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Contract Air Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RAVN Aerospace

Pilot

San Antonio, TX · On-site

... contracts. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in military tactical flying, particularly in ADAIR (Adversary Air) and Contracted Close Air Support (CCAS). This role will involve ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Twentynine Palms, CA

$99K - $111K/yr

Must meet 29 Palms contract requirement** AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE! As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our ...

RAVN Aerospace

Pilot

Houston, TX · On-site

... contracts. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in military tactical flying, particularly in ADAIR (Adversary Air) and Contracted Close Air Support (CCAS). This role will involve ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Twentynine Palms, CA · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Must meet 29 Palms contract requirement** AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE! As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our ...

Blue Air Training

Pilot (Part-Time)

North Las Vegas, NV · On-site

Pilot will operate company owned aircraft, including: OV-10 Bronco, PC-9, IAR-823 Brasov, Bell-206 ... Air-Support on another DoD contract. Recency requirement may be waived on a case-by-case basis ...

Blue Air Training

Pilot (Part-Time)

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

Pilot will operate company owned aircraft, including: OV-10 Bronco, PC-9, IAR-823 Brasov, Bell-206 ... Air-Support on another DoD contract. Recency requirement may be waived on a case-by-case basis ...

Blue Air Training

Pilot (Part-Time)

Avon Park, FL · On-site

Pilot will operate company owned aircraft, including: OV-10 Bronco, PC-9, IAR-823 Brasov, Bell-206 ... Air-Support on another DoD contract. Recency requirement may be waived on a case-by-case basis ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Twentynine Palms, CA

$82K - $93K/yr

Must meet 29 Palms contract requirement** AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE! As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Twentynine Palms, CA

$82K - $93K/yr

Must meet 29 Palms contract requirement** AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE! As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our ...

Grid Aero

Test Pilot (Contract)

Merced, CA · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

... air mobility. We move quickly, operate with urgency, and build systems designed for real-world ... Role Overview Grid Aero is seeking an Experimental Test Pilot (Contract) to execute the flight ...

Grid Aero

Test Pilot (Contract)

Merced, CA · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

... air mobility. We move quickly, operate with urgency, and build systems designed for real-world ... Role Overview Grid Aero is seeking an Experimental Test Pilot (Contract) to execute the flight ...

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All JobsContract Air Pilot Jobs

Contract Air Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do contract air pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract air 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 Contract Air Pilots?

Contract Air Pilots are professional pilots who are hired on a temporary or per-assignment basis, rather than as full-time employees. They may operate a variety of aircraft, including private jets, cargo planes, or helicopters, depending on the needs of their clients. Contract Air Pilots often work for multiple employers, such as private individuals, corporations, or charter companies, and may be responsible for their own licensing, training, and insurance. This flexible arrangement allows both pilots and employers to meet short-term or specialized aviation needs. Contract pilots must comply with the same safety and regulatory standards as full-time pilots.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Air Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Air Pilot, you need a commercial pilot license, comprehensive flight experience, and up-to-date medical certification. Familiarity with various aircraft, flight management systems, and navigation tools is essential, and additional type ratings or instrument ratings are often required. Strong situational awareness, decision-making, and communication skills are crucial for handling dynamic flight conditions and coordinating with ground teams. These competencies ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and efficient operations in a role that often demands flexibility and adaptability.

What are some common challenges Contract Air Pilots face when transitioning between different employers or flight operations?

Contract Air Pilots often encounter the challenge of quickly adapting to new aircraft types, company procedures, and operational protocols when moving between employers or assignments. Each organization may have unique safety standards, communication practices, and scheduling systems, requiring pilots to be highly adaptable and detail-oriented. Building rapport with new crew members and understanding the expectations of different flight departments are also essential for maintaining smooth operations and ensuring safety. Staying current with certifications and regulatory requirements across various jurisdictions can further add complexity to the role.

What is the difference between Contract Air Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectContract Air PilotCommercial Pilot
CredentialsCommercial Pilot Certificate, possibly additional type ratingsCommercial Pilot Certificate, multi-engine ratings often required
Work EnvironmentCharter services, private contracts, on-demand flightsAirlines, charter companies, cargo carriers
Employer & IndustryPrivate clients, companies offering specialized flight servicesAirlines, freight, tourism

Contract Air Pilots typically operate on a freelance basis, providing specialized or on-demand flight services for private clients or companies. Commercial Pilots work for airlines or commercial operators, often with more structured employment. Both roles require a Commercial Pilot Certificate, but Contract Air Pilots often have more flexibility and varied work environments.

More about Contract Air Pilot jobs
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What states have the most Contract Air Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Air Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Air Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Air Pilot jobs are:
Contract Air Pilot jobs near you

Pilot

RAVN Aerospace

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Part-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

RAVN Group ("RAVN") is pushing the boundaries of innovation in the aviation industry, focusing on cutting-edge technology and advanced aerospace solutions. As part of the RAVN team, you'll be at the forefront of revolutionizing pilot training on military grade aircrafts and aerospace engineering in the defense sector. RAVN provides combat or high maneuver training for pilots, RDT&E, and maintenance services with its fully owned fleet of aircraft.
Job Description:
Company Summary
RAVN is pushing the boundaries of innovation in the aviation industry, focusing on cutting-edge technology and advanced aerospace solutions. As part of the RAVN team, you'll be at the forefront of revolutionizing pilot training on military grade aircrafts and aerospace engineering in the defense sector. RAVN provides combat or high maneuver training for pilots, RDT&E, and maintenance services with its fully owned fleet of aircraft.
Position Summary
We are currently seeking experienced tactical pilots to support our DoD contracts. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in military tactical flying, particularly in ADAIR (Adversary Air) and Contracted Close Air Support (CCAS). This role will involve flying critical sorties and conducting operational missions in support of defense initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
  • Primary flying duties will include ADAIR and CCAS sorties in support of DoD contracts.
  • Additional duties may include various Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) support as needed.
  • Conducting missions involving tactical flying qualifications within the defense sector.
  • Ensure adherence to safety protocols and operational standards during all flights.
  • Work collaboratively with other military personnel and contractors to achieve mission success.

Desired Experience/Skills
  • U.S. Citizenship required; no foreign nationals permitted.
  • Must hold a current security clearance at a minimum of SECRET//NOFORN level.
  • Military tactical flying experience:
  • 500 hours total tactical aircraft time and current in Armed Forces Reserve or Guard status, or
  • 1000 hours tactical aircraft time if DoD Retired or Separated, or
  • 1300 hours total time with 300 hours tactical aircraft time for retired/separated candidates.
  • Previous experience as a qualified DoD flight lead (4-ship for Adversary Air, 2-ship for Contracted Close Air Support) in F- or A-designated aircraft.
  • Tactical flying qualification within the last 5 years with a US Military Department, foreign DoD equivalent, or a US DoD contractor supporting Adversary Air or Contracted Close Air Support.
  • Tactical aircraft time in support of ADAIR is defined as flight hours in any Government-owned F-, A-designation, including T-38 ADAIR, T-38 IFF, and international exchange fighter equivalent aircraft while serving as Pilot in Command, Instructor Pilot, or Stan/Eval Flight Examiner.
  • FAA Class II medical rating.
  • FAA Commercial and Instrument Rating.

Physical Demands
  • Occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds.
  • Regular use of hands and fingers to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls, reaching with hands.
  • Regularly ascend/descend stairs.
  • Occasional aircraft hangar or warehouse environment with exposure to loud noises, fumes from engines and chemicals, unpredictable climate (hot/cold), and electrical shock, or trip or slip hazards.
  • May be exposed to or required to handle hazardous material.
  • Specific work hours determined by operational, departmental, or contractual requirements.
  • Occasional evening, weekend, holiday work may be required.
  • Travel to various work sites may be required.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Work Authorization
  • Must be lawfully eligible to work in the United States and complete an I-9 Form.
  • Must have a clean driving record.
  • RAVN Aerospace is a Drug & Alcohol-Free Workplace. Pre-employment, random, or for cause drug/alcohol testing (including for marijuana) required.
  • Pre-employment and ongoing physical certifications.

Note: Certain qualifications may be waived on a case-by-case basis, depending on the candidate's level of experience.
If you are ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role in the aerospace industry, apply now to join our team at RAVN Aerospace.
RAVN Aerospace is an EEO/AA/Disabled/Veterans Employer
I understand that if an offer of employment is made, I may be required to undergo investigation into all statements and references contained in this application. Said investigation may include credit, driving, criminal background, professional references, and other background checks. By applying for this position, I authorize post-offer investigation into my background as necessary and as a condition of employment. Note: a criminal conviction does not constitute an automatic bar to employment and will be considered only as it substantially relates to the position in question.

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