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Army Helicopter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Army National Guard Units

HELICOPTER PILOT

Boone, IA · On-site +1

$110K - $144K/yr

Summary IOWA ARMY NATIONAL GUARD - TITLE 32 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION This position is restricted ... Pilots a variety of on one or more of the following helicopters: Attack Helicopter (AH-64); Cargo ...

New

Army National Guard Units

$131K - $171K/yr

As a HELICOPTER PILOT (Title 32) with the Texas Army National Guard, your duties will include, but will not be limited to: Incumbent serves as a Unit Trainer/Evaluator (UT/E), instructor pilot, or ...

Pae

Helicopter Pilot (Instructor)

Fort Novosel, AL

$55.85/hr

Army, the U.S. Air Force, and many Allied partner Nations, Amentum has earned its reputation as a ... helicopter ratings on both certificates, or be a graduate of any DOD rotary wing instructor pilot ...

Amentum

Helicopter Pilot (Instructor)

Fort Novosel, AL · On-site

$55.85/hr

Army, the U.S. Air Force, and many Allied partner Nations, Amentum has earned its reputation as a ... helicopter ratings on both certificates, or be a graduate of any DOD rotary wing instructor pilot ...

Pae

Helicopter Pilot (Instructor)

Fort Novosel, AL

$55.85/hr

Army, the U.S. Air Force, and many Allied partner Nations, Amentum has earned its reputation as a ... helicopter ratings on both certificates, or be a graduate of any DOD rotary wing instructor pilot ...

Amentum

Helicopter Pilot (Instructor)

Fort Novosel, AL · On-site

$55.85/hr

Army, the U.S. Air Force, and many Allied partner Nations, Amentum has earned its reputation as a ... helicopter ratings on both certificates, or be a graduate of any DOD rotary wing instructor pilot ...

Amentum

Helicopter Pilot (Instructor)

Fort Novosel, AL · On-site

$55.85/hr

Army, the U.S. Air Force, and many Allied partner Nations, Amentum has earned its reputation as a ... helicopter ratings on both certificates, or be a graduate of any DOD rotary wing instructor pilot ...

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Army Helicopter Pilot information

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$71.5K

$100.2K

$123.5K

How much do army helicopter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for army helicopter pilot in the United States is $100,249.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I join the Army to be a helicopter pilot?

Yes, the Army offers opportunities to become a helicopter pilot through its aviation program. Candidates must meet age, education, and physical requirements, complete basic training, and attend flight school to earn their pilot wings and operate military helicopters. Prior experience with flight training, a clean record, and passing medical exams are also necessary.

What are Army Helicopter Pilots?

Army Helicopter Pilots are military personnel trained to operate helicopters for the U.S. Army. Their responsibilities include flying missions ranging from troop transport and medical evacuations to reconnaissance and combat support. These pilots undergo rigorous training to handle various helicopter models and must be able to perform under high-pressure situations. In addition to flying, they also perform pre-flight checks, coordinate with ground troops, and ensure the safety and maintenance of their aircraft.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Army Helicopter Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Army Helicopter Pilot, you need a solid understanding of aerodynamics, navigation, and flight regulations, typically obtained through a bachelor's degree and completion of Army flight school. Familiarity with advanced flight simulators, GPS navigation systems, and military communication equipment is crucial. Strong decision-making, teamwork, and stress management skills set top pilots apart in demanding situations. These abilities are essential for ensuring mission success, safety, and effective coordination in high-stakes military environments.

How much do Army helicopter pilots make?

Army helicopter pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually during initial service, with pay increasing with rank, experience, and years of service. Advanced pilots with specialized skills or in leadership roles can earn higher salaries, and benefits include housing allowances and healthcare.

Which military branch is best for helicopter pilots?

The U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps all operate helicopter units, but the Army is the largest employer of military helicopter pilots and offers extensive training and diverse operational roles. Each branch has different aircraft, missions, and career paths, so the best choice depends on individual goals and interests in aviation and military service.

What are some common challenges Army Helicopter Pilots face during missions, and how are they addressed?

Army Helicopter Pilots often face challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and the need for rapid decision-making under pressure. Missions may require flying at low altitudes, navigating in low visibility, or executing complex maneuvers to support ground troops. To address these challenges, pilots undergo rigorous training in simulators and real-world environments, regularly practice emergency procedures, and work closely with their crew and ground support teams to ensure effective communication and mission success.

Are army helicopter pilots in demand?

Army helicopter pilots are generally in steady demand due to the ongoing need for military aviation, disaster response, and logistical support. The demand can fluctuate based on military budgets, defense priorities, and technological advancements, but skilled pilots with proper certifications and experience remain valuable in both military and civilian sectors. Transitioning to civilian helicopter roles often requires additional certifications and training.

What is the difference between Army Helicopter Pilot vs Commercial Helicopter Pilot?

AspectArmy Helicopter PilotCommercial Helicopter Pilot
CredentialsMilitary pilot training, FAA certificationsFAA commercial pilot license, specific aircraft ratings
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, combat zones, training facilitiesPrivate companies, airports, construction sites
Employer & IndustryMilitary, defense sectorPrivate sector, transportation, tourism

Army Helicopter Pilots and Commercial Helicopter Pilots both require FAA certifications, but Army pilots undergo military training and operate mainly in defense environments. Commercial pilots focus on civilian operations like transportation and tourism, working for private companies. While their skills overlap, their work settings and certifications differ significantly.

More about Army Helicopter Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Army Helicopter Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Army Helicopter Pilot job openings:
What states have the most Army Helicopter Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Army Helicopter Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Army Helicopter Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Army Helicopter Pilot jobs are:
Army Helicopter Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Army Helicopter Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $100,249 per year, or $48.2 per hour.
HELICOPTER PILOT

HELICOPTER PILOT

Army National Guard Units

Boone, IA • On-site, Remote

$110K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Army National Guard rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 50 rated military and defense

Job description

Summary
IOWA ARMY NATIONAL GUARD - TITLE 32 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION
This position is restricted to current Military members of the Iowa Army National Guard.
LOCATION: C Co 2/147 AVN, Boone, IA
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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As a HELICOPTER PILOT, GS-2181-12 your duties are below.
  1. Pilots a variety of on one or more of the following helicopters: Attack Helicopter (AH-64); Cargo Helicopter (CH-47); Utility Helicopter (UH-60 series), (LUH-72 series) and others when assigned. Routinely operates with short takeoffs and landing capability, in all types of weather, day, and night over a variety of terrains and open bodies of water. Flights are made using landing facilities ranging from modern, improved airport with paved runways and navigational aids to unimproved strips of remote, isolated villages. This position will be required to make reconnaissance and observation flights. Makes test flights and checks all systems in connection with maintenance actions and takes necessary action to correct malfunctions. Participates in all-weather search and rescue operations as required utilizing a thorough knowledge of the terrain features of the geographical area. Conducts flight checks following repairs, maintenance, or installation of approved aircraft system modifications. Responsible for transportation of cargo and transporting passengers, among a variety of familiar destinations (50%)
  2. Performs maintenance operation checks (MOCs) and general test flights of aircraft to ensure airworthiness upon completion of extensive disassembly for maintenance, repair or replacement of components or aircraft systems. Performs general test flights of aircraft upon completion of extensive disassembly, reassembly, and maintenance, repair, or replacement of parts where tests cannot determine the safe and or proper functioning of aircraft components or systems; and ensures the airworthiness component or aircraft systems. Performs acceptance test flights of new aircraft when required. (40%)
  3. Serves as a member of a board pertaining to aviation accidents, flight evaluation, collateral investigations, standardization, and federal recognition. (10%)
  4. Performs other duties as assigned. D2929000

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
NATIONAL GUARD MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED: This is an excepted position that requires military membership in a compatible military assignment in the Iowa Army National Guard. Selectee will be required to wear the military uniform. Acceptance of this excepted position constitutes concurrence with these requirements as a condition of employment.
APPLICATION MATERIALS MUST BE RECEIVED BY 08/10/2026 . FAILURE TO PROVIDE COMPLETE INFORMATION MAY RESULT IN YOUR NOT RECEIVING CONSIDERATION FOR THIS POSITION. Please refer to the Qualifications and Evaluations Section of this Announcement to understand the qualification requirements, and the How to Apply Section for detailed instruction on applying.
TRIAL PERIOD REQUIREMENT: As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 2-year trial period or 1-year (Veterans Preference Eligibles Only) during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider:
  • Your performance and conduct.
  • The needs and interests of the agency.
  • Whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and
  • Whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.

Upon completion of your trial period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
SECURITY CLEARANCE REQUIREMENT: Employment is subject to attaining and maintaining a clearance as required by this position. If the selectee does not possess the applicable security clearance when hired, application must be made within 30 days of the start date. Failure to make application for the required security clearance will result in termination of employment.
Failure to complete prescribed courses may be cause for reassignment or termination of FTS.
Incumbent must posses and continue to maintain a US Army Class II Flight Physical..
Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs or must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools.
Military Rank Requirements: WARRANT OFFICERS (CW4 and Below)
Qualifications
In describing your experience, please be clear and specific. We will not make assumptions regarding your experience. Applicants who do not fully address the minimum/specialized experience needed for the position in their resume will not be referred for consideration. Your resume must contain your own words. Resumes that are verbatim, from this announcement, any PD's, or any other applicants will not be considered.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Must have a competent understanding of the occupation's basic principles and concepts. Applicants should have a minimum of one year on-the-job experience in the grade (or a comparable military rank) immediately below the next higher level.
Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs or must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: GS-2181-12: Must haveexperience in the following:
  • Must have at least two years specialized competencies in operating a specific main-frame military aircraft, mission planning, and mission preparation
  • Experiences in civilian aviation programs; or, in military service aviation programs (active duty or reserve components); or, in the Army National Guard Aviation Support facilities; or, in Air National Guard Wing/ Operations Groups.
  • Experienced in reviewing and analyzing mission tasking, intelligence, and weather information.
  • Experienced in filing flight plans and conducting crew briefings.
  • Experienced in aircraft preflight inspections, aircraft loading, and equipment assessments.
  • Experienced in performing or supervising work procedures involved in navigation, in-flight refueling, search and rescue operations or surveillance and reconnaissance.
  • Knowledge is required in flight theory, air navigation, meteorology, flying directives, mission tactics, and operating procedures.
  • Experienced in the unit flying, explosive, and ground safety programs

Education
Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs or must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools.
Must have a high school diploma or general education development (GED) diploma. An undergraduate degree from an accredited college/university is optimum.
To receive credit for education, you must provide college transcripts to support your educational claims.
Additional information
ENLISTMENT CASH BONUSES: Acceptance of a technician position may affect any bonus and/or educational assistance that may be applicable. Please contact your Education Office prior to accepting a position with the Iowa Army National Guard.
Participation in direct deposit is mandatory.
If you are a male applicant born after 12/31/1959 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you are not eligible for appointment in this agency (https://www.sss.gov/RegVer/wfRegistration.aspx).
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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About Army National Guard

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The Army National Guard, headquartered in Arlington, VA, is a key constituent of the United States military, falling under the sector of Defense and Public Safety. Since its founding in 1636, it has served dual roles as both a state and federal military force that is activated in response to domestic emergencies and overseas combat missions. The Army National Guard embodies core values, including loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage, intending to uphold peace and serve the nation with unwavering dedication.

Industry

National security and international affairs

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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