1

Cargo Pilot Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

... aircraft, cargo and passenger charters, and other general aviation aircraft. Use your experience ... Work closely with line service personnel and pilots, ensuring all customer service needs are met

LIFT Academy, Pilot POSITION PURPOSE Supports aircraft Captain by ensuring safe and timely piloting ... and cargo. * Maintains regular and reliable attendance according to Company procedures and ...

Showing results 21-36

Cargo Pilot information

See Indiana salary details

$47.1K

$124.6K

$191.3K

How much do cargo pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for cargo pilot in Indiana is $124,575.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,200.00 and $147,500.00 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.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Cargo Pilot jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Cargo Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Cargo Pilot job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $124,575 per year, or $59.9 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


American Commercial Barge Line rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

ACBL is currently seeking Captains as well as Pilots for their mainline vessels.   This position has primary responsibility for the safety of vessel employees, the vessel, cargo and the environment.  This position is for our vessels that work primarily in the Canal; however you must be able to work throughout the Inland river system.  This position will work 28 days on the vessel and be off 14 days (28/14) or 28 days on the vessel and off 28 days (28/28).

Your Responsibilities - How You Will Make an IMPACT!

  • Ensure that work completed during his/her watch is done in accordance with Company safety policies and practices
  • Navigate the vessel safely at all times
  • Ensure all crew members on vessel receive instruction on how to do jobs properly and monitor performance
  • Carry out all duties assigned under the Vessel Security Plan as the designated vessel security officer
  • Ensure that each crew member knows the cargo of each barge in tow and has an understanding of any hazards associated with said cargoes. CFR 35.05-15b
  • Enforce all Company policies and vessel specific guidelines in support of the Crew Endurance Management System onboard all vessels
  • Participate in crew management, performance evaluation, general supervisory duties and management of the vessel’s budget
  • Complete required log entries
  • Maintain radio watch as required
  • Report Certain Dangerous Cargoes (CDC) barges at pick-up, drop-off, and designated mile points to the Inland River Vessel Movement Center
  • Enforce all rules
  • Give assignments and direction to the mate and/or lead deckhand
  • Comply with all established vessel management policies and procedures
  • Maintain the vessel budget and help maximize cost efficiency as directed
  • Provide instructions and information to crew members, ACBL land-based personnel, USCG or lock personnel

Job Qualifications - What You Will Bring to the ACBL Team

  • Must meet USCG physical examination requirements
  • Must be able to travel to and from vessel / training locations via air or car travel (must possess a valid driver’s license)
  • Must be able to work one of the following schedules: 28/28 or 28/14
  • Must be able to work a 6 hour on 6 hour off watch or 12 hour watches
  • Must have experience pushing barges (tows of 6 or more preferred)
  • Must be able to climb steep stairs, sit or stand for long periods of time
  • Must be able to ride in or pilot a crew boat or zodiac to get to/from towing vessel
  • Must be able to work in all weather conditions
  • Must maintain valid USCG licensing
  • Master of Towing Vessels upon Western Rivers license required
  • Must have an Inland Waters or Near Coastal Endorsement
  • Maintain an active TWIC

What American Commercial Barge Line employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom