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Cargo Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Campbell Transportation Company INC

Pilot

Houston, PA · On-site

Captains and Pilots are primarily responsible for the safety of vessel employees, the vessel, cargo ... Familiarize crew with cargo and associated hazards among towed barges. * Verify serviceability of ...

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 ...

Reynolds Jet

Pilot in Command

Cincinnati, OH

The PIC has command of, and the responsibility for, the flight crew, passengers, cargo, the SAFE ... The Pilot-in-Command (PIC) is accountable to the Chief Pilot for the safe conduct of assigned ...

Reynolds Jet

Pilot in Command

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

The PIC has command of, and the responsibility for, the flight crew, passengers, cargo, the SAFE ... The Pilot-in-Command (PIC) is accountable to the Chief Pilot for the safe conduct of assigned ...

Geisinger

Helicopter Line Pilot

Avoca, PA

$86K - $107K/yr

Ensures cargo is properly secured and emergency equipment are aboard. * Files, activates and closes ... FAA commercial pilot with an instrument rating * FAA commercial pilot with an instrument rating ...

Geisinger Health

Helicopter Line Pilot

Avoca, PA · On-site

$86K - $107K/yr

Ensures cargo is properly secured and emergency equipment are aboard. * Files, activates and closes ... FAA commercial pilot with an instrument rating * FAA commercial pilot with an instrument rating ...

Grant Aviation

Pilot In Command for PA31

Anchorage, AK · On-site

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES The Pilot in Command (PIC) has command of, and the responsibility for, the flight crew, passengers, cargo, the SAFE conduct of the flight, and provides guidance and coordinate ...

Grant Aviation

Pilot In Command for C208

Anchorage, AK · On-site

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES The Pilot in Command (PIC) has command of, and the responsibility for, the flight crew, passengers, cargo, the SAFE conduct of the flight, and provides guidance and coordinate ...

Total Aviation Staffing, LLC

IFR Pilot

Meridian, MS · On-site

$100K/yr

As an IFR Pilot, you'll play a pivotal role in delivering critical air medical transport services ... Commercial Aviation - Passenger airlines, cargo operations, and aircraft leasing * Business ...

Alpine Air

Floater Pilot - B1900

Provo, UT · On-site

$90K/yr

Job title Pilot; [31010 - Airplane Pilot] Job location Varies Reports to Chief Pilot Job purpose ... Ability to lift and move 70 lbs of cargo to shoulder height on a regular basis * Ability to bend ...

Alpine Air

Floater Pilot - B1900

Provo, UT

$90K/yr

Job title Pilot; [31010 - Airplane Pilot] Job location Varies Reports to Chief Pilot Job purpose ... Ability to lift and move 70 lbs of cargo to shoulder height on a regular basis * Ability to bend ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Fitchburg, MA · On-site

$91K - $113K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - UMASS Memorial Health Life FlightFitchburg, MA EMS Air Medical Aircraft ... Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and ...

Helinet Aviation

ENG (Part 91) Line Pilot

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

Supervises loading and distribution of cargo and passengers and determines that weight and balance ... Current FAA Commercial Pilot's License with Instrument Rating * Current FAA 2nd Class Medical * 1 ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Lake City, FL · On-site

$76K - $95K/yr

Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and ... Skills Pilots must have flown in category for a commercial operator or in the military within the ...

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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
Pilot

Pilot

Campbell Transportation Company INC

Pittsburgh, PA • Remote

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Description

Captains and Pilots are primarily responsible for the safety of vessel employees, the vessel, cargo and the environment. The primary responsibility is to navigate the vessel safely at all times, in all weather conditions, while navigating the inland waterways.


Essential Responsibilities:

  • Ensure compliance with Company safety protocols during watch duty.
  • Safely operate and manage crew, vessel, and tow efficiency.
  • Complete, submit, and maintain required records, logs, and reports.
  • Execute duties as per the Vessel Security Plan as the designated security officer.
  • Familiarize crew with cargo and associated hazards among towed barges.
  • Verify serviceability of lifesaving equipment, fire detection, and firefighting systems.
  • Always maintain safe and clean accommodations and require crew to do the same.
  • Organize and conduct necessary training, drills, and exercises.
  • Adhere to established vessel management policies and procedures, including budget management.
  • Provide clear direction to subordinates and conduct periodic performance evaluations.
  • Conduct and report results of periodic vessel audits and inspections.
  • Maintain continual communication with crew, land-based personnel, USCG, or lock personnel for information sharing.
  • Prepare vessel and crew for emergency responses.
  • Operate and maintain the assigned vessel in alignment with quality, safety, security, and environmental policies and procedures.
  • Uphold a positive company image and maintain professional relationships with customers, pilots, terminal personnel, and the public.
  • Ensure adequate vessel manning and watch schedules.
  • Perform other assigned duties as required.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Valid USCG Merchant Mariner’s Credential with Towing Endorsement
  • Valid TWIC
  • Valid Radar Endorsement
  • Must pass pre-employment drug test and submit to random DOT testing requirements.
  • Must meet USCG physical examination requirements and pass pre-employment physical.
  • Ability to collaborate, effectively manage and work well with others.
  • Strong time management skills, able to handle multiple tasks, set priorities and meet deadlines.
  • Possess strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to clearly follow instructions, both written and verbal.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Prior experience in a similar position within the marine transportation industry
  • Prior experience in a safety sensitive position

Physical Requirements:

The unpredictable, ever-changing, and inherently dangerous nature of towboat operations requires the crew members to be physically qualified to ensure his/her own safety, as well as that of the vessel and entire crew. Specific physical requirements include:

  • Traverse boats, barges, and tows a minimum of two (2) miles per day, including on wet or slick surfaces.
  • Transport equipment of 60 to 100 pounds up to 1000 feet.
  • Ascend/Descend a 90 degree ladder up to 40 feet.
  • Move, transport, and position equipment up to 100 pounds.
  • Position self to move through 18-inch diameter hatch.
  • Move two (2) feet horizontally and vertically.
  • Maintain constant communication with crew members.
  • Ability to recognize and identify distant objects and recognize distances between objects.
  • Constantly work in outdoor weather conditions.
  • Work shifts a min. of 12 hrs. (could be up to 15).