The entry-level turbine pilot usually applies for a job with a tour company. There are several helicopter operators in the U.S. who hire pilots with 1,000-1,500 hours of piston-engine time. Many of these jobs are seasonal, conducting tours during the spring, summer and early fall. Flying as a tour pilot is a great way to fly many hours over a short period of time, and, as these tour operators are flying under CFR Part 135 (helicopter charters) requirements, it is a way for the pilot to be involved with the responsibilities that come with this type of operation. The tour pilot will make $25,000-35,000 annually.
Once you obtain 2,000 hours of turbine flight time, then opportunities start to open up. Here are a few of the options: offshore oil rig support, fire suppression, external load and aerial crane work, logging, electronic news gathering, aerial photography and film making, emergency medical services, and agricultural support. Pay scale varies depending on your experience level and the type of work that you are doing.