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Contract Pilot Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

The UAS Pilot II will act as pilot in command (PIC) of MQ-9A aircraft and provide safe operation of ... Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract ...

THE WORK We are seeking experienced fighter pilots to serve as Contract Instructor Pilots to support our Rotary and Mission Systems (RMS) business area at Luke Air Force Base The role involves ...

The UAS Pilot II will act as pilot in command (PIC) of MQ-9A aircraft and provide safe operation of ... Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract ...

Learjet SIC

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$60K/yr

We're looking for exceptional pilots to join our mission of safely transporting patients to the ... Company Paid PIC type rating at FSI or CAE * 12-month initial training contract * Paid off day ...

Learjet PIC

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$115K - $206K/yr

We're looking for exceptional pilots to join our mission of safely transporting patients to the ... Company Paid PIC type rating at FSI or CAE * 12-month initial training contract * Paid off day ...

Job Overview Position primarily functions as Pilot in Command (PIC) or Mission Commander on ... Must possess an active DoD Secret Security Clearance, or higher (as directed by the contract)

Job Overview Position primarily functions as Pilot in Command (PIC) or Mission Commander on ... Must possess an active DoD Secret Security Clearance, or higher (as directed by the contract)

Job Overview Position primarily functions as Pilot in Command (PIC) or Mission Commander on ... Must possess an active DoD Secret Security Clearance, or higher (as directed by the contract)

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Contract Pilot information

See Arizona salary details

$46.1K

$122K

$187.3K

How much do contract pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract pilot in Arizona is $121,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,200.00 and $144,400.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Pilot jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Pilot jobs in Arizona? For Contract Pilot jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Pilot jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Pilot jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Contract Pilot jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Contract Pilot job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Pilot job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,999 per year, or $58.7 per hour.

F-35 Contract Instructor Pilot / Luke AFB

Lockheed Martin

Luke Air Force Base, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 389 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 71 rated aerospace companies


Job description


WHO WE ARE
Lockheed Martin is a global leader in aerospace, defense, and technology solutions, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation and shaping the future of the industry. With a rich legacy of excellence and a commitment to delivering advanced capabilities to our customers, we are proud to be at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and engineering.
WHAT WE'RE DOING
At Lockheed Martin, we're revolutionizing the aerospace and defense sector through groundbreaking technology, advanced manufacturing processes, and a world-class team of professionals. Our mission-driven approach and unwavering dedication to excellence ensure that we continue to deliver superior products and solutions to our customers around the world.
THE WORK
We are seeking experienced fighter pilots to serve as Contract Instructor Pilots to support our Rotary and Mission Systems (RMS) business area at Luke Air Force Base
The role involves providing F-35 training to pilots through both academic and simulator-based instruction, ensuring adherence to the approved pilot training syllabus. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with other members of the Lockheed Martin training team to achieve F-35 training objectives. The successful candidate will implement and support Lockheed Martin initiatives, programs, and policies, as directed. Candidate must maintain a Secret level security clearance and Special Access Program (SAP) access. Appropriate degree from an accredited college, or equivalent experience/combined education, with professional experience and specialized training commensurate with assignment.
The Contract Instructor Pilot will instruct pilots in flight procedures and techniques in ground school courses and flight training. Prepares lesson plans. Acts as a subject matter expert by applying advanced technical concepts in the area of aviation and provides assistance in creation of training material. Assists in the preparation of schedules, maintenance of training records and ensures that course standards, training requirements, and objectives are met by each student. Evaluates and monitors student's performance.
This position is typically represented by an experienced pilot.
WHY JOIN US
Opportunity for Impact: Join a team that is at the forefront of innovation in the aerospace and defense industry and make a significant impact on the success of our organization.
Professional Development: Take advantage of unparalleled opportunities for growth and advancement within Lockheed Martin, with access to world-class training and development programs.
Collaborative Culture: Work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry who share your passion for excellence and who are committed to supporting each other's success.
Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, as well as competitive salary offerings.
Cutting-Edge Technology: Be part of a dynamic and forward-thinking work environment where you will have the opportunity to work with the latest technology and contribute to groundbreaking projects that are shaping the future of aerospace and defense.
#OneLMHotJobs
#extrefer
Basic Qualifications
• Must have an active secret clearance with a completed investigation within the last 5 years or be enrolled in Continuous Evaluation.
• Must be able to attain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) access.
• Must have a minimum of 1000 hours experience in tactical fighter aircraft as a pilot.
• Must have experience as a multi-ship flight lead in tactical fighter aircraft.
• Experience with simulator devices and an understanding of fighter tactics, techniques, and procedures.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and communicate effectively with leadership and interact with multiple functional areas and personnel of a diverse nature.
• Candidate must have outstanding interpersonal skills, excellent leadership traits, strong oral & written communication abilities, solid ability to organize, and a high desire to provide customer satisfaction.
• Position may require candidate to participate in deployed operations to support customer requirements.
• Must be willing to support flexible work hours to align with customer operational schedule.
• Use of Microsoft Office products (Word, PowerPoint and Excel) is required.
Desired skills
• 1000 hours experience in fourth and/or fifth generation tactical fighter aircraft as a pilot is highly desired.
• Flight experience in the F-35 is highly desired.
• Experience as a Military Instructor Pilot (IP) in tactical fighter aircraft.
• Past experience with F-35 pilot training curriculum.
• Familiarity with F-35 program requirements.
• F-35 system knowledge.
• F-35 Full Mission Simulator experience.
• Familiarity with the F-35 ALIS program.
• Prior experience in delivering Military Pilot Academic and Simulator Training in fourth and/or fifth generation tactical fighter aircraft.
• Experience with advanced systems such as NVS, targeting pods, datalinks, Helmet Mounted Cueing, and the latest weapons inventory.
• Graduate of formal military Academic Instructor Course (AIC).
• Formal Training Unit (FTU) or Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) Instructor Pilot experience.
• Fighter Weapons Instructor Course (FWIC); Top Gun: Weapons Tactics Instructor (WTI) graduate.
• Standardization/Evaluation Flight Examiner (SEFE); NATOPS Evaluator experience.
• Experience with training management systems (TMS), learning management systems (LMS), and electronic grade books.
EEO
Lockheed Martin is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.
The application window will close in 90 days; applicants are encouraged to apply within 5 - 30 days of the requisition posting date in order to receive optimal consideration.
*
Join us at Lockheed Martin, where your mission is ours. Our customers tackle the hardest missions. Those that demand extraordinary amounts of courage, resilience and precision. They're dangerous. Critical. Sometimes they even provide an opportunity to change the world and save lives. Those are the missions we care about.
As a leading technology innovation company, Lockheed Martin's vast team works with partners around the world to bring proven performance to our customers' toughest challenges. Lockheed Martin has employees based in many states throughout the U.S., and Internationally, with business locations in many nations and territories.
Other Important Information
By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified you may be contacted for this and future openings.
Work Schedule Information
Lockheed Martin supports a variety of alternate work schedules that provide additional flexibility to our employees. Schedules range from standard 40 hours over a five day work week while others may be condensed. These condensed schedules provide employees with additional time away from the office and are in addition to our Paid Time off benefits.

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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912