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Trainee Cal Fire Aviation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AIRCRAFT MECHANIC

Helena, MT · On-site +1

$37.02 - $48.64/hr

Ensures Unit Level Logistics-Aviation (ULLS-A) and other aircraft documentation accurately reflects ... Conducts and certifies proficiency of trainees for additional or increased responsibilities.

Because of our heritage in the construction and aviation industry, we understand the importance of ... Qualify trainees' when performing driving tasks with tugs, fuel trucks, golf carts, and crew ...

Electrical/IT Inspector

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role offers the opportunity to work on complex aviation infrastructure projects involving ... Cal-OSHA 30-Hour training completed within the last 4 years. * Knowledge of NFPA 70, NFPA 70E, and ...

AIRCRAFT MECHANIC

Helena, MT · On-site +1

$37.02 - $48.64/hr

... Aviation Support Facility. (A copy of the Position Description can be obtained from HRO upon ... Conducts and certifies proficiency of trainees for additional or increased responsibilities.

NC · On-site

$33K - $59K/yr

Selected candidates will be hired as a Highway Patrol Telecommunicator Trainee at a starting salary ... Support critical operations involving officer safety, SHP Aviation Mission emergencies, severe ...

Showing results 41-60

Trainee Cal Fire Aviation information

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$25.5K

$43.5K

$63.5K

How much do trainee cal fire aviation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee cal fire aviation in the United States is $43,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,000.00 and $51,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What training and mentorship can a new Trainee Cal Fire Aviation expect during their initial months on the job?

As a new Trainee Cal Fire Aviation, you can expect a structured onboarding process that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on field training, often under the supervision of experienced pilots and aviation crew members. You'll learn essential safety protocols, aircraft operations, wildfire behavior, and emergency response procedures. Mentorship is a key part of the program, with senior team members providing guidance and feedback as you progress. Collaboration with ground firefighting teams and other aviation units is routine, preparing you for integrated wildfire response. The initial months are intense but highly supportive, designed to build your skills and confidence for eventual independent assignments.

What is the difference between Trainee Cal Fire Aviation vs Firefighter?

AspectTrainee Cal Fire AviationFirefighter
CertificationsBasic safety and aviation-related certificationsFirefighter I certification, EMT
Work EnvironmentAircraft operations, aerial firefighting trainingGround firefighting, rescue operations
Employer & IndustryCal Fire, aviation unitsCal Fire, local fire departments

The Trainee Cal Fire Aviation role focuses on aviation-specific training and aircraft operations, often as a stepping stone to becoming a full aviation firefighter. Firefighters perform ground-based firefighting and rescue tasks. Both roles require safety certifications and serve within Cal Fire, but the aviation trainee emphasizes aerial skills, while firefighters focus on ground operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee Cal Fire Aviation, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Cal Fire Aviation, you need foundational firefighting knowledge, physical fitness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with preference for EMT certification or prior aviation experience. Familiarity with aviation communication systems, GPS navigation, and fire suppression equipment is typically required. Strong teamwork, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safety, effective coordination, and successful wildfire response in demanding and hazardous environments.

What is a Trainee Cal Fire Aviation?

Trainee Cal Fire Aviation positions are entry-level roles within the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection's (Cal Fire) aviation program. Individuals in these positions receive specialized training to support aerial firefighting operations, including learning to assist with aircraft maintenance, logistics, and flight operations. Trainees work closely with experienced aviation professionals to acquire the skills necessary for roles such as helicopter crew members, fixed-wing support personnel, or future pilots. This position is ideal for those interested in a firefighting career that combines aviation and emergency response, offering hands-on experience and the opportunity to advance within Cal Fire's aviation unit.
More about Trainee Cal Fire Aviation jobs

What cities are hiring for Trainee Cal Fire Aviation jobs?

Cities with the most Trainee Cal Fire Aviation job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Cal Fire Aviation jobs?

The most popular types of Cal Fire Aviation jobs are:

What states have the most Trainee Cal Fire Aviation jobs?

States with the most job openings for Trainee Cal Fire Aviation jobs include:

Infographic showing various Trainee Cal Fire Aviation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,530 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

AIRCRAFT MECHANIC

Army National Guard Units

Helena, MT • On-site, Remote

$37.02 - $48.64/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Army National Guard rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Summary
THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 32 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION.
This National Guard position is for an AIRCRAFT MECHANIC, Position Description Numbers D0483000/D0484000/D1063000, and is part of the Montana Army National Guard, Army Aviation Support Facility. (A copy of the Position Description can be obtained from HRO upon request.)
Selecting Official: MSG Dan Johnson
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Duties
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Manages, monitors or performs overall maintenance, servicing, inspections and documentation for one or more highly technical, high performance military aircraft. Performs work in complex conditions under time and/or mission constraints to include all weather and night operations. Works with, coordinates and oversees the work of lower graded aircraft mechanics and certifies the work of journey level workers in other trades working on the assigned aircraft. Performs damage assessments and repairs. Participates in mission preparation and recovery operations. Oversees installation of equipment for special missions. Expedites aircraft operations to include concurrent servicing, refueling, and/or reconfiguration of equipment for changes in operational missions. Performs preflight, thru flight, and post-flight inspections and scheduled or unscheduled maintenance. Serves as the technical authority to identify and advise on requirements for airframe, mechanical, electrical/environmental, avionics, engine, and pneudraulic repairs on assigned aircraft. Works closely with maintenance supervisor(s) and production control personnel to report and maintain current aircraft status.
Requests maintenance services exceeding AASF capabilities or time constraints. Controls and performs work assignments based upon priorities, workload, availability of parts, facilities, material and personnel. Coordinates with maintenance supervisor(s) and production control on maintenance requirements to aircraft that require adjustment to changes in operational requirements. Observes and inspects performance of other workers work to insure compliance with applicable technical publications, directives and local policy. Accomplishes operational tests of aircraft systems and components.
Oversees ground movement of aircraft. Incumbent launches, recovers, parks and services aircraft.
Makes diagnoses and solves malfunctions of aircraft systems and components by utilizing a wide variety of complex, state of the art computerized and/or non-computerized Test Measurement Diagnostic Equipment (TMDE); by studying layout drawings, blueprints and wiring diagrams; and analyzing specifications and operating characteristics of aircraft and their components. Assists AVCRAD/DEPOT level maintenance activities on individual assigned aircraft discrepancies as required.
Ensures Unit Level Logistics-Aviation (ULLS-A) and other aircraft documentation accurately reflects status and airworthiness of assigned aircraft. Provides technical guidance and assistance to flight crews regarding observed discrepancies, experienced in-flight characteristics and system malfunctions. Performs or assists in aircrew debriefing.
Clears Red X status symbols on aircraft forms for work performed by others. Performs in-process and final inspection of others' work on assigned aircraft and components and certifies by signature adherence to work procedures and quality standards established by applicable publications. Participates in Maintenance Test Flights as a crewmember or Technical Observer (TO), as required. May participate in operational flights as a crewmember or Flight Engineer. Makes decisions on a wide range of matters to ensure assigned aircraft is in the highest state of readiness and that maintenance performed is in accordance with the highest standards of safety, quality and technical compliance.
Plans, develops and conducts proficiency training during the technician work week to a multifaceted workforce comprised of Full Time Support (FTS) and supported unit personnel. Sessions are designed to provide training in techniques of repair and maintenance of aircraft and related equipment. Conducts and certifies proficiency of trainees for additional or increased responsibilities. Evaluates training by observation of performed tasks. Continuously assesses skill level and proficiency of assigned personnel.
Prepares for and participates in various types of readiness evaluations, inspections, mobilization and support exercises. Performs such additional duties as structural fire fighting, aircraft fire/crash/rescue duty, security guard, snow removal, munitions loading and handling, maintenance of facilities and equipment or serves as a member of teams to cope with natural disasters or civil emergencies. Travels in military aircraft and drives/operates military vehicles/equipment. Participates in various periods of temporary duty away from the place of assignment, as required.
Complies with safety, fire, security, environmental, and housekeeping regulations. Ensures material and equipment are properly and safely maintained and protected.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • NATIONAL GUARD MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED. This is an excepted service position that requires membership in the employing state's National Guard. Selectee will be required to wear the military uniform.
  • Acceptance of an excepted service position constitutes concurrence with these requirements as a condition of employment.
  • Males born after 31 December 1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • Federal employment suitability as determined by a background investigation.
  • May be required to successfully complete a probationary period.
  • Participation in direct deposit is mandatory.
  • Appointments in the Title 32 MTNG technician program may terminate/suspend your military incentives; please see your MTNG Retention Office/Military Personnel Incentive Program Manager for details.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain the appropriate security clearance of the position.
  • External applicants must be able to start within 6 months of selection.
  • This position is covered by the Domestic Violence Misdemeanor Amendment (30 Sep 96) of the Gun Control Act (Lautenberg Amendment) of 1968. An individual convicted of a qualifying crime of domestic violence may not perform the duties of this position.
  • Ability to establish effective professional working relationships with coworkers and customers, contributing to a cooperative working environment and successful accomplishment of the mission.
  • May occasionally be required to work other than normal duty hours; overtime may be required.
  • The duties and responsibilities of your job may significantly impact the environment. You are responsible to maintain awareness of your environmental responsibilities as dictated by legal and regulatory requirements and your organization.

Qualifications
Military Grades:
E1 - E8

GENERAL EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS FOR WG-10, WG-11, & WG-12:
Must have experience or training that has provided you with the skill to remove and replace aircraft parts, accessories, and components, and to make adjustments and settings according to established specifications; skill in the use of hand tools and test equipment.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS FOR WG-10:
Must have experience or training installing, adjusting, aligning, troubleshooting, and functionally testing the various major and minor mechanical and pneudraulic systems on an aircraft during overhaul or modification. Experience coordinating the work of other mechanics, and scheduling maintenance to ensure completion of critical actions and optimum workflow. Must have the ability to instruct lower graded mechanics, military and other personnel in the disassembly and re-assembly of crash damaged engines, transmissions, gearboxes, hydraulic components, and fuel controls sufficient for the exhibit to be returned to its shipping container.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS FOR WG-11 & WG-12:
Must have journey-level experience or training equivalent to or exceeding the WG-10 grade level, that may include performing duties as a dedicated crew chief. Experience including responsibility for performing, coordinating, and/or overseeing the work and any periodic inspections to be done on an aircraft whether it is alone, or with the assistance of other mechanics and/or workers. Experience including coordinating the work of other journey-level workers in other trades to work simultaneously on the aircraft. Experience including serving as the technical authority to advise on, examine, and approve all airframe, mechanical, electrical, and pneudraulic repairs of assigned aircraft.

***(MUST address your experiences in detail on your resume as they relate to these general and specialized experience requirements, to be considered for this position)***
SELECTIVE PLACEMENT FACTOR FOR WG-12 APPLICANTS ONLY:
Must have a Quality Control Technical Inspector certification.

(Must submit certification/memorandum with application to be considered for the WG-12 level)
PLACEMENT STATUS/TENURE OF SELECTEE:
TEMPORARY PROMOTION/REASSIGNMENT/CHANGE TO LOWER GRADE - For Title 32 permanent selectees only: This is an obligated position. If a permanent employee of this agency and in the Title 32 Excepted civil service accepts this position, he/she will retain their permanent status AND have rights to return to their previous Title 32 position.
TEMPORARY PROMOTION/REASSIGNMENT/CHANGE TO LOWER GRADE - For Title 32 Indefinite selectees only: This is an obligated position. If an indefinite employee of this agency and in the Title 32 Excepted civil service accepts this position, he/she will retain their indefinite status AND may return to their previous Title 32 indefinite position if it is still available.
INDEFINITE APPOINTMENT - For Current Title 5 selectees only: This is an obligated position. If an on-board employee in the Title 5 excepted civil service accepts this position, he/she will convert to a T32 indefinite appointment (tenure 3). This employee will have no reemployment rights to their previous T5 position.
INDEFINITE APPOINTMENT - State National Guard Members (includes T32 NTE employees and MTNG members not currently a federal employee): This is an obligated position. Selectee will be appointed as an indefinite employee (tenure 3).
Education
This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Additional information
If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/1959 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you be registered or you are not eligible for appointment in this agency (Register | Selective Service System : Selective Service System (sss.gov)).
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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.
Review our benefits
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.

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About Army National Guard

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The Army National Guard, headquartered in Arlington, VA, is a key constituent of the United States military, falling under the sector of Defense and Public Safety. Since its founding in 1636, it has served dual roles as both a state and federal military force that is activated in response to domestic emergencies and overseas combat missions. The Army National Guard embodies core values, including loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage, intending to uphold peace and serve the nation with unwavering dedication.

Industry

National security and international affairs

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US