs Helicopter Crewmember (HECM) duties, including Initial Attack and Helibase support. Maintains accurate maintenance record books for support vehicles. Ensures accurate time and Fire Activity Reporting, mid-month, and end of the month as requested by supervisor.

Performs project work both on and off duty station, including but not limited to fuel reduction, timber stand improvement, and pile burning. Performs general facility and compound duties. Qualifications PREFERENCES/**AGENCY REQUIREMENTS: Preference may be given to candidates with at least one season of experience on a wildland firefighting crew.

**A Helicopter crew member must meet the firefighter's physical fitness qualifications at level III Arduous and must possess a current Red Card certification as a Helicopter Crewmember (HECM) or Helicopter Crewmember - Trainee (HECM-T) per NWCG 310-1. KNOWLEDGE: Knowledge of complex wildland firefighting techniques, fire equipment, fire behavior, fuel models, and the Incident Command System. Skills in written and oral communications and interpersonal relationships.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: None - See "Preferences" Necessary Special Requirements PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS: Many of the duties performed require considerable physical exertion, working outdoors in all terrain and weather conditions, working long hours, and extended periods of time away from home. Duties include, but may not be limited to, the ability to carry up to 45 pounds, run, bend, twist, walk, and/or climb. A work capacity test or "pack" test that measures the physical fitness of candidates is administered as part of the selection process.

Candidates are required to pass at the "Arduous" level for a firefighter crewmember or natural resource worker position. NOTES: FLSA: Non-Exempt The employment period is from approximately April 2026 to November 2026 but may be extended to support the agency's mission. This is a seasonal, hourly position.

Housing is furnished at the Duncan Ranch Helibase. Additional benefits may be available depending on the length of the season. Supplemental Information Wyoming State Forestry Division website: wsfd.wyo.gov/ Click here to view the State of Wyoming Classification and Pay Structure

URL: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/wyoming/default.cfm The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities. Class Specifications are subject to change, please refer to the A & I HRD Website to ensure that you have the most recent version.


What State Of Wyoming employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


State of Wyoming logo

About State of Wyoming

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of Wyoming is not a company, but the government administration of the U.S. state named Wyoming, with headquarters in the capital city, Cheyenne. Its website, wyo.gov, serves as the official online portal for the state government, providing a diverse range of services focused on improving the lives of its residents. The government's mission encompasses various sectors including education, healthcare, transport, justice, and financial services.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cheyenne, WY, US

Year founded

1890

Social media