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Temporary Air Attack Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Temporary Helicopter Pilot - Orangeburg, SC LifeNet - SC EC-130 / VFR Off-Duty Housing available ... As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us ...

Temporary Helicopter Pilot

Taos, NM · On-site

$87K - $109K/yr

Overview Temporary Rotor Wing Pilot - TriState Careflight Taos, NM EMS Air Medical Aircraft: AS350 ... As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us ...

Temporary Helicopter Pilot

Taos, NM

$87K - $109K/yr

Temporary Rotor Wing Pilot - TriState Careflight Taos, NM EMS Air Medical Aircraft: AS350 (VFR) 110 ... As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us ...

Temporary Helicopter Pilot

Evergreen, AL · On-site

$82K - $102K/yr

Overview Temporary Rotor Wing Pilot - LifeSaver Evergreen, AL EMS Air Medical Aircraft: B407 (VFR ... As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us ...

Temporary Helicopter Pilot

Evergreen, AL · On-site

$82K - $102K/yr

Temporary Rotor Wing Pilot - LifeSaver Evergreen, AL EMS Air Medical Aircraft: B407 (VFR) Off-Duty ... As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us ...

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking an experienced Military Air Operations Planner (pilot ... Responsible for producing exercise Master Air Attack Plans (MAAPs), Exercise Special Instructions ...

Overview Temporary Helicopter Pilot - Orangeburg, SC LifeNet - SC EC-130 / VFR Off-Duty Housing ... As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us ...

Temporary Helicopter Pilot - Orangeburg, SC LifeNet - SC EC-130 / VFR Off-Duty Housing available ... As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us ...

Description SAIC is seeking an experienced Military Air Operations Planner (pilot, weapons officer ... Responsible for producing exercise Master Air Attack Plans (MAAPs), Exercise Special Instructions ...

Temporary Fixed Wing Pilot EMS Air Ambulance Aircraft: PC12 (IFR) $50,000 Base Stipend + Off-Duty Housing + $15,000 Sign-on Bonus AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE! Be a part of something bigger ...

Overview Temporary Fixed Wing Pilot EMS Air Ambulance Aircraft: PC12 (IFR) $50,000 Base Stipend + Off-Duty Housing + $15,000 Sign-on Bonus AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE! Be a part of ...

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking an experienced Military Air Operations Planner (pilot ... Responsible for producing exercise Master Air Attack Plans (MAAPs), Exercise Special Instructions ...

Showing results 21-40

Temporary Air Attack Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do temporary air attack pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for temporary air attack pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temporary air attack pilot?

Temporary Air Attack Pilots are specialized pilots who are hired on a seasonal or short-term basis, primarily to assist in aerial firefighting operations. Their main role is to coordinate and direct air resources, such as airtankers and helicopters, over wildfires. They fly aircraft that serve as aerial command and control platforms, guiding the strategic deployment of fire retardant and water drops. These pilots often work closely with ground firefighting crews to ensure effective communication and safety during fire suppression efforts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a temporary air attack pilot?

To thrive as a Temporary Air Attack Pilot, you need a commercial pilot's license, extensive experience in low-level flying, and thorough knowledge of aerial firefighting tactics. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, aerial communication equipment, and fire mapping software is crucial. Strong decision-making, situational awareness, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These capabilities are vital to ensure safe, coordinated, and effective aerial support in high-pressure wildfire suppression operations.

What are some common challenges faced by temporary air attack pilots during wildfire season?

Temporary Air Attack Pilots often face rapidly changing weather conditions, limited visibility due to smoke, and the need to make quick decisions in high-pressure environments. Coordination with ground crews, other aircraft, and incident commanders is crucial, requiring strong communication skills and situational awareness. Additionally, long shifts during peak fire activity and the temporary nature of the role can make work-life balance and job security more challenging compared to permanent positions.

What is the difference between Temporary Air Attack Pilot vs Helicopter Firefighter Pilot?

AspectTemporary Air Attack PilotHelicopter Firefighter Pilot
CredentialsCommercial Pilot Certificate, specific firefighting or aerial application trainingCommercial Pilot Certificate, firefighting helicopter training
Work EnvironmentWildfire suppression, aerial firefighting, often in remote areasFirefighting missions, often in rugged terrains and during wildfire seasons
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, firefighting contractors, forestry servicesFire departments, forestry agencies, specialized firefighting companies

While both roles involve aerial firefighting, a Temporary Air Attack Pilot primarily coordinates and directs firefighting efforts from the air, whereas a Helicopter Firefighter Pilot actively engages in flying firefighting missions. The main differences lie in their specific responsibilities and training focus, but both require similar certifications and work in wildfire suppression environments.

What cities are hiring for Temporary Air Attack Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Temporary Air Attack Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Air Attack Pilot jobs?

The most popular types of Air Attack Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Temporary Air Attack Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Temporary Air Attack Pilot jobs include:

Infographic showing various Temporary Air Attack Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Temporary Helicopter Pilot

Air Methods

Orangeburg, SC

$82K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Air Methods rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 888 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview:

Temporary Helicopter Pilot - Orangeburg, SC

LifeNet - SC

EC-130 / VFR 

Off-Duty Housing available

$15,000 Sign on Bonus (new hires only)

AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE!

As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our communities. We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high-performing culture, sparked by teammates who deliver on being the best!

Location

Located in the heart of South Carolina, Orangeburg offers the perfect blend of small-town charm, Southern hospitality, and convenient access to some of the state’s best destinations. Known as the “Garden City,” Orangeburg is surrounded by beautiful parks, lakes, and outdoor recreation, while Columbia and Charleston are both within an easy drive for bigger-city entertainment, dining, and weekend getaways. With a relaxed pace of life, affordable living, and a welcoming community, Orangeburg is a great place to build a career while enjoying everything the Lowcountry and Midlands have to offer.

Benefits

Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package created with the diverse needs of our teammates in mind:

  • Health, Dental and Vision
  • Competitive 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Flexible Spending Account Benefit Plans
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Full Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • AD&D Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Business Travel Accident Insurance
  • Voluntary Legal
  • Relocation Assistance
  • Employee Assistance and Benefit Concierge Service Programs

Job Summary

Responsible to ensure aircraft and weather conditions are airworthy to transport medical crew and patient to receiving hospital within an assigned operational area. Responsible for compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR), Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), General Operations Manual guidelines (GOM), and thorough knowledge of Air Methods policies and procedures.

Responsibilities:

Essential Functions and Responsibilities include the following:

  • Operates Air Methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner.
  • Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by sign off of Daily Flight Log. Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight and upon completion of each flight.
  • Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and equipment.
  • Must be thoroughly familiar with all aircraft and medical systems of backup aircraft utilized at operational area and also ensures that the medical flight team is familiar and comfortable with the medical interior and systems.
  • Responsible for completion of required documentation.
  • Able to conduct detailed flight planning with little notice to exacting standards.
  • Participates regularly in Air Methods meetings, activities, projects, committees and community outreach.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Additional Job Requirements

  • Regular scheduled attendance. (7/7 schedule - 12-hour shifts)

Subject to applicable laws and Air Method’s policies, regular attendance is an essential function of the position.  All employees must follow Air Methods’ employment practices and policies.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position has no supervisory responsibilities. 

Compensation

Compensation commensurate with flight and EMS experience from $82,900 per year.

Qualifications:

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  In accordance with applicable laws, Air Methods will provide reasonable accommodations that do not create an undue burden so disabled employees may perform the essential functions of the position.

Pay Scale

Based on flight and EMS experience.

Education & Experience

  • Associate’s degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school and two  to five years’ related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Bachelor’s degree preferred

Operation and Safety Requirements:

  • As a member of the Flight Crew, any person employed in this position shall maintain a weight not to exceed 250 pounds and shall be less than seventy (70) years old.

Skills

  • Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment
  • Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months

Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program:

  • 2000 total flight hours with a minimum of 1500 flight hours in category.
  • 1000 hours PIC in category.
  • 500 hours of rotor wing turbine.
  • 200 hours of cross-country flight time, at least 50 hours at night.
  • 100 hours unaided night as PIC (50 hours of unaided can be substituted by 100 hours of NVG time, but cannot be reduced below 50 hours of unaided time).
  • 50 hours total actual or hood instrument time in flight and in category (for a RW candidate who is FW rated, 100 hours or greater of FW actual or hood Instrument time can reduce the RW required instrument time to 25 hours).

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

  • Instrument rating (for category and class of aircraft)(ATP rating in category meets this requirement)
  • Fixed wing multiengine rating is required for twin-engine aircraft
  • Commercial single-engine land is required for single-engine aircraft
  • First OR Second Class FAA Medical certificate required.


This position is subject to drug and/or alcohol testing per the DOT/FAA requirements (pre-employment, random, reasonable cause/suspicion, post-accident).
Air Methods is an EEO/AA employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Benefits:

For more information on our industry-leading benefits, please visit our benefits page here. 

Internal bidding ends August 24, 2026

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities:

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

This position will be open and posted until filled, with a minimum posting period of three days.


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About Air Methods

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Air Methods is the most responsive and reliable provider of critical care transportation solutions. We partner with our EMS and hospital customers to solve the challenges of patient logistics and save lives. We deliver industry-leading performance in safety, clinical quality, and patient advocacy, committing to zero balance bills. In addition to caring for others, we care for our own teammates: building a high-performing culture where people are passionate about their work and always bring their best. We can't be the industry-leading air medical company without you.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Englewood, CO, US

Year founded

1980