Aero Air, LLC | Captain

About Aero Air

Aero Air stands as a premier, people-centered aircraft service company, committed to making a significant difference in communities at national and global levels. As a mission-driven organization, Aero Air cultivates a supportive and collaborative environment where high-performing, dedicated professionals are encouraged to apply their talents towards a purpose greater than the task at hand. Team members at Aero Air are valued and treated as family, fostering a truly unique professional culture.

Aero Air serves as the parent company of Erickson Aero Tanker (EAT), which operates year-round aerial firefighting missions. USFS Mandatory Assignment Period (MAP) dates for these critical operations may fluctuate annually based on allocations and prevailing fire conditions.

Position Summary

Aero Air is actively seeking highly experienced and qualified Aerial Firefighting Tanker Pilots to join its esteemed team. Opportunities are available for both Pilot in Command (PIC) and Second in Command (SIC) roles, primarily involving the operation of MD-87 aircraft in vital aerial firefighting missions.

Compensation and Benefits

Aero Air offers a highly competitive compensation package alongside a comprehensive suite of benefits designed to support its dedicated team members. These extensive benefits include:

• Relocation reimbursement
• Paid sick leave
• 401(k) plan with an automatic 3% employer-provided safe harbor contribution upon hire
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage, including medical, dental, and vision plans
• Employer-funded Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)
• Employee-paid life and disability insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Pet insurance
• Corporate discount program, providing savings on travel, gym memberships, and various other services

Primary Responsibilities

The core responsibility of these roles is the safe and effective operation of the MD-87 aircraft as either Pilot in Command or Second in Command during aerial firefighting operations. This includes strict adherence to all company policies, regulatory requirements, and mission-specific protocols.

Required Qualifications

MD-87 Pilot in Command (PIC)

• Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) or Commercial Certificate with Instrument Rating (Multiengine Land).
• Current First or Second-Class FAA Medical Certificate.
• Minimum of 4,000 hours of total flight time.
• Minimum of 2,000 hours Pilot in Command (airplane) time.
• Minimum of 200 hours multiengine Pilot in Command (PIC) time.
• Minimum of 100 hours multiengine PIC time in aircraft greater than 12,500 lbs.
• Minimum of 200 hours low-level flight time (typical terrain).
• Minimum of 100 hours PIC time in the preceding 12 months.
• Heavy jet type rating.
• Previous or current USFS AKP or AKI rating.

MD-87 Second in Command (SIC)

• Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) or Commercial Certificate with Instrument Rating (Multiengine Land).
• Current First or Second-Class FAA Medical Certificate.
• Minimum of 1,000 hours of total flight time.
• Minimum of 500 hours Pilot in Command (airplane) time.
• Minimum of 200 hours multiengine flight time.

General Requirements for All Aerial Firefighting Tanker Pilot Positions

• High School Diploma or GED, in addition to the required aviation certifications listed above.
• Valid U.S./state-issued driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Valid U.S. Passport.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States.
• Ability to maintain a flexible schedule and willingness to travel extensively.
• Successful completion and favorable results of a pre-employment drug screen and criminal history background check.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain reliable, regular, and predictable attendance.
• Commitment to adhere to all Aero Air policies and standards of conduct.
• Ability to perform other duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

For MD-87 Pilot in Command (PIC)

• Current Initial Attack rating.
• DC-9 type rating.

For MD-87 Second in Command (SIC)

• Jet type rating.
• Previous USFS air tanker experience.
• Low-level flight time.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Aero Air is an equal opportunity employer and strictly prohibits discrimination against any person for any reason. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, familial status, parental status, protected veteran status, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with a disability.

As an equal opportunity employer, Aero Air is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. Individuals interested in applying with Aero Air who require special assistance or accommodation are encouraged to contact the company via their website.