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Utility Helicopter Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PJ Helicopters, Inc

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$32/hr

Call when needed pilots will have an opportunity to participate in Fire Suppression, Utility and ... PJ Helicopters is an industry-leading Utility Helicopter Operator known for its state-of-the art ...

PJ Helicopters, Inc

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA

$32 - $36/hr

Call when needed pilots will have an opportunity to participate in Fire Suppression, Utility and ... PJ Helicopters is an industry-leading Utility Helicopter Operator known for its state-of-the art ...

Quanta Services, Inc.

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$120 - $150/hr

Call when needed pilots will have an opportunity to participate in Fire Suppression, Utility and ... PJ Helicopters is an industry-leading Utility Helicopter Operator known for its state-of-the art ...

Quanta Services

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA

$32 - $36/hr

Call when needed pilots will have an opportunity to participate in Fire Suppression, Utility and ... PJ Helicopters is an industry-leading Utility Helicopter Operator known for its state-of-the art ...

Coulson Aviation

CH47-Pilot In Command

Thermal, CA · On-site

Pilots may live anywhere in the U.S. we provide travel to and from assignments. Position Overview ... utility helicopter experience - Experience supervising crews Work Environment - Field-based ...

Coulson-Aviation

CH47-Pilot In Command

Thermal, CA · On-site

$140 - $200/hr

Pilots may live anywhere in the U.S. we provide travel to and from assignments. Position Overview ... Previous firefighting or utility helicopter experience * Experience supervising crews * Field-based ...

Helinet Aviation

CHLA Pilot

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$41.59/hr

Helinet Aviation Services is a diversified helicopter service provider located in Van Nuys ... The CHLA Pilot will include the following general duties: * Responsible for the safe operation of ...

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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 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility helicopter pilot in California is $18.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.99 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.

What are popular job titles related to Utility Helicopter Pilot jobs in California?

For Utility Helicopter Pilot jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Utility Helicopter Pilot jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Utility Helicopter Pilot jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Utility Helicopter Pilot jobs?

Cities in California with the most Utility Helicopter Pilot job openings:

Utility Helicopter Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Helicopter Pilot job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,817 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Utility Helicopter Pilot

Sacramento Executive Helicopters

Acampo, CA • 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.

Apply