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Entry Level Pilot Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Mill Chemist

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$18.75 - $25.25/hr

As our Assistant Mill Chemist , you won't just sit behind a desk-you will be the co-pilot of our chemical systems, directly influencing safety, product quality, and production efficiency. Working ...

Entry Level Pilot information

See Indiana salary details

$47.1K

$124.6K

$191.3K

How much do entry level pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level pilot in Indiana is $124,575.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,200.00 and $147,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Pilot, and why are they important?

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 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 entry level pilots?

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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Pilot jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Pilot jobs in Indiana? For Entry Level Pilot jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Entry Level Pilot jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Entry Level Pilot job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Pilot job openings in Indiana as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 27% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $124,575 per year, or $59.9 per hour.
Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

RFA Engineering

Lafayette, IN • On-site

$65K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 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 in the development of large diesel or gas engine sub-systems. Work will include product design, product improvement, cost reduction, and product health in large engine systems. The work will be highly collaborative with both internal customers and external suppliers.
Responsibilities
  • Participate in design, development, build, and validation related to diesel and natural gas engines.
  • Collaborate with design teams to develop new engine systems used in Oil and Gas applications.
  • Work with validation and system engineers to ensure completion of FMEAs and activities needed to fully validate engine designs.
  • Support engine performance development and validation in test cells
  • Improve and maintain Bill of Material (BOM) tracking tool for upcoming, current, and field test engines.
  • Coordinate the completion of Virtual Design Review Audits (VDRAs) for NPI proto and pilot builds.
  • Responsible for prove design parts management, ordering, and shipping to support prototype builds, lab or field testing.
  • Track and resolve issues discovered during build and test processes.
  • Manage releasing and procurement status for new component designs.
  • Create and update Teamcenter engine arrangement (ARC) models.
  • Work with factory technicians to assemble prototype and field follow engines.
  • Coordinate virtual & on engine safety and serviceability audits to be completed and complete the appropriate follow-up activities that result.
  • Collaborate with other groups (Engineering, Marketing, Purchasing, 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 or engines.
  • Experience with shop or factory support.
  • Desire to work in an engineering environment focusing on robust & cost effective design.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $65,000-$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
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.