Citation Captain: Aerial Firefighting & Imaging Lead

Pilot Assessments; California; On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company-paid travel

Comprehensive benefits

Job summary

Coulson is seeking a mission-driven Citation Captain to lead aerial firefighting missions across the United States. You will ensure airworthiness, regulatory compliance, and readiness while directing crews in high-stakes environments.

You’ll collaborate with agencies on mission objectives, maintain logs, and uphold SMS and SOP standards in a safety-first culture. Travel is required, with comprehensive benefits and competitive compensation.

Qualifications

• FAA ATP (Unrestricted or Restricted) certification is required.
• 2000+ total flight hours required.
• No FAA violations or enforcement actions in the last five years.
• Air Attack experience in the United States preferred.
• Aerial firefighting experience is an asset.
• Strong knowledge of FAA regulations and operational standards.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Team-oriented with sound judgment and decision-making.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Citation 550/560 experience preferred; relevant aerial firefighting on similar aircraft encouraged.

Responsibilities

• Work with Air Attack Officers to manage wildfire airspace and firefighting strategies.
• Identify hazards and drive mitigations within Safety Management System.
• Maintain aircraft readiness for rapid dispatch and mission response.
• Execute aerial imaging and passenger operations under safety standards.
• Refine SOPs, review and submit flight logs and records.
• Collaborate with clients and partners to meet mission objectives safely and efficiently.

Skills

FAA ATP certification

2000+ flight hours

No FAA violations (5 years)

Air Attack experience

Aerial firefighting experience (asset)

FAA regulations knowledge

Communication & teamwork

Decision making & judgment

High school diploma or equivalent

Citation 550/560 experience

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Citation 550/560 aircraft experience

Job description

Coulson is seeking a mission-driven Citation Captain to lead aerial firefighting missions across the United States. You will ensure airworthiness, regulatory compliance, and readiness while directing crews in high-stakes environments.

You’ll collaborate with agencies on mission objectives, maintain logs, and uphold SMS and SOP standards in a safety-first culture. Travel is required, with comprehensive benefits and competitive compensation.