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Utility Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Utility Pilot information

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$12

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$32

How much do utility pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility pilot in California is $22.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $25.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a utility pilot?

A utility pilot is a professional pilot who operates aircraft for non-passenger, specialized missions such as aerial surveys, firefighting, powerline inspections, agricultural spraying, and other tasks supporting infrastructure and industry. These pilots often fly helicopters or small fixed-wing aircraft in challenging environments and conditions. Utility pilots require specialized training beyond standard commercial licenses, focusing on low-level flight operations and mission-specific skills. Their work plays a crucial role in supporting public safety, environmental monitoring, and essential services.

What are some of the typical challenges Utility Pilots face in coordinating with ground crews during operations?

Utility Pilots often work closely with ground crews for tasks like aerial surveying, powerline inspections, or firefighting. A common challenge is maintaining clear and constant communication to ensure safety and precision, especially in remote or hazardous environments. Weather conditions, changing schedules, and varying terrains can also complicate coordination. Effective teamwork and strong situational awareness are essential to overcoming these challenges and ensuring successful operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Utility Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Utility Pilot, you need a commercial pilot license, strong knowledge of aviation regulations, and proficiency in aircraft operation under diverse conditions. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, aerial survey equipment, and possibly specialized certifications like instrument rating are often required. Excellent situational awareness, communication, and decision-making skills set top performers apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring safety, efficiency, and adaptability during varied and often challenging utility flight operations.

What is the difference between Utility Pilot vs Flight Engineer?

AspectUtility PilotFlight Engineer
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), specific type ratingsFAA Flight Engineer Certificate, type-specific training
Work EnvironmentOperate utility aircraft, often in remote or agricultural settingsAssist pilots, monitor aircraft systems during flight
Employer & Industry UsageUtility companies, agricultural, firefighting, surveyCommercial airlines, cargo, military, specialized aircraft

Utility Pilots and Flight Engineers both require specialized certifications and work in aviation, but Utility Pilots primarily operate aircraft in utility roles such as agriculture or firefighting, while Flight Engineers assist with aircraft systems during flight. The roles differ in responsibilities and typical work environments, though both are essential in the aviation industry.

What cities in California are hiring for Utility Pilot jobs? Cities in California with the most Utility Pilot job openings:
Infographic showing various Utility Pilot job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,542 per year, or $22.9 per hour.
AS350 Utility & Drill Support Pilot

AS350 Utility & Drill Support Pilot

Quanta Services

Red Bluff, CA • On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Quanta Services rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 80 rated construction


Job description

PJ Helicopters is a family-run, world-class precision helicopter lift service operating nationwide. Since 1970, PJ Helicopters has earned a reputation for excellence by consistently delivering safe, reliable, and efficient aerial solutions for its customers.

With a fleet of more than 50 aircraft, PJH primarily supports the utility, forestry, and construction industries. Our operations are built on three core pillars: world-class equipment, highly skilled and experienced personnel, and an unwavering commitment to customer service. From project planning through execution, PJ Helicopters works closely with clients to ensure missions are performed safely, efficiently, and to the highest professional standard.


PJ Helicopters is seeking an experienced AS350 pilot with drill moving experience for a Utility Pilot position flying in support of Utility Powerline Construction, and Drill Support operations for 2026. This is a full-time permanent position. Qualified applicants will have opportunities to transition into additional airframes including the Bell 407, Bell 429, Bell 212, UH-60A, and CH-47.

Qualified candidates include those with proven experience flying the AS350 safely in the wire environment, performing HEC work, and — critically — executing drill moves with precision and efficiency. Only applicants who meet minimum qualifications will be considered.

PJH is known for our state-of-the-art helicopter external load capabilities, and our drill support operations are among the most demanding and rewarding missions we fly. We have established ourselves as an industry leader in safe and successful operations. We take great pride in hiring the most talented and professional pilots.

PJ Helicopters, Inc. has been an aviation industry leader throughout the United States for over 50 years. Industries supported include utility, forestry, construction, defense, charter, and many more. Employees at PJH have access to over 40 airframes from a range of manufacturers including Airbus, Boeing, Bell, Sikorsky, Pilatus, Cessna, and more. From drill support in an AS350, to flying a 407 in the utility wire environment, to precision external load in a UH-60 — it's our diverse fleet, wide range of customers, and opportunities for advancement that make PJH an exceptional place to build a career.


· Flying in the wire environment in support of powerline construction and utility patrol

· External load operations including HEC and construction support

· Maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism in demanding terrain and job site conditions


Minimum Qualifications

· PIC time in AS350: Required — drill moving experience strongly preferred

· PIC time in Bell 407, Bell 429, and/or Bell 212 (a plus, not required)

· Total PIC time: 2,500 hrs.

· Mountain/high-density altitude flying experience: strongly preferred

· VR time: 500 hrs. (preferred)

· HEC experience (preferred)

· Sock line pulling (preferred)

· Firefighting experience (preferred)

· Wire environment experience required

· Must have in knowledge in CFR 133 /135.

· Relocation (not required for qualified individuals).

· Potential to progress into other airframes

· 2/2 schedule offering (for qualified individuals).

Only applicants that meet the minimum qualifications will be reviewed.


Full-time employees are eligible for our comprehensive insurance benefits package with PPO and HSA options, as well as dental, vision, life insurance, and other ancillary policies. Full-time employees are eligible for a 401k Program with Employer-Matching, Vacation, Holiday Pay, California Overtime rules, and more. The PJH base in Red Bluff, CA encompasses 100,000+ sq. feet of operations and maintenance hangars, including an employee fitness center.

Our facility is located 1.5 hours north of Sacramento and 30 minutes south of Redding, CA, both commercial airline destinations. PJH fulfills multiple contracts annually throughout the United States with concentration in the Western US.

Seasonal positions are available, and those hired with the qualifications (or who obtain them during their initial assignment) may advance to full-time status and would be eligible for the full benefits package. We encourage you to learn more about us at www.PJHELICOPTERS.com, where you can find and submit our standard application.


The anticipated compensation for this position is USD $110,000.00/Yr. - USD $150,000.00/Yr. depending on experience and qualifications.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company’s Human Resources department.


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