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Utility Helicopter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$90 - $120/hr

Helicopter PIC (BlackHawk and Bell, etc. exp. required) Work Schedule : 14 days on/10 days off JOB SUMMARY The employer is looking for a Utility Helicopter Pilot-in-Command (PIC) capable of providing ...

Helicopter Pilot

Arizona City, AZ ยท On-site

$90 - $150/hr

This role combines high-skill utility flying with a strong customer-facing component -- you'll be ... Helicopter Pilot Certificate with instrument rating Minimum 2,500 total flight hours Documented ...

HELICOPTER PILOT

Gulfport, MS ยท On-site +1

$110K - $144K/yr

Utility Helicopter (UH-60 series), (LUH-72 series) and others when assigned. Routinely operates ... Experienced in piloting and instructing pilot skills in one or more of the following main-frame ...

Helicopter Pilot

Chehalis, WA ยท On-site

$108K - $162K/yr

This helicopter pilot position is based out of Chehalis, Washington providing VFR helicopter ... Primary utility job functions are forestry fertilization, application of herbicides, and ...

Helicopter Pilot

Chehalis, WA ยท On-site

$109 - $163/hr

DescriptionThis helicopter pilot position is based out of Chehalis, Washington providing VFR ... Primary utility job functions are forestry fertilization, application of herbicides, and ...

Army Helicopter Analyst

Enterprise, AL ยท On-site

$90 - $110/hr

Experience as a Standardization Instructor Pilot (SIP) or Instructor Pilot (IP) in Army Aviation utility helicopter formations. * Experience operating current Army tactical utility aircraft fielded ...

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Utility Helicopter Pilot information

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How much do utility helicopter pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility helicopter pilot in the United States is $18.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a utility helicopter pilot?

A Utility Helicopter Pilot operates helicopters for a variety of missions, including transportation, surveillance, search and rescue, firefighting, and infrastructure support. These pilots often work for government agencies, military units, private companies, or emergency services. Their responsibilities include flight planning, aircraft maintenance checks, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They must be skilled in different flying conditions, sometimes in remote or hazardous environments. Proper licensing, training, and experience are required to qualify for this role.

What does a utility helicopter pilot do?

Utility Helicopter Pilots are often tasked with a variety of missions, such as aerial surveys, cargo and personnel transport, search and rescue operations, utility line inspections, and firefighting support. These assignments can involve flying in diverse and sometimes rugged environments, adapting to different weather and terrain conditions. You may work independently or as part of a coordinated team involving ground crews and other pilots. This role offers a dynamic mix of routine flights and unique, mission-driven challenges, providing valuable experience and opportunities for career progression within specialized sectors like emergency services or utility support.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a utility helicopter pilot?

To excel as a Utility Helicopter Pilot, you need advanced piloting skills, situational awareness, and an FAA commercial helicopter license with appropriate flight hours. Familiarity with GPS navigation, communication radios, and aircraft-specific avionics systems is essential. Strong decision-making, stress management, and teamwork skills are highly valued in this role. Mastery of these skills ensures safe operations, effective mission accomplishment, and the ability to adapt to varied and sometimes challenging flying conditions.

How do you become a utility helicopter pilot?

To become a utility helicopter pilot, you need to obtain a commercial helicopter pilot license from the relevant aviation authority, which requires completing flight training, accumulating a minimum number of flight hours, and passing written and practical exams. Additional certifications or ratings, such as a rotorcraft-rotorcraft category rating, may be required for specific tasks like aerial work or external load operations.

How much do utility helicopter pilots make?

Utility helicopter pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Experienced pilots with specialized certifications or in high-demand regions can earn higher salaries, especially when working in demanding environments or on specialized missions.

Is 40 too old to become a utility helicopter pilot?

Utility helicopter pilots can start their careers at age 40 or older, provided they meet the necessary requirements such as obtaining a commercial pilot license, flight hours, and medical certification. Age is less restrictive than physical fitness, experience, and training, which are essential for safety and certification standards in the industry.
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What cities are hiring for Utility Helicopter Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Utility Helicopter Pilot job openings:

What states have the most Utility Helicopter Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Utility Helicopter Pilot jobs include:

Infographic showing various Utility Helicopter Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,319 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Utility Helicopter Pilot

Sacramento Executive Helicopters

Acampo, CA โ€ข On-site

$21.25 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Safely operate helicopters for aerial inspections, patrols, and supporting utility maintenance and construction crews.

  • Collaborate with ground crews and utility professionals to coordinate flight plans and ensure operational efficiency.

  • Conduct pre-flight and post-flight inspections to ensure helicopter airworthiness and compliance with safety standards.


Job description

Job Title: Helicopter Pilot - Power Utility Operations
Location: Lodi, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary: Base wage and daily rate
About Us: Wilson Utility Helicopters is a leading provider of power utility services, committed to ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of our power grid. We employ a highly skilled team to inspect, maintain and construct critical infrastructure across the US. We are currently seeking an experienced and dedicated Helicopter Pilot to join our team and support our power utility operations.
Job Description:
As a Helicopter Pilot at Wilson Utility Helicopters, you will play a crucial role in the maintenance, inspection, and repair of power lines and other utility infrastructure. Your primary responsibilities will include safely operating helicopters for aerial patrols, inspections, and supporting maintenance & construction crews in various locations. You will work closely with a team of engineers, linemen, and other utility professionals to ensure the continuous delivery of electricity to our customers.
Qualifications:
  • Valid FAA Commercial Pilot License with Rotorcraft-Helicopter rating.
  • Minimum of 2000 hours of total helicopter flight time.
  • Vertical reference long line experience (HEC qualification preferred)
  • Experience in power utility construction and maintenance (preferred).
  • Strong knowledge of FAA regulations and aviation safety practices.
  • Ability to work in various weather conditions and challenging environments.
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
  • High level of professionalism, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Willingness to travel extensively and be on call for emergency operations.
  • Ability to pass a background check, drug screening, and medical evaluation.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Safely operate helicopters to perform aerial inspections, patrols, and crew support for power utility infrastructure.
  • Collaborate with ground crews and utility professionals to coordinate flight plans and ensure operational efficiency.
  • Conduct pre-flight and post-flight inspections to ensure the helicopter's airworthiness.
  • Adhere to all FAA regulations and company policies to ensure the highest safety standards.
  • Provide detailed reports on inspections and operations, including any anomalies or issues observed during flights.
  • Respond to emergency situations, including natural disasters or urgent repair needs, to support the restoration of power services.
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry best practices and advancements in aerial utility operations.
  • Participate in ongoing training and skill development programs to enhance piloting capabilities.

Benefits:
  • Competitive base wage plus daily.
  • Company sponsored health insurance, with optional dental, and vision coverage.
  • 401(k) plan with company matching.
  • Rotation Schedule.
  • Opportunities for professional development and training.
  • State-of-the-art equipment and resources to support your work.

How to Apply:
Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume, a cover letter, and a copy of their pilot license to [email address]. Please include "Helicopter Pilot - Power Utility Operations" in the subject line of your email.
Wilson Utility Helicopters is an equal opportunity employer and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
This job posting is designed to attract experienced helicopter pilots with a focus on utility operations, emphasizing safety, teamwork, and professionalism.