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Contract Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

STA Jets

Contract Group Hawker HS-125

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

STAJets is looking to build a book of typed and current Hawker Contract Pilots. Should you meet the requirements below, we would like to set up in our system. Requirements: * Typed with 12-Month ...

STA Jets

Contract Group Hawker HS-125

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

STAJets is looking to build a book of typed and current Hawker Contract Pilots. Should you meet the requirements below, we would like to set up in our system. Requirements: * Typed with 12-Month ...

STA Jets

Contract Citation XLS Group

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$95K - $118K/yr

STAJets is looking to build a book of typed and current CE-560XLS Contract Pilots. Should you meet the below requirements we would like to set up a phone interview. Requirements: * Typed with 12 ...

STA Jets

Contract Citation XLS Group

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$96K - $120K/yr

STAJets is looking to build a book of typed and current CE-560XLS Contract Pilots. Should you meet the below requirements we would like to set up a phone interview. Requirements: * Typed with 12 ...

Lowe's

Chief Pilot

Charlotte, NC · On-site

Conduct basic indoctrination and emergency training, as well as other internal training to include customer service * Assist with selection and hiring of new crew members to include contract pilots.

Clay Lacy Aviation

$255K - $265K/yr

... Pilot (ACP), and Trip Support Specialists. You will ensure crew compliance with applicable ... Position Type : Full-time only; no contract * Location : Nashville, TN (KBNA) * Mission : Internal ...

Clay Lacy Aviation

$330K - $350K/yr

... Pilot (ACP), and Trip Support Specialists. You will ensure crew compliance with applicable ... Position Type : Full-time only; no contract * Location : Northeast or South Florida * Operation ...

DRG

F-35 CONTRACT INSTRUCTOR PILOT

Lemoore, CA · On-site

$75 - $90/hr

Contract Instructor will facilitate pilot training in the F-35 Full Mission Simulator using the Instructor Operating Station (IOS) and will be a subject matter expert (SME) on various aircraft ...

Clay Lacy Aviation

$330K - $350K/yr

... Pilot (ACP), and Trip Support Specialists. You will ensure crew compliance with applicable ... Position Type : Full-time only; no contract * Location : Northeast or South Florida * Operation ...

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Contract Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do contract pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract 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 Does a Contract Pilot Do?

A contract pilot is an aviation professional who operates helicopters, charter planes, or another aircraft on a per-job basis. As a contract pilot, you work directly with corporate or individual clients to fly an aircraft between locations and transport passengers or cargo. Your contract may be for a single trip or multiple trips. However, you operate as an independent contractor, so you are responsible for maintaining your credentials and insurance. Working as a contract pilot provides you with greater flexibility than being a pilot for an airline or the military.

What are some common challenges faced by contract pilots when adapting to different aircraft and client expectations?

Contract pilots often fly a variety of aircraft types for different clients, which can require quick adaptation to new cockpit layouts, avionics systems, and company-specific procedures. Additionally, each client may have unique operational standards and expectations regarding communication, scheduling, and reporting. Staying organized, maintaining up-to-date certifications, and being proactive in learning new processes are key strategies for overcoming these challenges. Strong interpersonal skills also help contract pilots integrate smoothly with new crews and flight departments.

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

To thrive as a Contract Pilot, you need extensive flight experience, an active commercial or airline transport pilot license (CPL/ATPL), and current medical certification. Familiarity with specific aircraft types, proficiency in using advanced avionics systems, and completion of required type ratings are typically necessary. Strong decision-making, adaptability, and effective communication skills help you manage diverse flying environments and coordinate with clients and crews. These competencies ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and reliable service in varied and dynamic aviation assignments.

What are contract pilots?

Contract pilots are professional pilots who are hired on a temporary or per-assignment basis, rather than as full-time employees of an airline or company. They typically operate private jets, corporate aircraft, or charter flights for individuals or organizations that need flight services for a limited period. Contract pilots are responsible for pre-flight planning, operating the aircraft safely, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations, and sometimes handling administrative tasks related to each flight. This flexible arrangement allows both pilots and employers to meet their scheduling and operational needs without long-term commitments.

What is the difference between Contract Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectContract PilotCommercial Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot Certificate, possibly additional type ratingsCommercial Pilot Certificate, multi-engine ratings often required
Work EnvironmentHired on a temporary basis for specific contracts, often freelanceEmployed by airlines, charter companies, or corporate operators
Employer & Industry UsageContract basis across various operators, including private and cargoFull-time or part-time employment within commercial aviation

Contract pilots typically hold a commercial pilot certificate and work on a temporary or project basis, often flying for multiple operators. Commercial pilots are usually employed full-time by airlines or companies, with a focus on scheduled or charter flights. The main difference lies in employment type and job stability, with contract pilots offering flexibility and diverse opportunities, while commercial pilots often have more consistent employment within the commercial aviation industry.

More about Contract Pilot jobs
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Contract Pilot jobs near you
UH-60M Blackhawk Maintenance Test Pilot

UH-60M Blackhawk Maintenance Test Pilot

CACI International, Inc.

Lakehurst, NJ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Title: UH-60M Blackhawk Maintenance Test Pilot
Job Category: Aviation
Time Type: Full time
Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Secret
Employee Type: Regular
Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 25%
Type of Travel: Continental US
* * *
The Opportunity:
Are you ready to take your aviation career to new heights? CACI is seeking a skilled and dedicated UH-60M Blackhawk Maintenance Test Pilot to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will be at the forefront of ensuring the highest standards of aviator skill, safety, and professionalism while supporting our critical operations. If you are passionate about aviation and committed to excellence, we want to hear from you!
As a UH-60M Blackhawk Maintenance Test Pilot, you will be responsible for operating and supporting missions in Blackhawk aircraft, with a primary focus on the UH-60M model. Your expertise will be crucial in conducting maintenance tests, ensuring aircraft readiness, and upholding the highest standards of safety and performance. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in the UH-60L model, as your knowledge will be invaluable in transitioning and maintaining our fleet.
At CACI, we value our pilots' expertise and dedication. You will have the opportunity to work with a team of highly skilled professionals, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and technology. Your role will be pivotal in supporting our missions and ensuring the success of our operations. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and a supportive work environment that fosters growth and development.
Responsibilities:
  • Conduct Maintenance Test Flights on UH-60M model Blackhawk helicopters.
  • Conduct Maintenance Test Flights to accept or check accomplishment of maintenance or Modifications.
  • Conduct Maintenance Test Flights to determine aircraft and component functionality according to predetermined specifications while subjected to the flight environment.
  • Conduct Pre-Phase and Post-Phase Maintenance Test Flights.
  • Conduct General Maintenance Test Flights (GMTF) and Limited Maintenance Test Flights (LMTF) to verify aircraft serviceability.
  • Complete all aircrew training program (ATP) requirements IAW DCMA INST 8210-1D, AR 95-1, and the applicable dATM. Contract pilot shall participate in No-notice evaluation program.
  • Responsible for compliance with appropriate Army, DEVCOM and C5ISR Center policies, procedures and regulations.
  • Report Instructor Flight and Operation data in the Task Order Monthly Report.

Qualifications:
Required:
  • High School Diploma with 10 years' of applicable experience or Bachelors' Degree with 5 years' of experience.
  • Candidate will be certified in DCMA INST 8210-1D to be qualified in mission, type, design, and if appropriate, series of aircraft and have no less than 1,500 hours pilot-in-command time with 500 hours in UH-60M type aircraft for which duties will be performed.
  • Qualified IP in type aircraft for which duties will be performed.
  • Instructor Training Course (ITC) or ABIC qualified
  • FAA Commercial Pilot or Airline Transport Pilot Certificate.
  • FAA Second Class flight physical required. Army Contractor pilots have the option of maintaining either an annual FAA Second Class Medical Certificate or an Army Class 2 FDME (DCMA 8210.1D, para 4.3.5.1.2).
  • Experience as an SP, IE and/or IP in a OASS school, MTOE or TDA organization at the company and/or battalion level.
  • Instrument Flight Examiners (IE), Standardization Instructor Pilots (SP), Instructor Pilots (IP), and Maintenance Evaluators (ME) designations apply only to contractor pilots (Army) contracted for the sole purpose of conducting aircraft qualification training and administration of the Aircrew Training Program (ATP). Contractor pilots in these designated positions shall meet all Army initial aircraft qualifications and recurrent training requirements per AR 95-1 and the applicable aircraft Digital Aircrew Training Module (dATM) (DCMA 8210.1D, para 4.3.4.3).
  • Must meet instructor qualification requirements IAW TR 350-10, TR 350-70.
  • Candidate shall meet all Army initial aircraft qualifications and recurrent training requirements per AR 95-1 and the applicable aircraft Digital Aircrew Training Module (dATM) (DCMA 8210.1D, para 4.3.4.3).
  • Must possess a current FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Must possess an FCC Commercial Radio Operator License.
  • Must possess an active Secret security clearance/TS preferred.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen.
  • Must pass a post-offer, pre-hire, medical assessment.

Desired:
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite Products.
  • Former US military or government pilot.
  • IP experience at EAATS, HAATS, WAATS or U.S. Army Aviation Training Center.
  • Previous ACT-E qualification and sustainment training IAW TC 3-04.11.
  • Graduate of the Army Maintenance Test Pilot Course or complete an equivalency evaluation conducted by the Directorate of Evaluation and Standardization (DES), U.S. Army Aviation Warfighting Center, Ft. Rucker, AL 36362-5000.
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent, and seven to nine years of related experience.

What You Can Expect:
A culture of integrity.
At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust.
CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth.
Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy.
Pay Range:
There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.
The proposed salary range for this position is:
$115,600 - 254,200 USD
CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.

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