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F 16 Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Must maintain proficiency in operation of essential F-16 Aircrew Training Devices. * Must have ... Prior experience in delivering Military Pilot Academic and Simulator Training in fourth and/or ...

The F-16 program has the largest Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program in U.S. history producing ... Military Test Pilot with multi-disciplinary expertise in program management, test management ...

For position requiring the piloting of fighter jet aircraft (e.g., F-16, A-10, F-15, F-22), each hours as First Pilot and/or Instructor Pilot in a fighter jet aircraft may be counted as two hours of ...

AIRPLANE PILOT

IL · On-site +1

$131K - $171K/yr

For position requiring the piloting of fighter jet aircraft (e.g., F-16, A-10, F-15, F-22), each hours as First Pilot and/or Instructor Pilot in a fighter jet aircraft may be counted as two hours of ...

Must have a minimum of 1,000 hours experience in fourth and/or fifth generation fighter aircraft as a pilot (F-22, F-18, F-16, F-15, A-10) * Must have experience as a Military Instructor Pilot (IP ...

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F 16 Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do f 16 pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for f 16 pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the F 16 Pilot position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an F-16 Pilot, you need exceptional aeronautical knowledge, hand-eye coordination, physical fitness, and a military commission with completion of specialized pilot training. Proficiency in using advanced avionics, radar systems, and flight simulation tools, along with appropriate security clearances, is essential. Leadership abilities, quick decision-making, situational awareness, and calmness under pressure are highly valued soft skills in this role. These competencies are critical for mission success, operational safety, and effective teamwork in high-stress, dynamic environments.

What is an F-16 Pilot job?

An F-16 pilot is a highly trained military aviator responsible for operating the F-16 Fighting Falcon, a multi-role fighter aircraft used for air-to-air and air-to-ground combat missions. These pilots conduct training exercises, execute combat operations, and support national defense objectives. They must complete rigorous training through military flight schools and maintain peak physical and mental readiness. F-16 pilots often work in dynamic and high-pressure environments, requiring precision, quick decision-making, and teamwork.

How to make $500,000 a year as a pilot?

F-16 pilots typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive or specialized roles. Military pilots' pay depends on rank and years of service, while commercial airline pilots can reach high earnings through seniority, overtime, and flying international routes, but reaching $500,000 is rare. Achieving this level may require transitioning to executive aviation, owning a private jet, or gaining additional certifications and experience in high-paying sectors.

Is it hard to become a F-16 pilot?

Becoming an F-16 pilot requires completing military flight training, which involves rigorous physical, mental, and academic assessments, as well as extensive flight hours and specialized instruction. Candidates typically need a strong educational background, excellent physical fitness, and the ability to pass security and medical clearances; the process is highly competitive and demanding. Training programs are intensive and require dedication, discipline, and the ability to learn complex systems and procedures.

How much does a F-16 pilot make?

F-16 pilots in the military typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on rank, experience, and years of service. Military pilots also receive benefits such as housing allowances, healthcare, and retirement plans, and often undergo rigorous training and certification processes.

Are there any female F-16 pilots?

Yes, there are female F-16 pilots in the military. Women have served as fighter pilots in various air forces around the world, including the United States Air Force, where they undergo the same rigorous training, certifications, and requirements as male pilots. Gender does not restrict eligibility to become an F-16 pilot, and female pilots are actively serving in combat and operational roles.

What does a typical work schedule look like for an F-16 Pilot?

F-16 Pilots generally follow a structured yet dynamic schedule that combines flight training, operational missions, simulation exercises, and debriefings. While daily routines often include briefings, flight planning, simulator sessions, and aircraft maintenance checks, pilots must also remain ready for rapid deployment or extended missions as required. The work week may vary depending on the unit’s operational demands and training cycles, including occasional night or weekend shifts. Being part of a squadron fosters strong teamwork, with frequent collaboration on training objectives, aerial tactics, and mission planning.

What cities are hiring for F 16 Pilot jobs? Cities with the most F 16 Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of F 16 Pilot jobs? The most popular types of F 16 Pilot jobs are:
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Infographic showing various F 16 Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
F-16 CONTRACT INSTRUCTOR PILOT

F-16 CONTRACT INSTRUCTOR PILOT

DRG

Oklahoma City, OK • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Description:

Provides F-16CM Aircraft Systems/operational procedures instruction in classroom, simulator, and/or practical environments. Assist as Subject Matter Expert in development of curriculum for new type courses as required. May provide additional special services such as courseware review, scenario development as well as other additional administrative duties such as publications, safety, quality audits, scheduling, security, and other duties as assigned.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Instruct simulator RAP, DMO, LSB and Distributed Live Control tactical and basic mission events.
  • Instruct aircrew upgrade training and academic support simulator training.
  • Develop and manage realistic scenarios in support of RAP/DMO/LSB tactical mission events training, Distributed Live Control events and aircrew basic skills mission training.
  • Maintain daily utilization logs and provide status on each aircrew member’s simulator mission and academic training completion to the local training officer unit representatives.
  • Operate the Mission Training Center (MTC)/Unit Training Device (UTD)/Weapons and tactics Advanced Sustainment Program (WASP)/Weapons and Tactics Trainer (WTT) consoles in support of Air Force and Joint RAP/DMO/LSB battlefield tactical event exercises, Distributed Live Control events and basic mission skills training.
  • Perform as event manager in support of Air Force and Joint RAP/DMO/LSB battlefield tactical exercise and Distributed Live Control events.
  • Performs administrative duties such as scheduling, record keeping, monitoring student progress, quality assurance, safety, security, and maintenance of training programs and equipment.
  • Must maintain proficiency in operation of essential F-16 Aircrew Training Devices.
  • Must have prior aircraft operating experience and the ability to establish and maintain creditability and the attention of the customer trainees.
  • Must meet minimum AFI 11-2F MDS specific requirements, be able to use current tactics and employment standards, and be physically qualified to fly the simulator as Flight Member.
  • Prepares reports as required by management.
  • Other duties as identified and assigned.
Requirements:

Required Education and Experience

  • Minimum of 5-years of experience in the F-16 aircraft
  • Minimum of 500 hours F-16 aircraft.
  • Instructor (i.e. “K” prefix in Air Force Specialty Code AFSC) experience the F- 16 aircraft.
  • Contractor personnel must be able to fly the simulator in the capacity of a 2 or 4-ship flight lead using current tactics and employment standards. These instructors shall maintain ground training currency (IRC, CRM, etc.) and be physically qualified to perform these duties.
  • Prior experience in delivering Military Pilot Academic and Simulator Training in fourth and/or fifth generation tactical fighter aircraft.
  • Experience with advanced sensor systems such as NVS, LANTIRN, Helmet Mounted Cuing, and the latest weapons inventory.
  • Formal Training Unit (FTU) or Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) Instructor Pilot experience.
  • Standardization/Evaluation Flight Examiner (SEFE); NATOPS Evaluator experience.
  • Experience with training management systems (TMS), learning management systems (LMS), and electronic grade books.
  • Basic Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint skills.


Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

  • Forklift certification (as required).
  • Security + Plus Certification (mandatory), or able to obtain within 6 months.


Supervisory Responsibilities

As Required.


Security Responsibilities

  • Must be eligible for Secret Security Clearance and be SCI eligible per the Special Access Program Nomination Process (SAPNP)
  • Must comply with all company Information Systems security policies and procedures.
  • May be responsible for proper classification and marking of all information and materials. Employee shall not divulge any information, or afford access to other employees not having a need-to-know authorization. Shall not divulge information outside the company without management approval. Will be required to execute company non-disclosure agreement prior to access to any controlled information.


Language Skills

Must be able to read, write, speak, and understand the English language. Must have the ability to read, analyze, and interpret complex words and technical documents/diagrams.

Must be able to effectively communicate orally and in writing and work effectively as part of a team.


Reasoning Ability and Mathematical Skills

Must be able to analyze problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.? An ability to interpret complex customer requirements and attitudes from verbal, non-verbal, and written communication is desirable. Must be able to calculate figures and numbers, and percentages and be able to draw and interpret graphs. Ability to read and understand electrical schematics and drawings.


Work Environment and Physical Demands

  • Work in a regular office environment; communicate via computer, telephone and meetings.
  • Work in regular office environment; communicate via computer, telephone and meetings with customer