Aerial Firefighter Rotorcraft Pilot

Florida; Tallahassee (FL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Forest Service, seeks a Firefighter Rotorcraft Pilot located in Ocala or Tallahassee. The role requires operating single-engine turbine helicopters for aerial suppression, water drops, and tactical support during wildfires, with extensive flight hours and FAA qualifications.

Responsibilities include mission planning, post-flight duties, and currency maintenance, plus the ability to travel for emergency operations.

Qualifications

• FAA Commercial Pilot with Rotorcraft/Helicopter ratings (Instrument-Helicopter ratings preferred).
• At least 1,000 hours helicopter flight time, including 500 turbine hours.
• FAA Class 1 or Class 2 Medical Certificate.
• Be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Safely pilot single-engine turbine helicopters as PIC for aerial fire suppression.
• Transport water and conduct aerial suppression over wildfire areas.
• Provide aerial fire behavior intelligence and assist in tactical operations.
• Perform aerial ignition missions and coordinate with ground crews as needed.
• Complete preflight tasks, file flight plans, check weather, and maintain logs and currency.

Skills

Rotorcraft Pilot

FAA Certifications

Flight Hours >1000

FAA Medical Class 1/2

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Forest Service, seeks a Firefighter Rotorcraft Pilot located in Ocala or Tallahassee. The role requires operating single-engine turbine helicopters for aerial suppression, water drops, and tactical support during wildfires, with extensive flight hours and FAA qualifications.

Responsibilities include mission planning, post-flight duties, and currency maintenance, plus the ability to travel for emergency operations.