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Atlas Air Cargo Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

At Atlas Air Worldwide, we're not just an airline, we're a global engine powering cargo, passenger ... Here, our pilots enjoy the flexibility of a career built around their lives and the fulfillment of ...

Jumpseat privileges with CASS partners, including American, Alaska, Allegiant, Atlas Air, FedEx ... Reimbursement for Pilot Medical Certificate (post-hire only) * Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits

Jumpseat privileges with CASS partners, including American, Alaska, Allegiant, Atlas Air, FedEx ... Reimbursement for Pilot Medical Certificate (post-hire only) * Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits

Jumpseat privileges with CASS partners, including American, Alaska, Allegiant, Atlas Air, FedEx ... Reimbursement for Pilot Medical Certificate (not retroactive to pre-hire) * Medical, Dental, and ...

At Atlas Air Worldwide, we're not just an airline, we're a global engine powering cargo, passenger, and leasing operations across more than 70 countries. As a leader in outsourced aviation logistics ...

Global Customs Admin

Miami, FL ยท On-site

$62K - $84K/yr

At Atlas Air Worldwide, we're not just an airline, we're a global engine powering cargo, passenger, and leasing operations across more than 70 countries. As a leader in outsourced aviation logistics ...

Customer Movement Manager

Erlanger, KY ยท On-site

$77K - $101K/yr

At Atlas Air Worldwide, we're not just an airline, we're a global engine powering cargo, passenger, and leasing operations across more than 70 countries. As a leader in outsourced aviation logistics ...

At Atlas Air Worldwide, we're not just an airline, we're a global engine powering cargo, passenger ... control center, pilots, sales, etc.) to define objectives, timelines and success metrics.

At Atlas Air Worldwide, we're not just an airline, we're a global engine powering cargo, passenger ... assisting visitors, pilots, flight attendants, contractors, vendors, and employees in a ...

Join Atlas Air Worldwide. Move the World with Us! At Atlas Air Worldwide, we're not just an airline, we're a global engine powering cargo, passenger, and leasing operations across more than 70 ...

Powerplant Engineer

Erlanger, KY ยท On-site

$86K - $117K/yr

At Atlas Air Worldwide, we're not just an airline, we're a global engine powering cargo, passenger, and leasing operations across more than 70 countries. As a leader in outsourced aviation logistics ...

At Atlas Air Worldwide, we're not just an airline, we're a global engine powering cargo, passenger ... Oversee navigation database management and investigate pilot-reported discrepancies to ensure ...

Sr Procurement Analyst

Erlanger, KY ยท On-site

$62K - $84K/yr

At Atlas Air Worldwide, we're not just an airline, we're a global engine powering cargo, passenger, and leasing operations across more than 70 countries. As a leader in outsourced aviation logistics ...

Senior Powerplant Engineer

Erlanger, KY ยท On-site

$93K - $133K/yr

At Atlas Air Worldwide, we're not just an airline, we're a global engine powering cargo, passenger, and leasing operations across more than 70 countries. As a leader in outsourced aviation logistics ...

At Atlas Air Worldwide, we're not just an airline, we're a global engine powering cargo, passenger ... Pilot and Aviation Training (CPaT). * Develop and execute the strategic roadmap for curriculum and ...

Technical Writer

Miami, FL ยท On-site

$62K - $84K/yr

At Atlas Air Worldwide, we're not just an airline, we're a global engine powering cargo, passenger, and leasing operations across more than 70 countries. As a leader in outsourced aviation logistics ...

Operations Controller

Erlanger, KY ยท On-site

$54K - $73K/yr

At Atlas Air Worldwide, we're not just an airline, we're a global engine powering cargo, passenger, and leasing operations across more than 70 countries. As a leader in outsourced aviation logistics ...

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Atlas Air Cargo Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do atlas air cargo pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for atlas air cargo 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 the difference between Atlas Air Cargo Pilot vs FedEx Express Pilot?

AspectAtlas Air Cargo PilotFedEx Express Pilot
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, type ratings for cargo aircraftCommercial Pilot License (CPL), ATP certificate, type ratings for cargo aircraft
Work EnvironmentOperate large cargo aircraft, often international routes, in a cargo airline settingFly large cargo aircraft, domestic and international routes, in a cargo airline environment
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily used by cargo carriers like Atlas Air, focusing on freight transportUsed by FedEx Express, a major cargo and logistics company

Both Atlas Air Cargo Pilots and FedEx Express Pilots require similar certifications and operate large cargo aircraft in comparable environments. The main difference lies in their employer and specific route networks, with Atlas Air focusing on international freight and FedEx on domestic and international express deliveries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Atlas Air Cargo Pilot?

To thrive as an Atlas Air Cargo Pilot, you need an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, extensive multi-engine flight experience, and a strong understanding of aviation regulations. Familiarity with advanced avionics, flight management systems, and cargo-specific aircraft operations is crucial, along with recurrent simulator training. Exceptional decision-making, communication, and stress management skills set top pilots apart, especially during irregular operations or challenging weather conditions. These competencies ensure safe, efficient cargo transport and compliance with strict aviation safety standards.

How much do Atlas Air Cargo pilots make?

Atlas Air Cargo pilots typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, seniority, and flight hours. Experienced captains with additional certifications can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by per-diem and overtime pay.

What are some common challenges faced by Atlas Air Cargo Pilots during international operations?

Atlas Air Cargo Pilots often encounter challenges such as navigating complex international airspace regulations, managing fatigue during long-haul flights, and adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions. Additionally, they must be adept at coordinating with ground crews and customs officials at various global destinations to ensure timely and secure cargo delivery. Effective communication, adaptability, and strict adherence to safety protocols are essential to overcoming these challenges and maintaining efficient operations.

What is an Atlas Air Cargo Pilot?

Atlas Air Cargo Pilots are professional aviators who operate cargo aircraft for Atlas Air, a major global air freight carrier. Their primary responsibilities include safely flying commercial cargo planes, transporting goods across domestic and international routes, and ensuring compliance with aviation regulations. These pilots undergo rigorous training and must hold appropriate certifications, such as an Airline Transport Pilot License. In addition to flying duties, they perform pre-flight inspections, monitor flight systems, and communicate with air traffic control to ensure safe and efficient operations.
More about Atlas Air Cargo Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Atlas Air Cargo Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Atlas Air Cargo Pilot job openings:
What states have the most Atlas Air Cargo Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Atlas Air Cargo Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Atlas Air Cargo Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Atlas Air Cargo Pilot jobs are:
Infographic showing various Atlas Air Cargo Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

First Officer Talent Community

Atlas Air

Miami, FL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Life, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Join Atlas Air Worldwide. Move the World with Us!
At Atlas Air Worldwide, we're not just an airline, we're a global engine powering cargo, passenger, and leasing operations across more than 70 countries. As a leader in outsourced aviation logistics, we're built on a foundation of safety, service excellence, integrity, innovation, teamwork, and responsibility. With over 30 years of history, a modern all-Boeing fleet, and nearly 5,000 teammates collaborating across operations, technical, and corporate functions, we're driven by purpose.
If you're ready to grow, innovate, and help us deliver excellence every single day, you belong here.
First Officer Talent Community
Thank you for your interest in our First Officer position. At this time, we are not currently hiring and do not have a timeline for when we will resume. If you're interested in future First Officer opportunities, please submit your information to this Talent Community so we can contact you when we start hiring again.
Atlas Air First Officer Information
Flying with Atlas Air is a lifestyle like no other. Here, our pilots enjoy the flexibility of a career built around their lives and the fulfillment of making the extraordinary happen every single day.
Flying with a greater purpose, our pilots carry everything from the U.S. military to humanitarian aid, sports teams to music superstars, e-commerce to economies- and do so with the world's largest fleet of 747s and 777s.
The unrivaled Atlas Gateway travel program makes sure that all Atlas pilots have positive-space seats for every domestic commute and international gateway travel for crew living outside the U.S. (up to $1,250 each way), meaning no more flying standby or using a crash pad. It means our pilots live where they want to live - we pick up the cost of their stress-free commute.
Living life to the fullest, our pilots choose routes and schedules that suit their lives. Because a job at Atlas is more than a chance to fly, it is an opportunity to rise.
Job Requirements
  • Hold a current unrestricted FAA ATP certificate with an airplane category multi-engine class rating and English proficiency endorsement
  • Current FAA Class 1 Medical Certificate
  • Hold an FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit
  • Hold a current and valid passport with no restrictions on international travel, including the ability to obtain entry visas for locations in which Atlas Air operates
    • All passports should have a minimum of 24 months validity
    • Legal name (including compound last names) must match on passport, employment authorization documents (if applicable) and FAA licenses and permits
    • Ability to obtain CANPASS permit (Canadian Customs program)
  • Legally authorized to work in the United States and possess proper working documents (meaning you are a U.S. citizen, you have a permanent resident 'green card,' an EAD, or other basis to work legally within the U.S.)
  • Successfully complete a DOT pre-employment drug test
  • Minimum age of 23 years of age and the maximum age of 65 as pilot positions are subject to FAA 121 mandatory retirement regulations
  • Ability to pass a 10-year security background check, the Pilot Records Improvement Act (PRIA), and Pilot Records Database (PRD) evaluation
  • Ability to provide 5 years of domestic and/or foreign (if applicable) training records or adequate supporting documentation
  • Ability to work varying schedules including reserve duty, weekends, evenings, and holidays
  • Thorough working knowledge of all Federal Aviation Regulations applicable to FAR Part 121 Operations
  • Must be able to adhere to the Atlas Air First Officer Crewmember Uniform Appearance Standards
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Proven leadership ability
  • Accurate and timely decision-making skills

Required Flight Hours:
  • Minimum of 1,500 hours of total time
  • Minimum of 1,000 hours of fixed wing time -or- 500 hours with a 121 or 135 operator, or rotary Military flight training graduate with a minimum 250 PIC hours of fixed wing

NOTE: ATP Certificates issued with a "CIRC APCH-VMC Only" limitation is acceptable.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • 2500 hours of total time operating in an FAA part 121, 135, 91 or Military environment
  • 500 hours of turbine time
  • Recent flying experience (greater than 200 hours within the last 12 months)
  • Significant wide-body, PIC, Military AND/OR international flight experience, complex avionics, (e.g., Boeing Honeywell, Boeing Collins, Collins Proline, Garmin G500/G1000/G3000/G5000)
  • Multi-crew experience with knowledge of CRM/TEM
  • Operations in complex airspace with significant experience in sophisticated instrument work, e.g. LNAV/VNAV or RNAV approaches and/or FMC manipulation
  • Bachelor's Degree in Aviation Flight, Aviation Management, or related field preferred; or equivalent experience

NOTE: We consider numerous factors when evaluating flight hours, including:
  • Complexity of aircraft flown
  • Nature and type of flight operations
  • Recency, quality, quantity, and verifiability of flight time and associated logs

Benefits as a First Officer
Being a First Officer at Atlas Air is a job like no other, and it calls for benefits like no other. We offer a world of benefits and perks to take care of you and your family, no matter which fleet you fly.
  • Positive Airline tickets for your commute for those living more than 130 miles from their base within the U.S., and international gateway travel for crew living outside the U.S. (up to $1,250 each way)
  • Business Class for Domestic and International Travel while deadheading greater than 4.5 hours
  • 64-hour minimum monthly pay guarantee - commencing date of hire
  • Company paid hotels in base, before/after trips and while on reserve
  • Premium pay available for flying on days off
  • Variety of schedules across different fleet types
  • Profit Sharing Plan
  • Basic Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
  • Long Term Disability (Loss of License) Insurance
  • Retirement Direct Contributions by the Company
  • Paid Sick Days
  • Travel benefits via MyID Travel for immediate family after 6 months of employment
  • Various voluntary benefits, including; Critical Illness, Pet Insurance, and more!

Learn more about our team, our fleet, our flights, and our purpose here at Tailwinds: https://www.atlasairworldwide.com/tailwinds-atlas-air-worldwide-blog/
The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is our policy to afford equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, place of birth, age, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other characteristic or status protected by applicable in accordance with federal, state and local laws.
If you'd like more information about your EEO rights as an applicant under the law, please download the available EEO is the Law document at http://www1.eeoc.gov/employers/poster.cfm.
To view our Pay Transparency Statement, please click here: Pay Transparency Statement
At Atlas Air Worldwide, we believe in the power of people, the promise of innovation, and the responsibility we hold to each other, to our customers, and to the planet. Join us and be part of a team that lifts more than cargo; we lift ambition.