About the Company

Colorado Parks and Wildlife supports wildlife conservation, aerial observation, habitat management, fish stocking operations, and natural resource protection throughout the state of Colorado.

Position Summary

Colorado Parks and Wildlife is seeking an Aircraft Pilot / Wildlife Pilot to operate aerial wildlife observation, fish stocking, search and rescue, and habitat survey missions utilizing Cessna aircraft throughout Colorado and surrounding states.

Schedule

Hybrid and flexible schedule with possible nights, weekends, emergency call-outs, and multi-day travel assignments.

Responsibilities

• Conduct low-level aerial wildlife observation and tracking missions
• Support fish stocking operations in remote mountain lakes
• Assist with search and rescue operations
• Transport personnel and equipment throughout Colorado
• Operate telemetry, GPS, camera, and aerial survey equipment
• Coordinate and maintain aircraft maintenance schedules and records
• Install and remove specialized aircraft equipment
• Schedule and coordinate flight operations with CPW personnel
• Support additional non-pilot operational duties as assigned

Requirements

• Current Commercial Pilot Certificate
• Minimum 1,000 hours PIC time
• Minimum 500 hours mountain flying experience
• Current Class II Medical Certificate
• Tailwheel endorsement
• Instrument rating
• Current Biennial Flight Review
• Minimum 100 hours tailwheel time in fixed-wing single-engine piston aircraft
• Valid Colorado driver’s license
• Ability to respond within one hour of primary work location

Preferred Qualifications

• 2,000+ hours total PIC time
• 200 hours cross-country time
• 50 hours night time
• 50 flight hours within the last 12 months
• Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
• Cessna 180 or 185 experience
• Wildlife aviation experience preferred

Benefits

• Medical and Dental plans
• Retirement plans through PERA
• Paid life insurance
• Short and long-term disability coverage
• Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave
• Flexible and hybrid work options
• Career advancement opportunities

Compensation

$71,544 – $93,012 annually.

Aircraft

• Cessna 185

Location

Grand Junction, Colorado

Application Deadline

5/31/2026