At Owyhee Air Research, we’re looking for mission-focused aviators who bring precision, discipline, and professionalism to every sortie. We support federal agencies, state wildlife departments, tribal nations, universities, and other partners across North America with advanced aerial imaging and mapping that inform critical conservation, wildlife, and natural resource decisions. Our pilots aren’t flying point A to point B—they’re executing complex missions in demanding environments, often at low level, in challenging weather, and from remote or austere locations on extended deployments. If you have strong cross-country, night, and low-level experience, thrive in a crew environment with Sensor Operators, and view aviation as a craft in service of science and stewardship, Owyhee Air Research offers a cockpit with purpose.
Minimum Qualifications
Our missions demand disciplined, experienced aviators who meet — and typically exceed — regulatory and contractual standards.
Advanced Qualification – P68 (Contract-Specific Minimums)
- 1,500 hours Total Time
- 1,200 hours Pilot-in-Command (PIC)
- 500 hours Cross-Country
- 200 hours Night
- 75 hours Total Instrument
- 200 hours Mountainous Terrain
- Defined as flight conducted at 2,500’ AGL and below in terrain designated as mountainous under 14 CFR 95.11 and depicted in the AIM (Figure 5-6-2)
- 100 hours Multi-Engine Land (MEL) (preferred minimum)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply?
Please submit a cover letter and resume to info@owyheeair.com.
Your cover letter should briefly outline your total time, relevant operational experience (low-level, mountain, night, weather), and availability.
When Should I Apply?
P68 Pilots
Expressions of Interest are typically submitted in May–June.
- Resume review begins in June
- Interviews and hiring decisions occur in July–August
- Selected candidates attend Ground School in September–October
This timeline aligns with our operational tempo and winter mission season.
King Air Pilots (B-350 Type Rating Required)
Expressions of Interest may be submitted year-round.
For the summer fire season:
- Resume review begins in December–January
- Hiring decisions are made in February
- Initial training at FlightSafety is typically scheduled March–May
Do You Hire Lower-Time Pilots?
Due to the operational nature of our flying and the contractual requirements of our clients, we rarely hire pilots who do not meet the Advanced P68 minimums. Our missions require experienced aviators capable of independent judgment in complex and dynamic environments.
Are these Full-Time or Contract Positions?
The majority of our P68 pilots operate under a contractual arrangement. Historically, flying demand has been highest from November through April; however, mission activity during the May through October timeframe continues to increase.
King Air assignments are typically aligned with seasonal fire contracts and mission-specific deployments.
