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Director Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe ... Direct support to any administrative or flight operations scheduling / record keeping as needed

This position reports to the Charter Department's Director of Operations and Chief Pilot. Compensation & Benefits: * Base salary of $110,000, plus a generous benefits package. * All expenses are ...

Research Pilot

Edwards, CA · On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe ... Direct support to any administrative or flight operations scheduling / record keeping as needed

The selected candidate must be able to travel and will be responsible for the delivery of pilot training courses through direct daily interface with Captains and First Officers of Flexjet aircraft as ...

The selected candidate must be able to travel and will be responsible for the delivery of pilot training courses through direct daily interface with Captains and First Officers of Flexjet aircraft as ...

Reporting to the Director of Operations, this role ensures safe, compliant, and efficient flight ... The Chief Pilot serves as the primary operational leader and liaison between pilots, safety ...

The selected candidate must be able to travel and will be responsible for the delivery of pilot training courses through direct daily interface with Captains and First Officers of Flexjet aircraft as ...

The selected candidate must be able to travel and will be responsible for the delivery of pilot training courses through direct daily interface with Captains and First Officers of Flexjet aircraft as ...

The Chief Pilot reports directly to the Director of Operations. Requirements Essential Duties and Responsibilities (Duties include the following (other duties may be assigned as required by ...

The Chief Pilot reports directly to the Director of Operations. Requirements: Essential Duties and Responsibilities (Duties include the following (other duties may be assigned as required by ...

You aren't just sitting in an office managing numbers--you will be the direct mentor, guide, and champion for a growing team of 95 pilots managing an impressive fleet of 38 aircraft . The Role:

Pilot

Freeland, MI · On-site

In this role, you will function as the pilot-in-command for assigned aircraft with direct responsibility for the safety of passengers, crew, and aircraft. You will collaborate across groups to ensure ...

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Director Pilot information

See salary details

$71.5K

$100.2K

$123.5K

How much do director pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for director pilot in the United States is $100,249.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to make $500,000 a year as a pilot?

To earn $500,000 annually as a pilot, one typically needs to work for major airlines or private jet companies, often requiring extensive experience, advanced certifications, and seniority. High-paying roles may involve long hours, international routes, or executive transport, and pilots often supplement income through additional flying, training, or management positions.

What is the difference between Director Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectDirector PilotCommercial Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot Certificate, Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) licenseCommercial Pilot Certificate, specific aircraft ratings
Work EnvironmentAirlines, corporate flight departments, charter servicesCharter flights, aerial work, flight training, cargo
Job RoleOversees flight operations, manages flight crews, ensures safety standardsOperates aircraft for commercial purposes, performs flights for clients or cargo

The main difference between a Director Pilot and a Commercial Pilot is that the Director Pilot typically holds a higher managerial role overseeing flight operations, while the Commercial Pilot is primarily responsible for flying aircraft for commercial purposes. Both roles require similar certifications, but the Director Pilot focuses more on leadership and operational management within airline or corporate settings.

What is a pilot director?

A pilot director is a professional responsible for overseeing the planning, coordination, and execution of flight operations, often within an airline or aviation organization. They ensure safety protocols are followed, manage crew schedules, and may hold certifications such as a commercial pilot license or airline transport pilot certificate. Strong leadership, communication skills, and knowledge of aviation regulations are essential for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by a Director Pilot in managing a team of pilots?

A Director Pilot often navigates challenges such as balancing administrative duties with maintaining flight proficiency, managing diverse pilot personalities, and ensuring consistent adherence to safety protocols. Coordinating training schedules, regulatory compliance, and maintaining open communication between flight crews and management are also critical aspects. Addressing these challenges requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and the ability to cultivate a positive team culture focused on safety and performance.

What does a Director Pilot do?

A Director Pilot is a senior aviation professional responsible for overseeing the safe and efficient operations of an organization's flight department. This role typically involves managing teams of pilots, developing operational policies, ensuring regulatory compliance, and coordinating with other departments to achieve organizational objectives. The Director Pilot may also be involved in training, scheduling, and occasionally flying aircraft. Their leadership ensures that safety standards are met and that flight operations run smoothly.

What is the highest paying job for a pilot?

The highest paying pilot jobs are typically airline captains for major international airlines, with salaries often exceeding $200,000 annually. These roles require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and often involve long hours and international routes.

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

To thrive as a Director Pilot, you need extensive flight experience, an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license, and strong knowledge of aviation regulations and safety protocols. Familiarity with advanced flight management systems, scheduling software, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required. Outstanding leadership, decision-making, and communication skills are essential for managing flight crews and ensuring operational excellence. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining safety standards, regulatory compliance, and the efficient operation of a flight department.

What is a director of aviation salary?

A director of aviation typically earns a salary ranging from $100,000 to $200,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the organization. They oversee airline or airport operations, requiring strong leadership, regulatory knowledge, and often a commercial pilot or management background.
What cities are hiring for Director Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Director Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Director Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Pilot jobs include:

$170K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview

NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) Aircrew member performs duties in support of the operations of all aircraft assigned to applicable base location. Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe operations are provided as tasked. Aircraft are operated to meet Agency platform, research, and support aircraft requirements. AFRC aircraft are located at the main campus at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Deployed operations, both CONUS and OCONUS, are routine for these aircrew positions.

Pay Range $170,000-$190,000.

The pay range for this position is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, geographic location, and any applicable laws.

Responsibilities

A successful candidate will conduct full-time Pilot duties on a variety of NASA aircraft as assigned to include, but not limited to: C-20A, Gulfstream (III, IV, and V), Pilatus PC-12, T-34, RQ-4 Global Hawk, and TG-14.

Duties include:

  • Conducting flight operations in accordance with FAA, Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), and other applicable directives, regulations, and instructions.
  • Maintaining performance standards in accordance with directives, training plans and Flight Crew Branch policies to include: Knowledge of safety precautions, Knowledge of airfield operations, Demonstrating Emergency Bold Face procedures from memory, and Knowledge of aircraft systems, limitations and ATC regulations / procedures.
  • Participating in i3 and NASA-directed Continuation Training, meetings, and other forums mandated by the on-site management team.
  • Performing any and all on-site tasks necessary at operating locations for a safe, secure, and professional operation.
  • Direct support to any administrative or flight operations scheduling / record keeping as needed
  • Other duties as assigned

Candidate must also maintain proficiency, currency, and annual requirements in accordance with NPR 7900.3C, NPD 7900.4D, AFPD 8700.1 and AFOP 7900.3-006 as applicable.

NASA will provide training and qualification checks for aircrew, including required periodic simulator training

NASA authorized flight surgeon will provide periodic flight physicals for aircrew

Qualifications

Required Skills:

  • Bachelor's degree, or higher, from an accredited university or college (Required), with major study in an appropriate field of engineering, physical science, life science, or mathematics (Desired).
  • Must be able to pass random drug screenings. (Required)
  • Possess a current US passport, valid through period of employment. (Required)
  • Formal military training in expected duties (with DD 214 annotating AFSC / MOS qualification) or applicable civilian experience. (Highly Desired)
  • Possess an FAA commercial pilot license with instrument, multiengine and single engine land ratings or possess a pilot and instrument rating from the armed services. (Required)
  • 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 with 500 hours of special missions' experience (Highly Desired)
  • Must meet the security requirements of the position and pass a NASA Flight Medical Certification (Required).

Required Experience:

  • 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 with 500 hours of special missions' experience (Highly Desired)
  • Should possess knowledge and first-hand experience necessary to succeed as a government contractor providing direct support to NASA AFRC staff as required.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Must be able to create, maintain and update briefings and statistical reporting.
  • Must be able to obtain a DoD SECRET security clearance.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

  • Light to medium work. Ability to lift, carry, push, pull, see, hear, stoop, crouch, feel, handle; manual dexterity.
  • Outside work. Ability to tolerate conditions in a deployed environment to include inclement weather, rain, humidity, cold and extreme heat. May be exposed to dust, fumes, odors, chemicals, and confined spaces.
  • Close, distance, color and peripheral vision and depth perception.
  • Ability to read and comprehend technical manuals and instructions; procedures, safety instructions, memos, reports. Ability to write at a level to relay data, details and information. Ability to perform shop math. Ability to speak clearly and concisely to relay information.
  • Office conditions: Moderate noise level. May be required to sit at computer station and/or type on keyboard for extended periods of time. May be required to lift objects such as laptop and office copy paper. May be required to view and read computer monitor for extended periods of time. May be required to take verbal messages per phone and face-to-face contact. Will occasionally be required to stand and walk to deliver items within office or on the flight line.
  • Flight line working conditions: Will be required to work day or night. May be exposed to high noise levels. Will be required to fly long missions (up to 12 hours) at high altitude in a confined space. May be subject to the altitude or physiological risks normally associated with flying.
About i3

i3 is a technically diverse, 100% team member owned business, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services, electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis, UAS system integration and flight operations, full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training, simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services, Missile Defense Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.

Perks of being a team member owner include:

  • Long-term financial security
  • Higher job satisfaction
  • Greater job security
  • Personal and professional growth
  • Great company culture

Other outstanding benefits:

  • Excellent insurance coverage
  • 401(k) match
  • Generous PTO
  • Health and wellness incentives
  • Tuition and certification reimbursement
  • Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares

We work hard. We compete hard. We play hard. Apply now to join us!

Employment Type: FULL_TIME