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Commercial Aircraft Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The incumbent may be required to fly in military and/or commercial aircraft to perform temporary ... Must have logged 1,000 or more total pilot time (i.e., accumulation of primary, secondary ...

As a Commercial Airline Pilot, you will be responsible for safely operating aircraft, ensuring passenger safety, and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and operational excellence.

As a Commercial Airline Pilot, you will be responsible for safely operating aircraft, ensuring passenger safety, and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and operational excellence.

With a diverse fleet of modern business aircraft, home-based opportunities, and competitive ... Ability to obtain and maintain CANPASS authorization for unrestricted commercial pilot travel to ...

Pilot

Farmingdale, NY · Remote

$75K - $250K/yr

With a diverse fleet of modern business aircraft, home-based opportunities, and competitive ... unrestricted commercial pilot travel to/from CanadaICAO Annex I - 2.1.10 compliant for ...

This position assists in the development and verification of our commercial pilots in the safe operation of single and multi-engine aircraft. This role requires an experienced pilot with good ...

Showing results 41-60

Commercial Aircraft Pilot information

See salary details

$48K

$87.1K

$133K

How much do commercial aircraft pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for commercial aircraft pilot in the United States is $87,144.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $102,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a commercial aircraft pilot?

Commercial aircraft pilots are licensed professionals who operate airplanes for airlines, charter companies, or other commercial flight operations. Their primary responsibility is to safely transport passengers and cargo according to flight schedules and aviation regulations. In addition to flying the aircraft, commercial pilots conduct pre-flight inspections, monitor weather conditions, communicate with air traffic control, and manage navigation systems. They may also be involved in flight planning, record-keeping, and ensuring the overall safety of the flight. Becoming a commercial aircraft pilot requires specialized training, certification, and ongoing education to maintain proficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a commercial aircraft pilot?

To thrive as a Commercial Aircraft Pilot, you need a strong foundation in aviation theory, flight operations, and navigation, typically supported by a commercial pilot’s license and relevant flight hours. Proficiency in using cockpit avionics, flight management systems, and adherence to aviation regulations is essential. Outstanding situational awareness, decision-making skills, and effective communication set exceptional pilots apart. These competencies ensure passenger safety, regulatory compliance, and efficient flight operations in a highly demanding environment.

What are some of the main challenges a commercial aircraft pilot faces during long-haul flights?

Long-haul flights can present unique challenges for commercial aircraft pilots, including managing fatigue, maintaining focus over extended periods, and adapting to changing time zones. Pilots must adhere to strict regulations regarding rest and alertness, often working in shifts with co-pilots to ensure safety. They also need to be prepared for unexpected weather changes, technical issues, and complex airspace navigation, all while maintaining clear communication with air traffic control and the cabin crew. Effective teamwork and strong situational awareness are essential for managing these demands successfully.

What is the difference between Commercial Aircraft Pilot vs Flight Instructor?

AspectCommercial Aircraft PilotFlight Instructor
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot Certificate, Second-Class MedicalCertified Flight Instructor (CFI), Private Pilot Certificate
Work EnvironmentAirlines, charter services, cargo carriersFlight schools, training aircraft, private settings
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, corporate flight departmentsFlight training schools, aviation academies

While both roles require pilot certifications, Commercial Aircraft Pilots operate in airline and charter environments, focusing on transporting passengers or cargo. Flight Instructors primarily train new pilots, working within flight schools. The key difference lies in their primary responsibilities and work settings, though both roles demand strong flying skills and certifications.

Are commercial aircraft pilots still in demand?

Commercial aircraft pilots are currently in demand due to ongoing growth in air travel and a need for experienced pilots to replace retiring personnel. The profession requires certifications such as an Airline Transport Pilot license and strong technical skills, and job opportunities are influenced by industry recovery and expansion efforts.
More about Commercial Aircraft Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Commercial Aircraft Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Commercial Aircraft Pilot job openings:

What job categories do people searching Commercial Aircraft Pilot jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Commercial Aircraft Pilot jobs are:

Infographic showing various Commercial Aircraft 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 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,144 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

AIRPLANE PILOT (SIMULATOR INSTRUCTOR)

Air Education and Training Command

Columbus, MS • On-site, Remote

$103K - $134K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Serve as a simulator instructor for students in Undergraduate Flying Training (UFT).

  • Serve as an academic instructor for students in Undergraduate Flying Training (UFT).

  • Monitor and evaluate student progress and performance.


Job description

Summary
Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.
The primary purpose of this position is to serve as an aircraft simulator and academic instructor for students enrolled in the United States Air Force (USAF) Undergraduate Flying Training (UFT) program.
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Duties
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  • Applying aviator experience, serves as a simulator instructor for students in Undergraduate Flying Training (UFT).
  • Applying aviator experience, serves as an academic instructor for students in Undergraduate Flying Training (UFT).
  • Monitors and evaluates student progress and performance.
  • Performs other duties related to accomplishment of the unit operational and training mission.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • U.S. Citizenship Required
  • Males must be registered for Selective Service, see www.sss.gov
  • This position is subject to provisions of the DoD Priority Placement Program
  • Disclosure of Political Appointments
  • Advance in hire may be authorized if there is demonstrable proof provided on your resume
  • Recruitment Incentive may be authorized for this position
  • Relocation Incentive may be authorized for this position
  • Leave accrual may be authorized upon request
  • Depending on the type of position (competitive/excepted) you are selected for, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period OR 2-year trial period.
  • Upon completion of your probationary/trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
  • Previous experience as an instructor in a military aircraft is highly desirable.
  • Incumbent may be required to stand for several hours at a time while instructing in a classroom environment.
  • Work may occasionally require travel away from the normal duty station on military or commercial aircraft.
  • Incumbent is subject to work other than normal duty hours, which may change daily due to simulator and academic work schedules.
  • This position has been designated by the Air Force as a Testing Designated Position (TDP) under the Air Force Civilian Drug Demand Reduction Program. Employee must pass initial and periodic short notice drug testing. [cont...]
  • Illegal drug use by employees in sensitive positions presents a clear threat to the mission of the Air Force, national security, and public safety.
  • This is a non-flying position.
  • Specialists not involved in the operation of aircraft need to have a medical examination indicating that they are able to perform the duties of the position to be filled. A pre-employment physical is required.

Qualifications
In order to qualify, you must meet the requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Aircraft Operations Series 2181.
Note: Candidates establishing eligibility based on military flight experience must provide official orders, forms, or logbooks showing their status as a rated military pilot, flight instructor, or flight examiner, as appropriate. Other certificates that meet or exceed the requirements of the Commercial Pilot Certificate are also acceptable, e.g., an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate.
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
Minimum eligibility requirements for positions in this occupation are based on possession of the appropriate Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pilot certificates and/or appropriate military ratings, meeting the applicable flight hour requirements, and possession of the knowledge and skills required for the positions.
AND
Certificates and Ratings:
For all grade levels and specializations, candidates must possess a current Commercial Pilot Certificate or the appropriate military rating; both meet the intent of the requirement. If an agency decides, for example, not to accept the military rating, the rationale for the decision should be based upon the requirements of the position and should be thoroughly described in agency operating material. For flight instructor positions, the FAA Flight Instructor Certificate or the military equivalent rating is also required. The pilot certificate must include the rating(s) appropriate to the work of the position to be filled. For example, a position that involves flying a multi-engine airplane to various destinations under instrument flight rules would require the Commercial Pilot Certificate with the airplane, multi-engine, and instrument ratings or appropriate U.S. military ratings. Positions that require flying or instructing in flying both airplanes and helicopters require a rating in both categories. Only those ratings necessary to perform the work are required.
Flight Experience:
Candidates must demonstrate possession of the knowledge and skills required for the work by meeting certain minimum flight hour requirements, including recency of flight experience. The categories in which candidates are required to demonstrate proficiency relate to (1) the general knowledge and skills to pilot the aircraft, and (2) the specific knowledge and skills related to the particular position being filled. Only that flight experience that is directly related to the work of the position is required for purposes of establishing minimum eligibility.
Minimum Flight Hour Requirements:
The following flight hour requirements apply to all applicants:
Total Flight Time Flight time as pilot-in-command or copilot in aircraft of any weight or category is creditable for this requirement. For in-service placements actions, up to one-fourth of the total flight hours may by waived for candidates who have demonstrated possession of the knowledge and skills needed to perform the work, provided:
  • They hold the certificates and ratings required;
  • They have acquired the pilot-in-command hours and flight hours in other categories essential to performance of the work;
  • They meet the requirements in terms of level and quality of experience; and
  • Their flying history indicates they are qualified for the position.

  1. Pilot-In-Command Only flight hours acquired as pilot-in-command are creditable.
  2. Night Flying For in-service placement actions at the GS-11 level and above, 25 hours may be waived if the candidate demonstrates the ability to perform the work.
  3. Instrument At the GS-11 level and above, at least 10 of the required hours must have been logged in actual instrument weather. The balance may have been acquired in a flight simulator or as other types of instrument flight time, e.g., hood instrument.
  4. Instructor Time Must be related to the nature of the instruction work and the category of aircraft operated (i.e., airplane or helicopter) in the position to be filled. If the purpose of the position is to provide instruction in instrument flight techniques, one-half of the flight time must have involved instrument instruction in either airplanes or helicopters.

Flight Hour Requirements: GS-11 and Above (Hours):
  • Total Flight Time - 1500 Hours
  • Pilot-In-Command - 250 Hours
  • Night Flying - 75 Hours
  • Instrument - 75 Hours
  • Instructor Time - 500 Instructor Hours

Note: You must submit proof of Flight Hours
Medical Requirements:
At the time of initial appointment, candidates for all pilot positions must possess a current first or second-class medical certificate in accordance with FAA regulations; both meet the intent of the requirement. If an agency decides, for example, not to accept the second-class medical certificate, the rationale for the decision should be based upon the requirements of the position and should be thoroughly described in agency operating material. Staff specialists not involved in the operation of aircraft need only have a medical examination indicating that they are able to perform the duties of the position to be filled. For flight test pilots, airspace system inspection pilots, and Customs pilots, all candidates must possess a current first-class medical certificate at the time of appointment.
FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in-grade requirements to be considered eligible. One year at the GS-11 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-12 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks. NOTE: Applicants applying as VEOA candidates who are current GS civil service employees or are prior GS civil service employees within the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
  1. Knowledge of aircraft systems and operating procedures, aerodynamics, flying fundamentals, aircraft instrumentation, ground and flight emergency procedures, and instrument and visual flight rules, as well as knowledge of training aircraft, and of the operation, characteristics, and limitations of the corresponding aircraft simulator.
  2. Knowledge of the methods, principles, practices, and programs related to curriculum development, instructional techniques, and training resources.
  3. Skill in the use of a variety of computer applications and software, to include simulator systems sufficient to meet desired learning objectives.
  4. Skill in demonstrating flying procedures and maneuvers in an aircraft simulator.
  5. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively orally and in writing, to include classroom instruction before large and small audiences.
  6. Ability to teach multiple academic courses while using computer-based teaching aides.

PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Education
This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Additional information
Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP): For information on how to apply as an ICTAP eligible click here. To be well-qualified and exercise selection priority for this vacancy, displaced Federal employees must be rated well qualified or above for this position. You must submit a copy of the agency notice, your most recent performance rating, and your most recent SF-50 noting position, grade level, and duty location.
Employed Annuitants (Reemployed Annuitants): Applicants in receipt of an annuity based on civilian employment in the Federal Service are subject to the DoD Policy on The Employment of Annuitants. Click here for more information.
120-Day Register: This announcement may result in a 120-day register that may be used to fill like vacancies for 120 days after the closing date. Applicants may be referred for consideration as vacancies occur.
Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible: MSP applicants, if determined best qualified, must be selected and placed at the highest grade for which they applied. You must include a completed copy of the DD Form 3145-4, Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist dated within 30 days along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility for MSP. Click here to obtain/download a copy of the DD Form 3145-4, Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist.
Priority Placement Program (PPP) Applicant Eligible: PPP Applicants, if determined well qualified and selected, will be placed at the at the full performance level. You must include the applicable completed copy of the PPP Self-Certification Checklist dated within 30 days along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility as a PPP Applicant. Click here to obtain/download a copy of the applicable PPP Self-Certification Checklist (DD3145-1 through DD3145-4, select the appropriate checklist for your claimed preference). To determine the applicable PPP Self-Certification Checklist required to substantiate the eligibilities you are claiming, refer to the AF Civilian Employment Eligibility Guide located in the Required Documents section of this vacancy announcement.
Direct Deposit: All federal employees are required to have direct deposit.
Disabled veteran leave is available to a Federal employee hired on/after 5 Nov 2016, who is a veteran with a service-connected disability rating of 30% or more. For more information, click here.
If you have questions regarding this announcement and have hearing or speech difficulties click here.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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