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Balloon Pilot Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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Balloon Pilot information

See Colorado salary details

$52K

$137.7K

$211.4K

How much do balloon pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for balloon pilot in Colorado is $137,661.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,200.00 and $163,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a balloon pilot?

A Balloon Pilot is responsible for operating and navigating hot air balloons, ensuring passenger safety, and adhering to aviation regulations. They manage all aspects of balloon flight, including pre-flight preparations, weather assessments, and safe landings. Balloon pilots must hold a pilot’s license specific to hot air balloons and often provide sightseeing experiences or participate in competitive ballooning events.

What does a balloon pilot do?

A Balloon Pilot's workday often begins early, conducting thorough weather assessments and safety checks before assembling and inspecting the balloon. Pilots manage passenger briefings, coordinate with ground crews, and handle all operational aspects of the flight from takeoff to landing. The role also includes logistical tasks such as route planning, securing permits, and post-flight maintenance. Teamwork is important, as pilots regularly collaborate with ground personnel to track the balloon’s location and ensure safe landings. While the work can be physically demanding and highly dependent on weather conditions, it offers a unique and dynamic outdoor environment with direct engagement with passengers.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a balloon pilot?

To thrive as a Balloon Pilot, you need expertise in meteorology, navigation, and aerostatics, often supported by a commercial balloon pilot license and relevant flight training. Familiarity with aviation regulations, onboard instrumentation, and radio communication systems is essential. Exceptional situational awareness, clear communication, and strong customer service skills help pilots manage both safety and memorable passenger experiences. These abilities ensure safe operations in varying weather conditions and foster trust and satisfaction among clients and crew.

How do you become a balloon pilot?

To become a balloon pilot, you need to obtain a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) private or commercial pilot certificate with a hot air balloon rating, which requires flight training, a minimum number of flight hours, and passing written and practical exams. Additionally, pilots must meet age, health, and language requirements and regularly complete safety training and flight reviews.

How much do balloon pilots make?

Balloon pilots typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of events they work at. Many pilots are paid per flight or event, and additional certifications can enhance earning potential.

What are popular job titles related to Balloon Pilot jobs in Colorado?

For Balloon Pilot jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Balloon Pilot jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Balloon Pilot jobs in Colorado are:

Balloon Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Balloon Pilot job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $137,661 per year, or $66.2 per hour.

CDL-A Team Drivers - $5,000 sign-on

Riverside Transport

Wellington, CO • On-site

$200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Drive freight using modern equipment, primarily running at 70 CPM for all on-duty miles, with a focus on consistent weekly miles and freight in designated states.

  • Maintain weekly home time with 34-hour resets and manage freight that is 99% no-touch and drop & hook to maximize efficiency.

  • Complete responsibilities related to freight handling, driving, and maintaining equipment as part of team operations.

Job description

Hiring CDL-A Team Drivers
  • DOUBLE THE MILES. DOUBLE THE EARNING. - Teams earn up to $200,000 per year*
  • HOME EVERY WEEK. - Weekly 34-hour resets, every time
  • FREIGHT THAT KEEPS YOU ROLLING. - 99% no-touch, 99% drop & hook
Why Drive for Riverside Transport?

At Riverside Transport, drivers aren't just employees - they're family. Riverside is built on long-term relationships, and that shows in how they treat the people behind the wheel. With consistent freight, real home time, and a team culture that puts people before profits, Riverside is a company worth staying with.

If you're a team looking for steady miles, strong pay, and a carrier that actually knows your name, Riverside is ready to roll.

Dedicated Company Teams Job Overview
  • Top team pay that stacks fast. Teams earn up to $200,000 per year, running at 70CPM paid to the truck for all on-duty miles.*
  • Consistent weekly home time. Get home every week for a 34-hour reset - no guessing, no exceptions.
  • Freight built for momentum. Run 99% no-touch freight with 99% drop & hook and preloaded loads, keeping dock time low and miles high.
  • Strong weekly miles. Teams average 5,500-6,500 miles per week, with consistent freight across dedicated lanes in CO, MT, WY, NM, and ID.
  • Modern equipment. Drive 2022-2026 trucks with the reliability and comfort to support a productive team operation.
Company Driver Benefits
  • Coverage that backs you up. Full medical, dental, and vision insurance available for company drivers.
  • Get paid to get started. Company drivers receive a $1,500 sign-on bonus, plus $500 orientation pay to help you hit the ground running.*
  • Refer a team, earn big. Earn an $8,000 referral bonus* - ask your recruiter for details.
Dedicated Lease Teams Job Overview
  • Lease pay that rewards every mile. Lease teams earn $1.22/mi plus 100% FSC for all miles - empty and loaded - with an additional 10CPM in safety and on-time bonuses built into the rate.*
  • Sign-on bonus to get started. Earn a $5,000 sign-on bonus per team, plus $500 orientation pay.
  • Late-model Freightliners and Internationals. Choose from 2023-2026 Freightliner and International trucks available for lease, with 100% no-touch freight and 99% drop & hook loads.
  • Ask about our Veterans bonus. Special bonus opportunities available for qualifying veterans - ask a recruiter for details.
Lease Purchase Details
  • A smarter path to ownership. Riverside's lease purchase program offers average savings of $12,000 compared to market and Truck Paper rates,* with payments as low as $594/week after incentive.*
  • Low barrier to entry. No money down, no credit check, and a true walk-away lease with no balloon payment obligation. Fixed or per-mile payment options available on 2.5-5 year terms.
  • Built-in protection on the road. A full-service bumper-to-bumper maintenance program runs 10-12CPM,* keeping costs predictable and trucks rolling.
  • Rider and pet friendly. Bring your co-pilot - Riverside welcomes riders and pets.

All pay and bonus amounts may vary by job type, location, experience level, and performance and are subject to change based on company discretion. Talk with a recruiter to confirm specific details.

There is no deadline to apply. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Minimum Hiring Requirements
  • Valid Class A CDL
  • 6 months recent OTR experience
  • Currently hiring in CO, MT, WY, NM, and ID
  • SAP drivers are not eligible
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About Riverside Transport

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Riverside Transport is a prominent player in the transport industry based in Kansas City, KS, United States. The company has been offering a wide range of transport services since its establishment. Their primary services include truckload, expedited, dedicated, and logistics, serving both regional and nationwide clients. A notable achievement for the company was its recognition by the Truckload Carriers Association as one of the safest companies on the road, attesting to its commitment to safety standards and service quality. Affirming its dedication to its customers, Riverside Transport's mission statement clearly states the company's commitment to becoming the 'carrier of choice' by providing superior, innovative services that exceed customer expectations.

Industry

Transportation and warehousing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, KS, US

Year founded

1993

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