CH47-Pilot In Command

Coulson Group of Companies; Thermal (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Flexible work schedule

Travel provided to assignments

Job summary

Coulson Aviation seeks a S-76 Pilot in Command to lead safe flight operations under 14 CFR 91.3, with FAA Part 91/135 knowledge and strong discipline for mission readiness. The role covers firefighting sorties, ferry flights, reconnaissance, and disaster response, requiring meticulous preflight planning and coordination in dynamic environments.

Applicants should hold an FAA Commercial Rotorcraft License, an Instrument Rating (Helicopter), and PIC qualifications for the S-76, with 2,500+ PIC

Qualifications

• FAA Commercial Rotorcraft License is required.
• Instrument Rating (Helicopter) required.
• Qualified to act as PIC in S-76.
• Minimum 2,500 hours PIC (helicopter) preferred.
• Must meet USFS PIC qualification requirements.
• No FAA violations or enforcement actions within the past 5 years.

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 maintenance discrepancies have been resolved per MEL before 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 during pilot shift changes.
• Ensure compliance with duty and flight time limitations.
• Assist with aircraft cleanliness and basic maintenance support.
• Maintain professionalism with clients and stakeholders.

Skills

Communication skills

Team orientation

Decision making

Multitasking

Education

FAA Commercial Rotorcraft License

Instrument Rating (Helicopter)

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

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 S-76 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.

Minimum Requirements

• FAA Commercial Rotorcraft License
• Instrument Rating (Helicopter)
• Qualified to act as PIC in S-76
• 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

Work Environment

• Field-based operations in dynamic and remote environments
• Exposure to noise, dust, fumes, and varying weather conditions
• Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications
• Company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Flexible work schedule supporting work-life balance
• 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.