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Contract Ship Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary We are currently seeking experienced tactical pilots to support our DoD contracts ... Previous experience as a qualified DoD division / 4-Ship lead in a F- or A-designated aircraft.

Contract Instructor Pilots (CIPs) report to the Lead Instructor. They will be fully qualified to ... multi-ship flight lead in tactical fighter aircraft * Must be willing to support flexible work ...

$120 - $170/hr

Air Force Contract: Conduct flight operations from Luke AFB or deployed locations. Deploy as ... Previously qualified 4-Ship/Division Flight Lead * 700 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed ...

$140 - $200/hr

Air Force Contract: Conduct flight operations from Luke AFB or deployed locations. Deploy as ... Previously qualified 4-Ship/Division Flight Lead * 700 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed ...

Marine Contracts: Conduct flight operations from ATAC'S permanent facilities at Cherry Point, NC ... Previously qualified 4-Ship/Division Flight Lead * 700 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed ...

Marine Contracts: Conduct flight operations from ATAC'S permanent facilities at Cherry Point, NC ... Previously qualified 4-Ship/Division Flight Lead * 700 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed ...

$90 - $130/hr

Marine Contracts: Conduct flight operations from ATAC'S permanent facilities at Cherry Point, NC ... Previously qualified 4-Ship/Division Flight Lead * 700 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed ...

New

Marine Contracts: Conduct flight operations from ATAC'S permanent facilities at Cherry Point, NC ... Previously qualified 4-Ship/Division Flight Lead * 700 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed ...

Showing results 21-40

Contract Ship Pilot information

See salary details

$72K

$185.6K

$247K

How much do contract ship pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract ship pilot in the United States is $185,569.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $173,500.00 and $209,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Contract Ship Pilot vs Cargo Ship Captain?

AspectContract Ship PilotCargo Ship Captain
CredentialsMarine pilot license, specific port certificationsMerchant mariner credential, captain's license
Work EnvironmentPort and harbor areas, on ships during pilotageOpen sea, onboard cargo ships
Employer & IndustryPort authorities, shipping companiesShipping lines, freight companies

Contract Ship Pilots and Cargo Ship Captains both require maritime licenses and work within the shipping industry. However, Contract Ship Pilots specialize in navigating ships through port areas, while Cargo Ship Captains oversee the entire vessel operation at sea. Their roles differ mainly in scope and environment, but both are essential for maritime logistics.

How do you become a contract ship pilot?

To become a contract ship pilot, individuals typically need extensive maritime experience, often as a licensed mariner or captain, and must obtain specific pilot certifications for the ports or waterways where they intend to work. Gaining familiarity with local navigation, passing licensing exams, and building a reputation for safety and reliability are essential steps in securing contract pilot positions.

How much money do contract ship pilots make?

Contract ship pilots typically earn between $100,000 and $200,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of vessels they pilot. Compensation often includes hourly rates, per-job fees, or a combination, and pilots may need specialized certifications and extensive maritime experience.
More about Contract Ship Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Contract Ship Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Contract Ship Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Ship Pilot jobs?

The most popular types of Ship Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Contract Ship Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Contract Ship Pilot jobs include:

Infographic showing various Contract Ship Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $185,569 per year, or $89.2 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

RAVN Group ("RAVN")is pushing the boundaries of innovation in the aviation industry, focusing on cutting-edge technology and advanced aerospace solutions. As part of the RAVN team, you'll be at the forefront of revolutionizing pilot training on military grade aircrafts and aerospace engineering in the defense sector. RAVN provides combat or high maneuver training for pilots, RDT&E, and maintenance services with its fully owned fleet of aircraft.

Job Description:

Company Summary

RAVN is pushing the boundaries of innovation in the aviation industry, focusing on cutting-edge technology and advanced aerospace solutions. As part of the RAVN team, you'll be at the forefront of revolutionizing pilot training on military grade aircraft and aerospace engineering in the defense sector. RAVN provides combat or high maneuver training for pilots, RDT&E, and maintenance services with its fully owned fleet of aircraft.

Position Summary

We are currently seeking experienced tactical pilots to support our DoD contracts in both the flying and program manager role. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in military tactical flying. This role will involve flying sorties in support of operational missions, as well as supporting the business functions that support RAVN operations.

Key Responsibilities

Primary flying duties include:

Developmental test support sorties.

Additional flying may include RDT&E, Adversary Air, and Close Air Support.

Conducting missions involving tactical flying within the defense sector.

Ensure adherence to safety protocols and operational standards during all flights.

Work collaboratively with military personnel and contractors to achieve mission success.

Program manager responsibilities include:

Coordinate long term scheduling with the customer.

Weekly Program Manager meeting to provide RAVN with mission requirements for aircraft and personnel to support each mission week.

Pre-mission coordination of administrative aspects of contract support.

Pre-mission pilot coordination calls with the customer and other air assets.

Build, disseminate and close out daily flight schedules.

Perform mission planning to support customer's requested daily profile.

Tracking flight hour and fuel usage after each mission.

Coordinate with range control, pod installer, and other support services day of mission.

Provide an after-action report of mission week.

Provide completed travel claims for each mission week to include travel expenses, fuel used, flight hours flown and FBO services.

When aircraft remain on site coordinate with maintenance site lead that aircraft are hangared during inclement weather.

Desired Experience/Skills

U.S. Citizenship required; no foreign nationals permitted.

Must hold a current security clearance at a minimum of SECRET//NOFORN level.

Military tactical flying experience:

500 hours total tactical aircraft time and current in Armed Forces Reserve or Guard status, or

1000 hours tactical aircraft time if DoD Retired or Separated, or

1300 hours total time with 300 hours tactical aircraft time for retired/separated candidates.

Previous experience as a qualified DoD division / 4-Ship lead in a F- or A-designated aircraft.

Tactical flying qualification within the last 5 years with a US Military Department, foreign DoD equivalent, or a US DoD contractor supporting ADAIR or Close Air Support.

Tactical aircraft time in support of ADAIR is defined as flight hours in any Government-owned F-, A-designation, including T-38 ADAIR, T-38 IFF, and international exchange fighter equivalent aircraft while serving as Pilot in Command, Instructor Pilot, or Stan/Eval Flight Examiner.

FAA Class II medical rating.

FAA Commercial and Instrument Rating.

Physical Demands

Occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds.

Regular use of hands and fingers to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls, reaching with hands.

Regularly ascend/descend stairs.

Occasional aircraft hangar or warehouse environment with exposure to loud noises, fumes from engines and chemicals, unpredictable climate (hot/cold), and electrical shock, or trip or slip hazards.

May be exposed to or required to handle hazardous material.

Specific work hours determined by operational, departmental, or contractual requirements.

Occasional evening, weekend, holiday work may be required.

Travel to various work sites may be required.

Other duties as assigned.

Work Authorization

Must be lawfully eligible to work in the United States and complete an I-9 Form.

Must have a clean driving record.

RAVN Aerospace is a Drug & Alcohol-Free Workplace. Pre-employment, random, or for cause drug/alcohol testing (including for marijuana) required.

Pre-employment and ongoing physical certifications.

Note: Certain qualifications may be waived on a case-by-case basis, depending on the candidate's level of experience.

If you are ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role in the aerospace industry, apply now to join our team at RAVN Aerospace.