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Entry Level Pilot Jobs in Riverview, FL (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Pilot information

See Riverview, FL salary details

$44.1K

$116.8K

$179.3K

How much do entry level pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level pilot in Riverview, FL is $116,766.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,200.00 and $138,200.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Pilot jobs in Riverview, FL?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Pilot jobs in Riverview, FL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Pilot jobs in Riverview, FL are:

What cities near Riverview, FL are hiring for Entry Level Pilot jobs?

Cities near Riverview, FL with the most Entry Level Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Pilot job openings in Riverview, FL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,766 per year, or $56.1 per hour.

Airfield Operations Specialist

Bradenton, FL • On-site

Hi-Lite Airfield Services
51 - 200 employees

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Airfield Operations Specialist


Travel the Country. Build a Career. Work Where Millions of People Travel.


Starting at $22/hour + Paid Travel + Per Diem + Hotel + Benefits


We hire nationwide.


Build Something Bigger Than a Job

At Hi-Lite Airfield Services, we don't build houses or office buildings—we help keep America's airports operating safely.


From major international airports to military installations, our crews perform specialized pavement marking, rubber removal, surface preparation, and pavement maintenance work that few people ever get the opportunity to do.


If you're looking for a career that offers travel, teamwork, hands-on work, and the opportunity to learn specialized equipment and skills, we'd like to meet you.


Why Join Hi-Lite?

We Invest in Our People

  • Starting pay of $22/hour
  • Higher starting pay available for experienced equipment operators
  • Paid airfare to and from projects
  • Company-paid hotel accommodations
  • Daily per diem for meals
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid time off
  • Paid training and certifications
  • Opportunities for advancement


Many of our Foremen, Superintendents, Project Managers, and Operations leaders started in entry-level positions and built successful careers with Hi-Lite.


What You'll Do

No two weeks are the same.


One project may have you removing runway rubber at a major international airport. The next may involve installing precision pavement markings or supporting maintenance work at a military airfield.


You will:

  • Operate specialized construction and airport maintenance equipment
  • Assist with pavement marking installation and removal
  • Prepare airport surfaces for painting and maintenance
  • Operate forklifts, skid steers, grinders, and other equipment
  • Load, unload, and transport materials
  • Maintain equipment and a safe work environment
  • Work as part of a highly skilled team that takes pride in quality workmanship


Every project directly contributes to the safety of pilots, passengers, and airport personnel.


Travel Is Part of the Adventure

  • Our crews travel throughout the United States, working on some of the busiest commercial and military airports in the country.
  • Typical travel assignments range from 4–6 weeks, with all airfare, hotels, and per diem provided by Hi-Lite.
  • You bring the work ethic—we take care of the logistics.


Schedule

  • Full-time
  • Day, night, weekend, and overnight shifts as required by airport operations
  • Overtime opportunities available


Qualifications

  • Valid Real ID driver's license with a good driving record
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Ability to travel extensively
  • Pass pre-employment drug screening
  • Must be over 21
  • Meet airport and military base badging requirements, including a 10-year criminal background review


"Last year, our crews worked at hundreds of airports across North America, helping keep millions of passengers moving safely."


Other Duties:
Please note that this job description is an overview of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.


Equal Opportunity Statement:

Hi‑Lite is an Equal Opportunity Employer and fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We are committed to providing a workplace that values diversity, ensures equal access, and prohibits discrimination of any kind.