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Cargo Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ameriflight

BE-1900 Captain - Cargo Pilot

Pampa, TX · On-site

$87K/yr

Our diverse portfolio enables major cargo integrators, manufacturers, aircraft operators, and ... Base salary is $87,006 annually Pilot Benefits: * Ameriflight is a proud partner of the UPS ...

Ameriflight

EMB-120 Captain Cargo Pilot

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$97K/yr

Our diverse portfolio enables major cargo integrators, manufacturers, aircraft operators, and ... Base salary is $97,091 annually Pilot Benefits: * Ameriflight is a proud partner of the UPS ...

Army National Guard Units

$131K - $171K/yr

Cargo Helicopter (CH-47); Utility Helicopter (UH-60 series), (LUH-72 series) and others when ... Serves as pilot-in-command while operating single and/or multi-engine rotary wing aircraft to ...

SAS Scandinavian Airlines

Pilot -- Atlas Air

Miami, FL · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Atlas Air Pilot - Job Summary Qualified pilot needed to operate cargo aircraft: B747-400F, B767-200/300F and B777-200LRF. The role focuses on operating long‑haul cargo flights across North America.

Universal Benefits Marketing Firm,

Pilot

Sumter, SC · On-site

The Pilot will focus on transporting passengers and cargo, determining the safest routes, analyzing flight plans and weather conditions, calculating fuel, and inspecting operation systems and ...

Reliable Robotics

Part 135 Line Pilot

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Reliable Airlines is a cargo feeder operator, operating for a major cargo carrier since June 2022 ... As the Pilot in Command, you will be responsible to monitor the loading of cargo and ensure a ...

Reliable Robotics

Part 135 Line Pilot

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Reliable Airlines is a cargo feeder operator, operating for a major cargo carrier since June 2022 ... As the Pilot in Command, you will be responsible to monitor the loading of cargo and ensure a ...

Clayton Homes

Pilot Driver

Addison, AL · On-site

The Pilot/Escort Driver must assist the Toter driver in preparing and maintaining the cargo for shipment and delivery. This includes "flagging" out the home, changing flat tires, performing pre-trip ...

Clayton Homes

Pilot Escort Driver

Addison, AL

The Pilot/Escort Driver must assist the Toter driver in preparing and maintaining the cargo for shipment and delivery. This includes "flagging" out the home, changing flat tires, performing pre-trip ...

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Cargo Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do cargo pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 does a cargo pilot do?

The job of a cargo pilot is to transport goods or freight for a company. A cargo pilot occasionally handles special or dangerous materials and checks cargo lists and storage systems to ensure everything meets transportation safety guidelines. These pilots may fly at night, remain in a cockpit for several hours at a time, and sign paperwork when they deliver the products to a destination. Most fly solely between airports of various sizes while following a schedule set by the company. Depending on the size of the company and plane, the responsibilities of a cargo pilot may include cleaning and maintenance. The qualifications you need to become a cargo pilot include a commercial pilot license.

What does a cargo pilot do?

A cargo pilot is responsible for flying aircraft that transport goods, packages, and freight rather than passengers. Their duties include planning flight routes, ensuring the safe loading and unloading of cargo, conducting pre-flight inspections, and navigating flights according to safety regulations. Cargo pilots often work irregular hours and may fly both domestically and internationally, sometimes overnight or in challenging weather. They play a crucial role in keeping global supply chains running efficiently.

What are some common challenges faced by cargo pilots during international flights?

Cargo pilots on international routes often encounter challenges such as navigating complex customs regulations, managing tight delivery schedules across multiple time zones, and adapting to varying weather conditions. They may also experience irregular sleep patterns due to overnight flights and changing schedules. Effective communication with ground crews and logistics teams is essential to ensure timely deliveries and resolve any unexpected issues that arise during transit.

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

To thrive as a Cargo Pilot, you need a commercial pilot’s license, strong aeronautical knowledge, and extensive flight experience, often including an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate. Proficiency with flight management systems, navigation tools, and adherence to aviation safety regulations is essential. Exceptional situational awareness, decision-making skills, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the safe, timely, and efficient transport of cargo, even under challenging conditions and tight schedules.

What is the difference between Cargo Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectCargo PilotCommercial Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot Certificate, second-class medical, specific cargo endorsementsCommercial Pilot Certificate, second-class medical, may include passenger or other endorsements
Work EnvironmentFreight and cargo transport, often in cargo aircraft or small planesVarious flying activities including aerial work, charter flights, and cargo
Industry UsagePrimarily in freight and logistics sectorsBroader aviation roles including cargo, aerial photography, and flight training

Both Cargo Pilots and Commercial Pilots require similar certifications, but Cargo Pilots specialize in freight transport, often flying cargo aircraft. Commercial Pilots have a wider range of flying roles, including cargo, but also other aviation services. The choice depends on your career focus within the aviation industry.

How much do cargo pilots get paid?

Cargo pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, airline, and flight hours. Experienced cargo pilots with additional certifications can earn higher salaries, especially when flying long-haul or international routes.
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Cargo Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cargo Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

BE-1900 Captain - Cargo Pilot

Ameriflight LLC

Pampa, TX • On-site

$87K/yr

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Description:


Ameriflight, LLC is the nation’s largest Part 135 cargo airline and the leading provider of scalable, outsourced aviation services for the regional express airfreight market. Our diverse portfolio enables major cargo integrators, manufacturers, aircraft operators, and freight forwarders to adapt quickly to the demands of today’s fast-moving supply chain.


Operating a fleet of more than 120 aircraft—including the Saab 340B, Embraer 120, Fairchild SA227, Beechcraft 1900, and Beechcraft 99—Ameriflight delivers reliable service from bases across the U.S.


About the position:

  • Captain in Beechcraft BE1900
  • Outstation domiciled in PPA, operating to AMA and LBB M-F evening and returning the following morning
  • Occasionally repositions to DFW for maintenance
  • Base salary is $87,006 annually

Pilot Benefits:

  • Ameriflight is a proud partner of the UPS Flightpath Pathway Program
  • Career advancement opportunities, including training and leadership positions
  • Paid training, including transportation, lodging, and per diem
  • Ability to bid specific base, equipment and domicile
  • Jumpseat privileges with CASS partners, including American, Alaska, Allegiant, Atlas Air, FedEx, Frontier, Horizon, JSX, Omni Air, Southwest, UPS Airlines and more
  • Known Crew Member (KCM) privileges available
  • Reimbursement for Pilot Medical Certificate (post-hire only)
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits
  • Company provided Life Insurance
  • Vacation
  • 401K plan
Requirements:
  • Must meet FAR 135.243(c) requirements for PIC in IFR conditions
  • Commercial Pilot License multi-engine land with instrument rating, high performance and complex endorsements
  • 1,800 TT, 1000 PIC, 500 hours XC, 250 multi, 100 turbine PIC, 100 hours instrument (50 must be in aircraft), 100 hours night
  • Previous FAR121/135 experience required
  • Instrument Proficiency Check or 121/135 recurrent within past 6 months
  • First or Second Class medical. First Class required for all Charter / ESCS positions and international operations
  • FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit
  • Current Passport
  • English Proficient
  • Must be eligible to work in the U.S. and travel unrestricted in and out of the U.S.
  • Must meet airport badging requirements, including a TSA Security background check
  • Successful completion of pre-employment required DOT drug screening and other required background checks
  • May drive company provided vehicles - must have a valid Driver’s License and meet all company insurance criteria

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and business needs without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.


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