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500 Hour Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

STS Technical Services

VFR Helicopter Pilot

Oracle, AZ · On-site

$50K/yr

First Class FAA Medical Flight Experience Requirements * 2,000 Total Flight Hours * 1,500 Helicopter Flight Hours * 1,000 Hours Pilot in Command Helicopters * 500 Hours Turbine Helicopter Time * 100 ...

STS Technical Services

VFR Helicopter Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

First Class FAA Medical Flight Experience Requirements * 2,000 Total Flight Hours * 1,500 Helicopter Flight Hours * 1,000 Hours Pilot in Command Helicopters * 500 Hours Turbine Helicopter Time * 100 ...

Textron

Pilot - Skillbridge

Cherry Point, NC · On-site

... • 500 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DOD-owned/operated fighter aircraft Specific Air Force Contract Qualifications • 1200 hours total PIC of a tactical military aircraft • ...

Textron

... 500 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DOD-owned/operated fighter aircraft Specific Air Force Contract Qualifications 1200 hours total PIC of a tactical military aircraft Current in a ...

Cessna Aircraft Company

$66K - $82K/yr

FAA Commercial, Airplane Single Engine Land Privileges * 1000 hours PIC of a military tactical aircraft * 500 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DOD-owned/operated fighter aircraft ...

i3

Research Pilot

Edwards, CA · On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft ...

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500 Hour Pilot information

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$130.9K

$201K

How much do 500 hour pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for 500 hour pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 500 hour pilot?

A 500 Hour Pilot job refers to entry-level pilot positions that require approximately 500 hours of total flight time. These roles often include jobs as pipeline patrol pilots, banner tow pilots, traffic watch pilots, or first officer positions in some regional or cargo operations. Many pilots seek these jobs to build hours toward the 1,500-hour requirement for an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate. Opportunities vary by location and employer, but typically provide valuable flight experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 500 hour pilot?

A 500 Hour Pilot needs strong foundational flight skills, sound judgment, and at least 500 hours of documented flight experience, often alongside a current Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and a valid Class 1 Medical Certificate. Proficiency with modern avionics, GPS navigation systems, and communication protocols is essential. Excellent situational awareness, attention to detail, and clear communication skills distinguish top pilots in this role. These abilities ensure safe, efficient operations and foster trust within flight crews and among employers.

What typical career advancement opportunities are available for 500 hour pilots?

Many 500 Hour Pilots use this role as a stepping stone to advance their aviation careers, gaining vital flight hours and experience with complex operations or new types of aircraft. As you log more flying hours and demonstrate reliability, you may become eligible for higher-level positions such as First Officer with regional airlines, instructor roles, or specialized pilot jobs like aerial survey or medevac operations. Networking with industry professionals and consistently performing well can accelerate your progression. Employers often look for strong safety records and a proactive attitude when considering pilots for advancement.

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500 Hour Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various 500 Hour Pilot job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 13% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

F16 Instructor Pilot - Ground Advisor

Shaw Air Force Base, SC • Remote

Top Aces Corp
See more jobs at Top Aces Corpexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description


The Ground Advisor Pilot (“Advisor”) provides F-16 subject matter expertise and instruction to foreign F-16 pilots, specifically on the operations and employment of the aircraft. The Advisor will provide instructional support through complex procedures, reinforce standardization, and ensure learning objectives are achieved. Furthermore, the Advisor’s role is critical to flight safety, pilot proficiency, and operational readiness. The information below is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required for this position.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Instruct foreign pilots in the safe and effective employment of the F-16.
  • Work with the host nation and other partners to ensure effective and efficient instructional content and adherence to the program schedule.
  • Provide updates to leadership on the progress of instruction.
  • Collect and disseminate lessons learned.
  • Deploy as required to support mission requirements.
  • Adhere to direction provided by the Chief Pilot and Pilot Site Lead.
  • Perform related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALFICIATIONS 

  • Previously qualified F-16 Instructor Pilot, current within the past 5 Years.
  • 1,500 hours Pilot-In-Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DoD (or Allied) fighter aircraft.
  • Must be able to work under pressure and meet deadlines while fostering a positive attitude.
  • Must have strong problem-solving abilities.
  • Proficient in the English language with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Must be proficient in the Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Must be able to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
  • Must be able to travel within the US and internationally.
  • Must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of a Ground Advisor Pilot in daily work performance.
  • Must be able to work in various weather environments and conditions.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Previous F-16 FTU Instructor Pilot.
  • 1,000 hours PIC in F-16.
  • 500 hours Instructor Pilot in multiple blocks of the F-16.
  • Previous Instructor Pilot for foreign partner F-16 training.
  • Previous Foreign Military Sales (FMS) experience or Air Advisor training.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS and/or WORK CONDITIONS

  • This is a rotational assignment requiring overseas deployment for periods from two to six months, during which the Advisor must reside and perform duties at the Company’s international location.
  • Must demonstrate the ability to operate effectively and self-sufficiently in a foreign environment, including communication, local navigation, and personal sustainability.

SPECIAL WORK CONDITIONS:

  • Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
  • Must be able obtain and maintain a US Secret or NATO Secret clearance. Ongoing eligibility is subject to periodic review. Strict adherence to all security protocols, procedures, and training is required.
  • Must possess a valid U.S. passport with no travel restrictions, limitations, or disqualifications, with a validity extending a minimum 6 months beyond the projected assignment completion date.
  • Must be able to secure all required work authorizations, including a valid work visa for the host country. Any prior immigration violations, criminal offenses, or adverse travel history that may prevent entry or work authorization will not be considered.
  • Adherence to the legal, regulatory, safety, and operational requirements of the host nation is mandatory throughout the duration of assignment.

Disclaimer: This role may be performed around loud noises and hazardous chemicals with exposure to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals. The extension of any offer and the commencement of employment for this position are contingent upon contract award.