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F35 Pilot Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Tech Manual Dev II

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$72K - $122K/yr

The successful candidate will be responsible for the development and sustainment of F-35 Program ... and Pilot Flight Equipment. Required Skills and Education Education & Experience (One of the ...

Eng Sr Prin II - Sys

Austin, TX · On-site

$149K - $254K/yr

Our employees work on the world's most advanced electronics - from detecting threats for F-35 pilots to illuminating the night for soldiers. Spanning air, land, sea, and space, we are developing the ...

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Showing results 1-20

F35 Pilot information

See Texas salary details

$46.1K

$122K

$187.3K

How much do f35 pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for f35 pilot in Texas is $121,969.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,200.00 and $144,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an F35 pilot?

An F-35 pilot is a highly trained military aviator responsible for operating the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, a stealth multirole fighter aircraft. They conduct air-to-air and air-to-ground combat missions, intelligence gathering, and tactical support operations. F-35 pilots undergo extensive training in flight school, simulator exercises, and live-flight drills to master advanced avionics and weapons systems. They typically serve in the Air Force, Navy, or Marine Corps, executing missions that require precision, situational awareness, and quick decision-making.

What are the typical career progression opportunities for an F35 pilot?

F35 Pilots often start in operational flying roles and, with experience, may advance to positions such as instructor pilot, flight lead, or mission commander. Many also move into leadership roles in flight training, squadron operations, or strategic planning within their unit or broader military command. Additionally, experienced pilots may pursue opportunities in test piloting, acquisition programs, or staff/officer roles focusing on air operations development. These career paths allow for continued professional growth, increased responsibility, and expanded impact within the defense aviation community.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the F35 pilot position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an F35 Pilot, you must have advanced aviation skills, superior situational awareness, and typically hold a bachelor's degree with completion of rigorous military flight training and selection programs. Proficiency in operating the F-35’s advanced avionics, mission systems, and simulator technology, along with appropriate military certifications, is critical. Strong decision-making, teamwork, and disciplined communication are vital soft skills that enable effective operation within high-pressure and complex environments. Mastery of these abilities ensures mission success, operational safety, and seamless collaboration with maintenance crews and tactical teams.

How hard is it to become an F-35 pilot?

Becoming an F-35 pilot requires completing extensive military training, including earning a bachelor's degree, passing physical and medical exams, and completing flight training through the Air Force or Navy. Candidates must also demonstrate strong technical skills, leadership, and adaptability, often taking several years of training and experience before qualifying for an F-35 assignment.

What job categories do people searching F35 Pilot jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for F35 Pilot jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for F35 Pilot jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most F35 Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various F35 Pilot job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,969 per year, or $58.6 per hour.

Software Engineer - F35 - Level 5

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Fort Worth, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 391 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

We Are Lockheed Martin Aeronautics.Imagine.
At Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, we're taking innovation to the next level. From designing the most advanced air vehicle to designing aircraft that defies gravity, our engineers live on the cutting edge of technology. Never have the opportunities for a technical career been so limitless.
What's In It For You
3 Day Weekends Every Weekend!
This opportunity is also eligible for a sign-on bonus for external applicants.
From flexible work schedules to comprehensive benefits investing in your future and security,Learn more about Lockheed Martin's comprehensive benefits package here.
Who You Are
As a software engineer you will serve as a software developer for F-35 Pilot Systems Software (PSSW), Multi-Function Display (MFD), and Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) Teams. In this role you will be expected to lead in the design, development, test and integration of real-time, embedded display software for TR3 and TR2 hardware. This software will be developed in C++ and OpenGL using an agile methodology.
***Must be a US Citizen. This position is located at a facility that requires special access and an Interim Secret clearance to start.***
Fort Worth, TX
This position is in Fort Worth, TX Discover Fort Worth.
EngineeringAeronautics
aerocombatsystems
aerosw
AeroSW2026

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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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