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F16 Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DRG

F-16 CONTRACT INSTRUCTOR PILOT

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

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 ...

Credence

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 ...

USAJOBS

AIRPLANE PILOT

Dover Air Force Base, DE · On-site

$140K/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 ...

DRG

FIGHTER PILOT

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

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 ...

Lockheed Martin

F-16 Flight Test Engineer

Edwards, CA · On-site

Basic Qualifications Knowledge of F-16 flight testing to include avionics maintenance and weapons ... Previous military flight test experience Private Pilot/General Aviation experience Excellent ...

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F16 Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do f16 pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for f16 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 some common challenges faced by F16 pilots during training and operational missions?

F16 pilots often face challenges such as mastering complex avionics systems, maintaining situational awareness at high speeds, and executing precise maneuvers under stressful conditions. Training is rigorous and demands both physical and mental endurance, as pilots must adapt to rapidly changing mission scenarios and environments. Additionally, F16 pilots frequently collaborate with ground crews and other pilots to ensure mission success, requiring strong communication and teamwork skills.

What are F16 pilots?

F16 pilots are highly trained military aviators responsible for flying the F-16 Fighting Falcon, a multi-role fighter jet used by air forces around the world. Their duties include operating the aircraft in combat, training, reconnaissance, and support missions. F16 pilots must master advanced flight maneuvers, navigation, weapons systems, and tactical operations. They undergo rigorous selection, training, and continuous skill development to ensure mission readiness and safety. The role demands physical fitness, mental acuity, and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure.

Do pilots make $400 an hour?

F-16 pilots, as military personnel, typically do not earn hourly wages like civilian jobs; instead, they receive a salary based on rank and years of service. Civilian airline pilots can earn $400 or more per hour, but this varies widely depending on airline, experience, and flight hours. Military pilots' compensation is structured differently and includes benefits beyond base pay.

How much does a F16 pilot make?

F16 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. Civilian F16 pilots, such as contractors, can earn higher salaries based on contract terms and flight hours.

What is the difference between F16 Pilot vs F/A-18 Pilot?

AspectF16 PilotF/A-18 Pilot
Required CertificationsMilitary pilot certification, FAA license (if applicable), specialized fighter pilot trainingMilitary pilot certification, FAA license (if applicable), carrier landing training
Work EnvironmentAir Force fighter jets, airbases, combat zonesNavy fighter jets, aircraft carriers, maritime environments
Employer & IndustryU.S. Air Force, defense industryU.S. Navy, defense industry

Both F16 and F/A-18 pilots are highly trained military aviators operating advanced fighter jets. The main differences lie in their work environment—F16 pilots typically operate from land-based airbases, while F/A-18 pilots often fly from aircraft carriers. Certifications and training are similar, but carrier landing skills are specific to F/A-18 pilots. Both roles require rigorous physical and technical training, with employment primarily in the defense sector.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an F16 Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as an F16 Pilot, you need advanced aeronautical knowledge, exceptional physical fitness, and completion of rigorous military flight training and certification. Mastery of avionics systems, radar, weapons systems, and flight simulation tools is essential. Outstanding situational awareness, quick decision-making, and teamwork are critical soft skills for success in high-pressure environments. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring mission effectiveness, operational safety, and successful collaboration with ground and air crews.

Is it hard to become a F16 pilot?

Becoming an F16 pilot requires completing extensive military training, including flight school, specialized fighter pilot training, and meeting strict physical and academic standards. Candidates typically need a strong educational background, excellent physical fitness, and the ability to handle high-stress environments, making the process highly competitive and demanding.

Is the US still training F16 pilots?

Yes, the United States continues to train F-16 pilots through military flight training programs at designated Air Force bases. Training includes classroom instruction, simulator sessions, and flight hours to ensure pilots are proficient in operating the aircraft safely and effectively.
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F16 Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various F16 Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 6% As Needed, 4% Full Time, 16% Temporary, and 69% Contract. Highlights an 4% Physical, and 96% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
F-16 Test Pilot Sr Stf (Level 5)

F-16 Test Pilot Sr Stf (Level 5)

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Edwards, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Lockheed Martin rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 388 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 61 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Come help improve lives from the sky. We are looking for an energetic test pilot who wants to make a difference. You will start by supporting the F-16 test squadron at Edwards AFB, but the position will grow to involve other projects with other aircraft.

We want a person who is willing to provide leadership, apply technical acumen, and make us better.Provide mature leadership and guidance in support of the F-16 program. Duties to include: PVI development, requirements development, market assist, subject matter expert on all performance aspects of the F-16, subject matter expert for flight test program to include flight test planning, run card development, test execution and reporting. Fly all models of the F-16

Missions may include experimental, developmental, production, engineering flight test, test support, customer demonstration flights and others as assigned.

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About Lockheed Martin

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As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912

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