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Entry Level F35 Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ELDP I

Manchester, NH · On-site

$64K - $110K/yr

... F-35 pilots to illuminating the night for soldiers. Spanning air, land, sea, and space, we are ... entry-level engineers into effective future leaders. You'll have the opportunity to explore your ...

Entry Level F35 Pilot information

What is the difference between Entry Level F35 Pilot vs Entry Level F16 Pilot?

AspectEntry Level F35 PilotEntry Level F16 Pilot
Required CertificationsMilitary pilot training, FAA or military flight certificationsMilitary pilot training, FAA or military flight certifications
Work EnvironmentAdvanced fighter jet cockpit, military bases, combat zonesFighter jet cockpit, military bases, combat zones
Employer & IndustryMilitary branches, defense industryMilitary branches, defense industry

Both entry-level F35 and F16 pilots require military flight training and certifications, operate in similar combat environments, and are employed by military branches. The main differences lie in aircraft technology and mission roles, with the F35 being a newer, stealth-capable aircraft, while the F16 is a versatile, proven fighter jet. Candidates should consider their specific aircraft interest and career goals when choosing between the two.

How much does a F-35 pilot make?

An entry-level F-35 pilot in the military typically earns a salary starting around $60,000 to $70,000 per year, with pay increasing with experience, rank, and years of service. Military pilots also receive benefits such as housing allowances, special pay, and bonuses that can significantly increase total compensation.

Where do F-35 pilots get stationed?

F-35 pilots are typically stationed at military bases that host F-35 squadrons, which can be located both within the United States and internationally. These bases provide the necessary training facilities, runways, and support infrastructure for pilot operations and aircraft maintenance.

Is 27 too late to become a fighter pilot?

For an entry-level F-35 pilot, 27 is generally not too late to start training, as many military pilots begin their flight training in their early to mid-20s. However, candidates must meet specific physical, medical, and educational requirements, and the selection process is competitive. Age limits vary by branch and country, so checking specific service guidelines is recommended.

What are the best entry level pilot jobs?

Entry level pilot jobs include positions such as flight instructor, regional airline first officer, or corporate pilot, which typically require a commercial pilot license and a minimum number of flight hours. These roles provide foundational experience and often serve as stepping stones to more advanced pilot positions, including airline captain or specialized military roles like F-35 pilot training.
What are the most commonly searched types of F35 Pilot jobs? The most popular types of F35 Pilot jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level F35 Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level F35 Pilot jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level F35 Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.
ELDP I

$64K - $110K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 5 days ago


BAE Systems rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description


Because of the rotational aspect of the ELDP, there is potential for these roles to be either full-time on site or hybrid work format dependent on business needs and candidate preferences.
See what you're missing. Our employees work on the world's most advanced electronics - from detecting threats for F-35 pilots to illuminating the night for soldiers. Spanning air, land, sea, and space, we are developing the technology of tomorrow, delivered today. Drawing strength from our differences, we're innovating for the future. And you can, too. Our flexible work environment provides you a chance to change the world without giving up your personal life. We put our customers first - exemplified by our mission: "We Protect Those Who Protect Us®." Sound like a team you want to be a part of? Come build your career with BAE Systems as part of our Engineering Leadership Development Program (ELDP).
The ES Defense ELDP is a three-year rotational program designed to develop high potential, entry-level engineers into effective future leaders. You'll have the opportunity to explore your passions through assignments in several operational functions, business areas, and product groups.
In this role, you will:
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to provide solutions for our customers' greatest needs
  • Work on challenging technical assignments with the guidance and mentorship of fellow engineers
  • Gain diverse technical experience through two to three 9-to-12-month rotations in various engineering areas and disciplines
  • Grow your technical and business acumen through weekly technical courses taught by BAE Systems subject matter experts
  • Complete a graduate degree part time with tuition reimbursement
  • Participate in quarterly leadership trainings and annual conferences
  • Build strong interpersonal relationships with the ELDP community and BAE Systems leadership

Potential for full-time onsite or hybrid opportunities at various Southern NH and MA locations; Wayne, NJ; Greenlawn, NY; Austin, TX; Dallas, TX; Manassas, VA; Cedar Rapids, IA and Huntsville, AL.
About BAE Systems Electronic Systems
BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference. Electronic Systems (ES) is the global innovator behind BAE Systems' game-changing defense and commercial electronics. Exploiting every electron, we push the limits of what is possible, giving our customers the edge and our employees opportunities to change the world. Our products and capabilities can be found everywhere - from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space. At our core are more than 14,000 highly talented Electronic Systems employees with the brightest minds in the industry, we make an impact - for our customers and the communities we serve.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.
Required Skills and Education
  • U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain/maintain DoD security clearance
  • This position is open to applicants with varying levels of experience. To be considered for an ELDP I, you must have at least a bachelor's degree by June 2027. To be considered for an ELDP II, you must have a master's degree by June 2027 OR 2+ years of work experience with bachelor's degree.
  • Experience with a variety of extracurricular activities
  • Demonstrated collaboration and leadership abilities
  • Outstanding communication skills (both verbal and written)
  • Dependable team player who demonstrates a strong work ethic

Preferred Skills and Education
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or computer science with a GPA ≥ 3.0 is strongly recommended
  • The following majors may be considered: Computer Science (CS), Electrical/Computer Engineering (ECE), Computer Engineering (CE), Electrical Engineering (EE), Mechanical Engineering (ME), Aerospace Engineering (AE), Optical Engineering (OE), Systems Engineering (SE), Applied Math, Physics

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