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Seasonal Oil Rig Helicopter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Helicopter Pilot

Yakima, WA ยท On-site +1

$106K - $138K/yr

As a Helicopter Pilot is located in the Headquarters section of the United States Army Air ... This position has a mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination requirement and is subject to annual ...

Helicopter Pilot

Willcox, AZ

$85K - $106K/yr

Local highlights like Willcox Playa and nearby Twin Lakes bring rare wildlife, seasonal lakes, and ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Willcox, AZ ยท On-site

$85K - $106K/yr

Local highlights like Willcox Playa and nearby Twin Lakes bring rare wildlife, seasonal lakes, and ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Willcox, AZ ยท On-site

$85K - $106K/yr

Local highlights like Willcox Playa and nearby Twin Lakes bring rare wildlife, seasonal lakes, and ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Willcox, AZ

$85K - $106K/yr

Local highlights like Willcox Playa and nearby Twin Lakes bring rare wildlife, seasonal lakes, and ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Willcox, AZ ยท On-site

$85K - $106K/yr

Local highlights like Willcox Playa and nearby Twin Lakes bring rare wildlife, seasonal lakes, and ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

RW Pilot

Bedford, MA ยท On-site

$123K - $178K/yr

Air ambulance helicopter pilot responsible for the safe and efficient operation of helicopter air ... This position requires current COVID-19 and seasonal flu vaccinations, subject to medical or ...

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Seasonal Oil Rig Helicopter Pilot information

See salary details

$71.5K

$100.2K

$123.5K

How much do seasonal oil rig helicopter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for seasonal oil rig helicopter pilot in the United States is $100,249.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a seasonal oil rig helicopter pilot?

Seasonal Oil Rig Helicopter Pilots are professional pilots who operate helicopters that transport personnel, equipment, and supplies to and from offshore oil rigs, typically during peak operational seasons. Their work is essential for supporting oil and gas extraction activities in remote ocean locations. These pilots must have specialized training in offshore flying, adhere to rigorous safety protocols, and are often employed on a temporary or rotational basis to meet seasonal demand. Duties also include conducting pre-flight checks, monitoring weather conditions, and ensuring passenger safety during flights.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a seasonal oil rig helicopter pilot?

To thrive as a Seasonal Oil Rig Helicopter Pilot, you need a commercial helicopter pilot license, extensive flight hours (often 1000+), and specific offshore flying experience. Familiarity with flight planning software, navigation systems (such as GPS and avionics), and offshore safety certifications like HUET (Helicopter Underwater Escape Training) are typically required. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These qualifications and skills ensure safe, efficient transport in challenging environments, protecting crew and cargo during demanding offshore operations.

What are some unique challenges faced by seasonal oil rig helicopter pilots, and how can they prepare for them?

Seasonal oil rig helicopter pilots often contend with unpredictable weather, rapidly changing schedules, and the need for heightened situational awareness when landing on offshore platforms. Pilots must be adept at managing fatigue and adapting quickly to operational changes, as flights may be scheduled at irregular hours to meet rig demands. Strong communication with both flight operations teams and oil rig personnel is essential for safe and efficient transport. Pilots can prepare by maintaining proficiency with offshore procedures, staying updated on weather patterns, and building resilience through regular training and self-care practices.

What is the difference between Seasonal Oil Rig Helicopter Pilot vs Offshore Oil Rig Helicopter Pilot?

AspectSeasonal Oil Rig Helicopter PilotOffshore Oil Rig Helicopter Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, Heli-CommercialCommercial Pilot License, Heli-Commercial
Work EnvironmentSeasonal, limited to specific periodsYear-round, on offshore platforms
Employer & Industry UsageOil & Gas, seasonal projectsOil & Gas, continuous operations
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

While both roles require similar certifications and operate within the oil and gas industry, the key difference lies in the work environment. Seasonal Oil Rig Helicopter Pilots work during specific periods, whereas Offshore Oil Rig Helicopter Pilots operate year-round on offshore platforms. Understanding these distinctions helps candidates choose the right career path based on their availability and preferences.

How much do seasonal oil rig helicopter pilots make?

Seasonal oil rig helicopter pilots typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. They often work long shifts in remote environments and require specialized licenses such as a commercial pilot certificate with rotorcraft ratings.

Is 40 too late to become a seasonal oil rig helicopter pilot?

Becoming a seasonal oil rig helicopter pilot at age 40 is possible, as many pilots enter the industry later in life. Key requirements include relevant certifications, flight experience, and physical fitness, which are not strictly age-dependent but may vary by employer. Experience and skills often weigh more than age in hiring decisions for this role.
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What cities are hiring for Seasonal Oil Rig Helicopter Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Seasonal Oil Rig Helicopter Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Rig Helicopter Pilot jobs?

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What states have the most Seasonal Oil Rig Helicopter Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Seasonal Oil Rig Helicopter Pilot jobs include:

Infographic showing various Seasonal Oil Rig Helicopter Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,249 per year, or $48.2 per hour.

Helicopter Pilot

U.S. Army Forces Command

Yakima, WA โ€ข On-site, Remote

$106K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Summary
This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: As a Helicopter Pilot is located in the Headquarters section of the United States Army Air Ambulance Detachment located at the Yakima Training Center in Washington State.
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Duties
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  • Serve as Pilot-In-Command while operating heavy, multi-engine rotary wing aircraft to perform airlift support for DOD and civilian personnel.
  • Serve as Rotary Wing Instructor Pilot to train and evaluate aviators on basic and advanced flight techniques.
  • Serve as Rotary Wing Instrument Flight Examiner to instrument flight evaluations and training.
  • Serve as Rotary Wing Standardization Instructor Pilot to train and evaluate Instructor Pilots (IP), Flight Instructors (FI), and Standardization Instructors (SI).

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a SECRET level security clearance.
  • The duties of this position meet the criteria for compliance with Federal and Department of the Army Drug Free Workplace Programs. This position is subject to a pre-employment screening, and random testing thereafter.
  • This position has a mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination requirement and is subject to annual vaccination.
  • Due to the nature of this position, employees are required to work both planned and unscheduled overtime.
  • This position requires shift work to provide coverage on evenings, weekends, holidays, or special situations.
  • This position has a Temporary Duty (TDY) or business travel requirement of 10% of the time.
  • This position has been designated "Mission Essential".
  • Execution of aviation duties will require candidates to maintain a Class II Military Flight physical prior to establishing a start date.
  • Incumbent must possess a current and valid DA 2992 (or equivalent) authorizing completion of flying duties prior to establishing a start date.
  • This position requires you possess the appropriate Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Pilot Certificates,

Qualifications
Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience which includes 1) Operating a twin-engine helicopter at minimum controllable speeds and at low altitudes and 2) Over unfavorable terrain while providing lifesaving medical evacuation for a MEDEVAC Detachment and 3) Analyzing present and future weather conditions along the route of flight, avoiding unfavorable weather considering alternate routes and destinations. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-12).
Minimum Eligibility Requirements: Possession of the appropriate Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pilot certificates, and/or military rating, meeting the applicable flight hour requirements, and possession of the knowledge and skills required for the position. Flight hour information MUST in the body of the resume. Your application packet MUST include a copy of certificates/military ratings.
Flight hour requirements:
Total flight time: 1750 hours;
Pilot in Command: 1150 hours;
Night flying: 75 hours;
Last 12 months: 100 hours;
Heavy Helicopter: 500 hours;
Instrument: 75 hours.
Please review the OPM qualification standard for specific flight requirements: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/2100/aircraft-operation-series-2181/
Time in Grade Requirement: Applicants who have held a General Schedule (GS) position within the last 52 weeks must have 52 weeks of Federal service at the next lower grade or equivalent (GS-12).
Education
Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience aloneno substitution of education for experience is permitted
Additional information
  • Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
  • You will be required to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship.
  • This position requires a 1 year probationary period during which the agency evaluates your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In making this determination, the agency may consider your performance and conduct; agency needs and interests; whether your continued employment supports organizational or Government goals; and whether it promotes the efficiency of the Federal service. Continued employment requires written certification that it advances the public interest.
  • Direct Deposit of Pay is required.
  • Selection is subject to restrictions resulting from Department of Defense referral system for displaced employees.
  • If you have retired from federal service and you are interested in employment as a reemployed annuitant, see the information in the Reemployed Annuitant information sheet.
  • This is an Aviation CP 64 Career Field position.
  • Salary includes applicable locality pay or Local Market Supplement.
  • When you perform a Civilian Permanent Change of Station (PCS) with the government, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) considers the majority of your entitlements to be taxable. Visit https://www.dfas.mil/civilianemployees/civrelo/Civilian-Moving-Expenses-Tax-Deduction/ for more information.
  • Permanent Change of Station (PCS) allowances may be authorized, subject to the provisions of the Joint Travel Regulations and an agency determination that a PCS move is in the Government Interest.
  • Recruitment, Relocation incentivesmay be offered. Approval is at the discretion of the organization.
  • Student loan repayment may be offered. Approval is at the discretion of the organization.
  • Advance in Hire may be offered. Approval is at the discretion of the organization.

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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.