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Direct Entry Captain Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Communicate with Dispatcher, crewmembers, other Master/ Relief Captain/ Pilots, Port Engineers, Coast Guard Inspectors and others. * Direct crew to complete actions and follow regulations in a safe ...

$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 ...

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Direct Entry Captain Pilot information

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$9

$37

$76

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

As of Jul 21, 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:
Infographic showing various Direct Entry Captain Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 94% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $77,625 per year, or $37.3 per hour.
Wheelman

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

General Job Responsibilities

The Master/Relief/Pilot is the manager of the vessel including all attached barges. The Master/Relief/Pilot is responsible for the crew’s adherence to all United States Coast Guard and company policies. The Master/Relief/Pilot navigates safely, supervises the crew, oversees safety programs, complies with rules and regulations pertaining to the towing of vessels and protects the environment. The Master/Relief/Pilot takes work assignments from the Operational Department. The Pilot backs up the Master, serving as supervisor when the Master is asleep and has management and supervisory responsibility while on watch. The Relief Captain serves as Pilot when the Master is on the vessel, and serves as the Master when the Master is at home. The Master/Relief/Pilot must be able to intercede and safely perform the essential functions of any job on the vessel to include the job tasks of a deckhand and Tankerman. The Master/Relief Captain/Pilot is responsible for the safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant operation of assigned area. Employee’s key job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Trains and supervises the crew in the safe and efficient performance of duties;
  • Evaluates performance of all crewmembers with river crews consisting of 7 to 10 members and canal crews consisting of 4 to 5 members;
  • Navigates in rivers or canals by properly using steering controllers, throttles, radar compasses, short wave radios, depth finders, loud hailers and other equipment to transport tow to a destination;
  • Uses radio communication and vision to navigate waterways, docks, locks, and other vessel traffic;
  • Supervises the cleaning and maintenance of boat and tow; the loading, transport, and discharging of cargo;
  • Adheres to company policies, United States Coast Guard and environmental regulations;
  • Acts as a company representative in the day-to-day dealings with customers at their facilities and with representatives of governmental agencies;
  • Acts as the on-site coordinator in emergencies;
  • On smaller vessels performs routine engine room maintenance such as changing oil, checking oil, and changing fuel filters.
 Minimum Job Qualifications:

Applicant must be able to:

  • Navigate vessel safely by properly operating navigational controls, propulsion, engines, gears, mechanical and electrical equipment under various environmental conditions.
  • Read – read office updates, procedure manuals, safety memos, federal and state documents, manifests, and requisitions.
  • Write – keeps the vessel logs, completes checklists, and takes written exams as required by the company and/ or governmental agencies.
  • Interpret, understand and use maps and charts.
  • Communicate with Dispatcher, crewmembers, other Master/ Relief Captain/ Pilots, Port Engineers, Coast Guard Inspectors and others.
  • Direct crew to complete actions and follow regulations in a safe, efficient manner.
  • Resolve disputes among crewmembers.
  • Maintain morale of crewmembers.
  • Consider many conditions, including weather, vessel and waterway characteristics, traffic, and the abilities of the crew in the making of quick, effective decisions about navigation and the operation of the vessel.
  • Evaluate and treat minor medical conditions and injuries within the scope of his or her knowledge and abilities.
  • Remain calm during challenging situations and set the “tone” for the safe, positive, efficient functioning of all members of the crew.
  • Possess a United States Coast Guard Boat License and/ or marine document for vessel operated.
  • Possess a valid driver’s license for operation of any of the company’s vehicles.
  • Demonstrate leadership by persuading others to perform work because they want to do it.
  • Make good decisions, be dependable, be conscientious, and show initiative.
  • Pay attention to detail and be willing to adhere to orders, rules, and regulations.
  • Work as a team player-i.e., work with others and understand customer/ supplier wants and needs.
  • Be mentally and physically stable under pressure and withstand the stress associated with the job, including discomfort, unpredictable weather and potentially hazardous situations.
  • Work aboard vessel for prolonged periods according to work schedule for the vessel, for example: 20 days on and 10 days off or 14 days on and 7 days off.
  • Work shifts of 6-12 hours around the clock and work additional hours if necessary.
  • Maintain vigilance during 6-12 hour shift in the wheelhouse.
  • Willing to work, as operations require, including days.
  • Live in close quarters and be able to work away from home for long periods of time.
  • Be drug and alcohol free while on company property during course and scope of company business.
  • Pass USCG Physical and MRI Exam