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Cargo Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Helinet Aviation

CHLA Pilot

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$41.59/hr

The CHLA Pilot will include the following general duties: * Responsible for the safe operation of ... Supervises loading and distribution of cargo and passengers and determines that weight and balance ...

Helinet Aviation

CHLA Pilot

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

The CHLA Pilot will include the following general duties: * Responsible for thesafe operation of ... Supervises loading and distribution of cargo and passengers and determines that weight and balance ...

New

Helinet Aviation

CHLA Pilot

Van Nuys, CA

$41.59/hr

The CHLA Pilot will include the following general duties: * Responsible for thesafe operation of ... Supervises loading and distribution of cargo and passengers and determines that weight and balance ...

Helinet Aviation

CHLA Pilot

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$37.40/hr

The CHLA Pilot will include the following general duties: * Responsible for the safe operation of ... Supervises loading and distribution of cargo and passengers and determines that weight and balance ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Big Bear City, CA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Instrument Flight Rules (IFR ...

Air Methods Pilots

$82K - $86K/yr

Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Instrument Flight Rules (IFR ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$25K/mo

Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Susanville, CA · On-site

$82K - $86K/yr

Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Borrego Springs, CA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Instrument Flight Rules (IFR ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Barstow, CA · On-site

$91K - $102K/yr

Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Borrego Springs, CA · On-site

$3.0K/wk

Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Instrument Flight Rules (IFR ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Susanville, CA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Ridgecrest, CA · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Blythe, CA · On-site

$107K - $121K/yr

Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Bakersfield, CA

$25K/mo

Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Instrument Flight Rules (IFR ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Blythe, CA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Borrego Springs, CA · On-site

$3.0K/wk

Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Instrument Flight Rules (IFR ...

Guardian Flight

Fixed Wing Pilot

Mammoth Lakes, CA · On-site

$109K - $119K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Bishop, CA Airframe: Pilatus PC12 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days Off Annual ... Previous medevac and/or cargo experience preferred. * Ability to provide logbooks listing all ...

Guardian Flight

Fixed Wing Pilot

Lone Pine, CA · On-site

$109K - $119K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Bishop, CA Airframe: Pilatus PC12 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days Off Annual ... Previous medevac and/or cargo experience preferred. * Ability to provide logbooks listing all ...

Guardian Flight

Fixed Wing Pilot

Bishop, CA · On-site

$109K - $119K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Bishop, CA Airframe: Pilatus PC12 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days Off Annual ... Previous medevac and/or cargo experience preferred. * Ability to provide logbooks listing all ...

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All JobsCargo Pilot JobsCargo Pilot Jobs in California

Cargo Pilot information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$129.2K

$198.4K

How much do cargo pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for cargo pilot in California is $129,202.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,700.00 and $153,000.00 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.
More about Cargo Pilot jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Cargo Pilot jobs in California?

The most popular types of Cargo Pilot jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Cargo Pilot jobs in California?

For Cargo Pilot jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cargo Pilot jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Cargo Pilot jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Cargo Pilot jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cargo Pilot job openings:

Cargo Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cargo Pilot job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,202 per year, or $62.1 per hour.

CHLA Pilot

Helinet Aviation

Van Nuys, CA • On-site

$41.59/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Helinet Aviation Services is a diversified helicopter service provider located in Van Nuys, California. We provide services for a wide range of markets, including VIP charter, emergency medical services including patient and organ transport,  electronic news gathering, motion picture, television and commercial production.


We are seeking qualified pilots for our Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles (CHLA) contract.

The CHLA Pilot will include the following general duties:

  • Responsible for the safe operation of the aircraft
  • Prior to flight, the pilot will familiarize himself/herself with all available information concerning the flight, including the current inspection status and aircraft discrepancy log, MEL deferral log and maintenance release, if appropriate
  • Responsible for the safety of his/her passengers and crew, if required delegates functions
  • Before flight, obtains briefing information regarding the purpose of the flight, including weather, NOTAMs, PIREPs, and operating procedures
  • Completes pre-flight risk assessments
  • Participates in company SMS program
  • Ensures the aircraft is pre-flighted, inspected, loaded, equipped, manned and legal for the flight assignment
  • Supervises loading and distribution of cargo and passengers and determines that weight and balance is within prescribed limitations and cargo is properly secured
  • Ensures proper preparation of flight logs, records, and maintenance forms
  • Attends and successfully completes initial and recurrent training and evaluations
  • Other duties as assigned 

Minimum qualifications:

  • Current FAA Commercial Pilot's License with Instrument Rating
  • Current FAA Medical (2nd class ok at time of hire, but must be willing to obtain 1st class at next renewal)
  • Must meet FAA Part 135 pilot minimum requirements
  • 2,000 total flight hours, including at least 1200 hours helicopter
  • 500 hours in turbine powered helicopters, twin time preferred
  • 250 hours of cross-country flight time
  • Minimum of 100 hours unaided night flight time
  • Knowledgeable about FAA regulations
  • High School Diploma
  • Must be able to work in a team environment
  • Must be customer service oriented

Preferred qualifications:

  • 3,000 total flight hours, 2,000 hours PIC Helicopter
  • NVG experience
  • Experience in Sikorsky S76 Helicopter
  • Twin engine helicopter experience
  • Prior Part 135 / Helicopter Air Ambulance experience
  • ATP
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office

Benefits:

  • Competitive pay
  • Health, dental, vision
  • 401k 
  • Cell phone reimbursement 
  • Employee assistance program
  • Life Insurance 
  • Disability Income Benefits
  • Flexible Spending Account


Helinet is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that no one should be discriminated against for any reason. All Helinet employment decisions shall be made without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and related conditions), national origin, ancestry, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status or any other basis as protected by federal, state, or local law to include Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring (LCIHO) LCIHO Link. Helinet is also committed to providing veteran employment opportunities to members of the armed forces.