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Entry Level Pilot Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

W S Darley & Co

Uncrewed Systems Specialist

Itasca, IL · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

The Uncrewed Systems Specialist will provide technical, piloting, and sales support. This ... Position Type, Expected Hours of Work, and Travel This is a full-time, entry-level position. Days ...

W S DARLEY & CO

Uncrewed Systems Specialist

Itasca, IL · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

The Uncrewed Systems Specialist will provide technical, piloting, and sales support. This ... Position Type, Expected Hours of Work, and Travel This is a full-time, entry-level position. Days ...

W S DARLEY & CO

Uncrewed Systems Specialist

Itasca, IL · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

The Uncrewed Systems Specialist will provide technical, piloting, and sales support. This ... Position Type, Expected Hours of Work, and Travel This is a full-time, entry-level position. Days ...

W S DARLEY & CO

Uncrewed Systems Specialist

Itasca, IL · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

The Uncrewed Systems Specialist will provide technical, piloting, and sales support. This ... Position Type, Expected Hours of Work, and Travel This is a full-time, entry-level position. Days ...

Rfamec

Electrical Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70 - $105/hr

Troubleshoot electrical and electronic system issues discovered during prototype, pilot, and ... Bachelor's of Science in Electrical Engineering or related field. * Entry level candidates and ...

New

RFA Engineering

Electrical Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70K - $105K/yr

Troubleshoot electrical and electronic system issues discovered during prototype, pilot, and ... Bachelor's of Science in Electrical Engineering or related field. * Entry level candidates and ...

RFA Engineering

Quality/Test Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

We are seeking an entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... Support prototype, pilot, and production build activities. * Work with engineering, manufacturing ...

Rfamec

Quality/Test Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70 - $95/hr

We are seeking an entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... Support prototype, pilot, and production build activities. * Work with engineering, manufacturing ...

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All JobsPilot JobsEntry Level Pilot JobsEntry Level Pilot Jobs in Illinois

Entry Level Pilot information

See Illinois salary details

$48K

$126.9K

$194.8K

How much do entry level pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level pilot in Illinois is $126,861.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,900.00 and $150,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level pilot?

Entry level pilots are individuals who have recently earned their pilot licenses and are beginning their professional aviation careers. They typically hold a commercial pilot certificate and may work in roles such as flight instructors, regional airline first officers, or charter pilots. Entry level pilots are responsible for flying aircraft safely, following regulations, and gaining experience to qualify for more advanced positions. These pilots often use their initial jobs to build flight hours, develop skills, and advance to higher positions within the aviation industry.

What does an entry level pilot do?

An entry-level pilot has the same responsibilities as any other pilot, which are to ensure that an airplane takes off, travels, and lands safely. In this position, you may work as a copilot or flight engineer in addition to your duties as a pilot, depending on the need of the airline. These duties include checking that all flight instrumentation is working, performing safety and maintenance checks with other airplane technicians, and filing flight route plans. In the air, you ensure that the plane remains in communication with ground control.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level pilot?

To thrive as an Entry Level Pilot, you need a solid understanding of aerodynamics, navigation, and flight operations, typically backed by a commercial pilot’s license and completed flight training hours. Familiarity with aviation software, flight management systems (FMS), and aircraft-specific instrumentation is commonly required. Strong situational awareness, decisive communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient flight operations and effective responses to dynamic in-flight situations.

What are the typical training and mentorship opportunities available to entry level pilots starting their careers?

Entry level pilots generally undergo structured training programs that combine classroom instruction, simulator sessions, and supervised flight hours. New pilots often work closely with experienced captains and instructors who provide mentorship and guidance during the initial phases of their careers. Many airlines and flight schools also offer ongoing education and recurrent training to ensure pilots remain current with regulations and best practices. This supportive environment helps entry level pilots build confidence, refine their flying skills, and progress toward more advanced roles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Pilot vs Flight Instructor?

AspectEntry Level PilotFlight Instructor
Required CertificationsPrivate Pilot License (PPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL)Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), CPL
Work EnvironmentAirlines, charter services, cargo carriersFlight schools, training aircraft
Industry UsageEntry-level commercial flying rolesTraining new pilots, gaining flight hours

Entry Level Pilots typically hold PPL and CPL licenses, working in commercial flying roles. Flight Instructors also hold CFI certification and focus on training pilots, often as a stepping stone to higher flying positions. Both roles require similar licenses but differ in work environment and primary responsibilities.

How much do entry level pilots get paid?

Entry-level pilots typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on the employer, location, and type of aircraft. Starting salaries are often lower, but can increase with experience, additional certifications, and flight hours accumulated.

What are the best entry-level pilot jobs?

Entry-level pilot jobs typically include positions such as flight instructor, banner tow pilot, or regional airline first officer. These roles often require a commercial pilot certificate, a minimum number of flight hours, and sometimes a type rating or specific aircraft experience. They provide foundational experience necessary for advancing to larger aircraft and more complex flying roles.
More about Entry Level Pilot jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Pilot jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Pilot jobs in Illinois?

For Entry Level Pilot jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Pilot jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Pilot jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Pilot jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Pilot job openings:

Entry Level Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Pilot job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,861 per year, or $61 per hour.

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Rogers Freels & Associates Inc

Chillicothe, IL • On-site

$60K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an Entry Level candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.

This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff supporting the development of engines, powertrain systems, cast components, and off-highway equipment. Work will include product design, product improvement, cost reduction, product health, prototype support, validation, and manufacturing support activities. Potential projects may involve diesel and natural gas engines, axles, drives, gears, torque converters, cast components, and systems used in construction, mining, and industrial equipment. The work will be highly collaborative with both internal customers and external suppliers.

Responsibilities

  • Participate in design, development, build, and validation activities related to engines, powertrain systems, and off-highway equipment.
  • Collaborate with design teams to develop and improve mechanical systems and components.
  • Work with validation and system engineers to ensure product requirements are satisfied through appropriate testing and analysis.
  • Support prototype, pilot, and production build activities.
  • Assist with product quality, reliability, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Support root cause investigations and implementation of corrective actions.
  • Work with factory operations, manufacturing, quality, and supplier teams to support robust product solutions.
  • Support Bill of Material (BOM) creation and maintenance activities.
  • Create and update engineering documentation, models, and product structures.
  • Assist with APQP activities and product development processes.
  • Support supplier and customer interactions as needed.
  • Collaborate with other groups (Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing, Validation, Quality, Supplier Development, etc.) as necessary.
  • Travel to supplier or customer sites pending project need (up to ~5%).

Requirements

  • BSME, BSMET or equivalent degree with experience.
  • Entry level candidates and experienced candidates will be considered.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude demonstrated through work experience or hobbies.
  • Excellent communication both written and verbal.
  • Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and commitments.
  • Strong analytical, problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment.
  • Ability to travel (less than 10% of time).

Desired Attributes

  • Experience with the APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) process.
  • Experience in 3-D Modeling Software; Creo (Pro/Engineer) experience.
  • Previous experience with Teamcenter or other PDM software.
  • Experience with manufacturing processes.
  • Design experience or exposure to off-road mobile equipment, engines, powertrain systems, or heavy machinery.
  • Experience with shop or factory support.
  • Exposure to validation, prototype builds, testing, or product development activities.
  • Desire to work in an engineering environment focusing on robust & cost effective design.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.

Pay Range: $60,000-$78,000 – Commensurate with experience

About RFA Engineering

RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits

  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
  • Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly