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Army Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Army Forces Command

PILOT

Aberdeen, MD · On-site +1

$142K - $185K/yr

You will serve as a Pilot and fly multi engine airplanes and/or helicopters on extended flights ... The 20th CBRNE Command is the higher headquarters for the majority of Army's CBRNE and explosive ...

Army National Guard Units

HELICOPTER PILOT

Ronkonkoma, NY · On-site +1

$123K - $161K/yr

For Army National Guard positions, must have working experiences in civilian aviation programs; or ... Experienced in piloting and instructing pilot skills in one or more of the following main-frame ...

Astrion

Pilot/Operations Officer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Overview Pilot/Operations Officer LOCATION: Redstone Arsenal, AL JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE ... Army Aviation Flight Test Directorate located at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, AL. Astrion has ...

US Department of the Army

$131K/yr

This position is located at the Army Aviation Support Facility (AASF), Kelly AFB, San Antonio, TX. The position is responsible for providing instruction, evaluation and examination of rated pilots ...

Leidos

UH-60 Blackhawk Instructor Pilot

Marana, AZ · On-site

... Instructor Pilot supporting the Army National Guard (ARNG) Aviation Training Services and ... In this position, you will play a critical role in preparing Army National Guard maintainers for ...

Leidos

UH-60 Blackhawk Instructor Pilot

Marana, AZ

... Instructor Pilot supporting the Army National Guard (ARNG) Aviation Training Services and ... In this position, you will play a critical role in preparing Army National Guard maintainers for ...

Army National Guard Units

$131K - $171K/yr

Summary This position is located at the Army Aviation Support Facility (AASF), Kelly AFB, San ... As a HELICOPTER PILOT (Title 32) with the Texas Army National Guard, your duties will include, but ...

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Army Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do army pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for army 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 an Army pilot?

Army Pilots are highly trained military personnel responsible for operating helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft for the U.S. Army. Their duties include transporting troops and equipment, conducting reconnaissance missions, providing air support during combat, and performing search and rescue operations. Army Pilots undergo rigorous training and must meet strict physical and educational requirements to qualify. They play a critical role in ensuring the success and safety of Army missions both in the United States and abroad.

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

To thrive as an Army Pilot, you need a strong background in aviation principles, physical fitness, and a bachelor’s degree, along with completion of Army flight school and required military training. Familiarity with flight simulators, advanced avionics systems, and navigation technology is essential, and obtaining a military aviation certification is mandatory. Exceptional decision-making, situational awareness, and leadership skills set top Army Pilots apart. These qualifications ensure mission success, operational safety, and effective team coordination in challenging and high-pressure environments.

What are the most common challenges faced by Army pilots during their initial training and early assignments?

Army Pilots often encounter a steep learning curve during their initial training, as they must quickly master complex technical skills, aviation procedures, and military protocols. Early assignments can be particularly demanding due to the high expectations for precision, adaptability, and decision-making under pressure. Pilots also frequently rotate between different units and locations, which requires strong teamwork, communication, and the ability to adapt to new environments and mission requirements. Support from experienced mentors and ongoing training help ease this transition and set the stage for future career advancement.

What is the difference between Army Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectArmy PilotCommercial Pilot
Required CredentialsMilitary pilot training, Army aviation certificationsCommercial pilot license (CPL), FAA certifications
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, combat zones, military aircraftPrivate airports, commercial airlines, charter services
Employer & IndustryU.S. Army, military aviationCommercial airlines, charter companies, cargo carriers

Army Pilots and Commercial Pilots both operate aircraft, but Army Pilots serve in the military with specialized military training and missions, while Commercial Pilots work in civilian sectors, flying for airlines or private companies. The key differences lie in their training, work environment, and employer industry.

Are Army pilots in demand?

Army pilots are in demand due to the need for military aviation personnel in defense operations and national security. The demand can vary based on military budgets, strategic priorities, and pilot experience levels, with opportunities often requiring specialized training and certifications such as a pilot license and security clearances.

Does the Army have pilot jobs?

Yes, the Army offers pilot jobs for qualified individuals to operate helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft in various missions such as reconnaissance, transport, and combat support. Candidates must meet specific training, physical, and educational requirements, including completing flight school and obtaining necessary certifications. These roles require strong skills in aviation, teamwork, and adherence to safety protocols.

How do you become an Army pilot?

To become an Army pilot, candidates must meet age, education, and physical requirements, complete the Army's flight training program, and obtain a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pilot certificate. Prior military or civilian flight experience and passing a series of medical and aptitude tests are also necessary.

How much do Army pilots get paid?

Army pilots' salaries are based on their rank and years of service, with pay scales set by the military pay chart. Starting pay for a commissioned officer can range from approximately $3,000 to $8,000 per month, with additional allowances for flight hours, hazardous duty, and housing. Experienced pilots with higher ranks can earn significantly more, and benefits include healthcare, retirement, and housing allowances.
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Cities with the most Army Pilot job openings:

What states have the most Army Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Army Pilot jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Army Pilot jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Army Pilot jobs are:

Army Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Army Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

PILOT

U.S. Army Forces Command

Aberdeen, MD • On-site, Remote

$142K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Summary
About the Position: You will serve as a Pilot and fly multi engine airplanes and/or helicopters on extended flights supporting the airlift requirements of CBRNE Analytical and Remediation Activity (CARA), 20th CBRNE Command, and additional subordinate elements. The 20th CBRNE Command is the higher headquarters for the majority of Army's CBRNE and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) units assigned to US Army Forces Command.
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Duties
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  • Operates multi engine airplanes and/or helicopters in support of CBRNE Analytical and Remediation Activity (CARA), 20th CBRNE Command, and additional subordinate elements.
  • Serves as rotary and/or fixed wing instructor pilot and instructs and evaluates rated pilots in basic and advanced flight procedures and maneuvers.
  • Serve as Government Flight Representative responsible for surveillance of all contractor flight and ground operations involving Army aircraft.
  • Provides aircraft qualification training to newly assigned pilots and maintains individual aircrew training records.
  • Conducts flights on a wide variety of airfields and landing sites to include day and night under favorable and unfavorable weather conditions.
  • Transports hazardous materiel to include neat chemical agents, biological agents and recovered chemical warfare materiel.
  • Serve as rotary and/or fixed wing maintenance test pilot and performs general and limited test flights following maintenance repairs and modifications.
  • Monitors flight and ground operations detecting and correcting unsafe practices and procedures; and advises the detachment commander on all matters pertaining to aviation safety.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
  • This position has a Temporary Duty (TDY) or business travel requirement of 50% or less of the time.
  • This position requires FAA License: commercial or higher with the following privileges multi engine airplane, instrument airplane and commercial helicopter, instrument helicopter or equivalent military ratings.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a determination of eligibility for a Secret security clearance or access for the duration of employment. A background investigation and credit check are required.
  • This position requires the completion of a pre-employment Physical Examination and an annual examination thereafter to ensure the continued, required level of physical health and ability or fitness to perform the duties of the position.
  • The duties of this position meet the criteria for compliance with Federal and Department of the Army Drug Free Workplace Programs. Detection of the presence of drugs is warranted.
  • This position is subject to a pre-employment screening, and random testing thereafter, to include testing based on reasonable suspicion and testing due to direct involvement with an on-duty accident.
  • This position is subject to a one-year probationary period unless the appointee has previously met the requirements as described in 5 CFR Part 315. While probationary, the selectee can be terminated with limited appeal rights.
  • Due to the nature of this position, employees are required to work both planned and unscheduled overtime.
  • Flight physical requirements must be completed before the final job offer is made if not currently in a DA flight status.
  • This position requires enrollment/certification in the Chemical Personnel Reliability Program (CPRP) in accordance with AR 50-6, as a condition of employment.
  • This position requires the employee to use personal protective equipment provided by the employer.

Qualifications
Who May Apply: Only applicants who meet one of the employment authority categories below are eligible to apply for this job. You will be asked to identify which category or categories you meet, and to provide documents which prove you meet the category or categories you selected. See Proof of Eligibility for an extensive list of document requirements for all employment authorities.
  • 30 Percent or More Disabled Veterans
  • Current Civilian Employees of the Command
  • Current Department of Army Civilian Employees
  • Current Department of Defense (DOD) Civilian Employee (non-Army)
  • Domestic Defense Industrial Base/Major Range and Test Facilities Base Civilian Personnel Workforce
  • Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan
  • Land Management Workforce Flexibility Act
  • Military Spouses, under Executive Order (E.O.) 13473
  • Non-Department of Defense (DoD) Transfer
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technician Eligible
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD MR and NG Preference Eligible Tech Receiving Disability Retirement
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Retained Grade Preference Eligible
  • Reinstatement
  • Veterans Employment Opportunity Act (VEOA) of 1998

Basic Requirements for the 2181 Pilot Occupational Series:
  • Medical Certificate: At the time of initial appointment, candidates for all pilot positions must possess a current first or second-class medical certificate in accordance with FAA regulations; both meet the intent of the requirement. You must submit supporting documentation for this requirement.
  • A current Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Commercial Pilot Certificate and/or the appropriate military rating. Current Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certificate with commercial or higher with the following privileges: multi engine airplane, instrument airplane and/or commercial helicopter, instrument helicopter or equivalent military ratings. NOTE: Candidates establishing eligibility based on military flight experience must provide official orders, forms, or logbooks showing their status as a rated military pilot, flight instructor, or flight examiner, as appropriate. Please note - the pilot certificate must include the rating(s) appropriate to the work of the position to be filled. For example, a position that involves flying a multi-engine airplane to various destinations under instrument flight rules would require the Commercial Pilot Certificate with the airplane, multi-engine, and instrument ratings or appropriate U.S. military ratings. You must submit supporting documentation for this requirement.
  • Minimum Flight Hours Requirement: Applicants for this position must meet certain minimum flight hour requirements, including recent flight experience. Minimum requirements are total flight time 1500 hours, pilot in command 250 hours, night flying 75 hours, flying time in the last 12 months 100 hours, heavy multi-engine airplane 500 hours (heavy is defined as gross takeoff weight in excess of 12,500 pounds), heavy helicopter 500 hours (Up to 250 hours flying time acquired in heavy multi-engine airplanes may be substituted), 75 hours instrument (at least 10 of the required hours must have been logged in actual instrument weather. The balance may have been acquired in a flight simulator or as other types of instrument flight time, e.g., hood instrument). (Note: documentation of flight hours must be provided at time of application). You must submit supporting documentation for this requirement.
    • When the position requires operation of heavy multi-engine airplanes (i.e., gross takeoff weight in excess of 12,500 pounds) at least 50 percent of the flight hours must have been in such heavy airplanes, except as indicated below. Up to 250 hours flying time acquired in heavy helicopters (gross takeoff weight in excess of 12,500 pounds) may be substituted (Note: documentation of flight hours must be provided at time of application).
    • Helicopter Up to 250 hours flying time acquired in heavy multi-engine airplanes may be substituted.
    • Instrument at least 10 of the required hours must have been logged in actual instrument weather. The balance may have been acquired in a flight simulator or as other types of instrument flight time, e.g., hood instrument. You must submit supporting documentation for this requirement. *These minimum qualifications requirements can also be found at the URL below: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/2100/aircraft-operation-series-2181/

In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level in the Federal service which includes flying heavy multi engine airplanes and/or helicopters on extended flights, transporting passengers and/or cargo to a wide variety of domestic and foreign points, and managing the suitability of aircraft components or systems for a flight activity/aviation program. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-12).
You will be evaluated on the basis of your level of competency in the following areas:
  • Attention to Detail
  • Customer Service
  • Decision Making
  • Flexibility
  • Influencing/Negotiating
  • Integrity/Honesty
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Learning
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Self-Management
  • Stress Tolerance
  • Teamwork

Time in Grade Requirement: Applicants who have held a General Schedule (GS) position within the last 52 weeks must have 52 weeks of Federal service at the next lower grade or equivalent (GS-12).
Separated Military Members: Resumes will be accepted from members of the Armed Forces who indicate in their applications that they are available for appointment within 120 days of the closing date of this announcement. Military members may be appointed while on terminal/transitional leave, before the effective date of their military retirement/separation.
Military Retirees: A retired member of the Armed Forces may not be appointed to a civilian position in DoD (including a non-appropriated fund position) within 180 days after retirement and are subject to the provisions of 5 United States Code 3326 or 5 U.S.C. 5305.
Education
Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience aloneno substitution of education for experience is permitted.
Additional information
  • Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
  • You will be required to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship.
  • One year trial/probationary period may be required.
  • Direct deposit of pay is required.
  • Selection is subject to restrictions resulting from Department of Defense referral system for displaced employees.
  • If you have retired from federal service and you are interested in employment as a reemployed annuitant, see the information in the Reemployed Annuitant information sheet.
  • This is a Career Field 64 - Aviation position.
  • Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement.
  • Salary includes applicable locality pay or Local Market Supplement.
  • You may qualify for reimbursement of relocation expenses in accordance with agency policy.
  • Recruitment incentives may be authorized.
  • Permanent Change of Station (PCS) allowances may be authorized, subject to the provisions of the Joint Travel Regulations and an agency determination that a PCS move is in the Government Interest.

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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.
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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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