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Commercial Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Detroit, MI

Be at least 21 years of age Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate Hold a current FAA First Class ...

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Tacoma, WA · On-site

Be at least 21 years of age Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate Hold a current FAA First Class ...

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Be at least 21 years of age Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate Hold a current FAA First Class ...

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Chicago, IL

Be at least 21 years of age Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate Hold a current FAA First Class ...

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Denver, CO · On-site

Be at least 21 years of age Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate Hold a current FAA First Class ...

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Be at least 21 years of age Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate Hold a current FAA First Class ...

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Portland, OR · On-site

Be at least 21 years of age Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate Hold a current FAA First Class ...

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Tucson, AZ

Be at least 21 years of age Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate Hold a current FAA First Class ...

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Houston, TX · On-site

Be at least 21 years of age Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate Hold a current FAA First Class ...

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Commercial Pilot information

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How much do commercial pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for commercial pilot in the United States is $22.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a commercial pilot?

Commercial pilots are licensed professionals who are authorized to operate aircraft for compensation or hire. They typically fly passenger airlines, cargo planes, charter flights, or perform aerial tasks such as crop dusting, aerial photography, and rescue operations. Unlike private pilots, commercial pilots must meet higher training standards, pass rigorous exams, and hold a commercial pilot license issued by aviation authorities. Their responsibilities include ensuring passenger safety, conducting pre-flight checks, navigating flights, and managing emergency situations. Commercial pilots often work for airlines, corporations, or specialized aviation companies.

What does a commercial pilot do?

The duties of a commercial pilot involve flying an airplane or helicopter for commercial purposes. Your responsibilities in this career may involve operating aircraft flights that carry passengers or cargo. As a commercial pilot, you can work for a commercial airline, a charter service, or another type of company that offers commercial airplane services. You are responsible for ensuring the plane is safe, fueled, and supplied before takeoff. You must also submit a flight plan and ensure you have the proper clearance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a commercial pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Commercial Pilot, you need a commercial pilot license, strong flight training, and in-depth knowledge of aviation regulations and navigation. Familiarity with advanced avionics systems, flight management software, and simulator training is essential. Excellent decision-making, communication, and situational awareness set outstanding pilots apart. These competencies ensure passenger safety, regulatory compliance, and effective management of challenging flight conditions.

What are some common challenges commercial pilots face during irregular schedules and how can they manage them?

Commercial pilots often deal with irregular schedules, including overnight flights and frequent time zone changes, which can disrupt sleep patterns and personal routines. Managing fatigue, staying alert, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance are essential for success in this role. Pilots use strategies like adhering to regulated rest periods, practicing good sleep hygiene, and leveraging support from their crewmates to mitigate these challenges. Airlines also provide resources and training to help pilots adapt to demanding schedules and ensure safety and well-being.

What is the difference between Commercial Pilot vs Private Pilot?

AspectCommercial PilotPrivate Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot CertificatePrivate Pilot Certificate
Work EnvironmentPaid flights, charter services, aerial workPersonal flying, recreational use
Employer & IndustryAirlines, charter companies, aerial servicesIndividuals, hobbyists, personal travel
Flight Hours Required250 hours minimum40 hours minimum

The main difference between a Commercial Pilot and a Private Pilot lies in their certifications, work environment, and flight hours. Commercial Pilots are licensed to be paid for flying and often work in professional settings like charter services or aerial work. Private Pilots fly primarily for personal or recreational purposes and cannot be paid for their flights. The certification requirements also differ, with Commercial Pilots needing more flight hours and advanced training.

How much money do commercial pilots make?

Commercial pilots typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, but this can vary based on experience, airline, and flight hours. Pilots with more seniority or specialized certifications can earn significantly higher wages, often exceeding $200,000 annually in some cases.

Is there a demand for commercial pilots?

The demand for commercial pilots remains strong due to growth in air travel and the need for experienced pilots in passenger and cargo airlines. Factors such as industry expansion, retirements, and the requirement for FAA certification contribute to ongoing job opportunities for qualified commercial pilots. However, competition can be high, and pilots typically need significant flight hours and training to qualify for employment.
More about Commercial Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Commercial Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Commercial Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Commercial Pilot jobs?

The most popular types of Commercial Pilot jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Commercial Pilot jobs?

The top employers for Commercial Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Commercial Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Commercial Pilot jobs include:

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

The top searched job categories for Commercial Pilot jobs are:

What are popular job titles related to Commercial Pilot jobs?

For Commercial Pilot jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Commercial Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Commercial 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 $47,504 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

First Officer Pilot

SkyWest Airlines

Detroit, MI

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

SkyWest Airlines rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 26 rated airlines

Job description


Primary Job Duties

To be considered for a pilot position, you must: 

Be at least 21 years of age 
Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings
English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate
Hold a current FAA First Class Medical Certificate
Be a U.S. citizen or able to show proof of right to work in the U.S. 
Hold FCC Radiotelephone Operator's Permit.
Have a current Passport --or other travel documents enabling the bearer to freely exit and re-enter the U.S. (multiple reentry status) and be legally eligible to work in the U.S. (possess proper working documents).
Must be available to work on any day, seven days a week, including nights, weekends and holidays.
Be within three months of the minimum hour requirements detailed below

ATP Written Requirement: 

SkyWest will provide the means to complete a SkyWest-approved CTP course for those who complete an application and successfully pass the pilot interview. 
 

Pilot applicants must meet the experience requirements of FAR 61.159 prior to employment.  

SkyWest Minimum Requirements When Counting Helicopter or Glider Time
SkyWest Airlines recognizes the skills common to helicopter and glider flying. SkyWest will accept helo/glider time as part of an applicant's total time as long as they have a minimum of 250 PIC hours of fixed wing.

Domiciles

Arizona:  Phoenix, Tucson

California:  Fresno, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, San Diego, San Francisco

Colorado: Colorado Springs, Denver
Georgia: Atlanta

Idaho: Boise

Illinois: Chicago

Minnesota: Minneapolis/St. Paul

Michigan: Detroit

Oregon: Portland

Texas: Austin, Dallas, Houston

Utah: Salt Lake City

Washington: Seattle

Wisconsin: Milwaukee


Minimum Requirements
  • Assist the Pilot- in- Command (PIC) in conducting the flight safely and efficiently
  • Assist the PIC and/or passenger service personnel as needed to ensure a prompt departure
  • Assist or relieve the PIC in manipulation of the flight controls of an aircraft while underway, including taxiing, takeoff and landing of such aircraft

Physical and Other Requirements
  • Must have a First Class Medical
  • Must be willing to fly assigned schedule based on pilot bidding seniority; including days, nights, weekends, and holidays
  • To apply, please complete the on-line application (qualified applicants will be contacted)
Qualifications:

To be considered for a pilot position, you must: 

Be at least 21 years of age 
Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings
English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate
Hold a current FAA First Class Medical Certificate
Be a U.S. citizen or able to show proof of right to work in the U.S. 
Hold FCC Radiotelephone Operator's Permit.
Have a current Passport --or other travel documents enabling the bearer to freely exit and re-enter the U.S. (multiple reentry status) and be legally eligible to work in the U.S. (possess proper working documents).
Must be available to work on any day, seven days a week, including nights, weekends and holidays.
Be within three months of the minimum hour requirements detailed below

ATP Written Requirement: 

SkyWest will provide the means to complete a SkyWest-approved CTP course for those who complete an application and successfully pass the pilot interview. 
 

Pilot applicants must meet the experience requirements of FAR 61.159 prior to employment.  

SkyWest Minimum Requirements When Counting Helicopter or Glider Time
SkyWest Airlines recognizes the skills common to helicopter and glider flying. SkyWest will accept helo/glider time as part of an applicant's total time as long as they have a minimum of 250 PIC hours of fixed wing.

Domiciles

Arizona:  Phoenix, Tucson

California:  Fresno, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, San Diego, San Francisco

Colorado: Colorado Springs, Denver
Georgia: Atlanta

Idaho: Boise

Illinois: Chicago

Minnesota: Minneapolis/St. Paul

Michigan: Detroit

Oregon: Portland

Texas: Austin, Dallas, Houston

Utah: Salt Lake City

Washington: Seattle

Wisconsin: Milwaukee

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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