Airplane Pilot - (Wildland Firefighter)

United States Forest Service • Redmond, OR

275d • Onsite

About The Position

The Airplane Pilot (Wildland Firefighter) position with the Department of Agriculture's Forest Service involves piloting various aircraft models at low altitudes and varying speeds over challenging terrains such as mountains, forests, or deserts, during both day and night conditions. The pilot will be responsible for transporting passengers and cargo to various destinations and will serve as the pilot-in-command on single engine land, light, and/or multi-engine aircraft. Additionally, the pilot will act as a technical advisor to the Regional Aviation Operations Manager/Supervisory Pilot for aircraft activities used in project and fire management work. Responsibilities include performing basic systems inspections on aircraft, providing technical guidance to contractors, and leading aerial operations such as smokejumper delivery. The role also involves gathering information, analyzing issues, and developing recommendations to resolve complex organizational problems or implement policies across major agency organizations.

Requirements

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
• Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service or exempt.
• Subject to satisfactory adjudication of background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
• Successful completion of one-year probationary period.
• Must be 18 years of age.
• This is a drug testing designated position.
• Willing to live/work in remote locations.
• Under age 40 or eligible for a waiver if older.
• Must possess an FAA Airplane Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument and Multi-Engine Land ratings or an FAA Airline Transport Pilot Certificate.
• Must possess a current FAA first or second-class medical certificate.
• Minimum flight time of 1500 hours with specific requirements for multi-engine and night flight experience.

Nice To Haves

• Current FAA Certified Flight Instructor Certificate with appropriate ratings.
• Experience in wildland firefighting operations.

Responsibilities

• Pilot a variety of aircraft models at low altitudes over challenging terrains.
• Serve as pilot-in-command on single engine land and multi-engine aircraft.
• Act as a technical advisor for aviation operations and contract pilots.
• Perform basic systems inspections on aircraft to ensure readiness for flight.
• Provide technical guidance to contractors regarding airplane contracts.
• Lead aerial operations including air transport of personnel and cargo.
• Gather information and analyze issues to develop organizational policies.

Benefits

• Availability of government housing.
• Federal day care facilities.
• Telework options may be available.
• Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Support Activities for Agriculture and Forestry