1

Civilian Government Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... civilian experience. (Highly Desired) * Possess an FAA commercial pilot license with instrument ... Should possess knowledge and first-hand experience necessary to succeed as a government contractor ...

Research Pilot

Edwards, CA · On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

... civilian experience. (Highly Desired) * Possess an FAA commercial pilot license with instrument ... Should possess knowledge and first-hand experience necessary to succeed as a government contractor ...

Adhere to specific military, civilian and ICAO flight rules to include compliance with FAA ... Active Secret US Government clearance with ability to obtain Top-Secret. Note: US Citizenship is ...

... civilian experience. (Highly Desired) * Possess an FAA commercial pilot license with instrument ... Should possess knowledge and first-hand experience necessary to succeed as a government contractor ...

S. Government customer to provide support for onsite incident response to civilian Government ... Gather and document requirements for technology integration pilots * Facilitate stakeholder ...

Adhere to specific military, civilian and ICAO flight rules to include compliance with FAA ... This effort requires collaboration with US Government organizations and the Original Equipment ...

Adhere to specific military, civilian and ICAO flight rules to include compliance with FAA ... This effort requires collaboration with US Government organizations and the Original Equipment ...

IT Requirements Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

$109K - $134K/yr

S. Government customer to provide support for onsite incident response to civilian Government ... technology integration pilots - Facilitate stakeholder workshops and coordination meetings ...

IT Requirements Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

$109K - $134K/yr

S. Government customer to provide support for onsite incident response to civilian Government ... technology integration pilots - Facilitate stakeholder workshops and coordination meetings ...

Showing results 21-40

Civilian Government Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do civilian government pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for civilian government 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.

How much do civilian government pilots make?

Civilian government pilots typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, agency, and location. They often require specialized certifications such as commercial pilot licenses and may work irregular hours or on specific missions like transportation or surveillance.

What is a civilian government pilot?

A Civilian Government Pilot operates aircraft for federal, state, or local government agencies. They may conduct surveillance, transport personnel and cargo, assist in emergency response, or perform aerial surveys. These pilots must hold the necessary FAA certifications and meet agency-specific requirements. Their duties vary depending on the agency, ranging from law enforcement support to environmental monitoring.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the civilian government pilot position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Civilian Government Pilot, you need an FAA commercial or airline transport pilot certificate, strong knowledge of aviation regulations, and significant flight experience. Familiarity with government-operated aircraft, navigation systems, and flight planning software is essential, as well as maintaining required medical certifications. Leadership, clear communication, and sound judgment are key soft skills for coordinating with government agencies and making critical decisions under pressure. These competencies ensure flight safety, regulatory compliance, and efficient support of government missions.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for a civilian government pilot?

As a Civilian Government Pilot, your daily responsibilities may include conducting pre-flight inspections, reviewing flight plans and weather conditions, and operating specialized government aircraft for various missions such as surveillance, transport, or aerial surveys. You will also communicate with air traffic control, coordinate with mission staff, and ensure all operations comply with federal aviation regulations and agency protocols. Depending on the employer, you may participate in training sessions or emergency response drills. Collaboration with engineers, logistics personnel, and other government officials is common to ensure mission success and aircraft readiness.

How do you become a civilian government pilot?

To become a civilian government pilot, candidates typically need a commercial pilot license with relevant certifications such as an instrument rating, along with experience flying in various conditions. Additional requirements may include passing background checks, medical examinations, and specialized training for government operations, often involving security clearances and familiarity with government aircraft and procedures.
More about Civilian Government Pilot jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Civilian Government Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Civilian Government Pilot jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Civilian Government Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Civilian Government Pilot jobs are:
Infographic showing various Civilian Government Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

$170K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview

NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) Aircrew member performs duties in support of the operations of all aircraft assigned to applicable base location. Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe operations are provided as tasked. Aircraft are operated to meet Agency platform, research, and support aircraft requirements. AFRC aircraft are located at the main campus at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Deployed operations, both CONUS and OCONUS, are routine for these aircrew positions.

Pay Range $170,000-$190,000.

The pay range for this position is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, geographic location, and any applicable laws.

Responsibilities

A successful candidate will conduct full-time Pilot duties on a variety of NASA aircraft as assigned to include, but not limited to: C-20A, Gulfstream (III, IV, and V), Pilatus PC-12, T-34, RQ-4 Global Hawk, and TG-14.

Duties include:

  • Conducting flight operations in accordance with FAA, Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), and other applicable directives, regulations, and instructions.
  • Maintaining performance standards in accordance with directives, training plans and Flight Crew Branch policies to include: Knowledge of safety precautions, Knowledge of airfield operations, Demonstrating Emergency Bold Face procedures from memory, and Knowledge of aircraft systems, limitations and ATC regulations / procedures.
  • Participating in i3 and NASA-directed Continuation Training, meetings, and other forums mandated by the on-site management team.
  • Performing any and all on-site tasks necessary at operating locations for a safe, secure, and professional operation.
  • Direct support to any administrative or flight operations scheduling / record keeping as needed
  • Other duties as assigned

Candidate must also maintain proficiency, currency, and annual requirements in accordance with NPR 7900.3C, NPD 7900.4D, AFPD 8700.1 and AFOP 7900.3-006 as applicable.

NASA will provide training and qualification checks for aircrew, including required periodic simulator training

NASA authorized flight surgeon will provide periodic flight physicals for aircrew

Qualifications

Required Skills:

  • Bachelor's degree, or higher, from an accredited university or college (Required), with major study in an appropriate field of engineering, physical science, life science, or mathematics (Desired).
  • Must be able to pass random drug screenings. (Required)
  • Possess a current US passport, valid through period of employment. (Required)
  • Formal military training in expected duties (with DD 214 annotating AFSC / MOS qualification) or applicable civilian experience. (Highly Desired)
  • Possess an FAA commercial pilot license with instrument, multiengine and single engine land ratings or possess a pilot and instrument rating from the armed services. (Required)
  • Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft with 500 hours of special missions' experience (Highly Desired)
  • Must meet the security requirements of the position and pass a NASA Flight Medical Certification (Required).

Required Experience:

  • Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft with 500 hours of special missions' experience (Highly Desired)
  • Should possess knowledge and first-hand experience necessary to succeed as a government contractor providing direct support to NASA AFRC staff as required.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Must be able to create, maintain and update briefings and statistical reporting.
  • Must be able to obtain a DoD SECRET security clearance.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

  • Light to medium work. Ability to lift, carry, push, pull, see, hear, stoop, crouch, feel, handle; manual dexterity.
  • Outside work. Ability to tolerate conditions in a deployed environment to include inclement weather, rain, humidity, cold and extreme heat. May be exposed to dust, fumes, odors, chemicals, and confined spaces.
  • Close, distance, color and peripheral vision and depth perception.
  • Ability to read and comprehend technical manuals and instructions; procedures, safety instructions, memos, reports. Ability to write at a level to relay data, details and information. Ability to perform shop math. Ability to speak clearly and concisely to relay information.
  • Office conditions: Moderate noise level. May be required to sit at computer station and/or type on keyboard for extended periods of time. May be required to lift objects such as laptop and office copy paper. May be required to view and read computer monitor for extended periods of time. May be required to take verbal messages per phone and face-to-face contact. Will occasionally be required to stand and walk to deliver items within office or on the flight line.
  • Flight line working conditions: Will be required to work day or night. May be exposed to high noise levels. Will be required to fly long missions (up to 12 hours) at high altitude in a confined space. May be subject to the altitude or physiological risks normally associated with flying.
About i3

i3 is a technically diverse, 100% team member owned business, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services, electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis, UAS system integration and flight operations, full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training, simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services, Missile Defense Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.

Perks of being a team member owner include:

  • Long-term financial security
  • Higher job satisfaction
  • Greater job security
  • Personal and professional growth
  • Great company culture

Other outstanding benefits:

  • Excellent insurance coverage
  • 401(k) match
  • Generous PTO
  • Health and wellness incentives
  • Tuition and certification reimbursement
  • Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares

We work hard. We compete hard. We play hard. Apply now to join us!

Employment Type: FULL_TIME