1

Dod Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe ... Must be able to obtain a DoD SECRET security clearance. Work Environment & Physical Demands:

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 ... Must be able to obtain a DoD SECRET security clearance. Work Environment & Physical Demands:

Contract Instructor Pilots (CIPs) report to the Lead Instructor. They will be fully qualified to ... DoD Secret security clearance. § Must comply with all company Information Systems security ...

Title C/KC-130 Pilot KBR is seeking a highly qualified C/KC-130 Pilot to support tasking at the ... Must have a current DoD Secret Clearance or ability to obtain and maintain. Contract requires US ...

As a Test Pilot at Scaled Composites, you'll play a vital role in providing technical support for ... Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Top Secret security clearance and program access. * Military ...

Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe ... Must be able to obtain a DoD SECRET security clearance. Work Environment & Physical Demands:

UAS Test Pilot, RPIC

San Diego, CA · On-site

$92 - $138/hr

... DoD) security clearance * Familiarity with flight documentation including checklists, test cards ... piloting fixed‑wing Group 1‑3 UAS, including autonomous, and/or remotely piloted systems

next page

Showing results 1-20

Dod Pilot information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$129.2K

$198.4K

How much do dod pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for dod pilot in California is $129,202.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,700.00 and $153,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a DoD pilot?

A DoD Pilot is a military or civilian aviator who operates aircraft for the U.S. Department of Defense. They may fly combat, transport, surveillance, or training missions, depending on their branch and assignment. DoD Pilots undergo rigorous training, including military flight school and specialized instruction for their aircraft. They must meet strict medical, physical, and operational requirements to ensure mission readiness.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DoD pilot?

To thrive as a DoD Pilot, you need advanced aeronautical knowledge, flight experience, and a military or FAA pilot certification. Familiarity with military aircraft, flight planning systems, and mission-specific navigation or communication technologies is essential. Leadership, composure under pressure, and strong teamwork skills set outstanding pilots apart. These competencies are critical to ensure safe, effective operations in challenging, high-stakes environments while meeting mission objectives.

What are some common challenges faced by DoD pilots during missions?

DoD Pilots often operate in dynamic and unpredictable environments, requiring them to quickly adapt to changing mission parameters, weather conditions, or airspace restrictions. They must maintain high situational awareness and precise communication with team members, ground control, and supporting units. Intensive training is provided to prepare for potential emergencies, complex maneuvers, or high-stress combat scenarios. Successfully managing these challenges is key to mission success and personal safety.

What job categories do people searching Dod Pilot jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Dod Pilot jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Dod Pilot job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,202 per year, or $62.1 per hour.

$170K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-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