Embark on a Career as a Seaplane Pilot with the U.S. Forest Service
If you have a passion for aviation and a commitment to protecting our nation's natural resources, the U.S. Forest Service offers one of the most rewarding and challenging opportunities available. We are currently looking for a skilled Airplane Pilot (Seaplane) to serve in the heart of the North Woods in Ely, Minnesota.
Job Responsibilities
As a pilot-in-command, you will operate single-engine aircraft in some of the most beautiful yet demanding environments in the country. Your primary duties include:
- Executing low-level water drops for fire suppression.
- Providing aerial intelligence and directing ground crews during wildfire incidents.
- Safely maneuvering in backcountry, mountainous, and water-based landing zones.
- Conducting wildlife surveys and transporting personnel to remote locations.
- Providing technical leadership on aviation contracts and safety standards.
Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate deep proficiency in aviation. Basic requirements include:
- FAA Commercial or Airline Transport Pilot Certificate with Single-Engine Land and Sea ratings.
- Current first or second-class FAA medical certificate.
- Documented tail wheel experience.
- Specific flight hours depending on the GS grade level (GS-11 vs. GS-12).
- Must meet specific age requirements for firefighter retirement positions.
Salary and Grade Comparison
| Level | Experience Focus | Pay Scale |
|---|---|---|
| GS-11 | Entry/Mid-level Aviation | $92,503+ |
| GS-12 | Senior/Full Performance | Up to $144,136 |
Benefits
- Competitive federal salary.
- Full federal benefits package, including retirement and insurance.
- Opportunities for unique professional development in specialized aviation.
- Potential government housing in a scenic location.
Application Tips
Ensure your application is complete by the deadline. Focus on documenting your flight hours clearly in your logbooks. A two-page resume is mandatory—anything longer will result in automatic removal from consideration. Ensure all supporting documentation is in the requested file formats.
Flying for the U.S. Forest Service in Ely is more than just a job; it is a vital contribution to our national heritage. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to apply and join our team of dedicated aviation professionals.
Why This Airplane Pilot (Seaplane) Job Matters
Take your flying career to new heights while protecting our nation's forests. Serve as a crucial aerial asset for the U.S. Forest Service in the scenic wilderness of Ely, Minnesota.
Airplane Pilot (Seaplane) Job Overview
The U.S. Forest Service is seeking a skilled Airplane Pilot (Seaplane) to join the Region 9 Fire and Aviation Management team. This role is dynamic, demanding, and vital to our mission, involving aerial fire suppression, wildlife surveys, and transportation for fire crews in remote, rugged, and mountainous terrain. You will serve as a pilot-in-command for single-engine aircraft equipped with land, sea, or ski gear, ensuring the safety of personnel and the protection of natural resources in challenging environmental conditions.
Requirements for Airplane Pilot (Seaplane)
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Must be under age 40 (or meet specific veteran/federal service exceptions)
- Possess FAA Airplane Commercial Pilot Certificate (or Airline Transport Pilot Certificate) with Single-Engine Land and Sea ratings
- Current FAA first or second-class medical certificate
- Proof of tail wheel logbook endorsement
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test and background investigation
- Must be able to live and work in remote, unpredictable environments
Preferred Qualifications for Airplane Pilot (Seaplane)
- Extensive experience in low-level flight operations in mountainous terrain
- Substantial Pilot-in-Command (PIC) hours in single-engine land and sea categories
- Proven proficiency in Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) and night flight operations
- Demonstrated ability to perform water and frozen lake landings in austere conditions
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS/CSRS)
- ✓Potential for government-provided housing
- ✓Access to agency-sponsored daycare facilities
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Professional development and career advancement opportunities
💡 How to Apply Airplane Pilot (Seaplane) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Airplane Pilot (Seaplane) Job
- Prepare your resume (maximum 2 pages) detailing relevant flight experience.
- Gather verifiable flight logs documenting total time, PIC hours, and specific category/class experience.
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Click the 'Apply Online' button on the announcement page.
- Complete the required questionnaire and upload all supporting documents (Certificates, Medical, Logbooks).
- Submit your application package before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
- Monitor your email for potential USA Hire assessment invitations.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise and strictly adhere to the two-page limit.
- Ensure your flight logs are legible and clearly categorized by aircraft type and flight condition.
- Apply early to allow time for the USA Hire assessment process.
- Double-check that all uploaded files are in acceptable formats (PDF, JPG, PNG, etc.) and under 5MB.
- Verify that your uploaded documents have successfully transferred to the agency staffing system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What flight hours are required for the GS-12 level?
The GS-12 position requires 1500 total hours, with 1200 as Pilot-in-Command (PIC), 500 hours of cross-country, 200 hours in category/class, and specific experience in low-level mountain operations.
Is this a remote work position?
No, this is an onsite position based in Ely, Minnesota, requiring the pilot to be available for active field operations.
What happens if I forget to submit my medical certificate?
Failure to submit required, legible documentation, including your current FAA medical certificate, may result in your disqualification from the selection process.
Is there an age limit for this position?
*A: Yes, because this is a primary firefighter position, applicants generally must be under age 40, though exceptions apply for veterans and those with existing federal service.*
Can I use volunteer experience?
*A: Absolutely. We encourage applicants to list relevant volunteer experience that demonstrates key aviation competencies.*
Job from Forest Service
The U.S. Forest Service is a global leader in forest management and conservation. Managing 193 million acres of National Forests and Grasslands, the agency is dedicated to sustaining the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation's forests. Our aviation team plays a pivotal role in this mission, providing essential support for firefighting, law enforcement, and wildlife management.