The mission of Aero-Flite is to provide exceptional firefighting aircraft and customer service in support of our ground firefighting partners. Our vision is to continually strive to improve our safety and service while offering greater value to our partner agencies.
Aero-Flite is the premier aerial firefighting company in the United States, proudly headquartered in Spokane, Washington. For the past eight consecutive years, we’ve been recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in the Inland Northwest—an honor earned through the voices of our dedicated employees. We foster a culture of professional growth, work-life balance, and meaningful service.
We’re expanding our team and are currently seeking safety focused, highly skilled, and mission-driven pilots for CL-415 Captain and First Officer roles to support our wildfire suppression operations.
Aero-Flite, Inc. | Spokane, WA
Now Hiring: CL-415 Pilots – First Officer & Captain Positions
About the Role
As a CL-415 Captain or First Officer, you will be part of a highly trained crew responsible for executing critical aerial firefighting missions. You will operate under Interagency standards and FAA regulations, ensuring safety, operational excellence, and mission success in dynamic and challenging environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate CL-415 aircraft in support of wildfire suppression operations
• Ensure full compliance with FAA, agency, and company regulations and policies
• Conduct accurate pre-flight planning and performance calculations
• Maintain in-depth knowledge of aircraft systems and pilot documentation
• Perform safety checks, airworthiness assessments, and documentation of discrepancies
• Communicate effectively with the ATC, Aerial Supervisors, & Incident Commanders
• Support aircraft readiness, cleanliness, and seasonal preparations
• Participate in training, public service events, and maintenance flights as required
• Embody and promote Aero-Flite’s Mission, Vision, and Core Values

Required Knowledge, Skills, Competencies, & Qualifications

TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE:

• Expert understanding of aeronautical operations to include: IFR, off-airport, multi-crew environment, and the Fire Traffic Area
• Expert knowledge of FAA regulations, Agency policies, and aircraft systems
• Expert knowledge of human factors, CRM, risk assessment, and multi-tasking

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:

• Excellent verbal and written communication
• Strong interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills
• Ability to adapt to dynamic environments and high-tempo missions
• Sound decision-making, critical thinking, and troubleshooting abilities
• Professional demeanor, attention to detail, and team-first attitude
• Computer proficiency for training, operational, and administrative tasks
• Excellent time management skills

Physical Requirements

• Stationary Position - Must be able to remain in stationary position for lengthy flight missions.
• Mobility - Must be able to move about office, hangar and aircraft without limitations.
• Dexterity/Stamina – Able to use repetitive and precisely coordinated movements to manipulate flight controls and switches for lengthy missions.
• Agility – Able to ascend/descend ladders and position self to inspect and/or service equipment.
• Strength – Able to support equipment up to 70 pounds.
• Balance – Able to manage equilibrium while traversing across office, hangar, aircraft, and ascend/descend ladders.

Education & Experience

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with MEL and/or MES ratings (ATP preferred)
• U.S. Citizen or authorized to work in the U.S. with valid Passport
• 4,000 total flight hours, including:
• 1,000 hours PIC
• 500 hours PIC seaplane (preferred)
• 200 hours PIC multiengine
• 200 hours PIC multi-crew
• 200 hours PIC mountainous terrain
• 200 hours PIC +12,500 lbs. (preferred)
• 100 hours flight time within the past 12 months (PIC preferred)
• 100 hours PIC night
• 100 hours PIC aerial application (preferred)
• 100 hours instrument flight (actual or simulated)
• Valid FAA Class II Medical Certificate

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• 2- or 4-year degree in aviation or related field
• CRM, simulator, and aircraft-specific training
• Formal education in human factors, SMS, or risk-based decision-making
• Aerial Supervision qualifications: Air Tactical Supervisor, Lead-plane
• Type ratings (CL-415 preferred)

Position Details

• Employment Type: Full-time
• Work Hours: Variable, based on mission and agency needs
• Travel: Extensive travel required, primarily within the U.S. (CONUS), Alaska, and international.
• Supervisory Responsibilities: None

Why Join Aero-Flite?

• Be part of a team that saves lives, communities, and ecosystems
• Work for a company consistently ranked as a top employer
• Grow in a supportive, dynamic environment focused on safety and excellence
• Gain exposure to diverse missions using a unique skillset.

Apply Today
If you’re ready to elevate your career and make a difference supporting ground firefighters, we want to hear from you.
Join Aero-Flite—where your skills, passion, and purpose come together to protect what matters most.
Position Type and Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work will vary based upon business and customer needs.
Travel
Extensive travel, primarily CONUS or Alaska, and international.
The pay range for a PILOT FIRST OFFICER CL415 in Washington state is $81,000.00-$97,000.00 annually. The pay range for a PILOT CAPTAIN CL415 is $94,000.00 – $114,000.00 annually. The annual rate is influenced by a variety of factors including, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, certifications, and geographical locations. Employees will be eligible to enroll in the company’s medical/dental/vision insurance, flexible spending account, retirement plan with match contributions, company paid life & disability and financial wellness programs. Hired applicants will received paid leave and may be eligible for bonuses. This information is provided per the WA State EPOA.
Aero-Flite is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and will make all employment related decisions without regard to age, race, color, religion, marital status, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
Aero-Flite is a Federal Contractor, we adhere to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act, to include testing for THC

• Operate CL-415 aircraft in support of wildfire suppression operations
• Ensure full compliance with FAA, agency, and company regulations and policies
• Conduct accurate pre-flight planning and performance calculations
• Maintain in-depth knowledge of aircraft systems and pilot documentation
• Perform safety checks, airworthiness assessments, and documentation of discrepancies
• Communicate effectively with the ATC, Aerial Supervisors, & Incident Commanders
• Support aircraft readiness, cleanliness, and seasonal preparations
• Participate in training, public service events, and maintenance flights as required
• Embody and promote Aero-Flite’s Mission, Vision, and Core Value