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Direct Entry Captain Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$255K - $265K/yr

Communicate with ACM for owner approval if necessary Liaison with ACP and Director of Training ... Pilot skills consistent with operational requirements Ability to prioritize and organize workflow ...

$330K - $350K/yr

Communicate with ACM for owner approval if necessary Liaison with ACP and Director of Training ... Pilot skills consistent with operational requirements Ability to prioritize and organize workflow ...

$330K - $350K/yr

Communicate with ACM for owner approval if necessary Liaison with ACP and Director of Training ... Pilot skills consistent with operational requirements Ability to prioritize and organize workflow ...

Reports all known or suspected FAA violations or incidents to the Chief Pilot and/or Director of ... All Captains will be assigned additional duties within the Aviation department in one of the ...

The captain position will report to the Chief Pilot and the Director of Operations. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Demonstrate ability to function as Pilot in Command Ensure that all flight operation ...

The captain position will report to the Chief Pilot and the Director of Operations. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Demonstrate ability to function as Pilot in Command • Ensure that all flight ...

The captain position will report to the Chief Pilot and the Director of Operations. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Demonstrate ability to function as Pilot in Command • Ensure that all flight ...

The captain functions as the Pilot-in-Command for assigned aircraft providing worldwide service. Has direct responsibility for the safety of passengers and crew, and the comfortable, timely operation ...

The captain functions as the Pilot-in-Command for assigned aircraft providing worldwide service. Has direct responsibility for the safety of passengers and crew, and the comfortable, timely operation ...

Chief Pilot FLSA Status: Exempt Summary: National Airlines Captains are responsible overall for the ... Flight Crews must meet all the entry/ exit requirements into the different jurisdictions in which ...

Chief Pilot FLSA Status: Exempt Summary: National Airlines Captains are responsible overall for the ... Flight Crews must meet all the entry/ exit requirements into the different jurisdictions in which ...

Chief Pilot FLSA Status: Exempt Summary: National Airlines Captains are responsible overall for the ... Flight Crews must meet all the entry/ exit requirements into the different jurisdictions in which ...

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Direct Entry Captain Pilot information

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How much do direct entry captain pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct entry captain pilot in the United States is $37.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $41.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a direct entry captain?

A direct entry captain is an experienced pilot who is hired directly into the role of captain without progressing through traditional flight training or seniority-based promotions. This position typically requires extensive flying experience, relevant certifications such as an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license, and demonstrated leadership skills to operate commercial aircraft. It is often offered by airlines seeking qualified pilots to fill captain roles quickly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Direct Entry Captain Pilot position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Entry Captain Pilot, you must have extensive flight experience, a valid Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), and comprehensive knowledge of aviation regulations and operational procedures. Familiarity with advanced aircraft avionics, flight management systems, and company-specific operating procedures is typically required. Strong decision-making, leadership, and communication skills help you effectively manage the flight crew and ensure passenger safety. These abilities are critical for maintaining operational excellence and upholding the highest safety standards in diverse and often dynamic flight environments.

What is the bonus for PSA direct entry captain?

The bonus for PSA Airlines direct entry captains varies based on experience and contract terms but can include signing bonuses, retention bonuses, and performance incentives. These bonuses are part of the overall compensation package and are designed to attract qualified pilots to the airline.

What pilots make $500,000 a year?

Experienced airline captains, especially those flying long-haul international routes for major carriers, can earn $500,000 or more annually. High earnings typically require seniority, extensive flight hours, and advanced certifications such as an Airline Transport Pilot license, along with years of experience in the industry.

What is a Direct Entry Captain Pilot job?

A Direct Entry Captain Pilot is an experienced pilot hired directly into a captain's position without first serving as a first officer with the airline. These pilots typically have significant flight hours, leadership experience, and the necessary certifications to command an aircraft immediately. Airlines hire Direct Entry Captains to fill leadership roles in their flight operations, often due to rapid expansion or fleet growth.

How long does it take to make $200,000 as a pilot?

A Direct Entry Captain Pilot typically earns a salary that can reach $200,000 after several years of experience, often around 5 to 10 years depending on the airline, flight hours, and seniority. Achieving this income requires accumulating sufficient flight hours, obtaining necessary certifications, and advancing through airline ranks, which can vary based on individual career progression and airline pay scales.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Direct Entry Captain Pilot?

As a Direct Entry Captain Pilot, your daily responsibilities include conducting pre-flight briefings, performing aircraft inspections, planning and reviewing flight routes, and ensuring compliance with all aviation safety protocols. You lead the flight crew, coordinate with air traffic control, and manage any in-flight situations or changes. Additionally, you are responsible for documenting flight logs, overseeing passenger safety, and representing the airline professionally. This role demands proactive communication, calm decision-making under pressure, and a commitment to safety throughout every phase of flight.

More about Direct Entry Captain Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Direct Entry Captain Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Direct Entry Captain Pilot job openings:
What states have the most Direct Entry Captain Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Direct Entry Captain Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Direct Entry Captain Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Entry Captain Pilot jobs are:
Pilot: Lead Captain - Challenger 300 | KBNA

Pilot: Lead Captain - Challenger 300 | KBNA

Clay Lacy Aviation

On-site

$255K - $265K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Act as Pilot in Command or Second in Command as designated and ensure compliance with flight and maintenance schedules and directives.

  • Coordinate and communicate with internal and external stakeholders regarding scheduling, maintenance, crew performance, and aircraft owner requests.

  • Review and approve crew expense reports, oversee crew scheduling, and participate in the interview process for flight department personnel.


Job description

At Clay Lacy Aviation, we've built a legacy of excellence by combining innovation, safety, and exceptional service. We're looking for people who share our passion for aviation and our commitment to doing the right thing. Here, curiosity and continuous learning are valued, and teamwork is essential. If you're ready to contribute your skills in a supportive, high-performing environment where every detail matters, you'll find opportunities to grow your career and be part of shaping the future of private aviation.

Position Summary


As aLead Captain, in addition to acting as a flight crew member, you are responsible for ensuring effective communication between the account and Clay Lacy Aviation, including the Account Manager (ACM), DOM, Director of Training, Assistant Chief Pilot (ACP), and Trip Support Specialists.

You will ensure crew compliance with applicable regulations, directives, and SOP's, assist in coordinating training events, review expense reports and invoices, and assist in managing crew member schedules. You will facilitate good working relationships and perpetuate CLA company culture and ideals within your flight department.

  • Position: Lead Captain

  • Aircraft: Challenger 300

  • Position Type: Full-time only; no contract

  • Location: Nashville, TN (KBNA)

  • Mission: Internal 135;approximately 300 hours

  • Compensation/Benefits:$255,000.00 - $265,000.00; fully paid medical/healthcare premium.


Duties and Responsibilities
Act as Pilot in Command (PIC) or Second in Command (SIC) as designated
Ensure compliance with flight and maintenance schedules and other directives governing theaircraft's operation
Ensure crew compliance with flight & duty times limitations as outlined in the GOM if Part 135,or reasonably adhere to Part 135 standards as able if Part 91
Ensure the accomplishment of pre-flight/post-flight duties & inspections IAW the AFM
Coordinate with DOM & ACM to ensure aircraft is cleaned as necessary (or scheduled)
Manage aircraft inventory to meet owner or user requirements (may be assigned to CabinAttendant)
Monitor crew members' performance and communicate to Assistant Chief Pilot (ACP) relative toannual performance reviews
Complete & approve crew expense reports IAW CLA policy
Review monthly billing summaries. Report discrepancies to accounting and ACM
Coordinate/manage crewmember's days off and vacation requests. Relay to ACP for inclusionon schedule. Communicate with ACM for owner approval if necessary
Liaison with ACP and Director of Training
Conduct monthly review of currency and upcoming training/evaluation requirements
Conduct annual aircraft black book audits (work with Flight Ops and ACP)
Ensure compliance with fleet requirements (SOPs, required paperwork, etc.)
Be familiar with installed equipment on aircraft. Maintain all required regulatory aircraft operational authorizations and mandates.

Maintenance Related Responsibilities
Be aware of scheduled/unscheduled maintenance events
Assist CLA in the resolution and communication of mechanical AOG events when required
Review monthly work orders invoices
Coordinate/communicate with Maintenance Controller (or DOM if assigned) any maintenance-related items, squawks to ensure all maintenance related scheduling is communicated effectively (to include scheduling specialist & ACM


Additional Responsibilities
Ensure all trip related requests or changes from aircraft owner (or charter client) are communicated to Charter Department and Chief Pilot's office.
Assist in gathering any required operationally related data for special projects or reporting as requested
Mediate and facilitate good working relationships within your Flight Department
Cultivate and maintain good working relationships with all external stakeholders and CLA
Ensure CLA company culture is perpetuated among members of the Flight Department
Provide constructive feedback to increase efficiency in process and procedure within CLA through the ACM or via Safety Management System if required.
Work with CLA ACM in the Management of Aircraft Owners overall experience
Other duties as required in support of CLA and the aircraft owner: - Update Scheduling Specialist regarding aircraft schedule changes and other matters that may affect the scheduling of aircraft, crews or contract pilots/contract cabin attendants.
Coordinate with ACM, DOM, Scheduling Specialist and managed billing to have regular flight department meetings to discuss & manage activities, mx events, budget, identify problems, answer questions, pass information gathered from owner and create future improvement projects and goals.
In conjunction with the ACP/Chief Pilots, participate in the interview process and selection of all flight department personnel.
Communicate with ACM for input and/or approval for all operational, personnel and administrative issues.
Make recommendations for additional training for flight department members to ACM & ACP (conferences, safety training, industry events, etc.)

Competencies and Skills
Create strong customer relations and deliver customer-centric solutions.
Take on new opportunities and challenges with a sense of urgency and enthusiasm.
Work collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives.
Communicate a clear understanding of the needs of varied audiences and modes.
Gain the trust and confidence of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity.
Pilot skills consistent with operational requirements
Ability to prioritize and organize workflow
Exceptional interpersonal skills
Demonstrated analytical and critical thinking skills
Able to take initiative and execute assigned tasks in a timely and flawless manner
Strong teamwork acumen with a profound ability to work under extreme pressure

Required Education and Experience
CLA Lead Captains should have the minimum experience required to safely operate the assigned aircraft in compliance with the company Operational Specifications, General Operations Manual, and Flight Operations Manual while meeting account management requirements.

  • Applicable FAA Part 91 and/or FAA Part 135 requirements for aircraft type assigned.

  • Must remain current with flight requirements

  • ATP certificate required.

  • First Class Medical Required.

  • CL-30 Type Rating Required

  • Unexpired and valid Driver's License

  • Unexpired and valid passport

*Candidates are required to be type rated, and reside within a 2 hour drivable commuting distance to KBNA.

**Must pass Pre-Employment Drug Screening and Background Checks.

Benefits and Culture

Clay Lacy Aviation offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our employees' health, well-being, and peace of mind. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; a 401(k) retirement plan; paid time off and paid holidays; loss of license insurance; pet insurance options; and additional wellness resources.

Our culture is service-driven and collaborative, grounded in excellence, care, accountability, and trust, while supporting our teams in a fast-paced, high-responsibility environment. We foster teamwork, promote responsibility, and create an environment where employees can perform at their best while delivering consistently high standards of service.

Disclaimer Statement
Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice. This job description may not cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all assigned activities, duties, or responsibilities, and may be amended at any time. Employees may be required to perform other job-related assignments as requested.


Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Statement
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Clay Lacy Aviation provides reasonable accommodation when requested by qualified individuals with disabilities unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. We encourage both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodation with a representative of the Office of Human Resources.


Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statements
Clay Lacy Aviation provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.