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Contract Private Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Will interface with government and private sector customers on a daily basis. Responsibilities ... contract regulations * Ensures that flights are manned by technically competent and legally ...

New

$330K - $350K/yr

... of private aviation. Position Summary We are looking for a typed Lead Captain based within two ... Position Type : Full-time only; no contract * Location : Northeast or South Florida * Operation ...

$330K - $350K/yr

... of private aviation. Position Summary We are looking for a typed Lead Captain based within two ... Position Type : Full-time only; no contract * Location : Northeast or South Florida * Operation ...

$260K - $285K/yr

... future of private aviation. Clay Lacy Aviation pilots are among the very best in the business ... Position Type : Full-time only; no contract * Location : Bedford, MA (KBED) * Operation : 91 ...

$245K - $255K/yr

... future of private aviation. Clay Lacy Aviation pilots are among the very best in the business ... Position Type : Full-time only; no contract * Location : Nashville, TN (KBNA) * Mission : Internal ...

B205A1++ Fire/Utility Pilot

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

Serving domestic and international markets in the government, commercial, and private sectors, we ... The Position Hillsboro Aviation's contract & charter division provides services to the United ...

... contract & charter, aircraft sales & management, service center, FBO, and parts sales ... Serving domestic and international markets in the government, commercial, and private sectors, we ...

$250K - $290K/yr

... private aviation. Job Summary Clay Lacy Aviation is seeking a highly experienced and safety ... Position Type: Full-time only; no contract * Location: Nashville, TN (KBNA) * Operation: 91 ...

Must possess an active DoD Secret Security Clearance, or higher (as directed by the contract ... Must have at least an FAA Private Pilot's License (PPL) with an Instrument rating. * Must possess ...

Showing results 21-40

Contract Private Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do contract private pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract private 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 is a contract private pilot?

Contract Private Pilots are licensed pilots who are hired on a temporary or freelance basis to operate private aircraft for individuals, companies, or organizations. Unlike full-time pilots who are employed by a single entity, contract pilots work on-demand and may fly different aircraft for various clients. Their duties include pre-flight planning, ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers, and complying with all aviation regulations. This role provides flexibility for both the pilot and the client, making it ideal for those who need occasional flying services.

What are some common challenges contract private pilots face when working with multiple clients?

Contract private pilots often juggle varying schedules, aircraft types, and client expectations, which can make time management and adaptability crucial skills. Each client may have different protocols, preferred communication styles, and operational requirements, requiring pilots to quickly adjust and remain flexible. Additionally, staying current with certifications and managing travel logistics independently are important aspects of the role. Building strong relationships and consistently delivering safe, professional service can help contract pilots maintain a steady stream of opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract private pilot?

To thrive as a Contract Private Pilot, you need a valid private pilot license (PPL), strong flight proficiency, and thorough knowledge of aviation regulations. Familiarity with aircraft-specific systems, flight planning software, and GPS navigation tools is typically required. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making, and clear communication with clients and air traffic control are crucial soft skills. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, compliant, and efficient flight operations while meeting client expectations in diverse flying environments.

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

AspectContract Private PilotCommercial Pilot
CertificationsPrivate Pilot License (PPL)Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
Work EnvironmentCharter flights, sightseeing, personal transportationPaid flights, cargo, aerial work
Employer & IndustryPrivate individuals, small companiesAirlines, cargo carriers, aerial services

Contract Private Pilots typically hold a Private Pilot License and operate on a contractual basis for non-commercial flights. Commercial Pilots have a CPL, allowing them to be paid for their services and work in more regulated, revenue-generating roles. The main difference lies in certification requirements and the scope of work, with Commercial Pilots authorized for paid operations, whereas Contract Private Pilots usually perform non-commercial, personal, or recreational flights.

More about Contract Private Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Private Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Contract Private Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Private Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Private Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Private Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Private Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Private Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Private Pilot jobs are:
Infographic showing various Contract Private Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Chief Pilot

Sherpa Air

Scottsdale, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Description:

The Chief Pilot is responsible for Sherpa Air flight operations to include overall compliance related to scheduling, operations, maintenance coordination and safety procedures. The Chief Pilot is responsible for pilot training, maintenance test and functional flights, pilot records, and operational standards for all pilot personnel operating under FAA Part 135.

Must be able to operate independently in differing environments to include domestic and worldwide. Will interface with government and private sector customers on a daily basis.


Responsibilities:

  • Reports directly to the Director of Operations
  • Enforces operational standards of all company flight operations manuals across all aircraft and ensures compliance by all assigned company pilots
  • Implements and administers company standard operating procedures to ensure the highest standards of safety and quality of service
  • Directs and guides flight operations to ensure they are conducted in accordance with established company practices and procedures and in compliance with applicable government, FAA and contract regulations
  • Ensures that flights are manned by technically competent and legally qualified crew members to include review and approval of all Sherpa Air flight crews
  • Supervises activities and performance of Sherpa Air pilots and provides periodic written evaluations
  • Remains on-call for internal flight requirements supporting company
  • Manages Sherpa Air Dispatchers for domestic and international flights
  • Maintains PIC qualifications on at least one company aircraft
  • Ensures all Sherpa Air-owned or managed aircraft are properly equipped with aeronautical charts, Navigational Aids, etc. required for safe flight through various vendor subscriptions
  • Ensures that all flight crews document aircraft discrepancies and reports equipment malfunctions to appropriate personnel in a timely and accurate manner
  • Maintains records of activities, flight logs and training in accordance with company and FAA regulatory compliance requirements
  • Represents Sherpa Air by supporting our customers and presenting a professional pilot image to customers and the general public.
  • Exhibits a positive attitude and can adapt to change
  • Responsible for all pilots and flight crew personnel assigned to fly Sherpa Air operated aircraft
  • This job may operate in various field locations. This role routinely uses standard office equipment. Travel and deployment could be required.
Requirements:

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree preferred or relevant combination of education and experience
  • Must meet the Part 119 experience requirements listed in FAR 119.71(c)
  • FAA, ATP and Multi-Engine Fixed Wing ratings
  • FAA Class I Medical Certificate
  • Flight time experience: total time of 5,000 hours of which 2,000 must be multi-engine turbine
  • Must have 2,500 hours as PIC
  • Possess a valid US driver's license
  • Capable of lifting at least 50 pounds
  • Possess a current US Passport
  • Able to secure necessary VISA(s)
  • Self-motivated and able to work efficiently without direct supervision
  • Able to receive DoD or DHS SECRET Security clearance if applicable
  • Must be a US citizen
  • Must pass a background check and drug screening

Preferred Qualifications:

  • FAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFl) and/or Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFIl)
  • Experience with international flight operations
  • Experience with intemational flight operations NAT North Atlantic High Altitude
  • Hawker 1000 type rating

Background Screening/Check/Investigation:

Successful completion of a background screening/check/investigation will/may be required as a condition of hire.

ADA:

Sherpa Air will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act 1990

EEO/AA:

Sherpa Air does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, Height, weight, or marital status in employment or the provision of services and is an equal access/opportunity/affirmative action employer.

Benefits:

We offer a competitive benefits package, covering the cost of medical for you and your family; we also offer dental, vision, health and wellness benefits and a generous retirement savings plan. We believe that our employees can manage their workload and their personal life, therefore we extend a generous PTO policy. This allows our employees to balance their lives as they see fit.