Wildlife Pilot I | Cessna 185

Position Summary

The Wildlife Pilot operates a Cessna 185 and other assigned aircraft in support of wildlife management, research, law enforcement, aerial observation, photography, fish stocking, and personnel transportation. The Pilot conducts low-level operations in mountainous terrain and supports field programs while maintaining flight safety and operational records.

Schedule

• Full-time, 12-month position; duties may exceed 40 hours weekly.
• Flexible/hybrid scheduling during normal operating hours; evenings, weekends, emergency callouts, and multi-day travel may be required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct low-altitude wildlife surveys, telemetry, observation, photography, and support for enforcement and search-and-rescue activities.
• Perform low-level mountain-lake fish stocking and transport fish eggs and personnel.
• Maintain flight logs, administrative records, and aircraft-related equipment; coordinate aircraft and hangar maintenance.
• Operate navigation, telemetry, cameras, radios, and other mission equipment.

Requirements

• Current Commercial Pilot Certificate, instrument rating, tailwheel endorsement, current flight review, and at least a Second Class Medical.
• At least 1,000 logged PIC hours, including 500 mountain-flying hours and 100 PIC tailwheel hours in single-engine piston aircraft.
• Maintain a valid driver’s license when operating state vehicles; complete background, drug, and reference checks.
• Must be able to report to the primary job location within one hour when requested.
• Ability to operate at low altitudes and high density altitudes in rugged terrain, including flights approximately 50–150 feet AGL.

Preferred Qualifications

• 2,000 PIC hours in fixed-wing aircraft; 200 cross-country hours; 50 night hours; 50 hours in the preceding 12 months.
• Certified Flight Instructor qualification and Cessna 180/185 experience.
• Relevant wildlife, natural resources, or state-agency experience.

Benefits

• Medical and dental coverage, retirement plans, paid leave, life and disability insurance, and other state employee benefits.

Application Deadline

• November 16, 2026, at 11:59 PM Mountain Time.