S61-Pilot In Command
Portland, OR ยท On-site
S-61 Pilot in Command (PIC) About Coulson Aviation Coulson Aviation is a global leader in aerial ... and/or tank operations experience - Previous firefighting or utility helicopter experience ...
Portland, OR ยท On-site
S-61 Pilot in Command (PIC) About Coulson Aviation Coulson Aviation is a global leader in aerial ... and/or tank operations experience - Previous firefighting or utility helicopter experience ...
Portland, OR ยท On-site
S-61 Pilot in Command (PIC) About Coulson Aviation Coulson Aviation is a global leader in aerial ... and/or tank operations experience - Previous firefighting or utility helicopter experience ...
$15 - $22.25
13% of jobs
$24.86 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$22.25 - $29.51
34% of jobs
The median wage is $30.79 / hr.
$29.51 - $36.76
18% of jobs
$41.35 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$36.76 - $44.02
16% of jobs
$44.02 - $51.27
13% of jobs
$51.27 - $58.53
4% of jobs
$58.53 - $65.78
1% of jobs
$65.78 - $73.04
0% of jobs
$73.04 - $80.29
0% of jobs
$80.29 - $87.55
0% of jobs
$87.55 - $94.80
1% of jobs
$14
$39
$94
| Aspect | Tankerman Pic | Tankerman Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | Requires Basic Tankerman Certification and Tankerman PIC endorsement | Requires Basic Tankerman Certification, but usually not PIC endorsement |
| Work Environment | Handles fueling, transfer, and safety operations on tank vessels | Assists with tank operations, maintenance, and safety tasks |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Commonly employed in maritime shipping, oil, and chemical industries | Works alongside Tankerman Pic in similar settings |
The Tankerman Pic and Tankerman Assistant roles are closely related, with the Pic holding additional certifications and responsibilities. The Pic oversees tank operations and safety, while the Assistant supports these tasks. Both roles are vital in maritime fuel transfer and chemical handling industries, often working together on the same vessels.
A tankerman is a Coast Guard mariner credential. A tankerman carries out and oversees the transfer and storage of liquid cargo such as fuel or oil. Credentials are for a tankerman assistant, tankerman engineer, and tankerman person in charge (tankerman-PIC), whose duties involve overseeing the transfer process and storage. To obtain a tankerman-PIC endorsement, you need 90 days of service on tanker or 60 days on a barge or ship. You also need to complete Coast Guard firefighting and cargo courses and learn the skills for liquid cargo transfers under the supervision of another tankerman-PIC.

Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement
Posted 5 days ago
S-61 Pilot in Command (PIC)
About Coulson Aviation
Coulson Aviation is a global leader in aerial firefighting, operating across the United States, Canada, Australia, and South America. Our diverse fleet of fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft supports rapid response wildfire suppression, including both initial and extended attack operations.
As part of the Coulson Group, we have over 65 years of operational experience and continued growth in the aviation and firefighting industry.
No relocation required. Pilots may live anywhere in the U.S. we provide travel to and from assignments.
Position Overview
The S-61 Pilot in Command (PIC) reports to the Chief Pilot and is responsible for the safe, efficient, and professional execution of all assigned flight operations.
This role requires a strong working knowledge of applicable FAA regulations (Parts 91, 133, 135, and 137), company procedures, and operational best practices.
Missions may include:
- Aerial firefighting (day and night operations)
- External load (logging and construction)
- Ferry and repositioning flights
- Reconnaissance
- Emergency response and disaster mitigation
-Pilots are expected to manage daily operational requirements, support contract execution, and represent Coulson Aviation with professionalism in all interactions.
Key Responsibilities
- Exercise final authority for the safe operation of the aircraft in accordance with 14 CFR 91.3.
- Review flight assignments, weather, NOTAMs, and mission-specific requirements.
- Ensure proper preflight planning, including weight & balance, fuel, routing, and performance.
- Conduct thorough aircraft inspections and ensure readiness for flight.
- Verify all maintenance discrepancies have been procedurally complied with, deferred, or corrected by maintenance personnel in accordance with the approved Minimum Equipment Lis for the aircraft, prior to flight.
- Ensure all required documents, equipment, and materials are onboard.
- Maintain accurate flight logs and operational records.
- Conduct passenger and crew briefings, when applicable.
- Coordinate effectively during pilot shift changes.
- Ensure compliance with duty and flight time limitations.
- Support and mentor copilots and crew members.
- Assist with aircraft cleanliness and basic support to maintenance as needed.
- Maintain a high standard of professionalism with clients and stakeholders.
Minimum Requirements
- FAA Commercial Rotorcraft License
- Instrument Rating (Helicopter)
- Qualified to act as PIC in the S-61 or similar aircraft
- Minimum 2,500 hours PIC (helicopter) preferred
- Must meet or exceed USFS PIC qualification requirements
- No FAA violations or enforcement actions within the past 5 years
- Strong knowledge of FAA regulations and operational standards
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment
- Team-oriented with strong decision-making skills
- High school diploma or equivalent
Preferred Qualifications
- Night Vision Goggle (NVG) experience
- Vertical reference and/or tank operations experience
- Previous firefighting or utility helicopter experience
- Experience supervising crew and copilots
Work Environment
- Field-based operations in dynamic and remote environments
- Exposure to noise, dust, fumes, and varying weather conditions
- Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications
- Company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Flexible work schedule supporting work-life balance
- Travel provided to and from assignments
Equal Opportunity Employer
Coulson Aviation is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities and reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process.