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F35 Fighter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Booz Allen Hamilton

F-35 Operations Expert

Arlington, VA · On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

F-35 Operations Expert The Opportunity: As an expert in defense missions, your unique background ... Experience as a qualified Fighter Pilot or Weapon Systems Officer * Experience with tactics ...

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F35 Fighter Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do f35 fighter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for f35 fighter 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 F35 Fighter Pilots face when transitioning from training to active duty squadrons?

F35 Fighter Pilots often face the challenge of adapting to the fast-paced environment and high expectations of active duty squadrons after completing their rigorous training. They must quickly learn to integrate with established teams, handle complex mission planning, and operate advanced avionics under real-world conditions. Additionally, balancing continuous learning with operational demands and maintaining peak physical and mental fitness can be demanding. Support from experienced pilots and ongoing mentorship are key resources that help new pilots succeed in this transition.

What are F35 Fighter Pilots?

F35 Fighter Pilots are highly trained military aviators responsible for flying and operating the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, a state-of-the-art stealth multirole fighter jet. They conduct a wide range of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, intelligence gathering, and reconnaissance. F35 Fighter Pilots undergo extensive training to master both the advanced technology and tactical skills required to operate this fifth-generation aircraft. Their role is critical to maintaining air superiority and supporting national defense objectives.

What is the difference between F35 Fighter Pilot vs F16 Fighter Pilot?

AspectF35 Fighter PilotF16 Fighter Pilot
Required CertificationsMilitary pilot certification, advanced flight training, specific F35 program trainingMilitary pilot certification, advanced flight training, F16-specific training
Work EnvironmentAdvanced stealth fighter cockpit, modern aircraft systems, integrated mission environmentsTraditional fighter cockpit, combat and training missions, high-speed operations
Employer & IndustryU.S. Air Force, allied air forces, defense contractorsU.S. Air Force, allied air forces, defense contractors

The main difference between an F35 Fighter Pilot and an F16 Fighter Pilot lies in the aircraft technology and mission capabilities. F35 pilots operate the latest stealth and multi-role aircraft with advanced systems, while F16 pilots operate a proven, versatile fighter aircraft. Both roles require similar military pilot certifications and serve in comparable military environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an F35 Fighter Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as an F35 Fighter Pilot, you need exceptional aeronautical knowledge, physical fitness, quick decision-making, and a bachelor's degree, usually accompanied by completion of military flight training and officer commissioning. Proficiency with advanced avionics, mission planning systems, and simulation technology is critical, along with potential certifications in tactical operations. Outstanding situational awareness, stress resilience, and effective teamwork set top pilots apart. These skills ensure mission success, safety, and the ability to operate one of the world's most advanced aircraft in high-pressure environments.
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What cities are hiring for F35 Fighter Pilot jobs? Cities with the most F35 Fighter Pilot job openings:
What states have the most F35 Fighter Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for F35 Fighter Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching F35 Fighter Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for F35 Fighter Pilot jobs are:
F35 Fighter Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various F35 Fighter Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Instructor Pilot | Fighter Operations | Nellis AFB

Instructor Pilot | Fighter Operations | Nellis AFB

Lockheed Martin

Nellis Air Force Base, NV

Other

Posted 15 days ago

Lockheed Martin rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 379 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 60 rated aerospace companies

Job description

WHO WE ARE
Lockheed Martin is a global leader in aerospace, defense, and technology solutions, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation and shaping the future of the industry. With a rich legacy of excellence and a commitment to delivering advanced capabilities to our customers, we are proud to be at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and engineering.
WHAT WE'RE DOING
At Lockheed Martin, we're revolutionizing the aerospace and defense sector through groundbreaking technology, advanced manufacturing processes, and a world-class team of professionals. Our mission-driven approach and unwavering dedication to excellence ensure that we continue to deliver superior products and solutions to our customers around the world.
THE WORK
At Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems, we are driven by innovation and integrity. We believe that by applying the highest standards of business ethics and visionary thinking, everything is within our reach - and yours as a Lockheed Martin employee. Lockheed Martin values your skills, training and education. Come and experience your future!
Position Assignment: Fighter Operations Expert supporting J-NEEO at Nellis AFB.
We are seeking a highly experienced Fighter Operations Expert to join our team at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada. The role involves providing fourth, fifth, and future generation fighter training to pilots through both academic and simulator-based instruction, ensuring adherence to the approved pilot training syllabus. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with other members of the Lockheed Martin training team to achieve training objectives.
This candidate will provide fourth, fifth, and future generation fighter training using current and future pilot training devices and simulators. Serve as the subject matter expert for pilot training courseware updates and advise leadership on improvements in tactics and future training needs. Instruct pilots in flight procedures and techniques during academic courses and flight training sessions. Prepare lesson plans, develop training materials, and ensure course standards, training requirements, and objectives are met by each student. Evaluate and monitor student performance, maintaining training records, and assisting in schedule preparation. Pilot non-weapon system approved simulator devices (PIAB, JIAB, XR training device) using established fighter tactics as a wingman or in adversarial roles. Implement and support Lockheed Martin initiatives, programs, and policies as directed. Collaborate on the development of future Joint Simulation Environment (JSE) training concepts. Provide expertise on applicable fighter tactics, techniques, and procedures to meet customer-established training objectives.
Augment training objectives and operations at other operational/training sites as needed. Receive training to operate generic devices using fighter tactics in accordance with 3-1 expertise.
A current active Secret Level Clearance with an investigation completed within the last five years is required. The Government facility may also require personnel to have up to Top Secret/SAP/SCI clearance as needed.
The selected applicant selected may be required to work rotating shifts, and work in excess of 40 hours per week.
F-35 Fast Facts
WHO ARE YOU
You are a dynamic and results-oriented professional with a passion for driving operational excellence and optimizing production processes. You thrive in a fast-paced environment and are adept at managing complex projects while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. Your strong analytical skills, coupled with your ability to communicate effectively and collaborate across departments, make you an invaluable asset to our team.
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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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