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Crop Duster Pilot Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Helicopter Pilot

El Centro, CA · On-site

$82.90 - $93.25/hr

Overview Mercy Air EC135 (IFR) Salary Range: ($91,190 - $102,576) with 110% ACCRA + $25,000 Stipend ... of crops, including lettuce, carrots, and citrus fruits. Its rich soil, coupled with a sunny ...

Overview Mercy Air EC135 (IFR) Salary Range: ($91,190 - $102,576) with 110% ACCRA + $25,000 Stipend ... of crops, including lettuce, carrots, and citrus fruits. Its rich soil, coupled with a sunny ...

Helicopter Pilot

El Centro, CA · On-site

$82.90 - $93.25/hr

Overview Mercy Air EC135 (IFR) Salary Range: ($91,190 - $102,576) with 110% ACCRA + $15,000 Stipend ... of crops, including lettuce, carrots, and citrus fruits. Its rich soil, coupled with a sunny ...

Overview Mercy Air EC135 (IFR) Salary Range: ($91,190 - $102,576) with 110% ACCRA + $25,000 Stipend ... of crops, including lettuce, carrots, and citrus fruits. Its rich soil, coupled with a sunny ...

Helicopter Pilot

Imperial, CA · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Mercy Air EC135 (IFR) Salary Range: ($91,190 - $102,576) with 110% ACCRA + $25,000 Stipend + $3,000 ... of crops, including lettuce, carrots, and citrus fruits. Its rich soil, coupled with a sunny ...

Helicopter Pilot

Imperial, CA · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Overview Mercy Air EC135 (IFR) Salary Range: ($91,190 - $102,576) with 110% ACCRA + $25,000 Stipend ... of crops, including lettuce, carrots, and citrus fruits. Its rich soil, coupled with a sunny ...

Overview: Mercy Air EC135 (IFR) Salary Range: ($91,190 - $102,576) with 110% ACCRA + $25,000 ... of crops, including lettuce, carrots, and citrus fruits. Its rich soil, coupled with a sunny ...

Helicopter Pilot

Imperial, CA · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Overview: Mercy Air EC135 (IFR) Salary Range: ($91,190 - $102,576) with 110% ACCRA + $25,000 ... of crops, including lettuce, carrots, and citrus fruits. Its rich soil, coupled with a sunny ...

Our products help farmers maintain and improve crop yields while permanently removing CO₂ from ... from pilot production to a 1,000-tonne commercial run in 2027. We are looking for team members ...

R&D Scientist

Seattle, WA · On-site

$110 - $165/hr

Our products help farmers maintain and improve crop yields while permanently removing CO₂ from ... from pilot production to a 1,000‑tonne commercial run in 2027. We are looking for team members ...

Field Associate II

Wichita, KS · On-site

$61.68 - $92.52/hr

... crops such as corn, soybean, wheat, cotton, canola, and biofuels, depending on the region. The ... Ability to obtain a Drone Pilot's License (FAA Part107 Certification). PHYSICAL DEMANDS * Safe ...

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Showing results 1-20

Crop Duster Pilot Salary information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do crop duster pilot salary jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for crop duster pilot salary 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a crop duster pilot?

To thrive as a Crop Duster Pilot, you need a commercial pilot's license, strong knowledge of agricultural practices, and experience in low-altitude precision flying. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, aerial application equipment, and FAA regulations is essential, and specialized certifications such as an Agricultural Aircraft Operations Certificate may be required. Attention to detail, quick decision-making, and strong communication skills set standout pilots apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and effective crop treatment while minimizing risks to people and the environment.

What is the average salary of a crop duster pilot?

The average salary of a crop duster pilot, also known as an agricultural pilot, typically ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 per year in the United States. Earnings can vary based on experience, location, employer, and the length of the spraying season. Some highly experienced pilots or those working in regions with longer seasons may earn over $100,000 annually. Additionally, crop duster pilots may be paid per acre or per job, which can affect their total income.

What are some common challenges faced by crop duster pilots on the job?

Crop duster pilots often encounter challenges such as navigating varying weather conditions, ensuring the safe handling of agricultural chemicals, and maintaining precise flight paths over fields. The work can be physically demanding, requiring long hours during peak planting or harvest seasons. Additionally, pilots must stay up to date with safety regulations and equipment maintenance to minimize risks and ensure effective crop treatment.

What is the difference between Crop Duster Pilot Salary vs Agricultural Pilot Salary?

AspectCrop Duster Pilot SalaryAgricultural Pilot Salary
Average Annual Salary$50,000 - $80,000$45,000 - $75,000
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, Agricultural Aircraft Operator CertificateCommercial Pilot License, Agricultural Aircraft Operator Certificate
Work EnvironmentOpen fields, rural areas, crop fieldsOpen fields, rural areas, crop fields
Industry UsageAgriculture, pest control, fertilizationAgriculture, pest control, fertilization

Both Crop Duster Pilots and Agricultural Pilots typically hold similar certifications and work in similar environments within the agriculture industry. The salary difference is generally modest, with Crop Duster Pilots earning slightly more on average due to specialized flying skills and experience.

Are crop duster pilots in demand?

Crop duster pilots are in steady demand in the agricultural sector, especially during planting and spraying seasons. The job requires specialized skills, certifications, and knowledge of safety regulations, which can influence employment opportunities. Overall, demand depends on regional farming activity and crop production needs.

How do you become a crop duster pilot?

To become a crop duster pilot, you need to obtain a private pilot license with a focus on agricultural aviation, gain experience flying small aircraft, and often complete specialized training in aerial application. Many pilots also acquire a commercial pilot license and certifications for operating in agricultural environments, along with knowledge of pesticides and safety protocols.
More about Crop Duster Pilot Salary jobs

What cities are hiring for Crop Duster Pilot Salary jobs?

Cities with the most Crop Duster Pilot Salary job openings:

What states have the most Crop Duster Pilot Salary jobs?

States with the most job openings for Crop Duster Pilot Salary jobs include:

Infographic showing various Crop Duster Pilot Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Helicopter Pilot

Air Methods Pilots

El Centro, CA • On-site

$82.90 - $93.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Overview

Mercy Air

EC135 (IFR)

Salary Range: ($91,190 - $102,576) with 110% ACCRA

+ $25,000 Stipend

+ $3,000 IFR Stipend

+ Experience Stipend: Up to $12,000

Off-Duty Housing Available

$15,000 Sign On Bonus

As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our communities. We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high-performing culture, sparked by teammates who deliver on being the best!

Location

Imperial, CA, is special for its unique blend of agricultural abundance, desert beauty, and historical significance. Situated in the fertile Imperial Valley, the city is a hub of agricultural activity, known for producing a wide variety of crops, including lettuce, carrots, and citrus fruits. Its rich soil, coupled with a sunny climate, supports year-round farming, making it a vital agricultural region in California. Additionally, Imperial is close to the stunning landscapes of the Colorado Desert, offering outdoor enthusiasts opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the beauty of the desert ecosystem. The city also has a rich history, with ties to early Spanish explorers and Native American cultures, adding to its cultural significance.

Benefits

Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package created with the diverse needs of our teammates in mind:

  • Health, Dental and Vision
  • Competitive 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Flexible Spending Account Benefit Plans
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Full Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • AD&D Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Business Travel Accident Insurance
  • Voluntary Legal
  • Relocation Assistance
  • Employee Assistance and Benefit Concierge Service Programs

Job Summary

Responsible to ensure aircraft and weather conditions are airworthy to transport medical crew and patient to receiving hospital within an assigned operational area. Responsible for compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR), Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), General Operations Manual guidelines (GOM), and thorough knowledge of Air Methods policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

Essential Functions and Responsibilities include the following:

  • Operates Air Methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner.
  • Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by sign off of Daily Flight Log. Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight and upon completion of each flight.
  • Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and equipment.
  • Must be thoroughly familiar with all aircraft and medical systems of backup aircraft utilized at operational area and also ensures that the medical flight team is familiar and comfortable with the medical interior and systems.
  • Responsible for completion of required documentation.
  • Able to conduct detailed flight planning with little notice to exacting standards.
  • Participates regularly in Air Methods meetings, activities, projects, committees and community outreach.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Additional Job Requirements

  • Regular scheduled attendance. (7 days on/7 days off, 12-hour shifts)

Subject to applicable laws and Air Method’s policies, regular attendance is an essential function of the position. All employees must follow Air Methods’ employment practices and policies.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Qualifications

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. In accordance with applicable laws, Air Methods will provide reasonable accommodations that do not create an undue burden so disabled employees may perform the essential functions of the position.

Pay Scale

Based upon flight and EMS experience.

  • STEP A: $82,900
  • STEP B: $86,216
  • STEP C: $89,665
  • STEP D: $93,251

*ACCRA (Geo-Mod) is not included into base salary*

Ex. Step A: 82,900 x 1.4 (ACCRA) = 116,060

Education & Experience

  • Associate’s degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school and two to five years’ related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Bachelor’s degree preferred

Operation and Safety Requirements:

  • As a member of the Flight Crew, any person employed in this position shall maintain a weight not to exceed 250 pounds and shall be less than seventy (70) years old.

Skills

  • Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment
  • Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months

Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) Program:

  • 2500 total flight hours with minimum of 2000 flight hours in category
  • 1000 hours PIC in category
  • 500 hours of rotor wing turbine time
  • 500 hours of cross-country flight time, at least 50 hours of which were at night
  • 100 hours unaided night as PIC (50 hours of unaided can be substituted for by 100 hours of NVG time, but cannot be reduced below 50 hours of unaided time)
  • 75 hours of actual or simulated instrument time at least 50 hours which were in flight in an aircraft including 20 hours in actual instrument conditions in category

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

  • Instrument rating (for category and class of aircraft)(ATP rating in category meets this requirement)
  • Fixed wing multiengine rating is required for twin-engine aircraft
  • Commercial single-engine land is required for single-engine aircraft
  • First OR Second Class FAA Medical certificate required.

Internal Bidding Ends: 3/25/2026

Minimum pay

USD $82,900.00/Yr.

Maximum Pay

USD $93,251.00/Yr.

Benefits

For more information on our industry-leading benefits, please visit our benefits page here.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

This position will be open and posted until filled, with a minimum posting period of three days.

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