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Designated Pilot Examiner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gauss Management Research & Engineering

Designated as the local Contractor's Requesting Official (CRO) and Single Point of Contact. WHY ... W Instructor/Examiner or U.S. Army MTPC graduate. * Previous rotary wing FCF experience. * FAA ...

GMRE

HH-60 FCF Pilot

Moody Air Force Base, GA

Designated as the local Contractor's Requesting Official (CRO) and Single Point of Contact. WHY ... W Instructor/Examiner or U.S. Army MTPC graduate. * Previous rotary wing FCF experience. * FAA ...

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Designated Pilot Examiner information

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$33.5K

$61.4K

$99K

How much do designated pilot examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for designated pilot examiner in the United States is $61,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Designated Pilot Examiner, and why are they important?

To excel as a Designated Pilot Examiner, you need extensive flight experience, in-depth knowledge of FAA regulations, and a current commercial or airline transport pilot certificate, often with instructor credentials. Familiarity with FAA testing standards, electronic record-keeping systems, and proficiency in using flight training devices are essential. Strong interpersonal communication, impartiality, and attention to detail are vital soft skills for effectively evaluating candidates. These competencies ensure thorough, fair assessments that uphold aviation safety and regulatory compliance.

What qualifications are needed for DPE jobs?

Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs) must hold an airline transport pilot certificate, have significant flying experience, and possess a current first-class medical certificate. They are also required to complete specific FAA training and be appointed by the FAA to conduct pilot checkrides and certifications.

What is the difference between Designated Pilot Examiner vs Flight Instructor?

AspectDesignated Pilot ExaminerFlight Instructor
CredentialsFAA Designated Pilot Examiner certificationFAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certification
Work EnvironmentConducts checkrides at designated testing locationsProvides flight training and instruction to students
Employer & Industry UsageFAA, Part 135/121 operators, flight schoolsFlight schools, flying clubs, individual instructors

While both roles require FAA certifications, a Designated Pilot Examiner primarily conducts pilot checkrides to assess proficiency, whereas a Flight Instructor provides training and instruction to help students achieve pilot certifications. The roles are distinct but complementary within the aviation industry.

What are some common challenges faced by Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs) during checkrides, and how can they be managed?

Designated Pilot Examiners often face challenges such as managing applicant nerves, ensuring adherence to FAA standards, and balancing objectivity with clear communication. DPEs must conduct fair, standardized evaluations while also making applicants feel comfortable enough to perform their best. To manage these challenges, most DPEs establish a professional but approachable rapport, clearly outline expectations, and consistently reference FAA guidelines to ensure transparency and fairness throughout the checkride process.

How difficult is it to become a DPE?

Becoming a designated pilot examiner (DPE) requires extensive flying experience, typically at least 1,000 hours, and a thorough understanding of FAA regulations and testing procedures. Candidates must be current pilots with appropriate certifications, often including an instructor rating, and are usually nominated by their flight district office after demonstrating professionalism and expertise. The process involves application, evaluation, and approval, making it a challenging and competitive credential to attain.

Is there a DPE shortage?

There is currently a demand for Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs) due to ongoing pilot certification needs, with some regions experiencing a shortage of qualified examiners. Factors such as experience requirements, FAA approval processes, and workload influence the availability of DPEs. This can impact scheduling and the speed of pilot certification processes.

What is a Designated Pilot Examiner?

A Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) is an experienced pilot authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct practical tests, or checkrides, for pilot applicants. DPEs evaluate a candidate’s flying skills and knowledge to determine if they meet the standards required for a pilot certificate or rating. While they are not FAA employees, they act on behalf of the FAA to ensure aviation safety and compliance with regulations. DPEs play a crucial role in the certification process, helping to maintain high standards in pilot training and qualifications.

How much money does a DPE make?

A Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) typically earns between $300 and $600 per exam, depending on the location and the complexity of the testing. Their income can vary based on the number of exams they conduct and whether they work independently or for a flight school or aviation authority.
More about Designated Pilot Examiner jobs
What cities are hiring for Designated Pilot Examiner jobs? Cities with the most Designated Pilot Examiner job openings:
What states have the most Designated Pilot Examiner jobs? States with the most job openings for Designated Pilot Examiner jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Designated Pilot Examiner jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Designated Pilot Examiner jobs are:
Designated Pilot Examiner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Designated Pilot Examiner job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,362 per year, or $29.5 per hour.
Trip Pilot

Trip Pilot

American Commercial Barge Line LLC

Cairo, IL • On-site

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Trip Pilot
Company: American Commercial Barge Line
Location: Memphis, TN; St. Louis, MO; Cairo, IL; Convent, LA; Harahan, LA; Channelview, TX; Jeffersonville, IN
Job Type: Full-Time
Are you an experienced and dedicated Trip Pilot looking for an exciting opportunity in the maritime industry? American Commercial Barge Line is seeking skilled individuals to join our team and play a vital role in ensuring the safe and efficient navigation of vessels through challenging waterways.

When you join ACBL…
American Commercial Barge Line (ACBL) is one of the largest and most diversified marine transportation companies in the U.S. Our legacy of providing the nation with the most economical, safest, and greenest mode of transportation dates all the way back to 1915, when we began moving coal on the Kentucky River.  We offer a wide range of career paths in both operations and support services. Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the best of the best to join our ACBL team. 

What you will be doing... Your IMPACT 

  • Ensure that work completed during his/her watch is done in accordance with ACBL safety policies and practices.
  • Always navigate the vessel safely.
  • Ensure all crew members on vessel receive instruction on how to do jobs properly and monitor performance.
  • Carry out all duties assigned under the Vessel Security Plan as the designated vessel security officer.
  • Ensure that each crew member knows the cargo of each barge in tow and has an understanding of any hazards associated with said cargoes. CFR 35.05-15b.
  • Enforce all Company policies and vessel specific guidelines in support of the SMS (Safety Management System) and within that the Crew Endurance Management System onboard all vessels.
  • Participate in crew management, general supervisory duties and management of the vessel’s budget.
  • Complete required log entries.
  • Maintain radio watch as required.
  • Report Certain Dangerous Cargoes (CDC) barges at pick-up, drop-off, and designated mile points to the Inland River Vessel Movement Center.
  • Enforce all rules.
  • Give assignments and direction to the mate and/or lead deckhand.
  • Comply with all established vessel management policies and procedures.
  • Maintain the vessel budget and help maximize cost efficiency as directed.
  • Provide instructions and information to crew members, ACBL land-based personnel, USCG or lock personnel.

What we are looking for...

You will need to have:

  • Master of Towing Vessels upon Western Rivers license required.
  • Must have experience running on the Lower Mississippi River 30+ loaded barges.
  • Must meet USCG physical examination requirements.
  • Must be able to travel to and from vessel / training locations via air or car travel.
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license.
  • Must be able to work 6 hours on 6 hours off watch.
  • Must have experience pushing barges (tows of 20 or more preferred).
  • Must be able to ride in or pilot a crew boat or zodiac to get to/from towing vessel.
  • Must be able to work in all weather conditions.
  • Must maintain valid USCG licensing.
  • Be able to maintain an active TWIC.

Even better if you have:

  • Experience pushing 20+ barges.

Reasons you will love working at ACBL …

  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • A collaborative and supportive team environment.
  • Comprehensive training and career development opportunities.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Commitment to safety and employee well-being

Apply