Smokejumper Pilot - Mountain Flying & Airdrop

Bighorn Airways Inc; Alaska; On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Bighorn Airways is seeking experienced pilots for the 2027 smokejumper season to support U.S. Government contracts in Alaska and the Lower 48. You will fly large aircraft at slow speeds in remote locations, delivering smokejumpers and cargo under demanding weather and terrain conditions.

Ideal candidates have an ATP certificate or ATP written exam, extensive flight hours, and a safety-first mindset. Expect extended periods in remote locations with variable schedules and operations.

Qualifications

• ATP certificate or ATP written examination completed.
• 3500 hours total flight time.
• 2000 hours in airplanes.
• 100 hours PIC at night.
• 200 hours of low-level flight below 500 feet AGL.
• 500 hours in mountainous terrain below 2500 feet AGL.
• 100 hours in airplanes within the preceding 12 months.

Responsibilities

• Transporting and dropping smokejumpers in remote locations.
• Operating large aircraft at slow airspeeds.
• Flying in mountainous terrain and challenging weather conditions.
• Point-to-point flights under IFR.

Skills

Judgment

Crew coordination

Low-level flying

Professionalism

Teamwork

Education

ATP certificate or ATP written exam

Job description

Bighorn Airways is seeking experienced pilots for the 2027 smokejumper season to support U.S. Government contracts in Alaska and the Lower 48. You will fly large aircraft at slow speeds in remote locations, delivering smokejumpers and cargo under demanding weather and terrain conditions.

Ideal candidates have an ATP certificate or ATP written exam, extensive flight hours, and a safety-first mindset. Expect extended periods in remote locations with variable schedules and operations.