Aerial Firefighting Pilot Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the crucial realm of wildfire management, the role of aerial firefighting pilots has never been more vital.

As wildfires become more frequent and intense, the demand for skilled pilots who can navigate, execute, and safeguard our aerial firefighting operations escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an aerial firefighting pilot?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager laying out the ideal candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the dynamics of aerial firefighting,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable aerial firefighting pilot job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Aerial Firefighting Pilot Duties and Responsibilities

Aerial Firefighting Pilots play a critical role in combating wildfires and other natural disasters from the air.

They are responsible for navigating specialized aircraft to drop water or fire retardant on fires, and may be involved in search and rescue operations.

The daily duties and responsibilities of an Aerial Firefighting Pilot may include:

• Navigating and piloting firefighting aircraft in a variety of weather conditions
• Conducting pre-flight inspections to ensure the aircraft is in safe operating condition
• Dropping water or fire retardant over areas impacted by wildfires as directed by ground control
• Communicating with ground crews, air traffic control, and other pilots to coordinate firefighting efforts
• Performing emergency procedures in case of engine failure, adverse weather, or other in-flight emergencies
• Participating in routine training exercises and drills to maintain readiness and improve skills
• Maintaining detailed flight logs and reporting any mechanical or safety concerns to maintenance crews
• Assisting with search and rescue operations as required
• Adhering strictly to all aviation regulations and safety standards

 

Aerial Firefighting Pilot Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Aerial Firefighting Pilot to join our team.

The primary role of the Aerial Firefighting Pilot is to operate specialized aircraft to control and extinguish forest fires.

The ideal candidate should have significant experience in aviation, sound knowledge of firefighting procedures, and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure.

They should be physically fit, capable of working in a high-stress environment, and dedicated to the preservation of forests and wildlife.

 

Responsibilities

• Operate specialized aircraft to fight forest fires
• Perform regular maintenance checks on aircraft and firefighting equipment
• Collaborate with ground crews to determine the most effective firefighting strategies
• Drop water or fire retardant to suppress fires
• Conduct aerial surveys to assess fire damage and effectiveness of firefighting strategies
• Monitor weather conditions and communicate potential hazards
• Comply with all safety regulations and procedures
• Train and mentor less experienced pilots and crew members
• Provide emergency evacuation services when necessary

 

Qualifications

• Commercial Pilot Certificate
• Experience as a pilot, preferably in a firefighting context
• Physical fitness and ability to handle high-stress situations
• Sound knowledge of firefighting procedures and safety regulations
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to perform maintenance checks on aircraft and equipment
• Good analytical skills and decision-making ability in complex situations

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Life insurance
• Training and development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Aerial Firefighting Pilot
• Work Environment: This role involves outdoor work and potentially hazardous conditions. The individual must be able to work at high altitudes and in various weather conditions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief Pilot or Aerial Firefighting Operations Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time, seasonal work may also be available
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Aerial Firefighting Pilot Do?

Aerial Firefighting Pilots are highly trained professionals who operate aircrafts to combat wildfires.

They work for government agencies, local municipalities, or private firefighting companies.

Their primary responsibility is to fly specially equipped aircraft over areas affected by wildfires and drop water or fire retardants to suppress the flames.

They often work in coordination with ground-based firefighters and other firefighting aircraft to strategically attack fires and limit their spread.

Apart from flying the aircraft, they also perform pre-flight checks to ensure that the aircraft is safe and the firefighting equipment is working properly.

This includes checking the aircraft’s mechanical status, as well as its fuel, water, and retardant levels.

They also have to assess weather conditions, create flight plans, and navigate difficult terrain, often under challenging and rapidly changing circumstances.

These pilots must also communicate effectively with other members of their team and firefighting coordinators to execute their missions successfully.

After every mission, they are responsible for reporting on the outcome of each firefighting effort.

Furthermore, when not engaged in active firefighting, these pilots may be involved in equipment maintenance, training exercises, and wildfire prevention activities.

 

Aerial Firefighting Pilot Qualifications and Skills

An aerial firefighting pilot must possess a unique combination of technical skills, soft skills, and industry knowledge to perform their job effectively.

This includes:

• Commercial Pilot’s License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) with instrument rating, demonstrating technical knowledge and aviation skills.
• Experience in aerial firefighting or related fields such as crop dusting, banner towing, or any other low-level flying.
• Excellent physical fitness and health to withstand the physical demands of the role, such as extreme flying conditions and stress.
• Strong decision-making skills to quickly respond to emergencies and unpredictable situations.
• Ability to work under pressure, managing high-stress situations that can occur during aerial firefighting operations.
• Excellent communication skills to liaise effectively with ground crews and firefighting coordinators, and to communicate critical information clearly and quickly.
• Good understanding of weather patterns and topography for safe and effective operations.
• Ability to operate various aircraft systems and firefighting equipment efficiently.
• Keen attention to detail and situational awareness to safely navigate in challenging flight conditions and environments.
• Commitment to ongoing learning and professional development to stay updated on aviation technology, firefighting techniques, safety protocols, and environmental regulations.

 

Aerial Firefighting Pilot Experience Requirements

Candidates for the role of Aerial Firefighting Pilot typically need to have a substantial amount of flight experience.

Most employers require at least 1000 hours of pilot-in-command experience, often in challenging or adverse conditions.

Experience in other roles such as a general aviation pilot, military pilot, or commercial pilot can contribute significantly to the required flight hours.

These roles often provide invaluable experience in handling complex aircraft systems, emergency procedures, and decision-making under pressure.

Candidates are generally required to have experience flying the specific type of aircraft used in aerial firefighting, such as air tankers or helicopters, with additional training in low altitude flight and precision water or retardant drops.

Besides flight experience, candidates may be required to have a background in firefighting or emergency services.

This can often be acquired through roles in ground-based firefighting teams or other emergency response agencies.

Pilots with more than 5 years of experience in the field and a proven track record of safe and effective aerial firefighting may be eligible for leadership roles, such as Air Operations Branch Director or Air Tactical Group Supervisor.

These roles require a high level of tactical planning and coordination experience, as well as the ability to effectively manage resources and personnel in high-stress environments.

 

Aerial Firefighting Pilot Education and Training Requirements

Becoming an Aerial Firefighting Pilot requires a high school diploma or equivalent as the minimum educational requirement.

Prospective pilots must earn a private pilot’s license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which mandates at least 40 hours of flight time, including 20 hours with an instructor and 10 hours of solo flight.

In addition to this, they must also possess a commercial pilot’s license which requires at least 250 hours of flight time and passing a written test and flight demonstration.

Most Aerial Firefighting Pilots also earn an instrument rating, which enables them to fly under adverse weather conditions using only instruments.

This rating requires both a written exam and a flight test.

Once these licenses are acquired, pilots must undergo specific training to become certified as an Aerial Firefighting Pilot.

This often includes training in water or retardant dropping, low altitude flying, and training on specific aircraft used in firefighting.

Additional certifications can be earned to fly larger aircraft or carry out more complex missions.

Relevant work experience, such as time spent as a commercial pilot, can be beneficial.

The FAA also requires that pilots have a minimum of 20/20 corrected vision, be in good physical condition, and maintain a strict level of mental fitness.

As with any profession that demands constant skills improvement, many Aerial Firefighting Pilots undertake advanced training and refresher courses to stay updated with the latest technology and safety measures.

 

Aerial Firefighting Pilot Salary Expectations

An Aerial Firefighting Pilot earns an average salary of $74,496 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can fluctuate depending on factors such as years of experience, the complexity of the missions flown, the type of aircraft operated, and the location of the firefighting operations.

 

Aerial Firefighting Pilot Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does an Aerial Firefighting Pilot need?

An Aerial Firefighting Pilot must have a commercial pilot’s license, instrument rating, and typically need a high school diploma or equivalent.

Most employers prefer pilots who have a college degree in aviation or a related field.

They must also have a certain number of flight hours, usually in excess of 1500, with a portion of those being in command of an aircraft.

Experience in low-level operations and mountain flying is often preferred.

 

What are the daily duties of an Aerial Firefighting Pilot?

An Aerial Firefighting Pilot’s duties can vary greatly depending on whether they are currently deployed to a fire or not.

During fire seasons, they spend a significant amount of time flying, dropping water or fire retardants, and coordinating with ground crews.

Outside of fire season, they often spend time maintaining their aircraft, training, and performing administrative duties.

 

What skills are important for an Aerial Firefighting Pilot?

Aerial Firefighting Pilots need exceptional flying skills, including the ability to fly in difficult conditions, make quick decisions, and precisely control their aircraft.

They should also have good physical stamina, as firefighting missions can be physically demanding.

Good communication skills are also important, as pilots need to effectively communicate with ground crews and other pilots.

 

What are the risks associated with being an Aerial Firefighting Pilot?

Aerial Firefighting is a high-risk profession.

Pilots are often required to fly in difficult conditions, such as low visibility and high winds.

They are also exposed to the dangers of wildfires, including the possibility of their aircraft being affected by the fire or smoke.

It’s a profession that requires a high level of skill, precision, and physical fitness.

 

How can one become an Aerial Firefighting Pilot?

Becoming an Aerial Firefighting Pilot typically involves gaining flight experience, often by working in other piloting roles, before transitioning into firefighting.

Pilots need a commercial pilot’s license and typically also need instrument and multi-engine ratings.

After obtaining these qualifications, pilots can apply to work for private firefighting companies or government agencies that handle aerial firefighting.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve flown high above the clouds to unearth what it truly means to be an aerial firefighting pilot.

And guess what?

It’s not just about piloting aircraft.

It’s about bravely battling the flames from the sky, one flight at a time.

With our expertly crafted aerial firefighting pilot job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to soar.

But why stop there?

Fly further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating meticulously detailed job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every flight is a part of a bigger mission.

Let’s extinguish those flames. Together.

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