Aerial Firefighting Pilot — Forest Fire & Rescue

Join CAL FIRE; Sacramento (CA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

CAL FIRE seeks a helicopter pilot under general direction to operate across California's varied terrain, supporting fire prevention, suppression, and vegetation management. The role includes preventive maintenance on helicopters and aviation-related tasks.

Duties include aerial firefighting, transporting crew and cargo, water/retardant drops, search and rescue, medivac, and reconnaissance; may serve as air operations officer and assist in aviation management tasks.

Qualifications

• Keenness of observation
• Mental alertness
• Tact
• Good physical condition

Responsibilities

• Pilot a helicopter in single pilot operation over varied terrain for aerial firefighting.
• Haul firefighters and inmates and cargo; drop water and retardant from helicopter tanks.
• Perform routine and emergency missions including search and rescue, medivacs, reconnaissance, and administrative flights.
• Perform preventive maintenance and limited inspections on helicopters under the direction of a licensed aircraft mechanic.
• Serve as air operations officer for training, inspections, and aviation management tasks.

Job description

CAL FIRE seeks a helicopter pilot under general direction to operate across California's varied terrain, supporting fire prevention, suppression, and vegetation management. The role includes preventive maintenance on helicopters and aviation-related tasks.

Duties include aerial firefighting, transporting crew and cargo, water/retardant drops, search and rescue, medivac, and reconnaissance; may serve as air operations officer and assist in aviation management tasks.