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Contractual 500 Hour Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Corewell Health

Helicopter Pilot Aero Med

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$86K - $107K/yr

Helicopter Pilots: 2,500 hours helicopter flight experience, 1,500 hours pilot in command hours, 150 hours pilot in command unaided night hours. * Experience in Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) and ...

Spectrum Health

Helicopter Pilot Aero Med

Grand Rapids, MI

$86K - $107K/yr

Helicopter Pilots: 2,500 hours helicopter flight experience, 1,500 hours pilot in command hours, 150 hours pilot in command unaided night hours. * Experience in Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) and ...

Johnson Development

Corporate Pilot

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Minimum 3,000 hours total flight time; minimum 1,500 hours Pilot in Command time. * Minimum 2,000 hours turbine/jet time. * International flight experience preferred. * Experience with highly ...

STS Technical Services

VFR Helicopter Pilot

Oracle, AZ · On-site

$50K/yr

First Class FAA Medical Flight Experience Requirements * 2,000 Total Flight Hours * 1,500 Helicopter Flight Hours * 1,000 Hours Pilot in Command Helicopters * 500 Hours Turbine Helicopter Time * 100 ...

STS Technical Services

VFR Helicopter Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

First Class FAA Medical Flight Experience Requirements * 2,000 Total Flight Hours * 1,500 Helicopter Flight Hours * 1,000 Hours Pilot in Command Helicopters * 500 Hours Turbine Helicopter Time * 100 ...

STS Technical Services

VFR Helicopter Pilot

Marion, IN · On-site

$50K/yr

First Class FAA Medical Flight Experience Requirements * 2,000 Total Flight Hours * 1,500 Helicopter Flight Hours * 1,000 Hours Pilot in Command Helicopters * 500 Hours Turbine Helicopter Time * 100 ...

Top Aces Corp

Previously qualified F-16 Instructor Pilot, current within the past 5 Years. * 1,500 hours Pilot-In-Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DoD (or Allied) fighter aircraft. * Must be able to work under ...

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Contractual 500 Hour Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do contractual 500 hour pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for contractual 500 hour 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 contractual 500 hour pilot?

A Contractual 500 Hour Pilot is a professional pilot who is hired on a contract basis and has logged at least 500 hours of total flight time. These pilots typically work for specific projects or time periods rather than as permanent employees. They may fly a variety of aircraft, depending on their certifications and the employer’s needs, and are often sought after for charter flights, aerial surveys, or as relief pilots. The 500-hour requirement ensures a minimum level of experience, which is important for safety and insurance purposes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contractual 500 hour pilot?

To thrive as a Contractual 500 Hour Pilot, you need a valid commercial pilot license (CPL), at least 500 flight hours, and a solid understanding of aviation regulations and procedures. Proficiency with aircraft navigation systems, flight management systems (FMS), and adherence to safety protocols are typically required, along with any type ratings relevant to the aircraft operated. Strong situational awareness, decision-making under pressure, and effective communication are critical soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient flight operations and the ability to respond effectively to dynamic and challenging situations.

What are some typical challenges faced by a contractual 500 hour pilot, and how can they be addressed?

As a Contractual 500 Hour Pilot, one common challenge is adapting quickly to different aircraft and operational procedures, since contracts may vary between employers. Pilots in this role often work with new teams and unfamiliar routes, requiring strong communication and adaptability. To succeed, it's important to maintain up-to-date certifications, proactively study each employer’s standard operating procedures, and build good rapport with crew members. Seeking mentorship from more experienced pilots and staying flexible will also help you manage the unique demands of contractual flying.

What is the difference between Contractual 500 Hour Pilot vs Part-Time Flight Instructor?

AspectContractual 500 Hour PilotPart-Time Flight Instructor
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), Second-Class MedicalCertified Flight Instructor (CFI), Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
Work EnvironmentCharter flights, aerial tours, or specific contractsFlight schools, training aircraft, classroom instruction
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, charter companies, private operatorsFlight training academies, flight schools

The Contractual 500 Hour Pilot typically works on short-term contracts or specific missions, focusing on flying a set number of hours. In contrast, a Part-Time Flight Instructor primarily teaches students on a part-time basis, often combining instruction with other flying duties. Both roles require a Commercial Pilot License, but their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

More about Contractual 500 Hour Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Contractual 500 Hour Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Contractual 500 Hour Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of 500 Hour Pilot jobs?

The most popular types of 500 Hour Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Contractual 500 Hour Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Contractual 500 Hour Pilot jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Contractual 500 Hour Pilot jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Contractual 500 Hour Pilot jobs are:

Contractual 500 Hour Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contractual 500 Hour Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 49% Full Time, 35% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 13% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Helicopter Pilot Aero Med

Corewell Health

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$86K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago

Corewell Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 778 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

416th of 893 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Corewell Health is offering up to a $20,000 sign-on bonus for this position!
About the Team:
At Corewell Health Aero Med and North Flight Aero Med, our pilots don't just fly aircraft - they are trusted professionals, safety leaders, and essential members of a highly skilled medical transport team. As part of a hospital-based air medical program, you'll support critical care transport across Michigan, serving rural and urban communities when they need us most. Our pilots operate in a collaborative, just-culture environment where safety is never compromised and professional judgment is respected. You'll fly modern, well-maintained aircraft, work alongside experienced maintenance, medical and dispatch teams, and be supported by an aviation leadership team that understands what it takes to operate safely in our community.
Essential Functions
  • Operates a Corewell Health Hospitals aircraft.
  • Maintains required documentation per FAA / company standards.
  • Communicates, collaborates and acts as a resource to team members and others in order to facilitate continuity and coordination of services. Acts as a resource to members of the community in outreach initiatives.
  • Maintain accountability for the safety of aircraft operations.
  • Provides input into the development / revision of policies / procedures related to area of accountability. Participates in process improvement activities to improve outcomes.
  • Demonstrates commitment to patient and team member safety. Considers safety as the primary factor in all decisions.

Qualifications
Required
  • Helicopter Pilots: 2,500 hours helicopter flight experience, 1,500 hours pilot in command hours, 150 hours pilot in command unaided night hours.
  • Experience in Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) and night operation
  • CRT-Air Transport Pilot - Needs by 2 years
  • CRT-FAA Flight Physical - DOT Department of Transportation Upon Hire
  • LIC-Commercial Pilot License - FAA upon hire

Preferred
  • Fixed Wing Pilots: 3,500 hours total flight experience, 2,000 hours pilot in command of multi-engine aircraft, and 1,500 hours of pilot in command of a turbine powered aircraft
  • EMS flight experience
  • FAA part 135 experience
  • Winter Operations

Why Pilots Choose Aero Med & North Flight Aero Med
  • Hospital-Based, Mission-Driven Program
    Fly for a not-for-profit, hospital-based operation with its own FAA Part 135 certificate where safety and patient care drive every decision.
  • Safety Is the Standard, Not a Slogan
    A mature Safety Management System, just culture, and leadership that fully supports conservative go/no-go decisions.
  • Modern Aircraft and Strong In-House Maintenance Support
    Well-maintained aircraft (Sikorsky S-76 C++ and King Air 200/250) supported by dedicated aviation maintenance teams focused on reliability and safety.
  • Respect for Pilot Authority and Judgment
    Our pilots are trusted professionals with clear operational authority over safety, weather, and aircraft decisions.
  • Collaborative, Professional Crew Environment
    Work alongside experienced nurses, paramedics, mechanics, and dispatchers who value Crew Resource Management, communication, and mutual respect.
  • Challenging, Meaningful Flying
    IFR, night, winter, and rural operations across Michigan - flights that demand skill, judgment, and professionalism.
  • Investment in Training and Professional Growth
    Ongoing initial and recurrent training (no contract), in full flight simulators (twice annually), and opportunities to contribute to safety, policy, and operational improvements.
  • Stable Schedules and Sustainable Careers
    Three 12-hour shifts with predictable rotations designed to support work-life balance and long-term pilot retention - no need to live out of your suitcase.

If you're looking for a program where professionalism is expected, safety is protected, and every flight has purpose, Aero Med and North Flight Aero Med may be the place for you.
Work Perks:
  • Comprehensive full-time benefit package offered by Corewell Health
  • Additional provided life insurance coverage for pilots
  • Company provided flight suit, coat and helmet
  • Private pilot's quarters with bed, desk and computer
  • Well maintained base facility with modern fitness room, full kitchen
  • Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS) accredited
  • Part 135 certificate managed by Spectrum Health Hospitals d/b/a Aero Med BTEA482C

How Corewell Health cares for you
  • Comprehensive benefits package to meet your financial, health, and work/life balance goals. Learn more here.
  • On-demand pay program powered by Payactiv
  • Discounts directory with deals on the things that matter to you, like restaurants, phone plans, spas, and more!
  • Optional identity theft protection, home and auto insurance
  • Traditional and Roth retirement options with service contribution and match savings
  • Eligibility for benefits is determined by employment type and status

Primary Location
SITE - Aero Med Base - 4494 Corporate Dr - Grand Rapids
Department Name
Aero Med - Grand Rapids Hosp
Employment Type
Full time
Shift
Rotating (United States of America)
Weekly Scheduled Hours
36
Hours of Work
Variable
Days Worked
Variable
Weekend Frequency
Every other weekend
CURRENT COREWELL HEALTH TEAM MEMBERS - Please apply through Find Jobs from your Workday team member account. This career site is for Non-Corewell Health team members only.
Corewell Health is committed to providing a safe environment for our team members, patients, visitors, and community. We require a drug-free workplace and require team members to comply with the MMR, Varicella, Tdap, and Influenza vaccine requirement if in an on-site or hybrid workplace category. We are committed to supporting prospective team members who require reasonable accommodations to participate in the job application process, to perform the essential functions of a job, or to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment due to a disability, pregnancy, or sincerely held religious belief.
Corewell Health grants equal employment opportunity to all qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, genetic information, marital status, height, weight, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other legally protected category.
An interconnected, collaborative culture where all are encouraged to bring their whole selves to work, is vital to the health of our organization. As a health system, we advocate for equity as we care for our patients, our communities, and each other. From workshops that develop cultural intelligence, to our inclusion resource groups for people to find community and empowerment at work, we are dedicated to ongoing resources that advance our values of diversity, equity, and inclusion in all that we do. We invite those that share in our commitment to join our team.
You may request assistance in completing the application process by calling 616.486.7447.

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