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Bar Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pilot

Houston, TX · On-site

$180 - $240/hr

RAVN provides combat or high maneuver training for pilots, RDT&E, and maintenance services with its ... Note: a criminal conviction does not constitute an automatic bar to employment and will be ...

RAVN provides combat or high maneuver training for pilots, RDT&E, and maintenance services with its ... Note: a criminal conviction does not constitute an automatic bar to employment and will be ...

RAVN provides combat or high maneuver training for pilots, RDT&E, and maintenance services with its ... Note: a criminal conviction does not constitute an automatic bar to employment and will be ...

RAVN provides combat or high maneuver training for pilots, RDT&E, and maintenance services with its ... Note: a criminal conviction does not constitute an automatic bar to employment and will be ...

Pilot

Houston, TX · On-site

RAVN provides combat or high maneuver training for pilots, RDT&E, and maintenance services with its ... Note: a criminal conviction does not constitute an automatic bar to employment and will be ...

RAVN provides combat or high maneuver training for pilots, RDT&E, and maintenance services with its ... Note: a criminal conviction does not constitute an automatic bar to employment and will be ...

You must be team player with an extremely high bar. What you'll do: * Execute V-BAT flight ... Support training and evaluation of pilots to ensure consistency in operational execution

Standardization Pilot (R4736)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$130K - $200K/yr

You must be team player with an extremely high bar. What you'll do: * Execute V-BAT flight ... Support training and evaluation of pilots to ensure consistency in operational execution

Standardization Pilot (R4736)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$130K - $200K/yr

You must be team player with an extremely high bar. What you'll do: * Execute V-BAT flight ... Support training and evaluation of pilots to ensure consistency in operational execution

Rotor Wing Pilot

La Grande, OR · On-site

$101K - $120K/yr

As the industry's trailblazers, we constantly raise the bar for safety, excellence, social justice ... The Rotor Wing Pilot is responsible for professionally and safely operating aircraft for LFN to ...

New

Rotor Wing Pilot

Pendleton, OR · On-site

$101K - $120K/yr

As the industry's trailblazers, we constantly raise the bar for safety, excellence, social justice ... The Rotor Wing Pilot is responsible for professionally and safely operating aircraft for LFN to ...

Float Rotor Wing Pilot

Richland, WA · On-site

$112K - $131K/yr

As the industry's trailblazers, we constantly raise the bar for safety, excellence, social justice ... The Float Rotor Wing Pilot is responsible for professionally and safely operating aircraft for LFN ...

Rotor Wing Pilot

Brewster, WA · On-site

$101K - $120K/yr

As the industry's trailblazers, we constantly raise the bar for safety, excellence, social justice ... The Rotor Wing Pilot is responsible for professionally and safely operating aircraft for LFN to ...

Rotor Wing Pilot - IFR

Kailua Kona, HI · On-site

$123K - $145K/yr

As the industry's trailblazers, we constantly raise the bar for safety, excellence, social justice ... The Rotor Wing Pilot is responsible for professionally and safely operating aircraft for LFN to ...

Posted today

Rotor Wing Pilot - IFR

Hoquiam, WA · On-site

$112K - $132K/yr

As the industry's trailblazers, we constantly raise the bar for safety, excellence, social justice ... The Rotor Wing Pilot is responsible for professionally and safely operating aircraft for LFN to ...

Rotor Wing Pilot - IFR

Coupeville, WA · On-site

$112K - $132K/yr

As the industry's trailblazers, we constantly raise the bar for safety, excellence, social justice ... The Rotor Wing Pilot is responsible for professionally and safely operating aircraft for LFN to ...

Rotor Wing Pilot - IFR

Port Angeles, WA · On-site

$112K - $132K/yr

As the industry's trailblazers, we constantly raise the bar for safety, excellence, social justice ... The Rotor Wing Pilot is responsible for professionally and safely operating aircraft for LFN to ...

Rotor Wing Pilot - IFR

Kamuela, HI · On-site

$123K - $145K/yr

As the industry's trailblazers, we constantly raise the bar for safety, excellence, social justice ... The Rotor Wing Pilot is responsible for professionally and safely operating aircraft for LFN to ...

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Bar Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do bar pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for bar 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 pilot jobs make the most money?

In the maritime industry, chief or senior ship pilots tend to earn the highest salaries due to their extensive experience and responsibility for navigating large vessels through challenging waters. These roles often require specialized certifications, significant experience, and can include offshore or international assignments, which also influence earning potential.

Why are they called bar pilots?

Bar pilots are maritime pilots who specialize in navigating ships through shallow or challenging areas known as bars, which are often located at river mouths or harbor entrances. The term comes from their role in guiding vessels across these bars, ensuring safe passage in difficult conditions. They typically hold specialized certifications and have extensive local knowledge of the area’s waterways.

What are Bar Pilots?

Bar Pilots are highly trained maritime professionals responsible for guiding ships safely through challenging or dangerous waters, such as harbor entrances, river bars, and narrow channels. They have expert knowledge of local waterways, tides, currents, and port regulations. Bar Pilots board incoming and outgoing vessels to take command of navigation during critical portions of the journey, ensuring the safety of the ship, crew, cargo, and environment. Their role is essential for preventing accidents and facilitating efficient maritime trade.

What is the difference between Bar Pilot vs Tugboat Captain?

AspectBar PilotTugboat Captain
CredentialsRequires maritime licenses, pilot certifications, and extensive experience in navigationRequires maritime licenses, captain certifications, and experience in vessel operation
Work EnvironmentOperates primarily in port and harbor areas, guiding ships through congested watersOperates tugboats in ports, harbors, and nearshore waters, assisting with vessel maneuvering
Employer & IndustryEmployed by port authorities or shipping companies, working in maritime shipping industryEmployed by tugboat companies or ports, working in maritime logistics and vessel assistance

The main difference between a Bar Pilot and a Tugboat Captain lies in their roles and environments. Bar Pilots specialize in navigating large ships through port channels and require specific pilot certifications. Tugboat Captains operate tugboats to assist ships with maneuvering, especially in confined waters. Both roles demand maritime experience and licenses but serve different functions within the maritime industry.

What does a bar pilot do?

A bar pilot is a maritime professional responsible for navigating ships through challenging or congested waterways, such as harbor entrances or narrow channels. They use specialized knowledge, local charts, and communication with ship crews to ensure safe passage, often working in coordination with port authorities and holding specific certifications. Their role is critical for preventing accidents and ensuring efficient port operations.

What are some typical challenges a Bar Pilot faces when navigating large vessels through harbor entrances?

Bar Pilots often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, strong tidal currents, and limited visibility, all of which can make maneuvering large vessels through narrow or shallow harbor entrances particularly demanding. They must also coordinate closely with tugboat crews, ship captains, and harbor authorities to ensure safe passage, often under tight time constraints. Situational awareness and the ability to make quick, informed decisions are essential in this role, as even minor miscalculations can result in costly delays or accidents.

How much does a SF bar pilot make?

A bar pilot's salary varies based on experience and the size of the port, but they typically earn between $150,000 and $250,000 annually. They require specialized certifications and often work long, irregular hours navigating ships through challenging waterways.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Bar Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bar Pilot, you need extensive maritime knowledge, ship handling expertise, and a valid Coast Guard license, often backed by years of maritime experience. Familiarity with navigation systems, radar, GPS, and communication equipment is essential for safely guiding vessels through challenging waters. Exceptional situational awareness, decision-making, and communication skills help you coordinate with crews and respond swiftly to changing conditions. These competencies ensure the safe passage of ships into and out of harbors, protecting lives, cargo, and the marine environment.
More about Bar Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Bar Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Bar Pilot job openings:
What states have the most Bar Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Bar Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Bar Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Party Pilot | Event Captain | Hospitality Team Lead

Footers Catering

Arvada, CO • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Lead the Team Behind Colorado's Most Memorable Events.


Exceptional events don't happen by accidentthey happen because of exceptional leaders.


As a Party Pilot, you'll be the Front of House leader responsible for bringing every event to life. From elegant weddings and corporate galas to nonprofit fundraisers and private celebrations, you'll guide your team with confidence, solve challenges in real time, and ensure every guest experiences the award-winning hospitality Footers Catering is known for.


If you're an experienced hospitality leader who thrives in fast-paced environments and loves developing people as much as serving guests, we'd love to meet you.


Benefits

Hourly Base Salary + Bonus Opportunities

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Flexible Schedule

Health Insurance

Hands on Training

Career Growth Opportunities

Gratuities

Family Meal


Responsibilities

What You'll Do

As a Party Pilot, you'll lead our Front of House teams while ensuring every event reflects the service standards that have made Footers one of Colorado's premier catering companies.

Responsibilities include:

  • Lead Hospitality Heroes and Mix Masters during catered events.
  • Coordinate with chefs, Event Managers, and vendors to ensure seamless execution.
  • Keep events running on schedule while adapting to changing client needs.
  • Communicate service expectations, appearance standards, and event goals to your team.
  • Solve on-site challenges with professionalism, creativity, and a calm demeanor.
  • Complete event evaluations and contribute meaningful feedback to improve future events.
  • Maintain exceptional guest service from setup through final breakdown.


Develop Future Hospitality Leaders

Leadership at Footers means helping others succeed.

As a Party Pilot, you'll:

  • Train and coach new Hospitality Heroes and Mix Masters.
  • Lead on-site training using Footers' hospitality standards.
  • Provide constructive coaching and mentorship throughout events.
  • Observe performance and communicate opportunities for growth to Hospitality Leadership.
  • Represent Footers' culture and professionalism in every interaction.

Your leadership directly shapes the next generation of Footers team members.


Grow Your Career at Footers

Many of our hospitality leaders have grown through the organization by embracing new challenges and investing in others.

Career progression may include:

  • Bar Pilot
  • Hospitality Trainer
  • Junior Event Producer

If you're ready to take the next step in your hospitality career, Footers offers the opportunity to lead, mentor, and make a lasting impact.


Requirements

You'll Thrive Here If You...

  • Have 2+ years of hospitality leadership experience with a hospitality-related degree, or 5+ years of professional hospitality experience.
  • Have experience leading banquet, catering, restaurant, or event teams.
  • Hold a current TIPS Certification and have bar experience.
  • Stay calm under pressure while making thoughtful decisions.
  • Love coaching and developing people.
  • Communicate clearly and lead with confidence.
  • Take pride in creating unforgettable guest experiences.


Physical Requirements

  • Lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Stand and walk for extended periods.
  • Work evenings and weekends as events require.
  • Love a fast-paced event environment.