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Contract Aviation Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Contracts Manager

Herndon, VA · On-site

$91K - $122K/yr

Manage contract lifecycle, from the internal validation and archiving to the implementation and ... Understanding of aviation business Preferred * Understanding related to the spare parts business ...

New

This position will be supporting our aviation client onsite at Washington, D.C. The Senior Project ... Holds regularly-scheduled project progress meetings to review that the project contract's terms ...

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Showing results 1-20

Contract Aviation information

See Reston, VA salary details

$21.8K

$57.5K

$95.2K

How much do contract aviation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract aviation in Reston, VA is $57,498.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,700.00 and $66,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by contract aviation professionals, and how can they be managed effectively?

Contract aviation professionals often face challenges such as adapting quickly to new teams and procedures, managing irregular work schedules, and ensuring regulatory compliance across different employers or locations. Building strong communication skills and maintaining up-to-date certifications can help ease transitions between assignments. Additionally, being proactive in understanding each client's safety protocols and company expectations is crucial for success. Networking with other contract professionals can also provide valuable support and industry insights.

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

To thrive as a Contract Aviation Professional, you need a solid understanding of aviation operations, relevant licenses or certifications (such as an FAA Airframe and Powerplant certificate or pilot license), and compliance with industry regulations. Familiarity with aviation management systems, flight planning software, and maintenance tracking tools is commonly required. Excellent problem-solving, attention to detail, and strong communication skills set top professionals apart in coordinating with diverse teams and ensuring safety. These skills and qualifications are essential for maintaining operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and safety in the dynamic aviation environment.

What are contract aviation jobs?

Contract aviation jobs are temporary or project-based roles within the aviation industry, such as pilots, mechanics, flight attendants, or ground crew who are hired on a contractual basis rather than as permanent employees. These positions often fill short-term needs, such as seasonal demand, special projects, or coverage during staff shortages. Contract aviation professionals may work for airlines, private charter companies, maintenance providers, or government agencies. This type of employment offers flexibility and the opportunity to work with various organizations but may lack some of the benefits associated with full-time positions.

What is the difference between Contract Aviation vs Contract Pilot?

AspectContract AviationContract Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), possibly ATP depending on roleCommercial Pilot License (CPL), possibly ATP depending on role
Work EnvironmentVarious aircraft types, multiple clients, short-term assignmentsSingle aircraft, specific operator, short-term or project-based
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, charter companies, private operatorsPrivate companies, charter services, aerial survey firms

Contract Aviation refers to the broader industry involving pilots working on a contractual basis across different aircraft and operators. Contract Pilot specifically describes pilots hired temporarily for specific flights or projects. While both roles require similar certifications, Contract Aviation encompasses a wider range of aviation services, whereas Contract Pilot focuses on individual pilot assignments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Aviation jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Aviation jobs in Reston, VA are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Aviation jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Aviation jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Contract Aviation jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Contract Aviation job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Aviation job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,498 per year, or $27.6 per hour.
Aviation Project Manager

$121K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Michael Baker International rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 369 rated engineering


Job description


CONSTRUCTION SERVICES PRACTICE
Michael Baker International's Construction Services staff supports clients by acting as their trusted on-site agent through all phases of construction, from pre-design to close-out, by providing qualified construction managers, inspectors, constructability reviewers, schedulers, estimators and safety experts. As new technologies evolve throughout the construction industry, innovative ideas are required to maintain and deliver successful construction projects.
What We're Looking For:
Michael Baker is seeking an Aviation Project Manager to join the Construction Services team! The Project Manager will oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of airside, landside, and terminal/facility improvement projects while serving as the primary point of contact for clients, stakeholders, contractors, and project teams. This role combines project management, construction management, and client relationship responsibilities to ensure projects are delivered safely, on schedule, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
What You'll Do
  • Lead airport infrastructure and facility projects through planning, construction, and closeout.
  • Manage project scope, schedule, budget, and resources to ensure successful delivery.
  • Oversee day-to-day construction management and inspection activities, including contractor performance and compliance.
  • Supervise, mentor, and develop project staff while coordinating multidisciplinary teams.
  • Administer construction contracts, including pay applications, change orders, RFIs, and project documentation.
  • Serve as the primary liaison between clients, airport authorities, contractors, and stakeholders.
  • Monitor project quality, safety, and regulatory compliance while proactively addressing project risks and challenges.
  • Lead project meetings and provide regular status updates to clients and leadership.
  • Foster strong client relationships and support business development and project pursuit efforts within the aviation market.

What You Need to Succeed
  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
  • 10+ years of experience managing and delivering transportation, aviation, construction management, or airport infrastructure projects.
  • Airport project experience involving airfield, terminal, landside, or facility improvements is strongly preferred.
  • Active Professional Engineer (PE) license in Virginia or the ability to obtain within six (6) months.
  • Certified Construction Manager (CCM) certification preferred.
  • Strong knowledge of construction contract administration, scheduling, budgeting, and project controls.
  • Excellent communication, leadership, stakeholder management, and client relationship skills.
  • Experience working with FAA-funded airport projects and applicable aviation design and construction standards is preferred.

Compensation
The approximate compensation range for this position is $121,000 to $175,000. This compensation range is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation is dependent upon factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skillset, and physical work location.
Why Choose Us:
  • Medical, dental, vision insurance
  • 401k Retirement Plan
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Life, AD&D, short-term, and long-term disability
  • Professional and personal development
  • Generous paid time off
  • Commuter and wellness benefits

#LI-LM1
About Us
Michael Baker International, a leading provider of engineering and consulting services, including design, planning, architectural, environmental, construction and program management, has been solving some of the world's most complex infrastructure challenges for more than 85 years with a legacy of expertise, experience, innovation and integrity.
Based in Pittsburgh and with over 100 offices nationwide, we partner with clients on everything from roads, bridges, tunnels, mass transit, and airports, to water treatment plants, arctic oil pipelines, environmental restoration and specialized overseas construction. We serve as a trusted adviser to the communities we serve, making them safer, more accessible, more sustainable and more prosperous.
We provide visionary leadership in facilitating transformational change for our clients. Our work delivers differentiating innovations and dedicated experts who challenge the status quo and share a world of diverse experience and an impassioned entrepreneurial spirit. We deliver quality of life.
We Make a Difference.
Michael Baker International is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Michael Baker International provides equal employment opportunity for all persons, in all facets of employment. Michael Baker International maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply for any open position for which they feel they are qualified and all will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, familial status, pregnancy or childbirth, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, status with regard to public assistance, or membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or any other legally protected status.
EEO is the Law. Applicants to and employees of Michael Baker International are protected under Federal law from discrimination.
*It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
*There is no current application deadline. Michael Baker will continue to accept applications on an ongoing basis until the position is filled or no longer needed.

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