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F35 Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Qualifications: F-35 Pilot required. In-depth knowledge of F-35 aeronautics, instrumentation, and avionics systems. Established connection with Joint Program Office leadership and personnel. Team ...

What We're Doing We're advancing the cybersecurity posture of the F-35 Pilot Training Devices (PTD) - critical systems that ensure pilots are prepared for mission success. Our cyber team protects the ...

F-35 Test Pilot-Level 5

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$156K - $275K/yr

What You Will Be Doing As a Test Pilot you will start by supporting our F-35 efforts, but the position may grow to involve other projects such as Lockheed Martin's Advanced Development Programs ...

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F35 Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do f35 pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for f35 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 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.

What is an F-35 Pilot job?

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.

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Contract Instructor Pilot / F-35 / Rovaniemi, Finland

Contract Instructor Pilot / F-35 / Rovaniemi, Finland

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Orlando, FL

Other

Posted 7 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.
THE WORK
Position Assignment: F-35 Contractor Instructor Pilot (CIP) to be located in Rovaniemi, Finland. This position will be responsible for the execution of F-35 training operations in support of local Finnish Air Force flight training requirements. The successful candidate will work closely with other members of the Lockheed Martin Training Team and the local Finnish Air Force.
This position supports military pilots' flight procedures in maintaining qualification level in the Pilot Training Device by executing approved pilot training syllabi, upgrade, and tactics training. CIP will provide pilot training using the F-35 Full Mission Simulator (FMS). The instructor will primarily operate Instructor Operating Station (IOS) and will be a Subject Matter Expert (SME) supporting pilot training and tactics development, as well as recommendations for courseware updates. The successful candidate will work closely with other members of the Lockheed Martin team at dedicated training sites to fulfill F-35 training and continuation training objectives. The successful candidate will implement and support Lockheed Martin initiatives, programs and policies, as directed. Candidate must maintain a Secret level security clearance and Special Access Program (SAP) access. Appropriate degree from an accredited college, or equivalent experience/combined education, with professional experience and specialized training commensurate with assignment. Additional duties and related responsibilities will be assigned as required.
Additional responsibilities:
Provide academic training through Electronic Mediated Lecture (EML) and Interactive Courseware (ICW).
The successful candidate will implement, and support Lockheed Martin initiatives, programs and policies as directed.
Comply with site security and access control procedures in accordance with F-35 program and customer procedures.
Proven experience working in a collaborative environment with cross-functional teams and stakeholders from a variety of backgrounds.
Instructs pilots in flight procedures and techniques in ground school courses and flight training. Prepares lesson plans.
Assists in the preparation of schedules, maintenance of training records and ensures that course standards, training requirements, and objectives are met by each student.
Evaluates and monitors students' performance.
Selected applicant may be required to work rotating shifts, and work in excess of 40 hours per week.
Relocation: Relocation and housing assistance is available.
Accompanied Status Available: Accompanied status means new hires may have qualifying dependents accompany them on their long-term overseas assignment.
Foreign Location Premium(s): Available
The OCONUS Locale: Rovaniemi, Finland is a unique and breathtaking locale, situated in the heart of Finnish Lapland. This Arctic city offers a distinct cultural experience, with a mix of traditional Sami heritage and modern Finnish charm. Surrounded by vast wilderness and natural beauty, Rovaniemi provides endless opportunities for outdoor activities, such as skiing, hiking, and Northern Lights sightings. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant community, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, Rovaniemi is an ideal location for those looking to experience the best of Arctic living and work on cutting-edge projects like the F-35 training program.
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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