ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Contractual 500 Hour Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Textron

Pilot - Skillbridge

Cherry Point, NC · On-site

... • 500 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DOD-owned/operated fighter aircraft Specific Air Force Contract Qualifications • 1200 hours total PIC of a tactical military aircraft • ...

US Department of the Army

Helicopter Pilot

Yakima, WA · On-site

$106K/yr

As a Helicopter Pilot is located in the Headquarters section of the United States Army Air ... Heavy Helicopter: 500 hours; Instrument: 75 hours. Please review the OPM qualification standard for ...

Textron

... 500 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DOD-owned/operated fighter aircraft Specific Air Force Contract Qualifications 1200 hours total PIC of a tactical military aircraft Current in a ...

Air Methods Pilots

Blue Hawaiian Helicopter Pilot

Lihue, HI · On-site

$88K - $110K/yr

High school diploma or GED required. * 2,500 hours Pilot-in-Command hours documented and verifiable. * 1,000 turbine hours * Pilot in Command Hours preferred. * Have a Commercial-instrument ...

Textron

Pilot - Skillbridge (High Point)

High Point, NC · On-site

Secret Security Clearance, US Citizen Specific Navy Contract Qualifications * 1000 hours PIC of a military tactical aircraft * 500 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DOD‑owned/operated ...

BGI (Ohio)

Adversary Pilot/5th Gen SME

NV · On-site

... and contractual requirements. Job Responsibilities Responsible for flying modern air domanince ... Must have a minimum of 500 hours in a fighter T/M/S aircraft F-15 EX, F/A-18 E/F, F-22, or F-35 ...

i3

Research Pilot

Edwards, CA

$170K - $190K/yr

Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All Jobsfreelance JobsTravel JobsAviation JobsPilot JobsContractual 500 Hour Pilot Jobs

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.

F16 Instructor Pilot - Ground Advisor

Top Aces Corp

Mesa, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description


The Ground Advisor Pilot (“Advisor”) provides F-16 subject matter expertise and instruction to foreign F-16 pilots, specifically on the operations and employment of the aircraft. The Advisor will provide instructional support through complex procedures, reinforce standardization, and ensure learning objectives are achieved. Furthermore, the Advisor’s role is critical to flight safety, pilot proficiency, and operational readiness. The information below is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required for this position.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Instruct foreign pilots in the safe and effective employment of the F-16.
  • Work with the host nation and other partners to ensure effective and efficient instructional content and adherence to the program schedule.
  • Provide updates to leadership on the progress of instruction.
  • Collect and disseminate lessons learned.
  • Deploy as required to support mission requirements.
  • Adhere to direction provided by the Chief Pilot and Pilot Site Lead.
  • Perform related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALFICIATIONS

  • 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 pressure and meet deadlines while fostering a positive attitude.
  • Must have strong problem-solving abilities.
  • Proficient in the English language with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Must be proficient in the Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Must be able to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
  • Must be able to travel within the US and internationally.
  • Must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of a Ground Advisor Pilot in daily work performance.
  • Must be able to work in various weather environments and conditions.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Previous F-16 FTU Instructor Pilot.
  • 1,000 hours PIC in F-16.
  • 500 hours Instructor Pilot in multiple blocks of the F-16.
  • Previous Instructor Pilot for foreign partner F-16 training.
  • Previous Foreign Military Sales (FMS) experience or Air Advisor training.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS and/or WORK CONDITIONS

  • This is a rotational assignment requiring overseas deployment for periods from two to six months, during which the Advisor must reside and perform duties at the Company’s international location.
  • Must demonstrate the ability to operate effectively and self-sufficiently in a foreign environment, including communication, local navigation, and personal sustainability.

SPECIAL WORK CONDITIONS:

  • Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
  • Must be able obtain and maintain a US Secret or NATO Secret clearance. Ongoing eligibility is subject to periodic review. Strict adherence to all security protocols, procedures, and training is required.
  • Must possess a valid U.S. passport with no travel restrictions, limitations, or disqualifications, with a validity extending a minimum 6 months beyond the projected assignment completion date.
  • Must be able to secure all required work authorizations, including a valid work visa for the host country. Any prior immigration violations, criminal offenses, or adverse travel history that may prevent entry or work authorization will not be considered.
  • Adherence to the legal, regulatory, safety, and operational requirements of the host nation is mandatory throughout the duration of assignment.

Disclaimer: This role may be performed around loud noises and hazardous chemicals with exposure to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals. The extension of any offer and the commencement of employment for this position are contingent upon contract award.