Seasonal Helicopter Firefighting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About Us
PJ Helicopters is a family-run, world-class precision helicopter lift service operating nationwide. Since 1970, PJ Helicopters has earned a reputation for excellence by consistently delivering safe, reliable, and efficient aerial solutions for its customers.
With a fleet of more than 50 aircraft, PJH primarily supports the utility, forestry, and construction industries. Our operations are built on three core pillars: world-class equipment, highly skilled and experienced personnel, and an unwavering commitment to customer service. From project planning through execution, PJ Helicopters works closely with clients to ensure missions are performed safely, efficiently, and to the highest professional standard.
About this Role
PJ Helicopters is seeking an experienced AS350 pilot with drill moving experience for a Utility Pilot position flying in support of Utility Powerline Construction, and Drill Support operations for 2026. This is a full-time permanent position. Qualified applicants will have opportunities to transition into additional airframes including the Bell 407, Bell 429, Bell 212, UH-60A, and CH-47.
Qualified candidates include those with proven experience flying the AS350 safely in the wire environment, performing HEC work, and - critically - executing drill moves with precision and efficiency. Only applicants who meet minimum qualifications will be considered.
PJH is known for our state-of-the-art helicopter external load capabilities, and our drill support operations are among the most demanding and rewarding missions we fly. We have established ourselves as an industry leader in safe and successful operations. We take great pride in hiring the most talented and professional pilots.
PJ Helicopters, Inc. has been an aviation industry leader throughout the United States for over 50 years. Industries supported include utility, forestry, construction, defense, charter, and many more. Employees at PJH have access to over 40 airframes from a range of manufacturers including Airbus, Boeing, Bell, Sikorsky, Pilatus, Cessna, and more. From drill support in an AS350, to flying a 407 in the utility wire environment, to precision external load in a UH-60 - it's our diverse fleet, wide range of customers, and opportunities for advancement that make PJH an exceptional place to build a career.
What You'll Do
• Flying in the wire environment in support of powerline construction and utility patrol
• External load operations including HEC and construction support
• Maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism in demanding terrain and job site conditions
What You'll Bring
Minimum Qualifications
• PIC time in AS350: Required - drill moving experience strongly preferred
• PIC time in Bell 407, Bell 429, and/or Bell 212 (a plus, not required)
• Total PIC time: 2,500 hrs.
• Mountain/high-density altitude flying experience: strongly preferred
• VR time: 500 hrs. (preferred)
• HEC experience (preferred)
• Sock line pulling (preferred)
• Firefighting experience (preferred)
• Wire environment experience required
• Must have in knowledge in CFR 133 /135.
• Relocation (not required for qualified individuals).
• Potential to progress into other airframes
• 2/2 schedule offering (for qualified individuals).
Only applicants that meet the minimum qualifications will be reviewed.
What You'll Get
Full-time employees are eligible for our comprehensive insurance benefits package with PPO and HSA options, as well as dental, vision, life insurance, and other ancillary policies. Full-time employees are eligible for a 401k Program with Employer-Matching, Vacation, Holiday Pay, California Overtime rules, and more. The PJH base in Red Bluff, CA encompasses 100,000+ sq. feet of operations and maintenance hangars, including an employee fitness center.
Our facility is located 1.5 hours north of Sacramento and 30 minutes south of Redding, CA, both commercial airline destinations. PJH fulfills multiple contracts annually throughout the United States with concentration in the Western US.
Seasonal positions are available, and those hired with the qualifications (or who obtain them during their initial assignment) may advance to full-time status and would be eligible for the full benefits package. We encourage you to learn more about us at www.PJHELICOPTERS.com, where you can find and submit our standard application.
Compensation Range
The anticipated compensation for this position is USD $110,000.00/Yr. - USD $150,000.00/Yr. depending on experience and qualifications.
Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company's Human Resources department.