The U.S. Forest Service is seeking qualified pilots to operate various aircraft for essential agency missions across multiple locations. This is an open continuous announcement, meaning applications will be accepted and reviewed as vacancies arise.
About the Role
This position involves piloting a range of aircraft, including single-engine land and multi-engine fixed-wing aircraft, at low altitudes and varying speeds over challenging terrain during both day and night conditions. Responsibilities include transporting passengers and cargo, serving as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) for critical operations such as aerial supervision and leadplane duties, and delivering smokejumpers and paracargo. The role also entails providing technical advice on aviation operations, performing basic aircraft systems inspections, and acting as a technical expert for airplane contracts.
Requirements
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Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
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Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service or exempt.
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Subject to satisfactory adjudication of background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
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Federal payments must be made by direct deposit.
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Must successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check.
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Must be at least 18 years of age.
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This is a drug testing designated position, subject to pre-employment and random drug testing.
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Willingness to live and work in remote, volatile, and unpredictable locations.
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Age requirement: Under 40, or less than age 40 after subtracting months of Permanent Federal Service in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position, or a veteran preference eligible older than age 40 requesting a waiver.
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Must serve a 1-year probationary period.
Qualifications
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Certificates and Ratings:
Must possess an FAA Airplane Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument and Airplane Multi-Engine Land ratings, OR a current and valid FAA Airline Transport Pilot Certificate with Instrument and Airplane Multi-Engine Land rating.
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Medical Certificate:
Must possess a current FAA first or second-class medical certificate.
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Flight Experience (GS-09):
Minimum of 1,200 total flight hours in airplanes, including 250 hours as PIC, 100 hours in multi-engine airplanes, 50 hours of night flight, and 50 hours of actual or simulated instrument time (at least 5 hours actual in flight), plus 100 hours in airplanes within the preceding 12 months. All flight experience must be substantiated by complete, legible flight logs.
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Flight Experience (GS-11 and GS-12):
Minimum of 1,500 total flight hours in airplanes, including 250 hours as PIC, 500 hours in multi-engine airplanes, 75 hours of night flight, and 75 hours of actual or simulated instrument time (at least 10 hours actual in flight), plus 100 hours in airplanes within the preceding 12 months. All flight experience must be supported by complete and verifiable flight logs.
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Flight Experience (GS-12 only):
May be required to obtain and maintain a current FAA Certified Flight Instructor Certificate (Airplane) with Multi-Engine and Instrument Airplane Instruction ratings, or the military equivalent.