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Cargo Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Canal Barge Company

Vessel Pilot

Inland, NE

We believe CBC's Mississippi River transportation system is among the most efficient and most environmentally friendly methods of transporting cargo within the United States. CBC Pilots work on our ...

Superior Marine Inc.

Pilot

South Point, OH

Responsibility and Authority: * a) The Pilot is responsible for the safety and the security of his crew and vessel, the tow and cargo, and the satisfactory performance of all crew members. The Pilot ...

Mountain Air Cargo

PR · On-site

... of cargo * Conduct flight planning and maintain positive employee and customer relations * Ensure accuracy of all required paperwork QUALIFICATIONS * Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate ...

Superior Marine Inc.

Pilot

South Point, OH · On-site

$350 - $700/day

Responsibility and Authority: * a) The Pilot is responsible for the safety and the security of his crew and vessel, the tow and cargo, and the satisfactory performance of all crew members. The Pilot ...

Clayton Homes

Pilot Escort 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

Nashville, NC · 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

Hamilton, 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 ...

Clayton Homes

Pilot Escort Driver

Hamilton, 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

Richfield, NC · 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

Maynardville, TN · 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

Maynardville, TN · 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

Conway, AR · 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

Conway, AR · 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

Oxford, NC · 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 ...

HGA

Corporate Pilot

Ruston, LA · On-site

The Corporate Pilot is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of HGA's aircraft in the transportation of company personnel and cargo, conducting pre-flight planning, risk assessment, and ...

Clayton Homes

Pilot Escort Driver

Rutledge, TN · 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

Oxford, NC · 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

Richfield, NC · 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

Rutledge, TN · 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 ...

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All JobsCargo Pilot Jobs

Cargo Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do cargo pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 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 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 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 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 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.

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.
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Cargo Pilot jobs near you
Vessel Pilot

Vessel Pilot

Canal Barge Company

Inland, NE

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday

Job description

CANAL BARGE COMPANY

JOB DESCRIPTION

VESSEL PILOT

Candidates will be considered for wheelhouse positions for both Canal Barge and Marquette Gulf Inland opportunities.

*Multiple schedules offered!*

Canal Barge is a leading company in the inland marine industry with a history of steady growth and exceptional human & environmental safety record. We believe CBC's Mississippi River transportation system is among the most efficient and most environmentally friendly methods of transporting cargo within the United States. CBC Pilots work on our Fleet of Inland Towing Vessels. Extensive orientation and training is provided; all Pilots must possess a current U.S. Coast Guard license for Master or Pilot of Towing Vessels that is applicable for the vessel, route, and service.

Qualified candidates must be safety conscious and able to work in a physically demanding environment. Pilots are required to work onboard for a multi-week hitch, with travel reimbursement provided. All applicants must have favorable work references and a valid driver's license, and must be able to pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screen.


I. Primary Job Duties

  • Navigate the vessel and tow safely and efficiently while on watch

  • Supervise crew members and ensure that they are properly trained to perform their job duties safely

  • Ensure that all barges are in navigable condition

  • Complete required logs and reports

  • Apply all safety rules and regulations


II. Physical Requirements

Physical requirements include (but not limited to):

  • Repetitive bending, stooping and twisting

  • Climbing ladders and stairs

  • Must be able to push and pull 50lbs

  • Must be able to lift 50lbs

  • Able to board and ride in a skiff


III. Benefits of Joining Canal Barge Company

  • Competitive Health, Disability, Dental, and Life Insurance

  • 401K Savings Plan with company match

  • Crew changes from home to vessel paid for by CBC

Canal Barge Company and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers - All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

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