CH47-Pilot In Command

Coulson-Aviation; Thermal (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company-paid medical insurance

401(k) with company match

Travel to assignments provided

Job summary

Coulson Aviation is seeking a CH47 Pilot in Command to oversee safe, efficient flight operations under FAA Parts 91 and 135. The role encompasses aerial firefighting, ferry and reconnaissance missions, and disaster response across U.S. operations.

Candidates must hold a FAA Commercial Rotorcraft license, an instrument rotorcraft rating, and have CH47 PIC qualifications with substantial helicopter PIC hours. Travel to assignments is required.

Qualifications

• FAA Commercial Rotorcraft License is required.
• Instrument Rating (Helicopter) is required.
• PIC in CH47 capability is required.
• Minimum 2,500 hours PIC (helicopter) preferred.
• Must meet USFS PIC qualification requirements as applicable.

Responsibilities

• Exercise final authority for the safe operation of the aircraft per 14 CFR 91.3.
• Review flight assignments, weather, NOTAMs, and mission requirements.
• Preflight planning: weight & balance, fuel, routing, performance.
• Conduct thorough aircraft inspections and ensure flight readiness.
• Ensure maintenance discrepancies are resolved per MEL before flight.
• Maintain flight logs and operational records.
• Conduct passenger and crew briefings when applicable.
• Coordinate pilot shift changes and ensure compliance with flight time limits.
• Assist with aircraft cleanliness and basic maintenance support.
• Represent Coulson Aviation professionally to clients and stakeholders.

Skills

FAA Commercial Rotorcraft License

Instrument Rating (Helicopter)

PIC CH47 qualification

2500 hours PIC (helicopter)

USFS PIC qualification requirements

FAA regulations knowledge

Strong communication skills

Team oriented

High school diploma or equivalent

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Thermal, CA, US

3 days ago Requisition ID: 1078

About Coulson Aviation

Coulson Aviation is a global leader in aerial firefighting, operating across the United States, Canada, Australia, and South America. Our diverse fleet of fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft supports rapid response wildfire suppression, including both initial and extended attack operations.

As part of the Coulson Group, we have over 65 years of operational experience and continued growth in the aviation and firefighting industry.

No relocation required. Pilots may live anywhere in the U.S. we provide travel to and from assignments.

Position Overview

The CH47 Pilot in Command (PIC) reports to the Chief Pilot and is responsible for the safe, efficient, and professional execution of all assigned flight operations.

This role requires a strong working knowledge of applicable FAA regulations (Parts 91 and 135), company procedures, and operational best practices.

Missions may include:

• Aerial firefighting (day and night operations)
• Ferry and repositioning flights
• Reconnaissance (day and night operations)
• Emergency response and disaster mitigation
• Pilots are expected to manage daily operational requirements, support contract execution, and represent Coulson Aviation with professionalism in all interactions.

Key Responsibilities

• Exercise final authority for the safe operation of the aircraft in accordance with 14 CFR 91.3.
• Review flight assignments, weather, NOTAMs, and mission-specific requirements.
• Ensure proper preflight planning, including weight & balance, fuel, routing, and performance.
• Conduct thorough aircraft inspections and ensure readiness for flight.
• Verify all maintenance discrepancies have been procedurally complied with, deferred, or corrected by maintenance personnel in accordance with the approved Minimum Equipment List for the aircraft, prior to flight.
• Ensure all required documents, equipment, and materials are onboard.
• Maintain accurate flight logs and operational records.
• Conduct passenger and crew briefings, when applicable.
• Coordinate effectively during pilot shift changes.
• Ensure compliance with duty and flight time limitations.
• Assist with aircraft cleanliness and basic support to maintenance as needed.
• Maintain a high standard of professionalism with clients and stakeholders.
• FAA Commercial Rotorcraft License
• Instrument Rating (Helicopter)
• Qualified to act as PIC in CH47
• Minimum 2,500 hours PIC (helicopter) preferred
• Must meet or exceed USFS PIC qualification requirements
• No FAA violations or enforcement actions within the past 5 years
• Strong knowledge of FAA regulations and operational standards
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment
• Team-oriented with strong decision-making skills
• High school diploma or equivalent

Preferred Qualifications

• Night Vision Goggle (NVG) experience
• Previous firefighting or utility helicopter experience
• Experience supervising crews
• Field-based operations in dynamic and remote environments
• Exposure to noise, dust, fumes, and varying weather conditions
• Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs
• Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications
• Company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Travel provided to and from assignments

Equal Opportunity Employer

Coulson Aviation is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities and reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process.