Forestry Fire Helicopter Pilot — Mountain & Night Ops

Helicopter Jobs; Susanville (CA); On-site; USD 89,000 - 117,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Pay differential incentives

Job summary

CAL FIRE Lassen-Modoc Unit seeks an experienced Forestry Fire Pilot to operate a helicopter in single-pilot missions under hazardous conditions, including mountainous terrain and external loads. The role requires extensive PIC hours and adherence to stringent safety standards.

Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications for CAL FIRE firefighting aviation and will be evaluated on experience with mountain flying, low-level fire support, and related competencies.

Qualifications

• At least 500 hours of mountain PIC helicopter flight time (terrain above 4,000 ft MSL).
• At least 500 hours of turbine helicopter time as PIC.
• 250 hours PIC in low-level fire control, map survey, powerline patrol, SAR, or spraying operations over mountains/forests.
• 100 hours PIC carrying sling loads.
• 50 hours PIC in helicopters in the past year.

Responsibilities

• Pilot a helicopter in single-pilot operation under hazardous conditions.
• Operate in mountainous terrain with external loads and turbulent conditions.
• Fly to and from unimproved landing sites at high altitude and in challenging environments.
• Coordinate with CAL FIRE team and follow safety procedures and regulations.

Skills

Mountain helicopter flying

Pilot-in-command hours

Flight safety procedures

Communication skills

Job description

CAL FIRE Lassen-Modoc Unit seeks an experienced Forestry Fire Pilot to operate a helicopter in single-pilot missions under hazardous conditions, including mountainous terrain and external loads. The role requires extensive PIC hours and adherence to stringent safety standards.

Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications for CAL FIRE firefighting aviation and will be evaluated on experience with mountain flying, low-level fire support, and related competencies.