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Contract Pilot Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Shift Supervisor

Maple Grove, MN ยท On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating as a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), this pilot plant will help bridge a gap in the domestic biotech industry (non-pharma), providing clients with emerging ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Wyoming, MN ยท On-site

$45 - $55/hr

Wyoming, MN Duration: 3 Months contract & Extendable Key Responsibilities: * Plan, coordinate, and support production activities required for new product launches, including pilot builds, validations ...

Computer Technician

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Short-term contract - 2 pilots and 5 weeks of actual deployments * Dates : 7/7-8 (Pilot 1), 714-15 (Pilot 2) and 7/28-8/28 (Deployments) * Schedule : Tuesday's and Thursdays - Start time 2:30pm ...

FAA Tutor

Saint Paul, MN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... human factors for pilot certification. Ability to explain principles of flight, airspace ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

FAA Tutor

Edina, MN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... human factors for pilot certification. Ability to explain principles of flight, airspace ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

FAA Tutor

Minneapolis, MN ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... human factors for pilot certification. Ability to explain principles of flight, airspace ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Senior Sales Specialist

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Support pilot studies, demonstrations, and commercial system implementations. Lead the preparation of pricing proposals, quotations, and contract negotiations. Effectively communicate technical ...

Showing results 21-40

Contract Pilot information

See Minnesota salary details

$48.5K

$128.2K

$196.9K

How much do contract pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract pilot in Minnesota is $128,221.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,900.00 and $151,800.00 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 is a contract pilot?

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 Minnesota?

The most popular types of Pilot jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Pilot jobs in Minnesota?

For Contract Pilot jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Contract Pilot jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Contract Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Pilot job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 80% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,221 per year, or $61.6 per hour.

Contract Staff Supplier Quality Engineer, Manufacturing

Onto

Bloomington, MN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Onto Innovation is a leader in process control, combining global scale with an expanded portfolio of leading-edge technologies that include: 3D metrology spanning the chip from nanometer-scale transistors to micron-level die-interconnects; macro defect inspection of wafers and packages; metal interconnect composition; factory analytics; and lithography for advanced semiconductor packaging. Our breadth of offerings across the entire semiconductor value chain helps our customers solve their most difficult yield, device performance, quality, and reliability issues. Onto Innovation strives to optimize customers' critical path of progress by making them smarter, faster and more efficient.
Job Summary & Responsibilities
The Manufacturing Supplier Quality Engineer will play a critical role in ensuring new products transition seamlessly from development/pilot line into full-scale production within an ISO 9001 cleanroom environment. This hybrid role blends Manufacturing Engineering and Quality Engineering responsibilities, with a strong emphasis on APQP, PPAP, risk mitigation, and early supplier engagement. The ideal candidate will drive supplier readiness, process capability, and product quality throughout the entire NPD-to-NPI product lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities
New Product Development โ†’ NPI Ownership
  • Lead supplier quality and manufacturing readiness activities from concept through product launch.

  • Drive APQP deliverables including PFMEA, control plans, process flow diagrams, MSA/Gage R&R, and capability studies to support Product Life Cycle (PLC) readiness.

  • Manage PPAP submissions for new components, assemblies, and critical processes.

  • Partner with R&D, Manufacturing Engineering, and Supply Chain to ensure design manufacturability and robust process controls prior to release.

  • Identify and mitigate risks early using structured tools (DFMEA/PFMEA, risk registers, control plans, etc.).

Hybrid Manufacturing Engineering / Quality Engineering Responsibilities
  • Evaluate supplier manufacturing processes and equipment to ensure capability, repeatability, and scalability.

  • Support process development, qualification, and validation activities at suppliers and contract manufacturers.

  • Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for supplier issues using 8D/4D or similar methodologies.

  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance yield, reduce defects, and improve process robustness.

  • Support build readiness for engineering builds, pilot runs/lines, and ramp-up phases.

Supplier Quality & Operational Excellence
  • Develop and execute supplier audit plans focused on QMS maturity, process capability, and NPI readiness.

  • Ensure supplier compliance with quality agreements, specifications, and change control requirements.

  • Manage PCNs and ensure proper validation and risk assessment for any supplier-driven changes.

  • Monitor supplier performance using KPIs and scorecards; lead improvement plans where needed.

  • Facilitate technical reviews, supplier meetings, and QBRs to ensure alignment and accountability.

Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with engineering, operations, supply chain, and quality teams to ensure smooth product introduction.

  • Provide technical leadership and guidance to internal teams and suppliers on manufacturability, quality standards, and process controls.

  • Ensure complete documentation of processes, validation results, and quality records throughout the NPI cycle.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Manufacturing, Optics, Physics, or related).

  • 7-10 years of experience in a technology or advanced manufacturing environment.

  • 3-5 years of experience in supplier quality, manufacturing engineering, or NPI engineering.

  • Hands-on experience with APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA/Gage R&R, SPC, and structured problem-solving.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Engineering or related field.

  • Experience in semiconductor, capital equipment, or high-precision manufacturing environments.

  • Background in metrology or complex electromechanical systems.

  • Lean/Six Sigma certification (Green/Black Belt), Quality Auditor certification.

  • Strong data analysis, project management, and communication skills.

  • Experience supporting remote suppliers and global manufacturing sites.

Job Requirements
  • Full-time role based in Bloomington, MN.

  • Ability to support global suppliers across time zones.

  • Travel 15-25%.

Why Join Onto Innovation?
At Onto Innovation, we believe your work should matter-and so should your well-being. That's why we offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family. From health, dental, and vision coverage to life and disability insurance, PTO, and a 401(k) with employer match, we've got you covered. You'll also enjoy access to our Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), wellness initiatives, and cutting-edge tools-all within a collaborative, inclusive culture where your contributions are valued and recognized.
Compensation & Growth
โ€ข Base Salary Range:
$ - $, offered in good faith and based on experience, location, and qualifications.
  • Additional Rewards: Annual bonus opportunities and potential long-term incentives tied to both company and individual success.

Empowering Every Voice to Shape the Future:
Onto Innovation is committed to creating a workplace where every qualified candidate has an equal opportunity to succeed. We evaluate applicants based on skills, experience, and potential - without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe diversity of thought and background drives innovation and strengthens our team.
Important Note on Export Compliance
For certain positions requiring access to technical data, U.S. export licensing review may be necessary for applicants who are not U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, or other protected persons under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

ONTO logo

About ONTO

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

2021