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F35 Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sr. F-35 Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$101K - $134K/yr

An active TOP SECRET/SCI clearance (SAP Eligible) is required to be considered. * F-35 Pilot expeirence is required. * 3+ years' experience with DoN embarked carrier air wings. * Display an in-depth ...

5th Gen Subject Matter Expert

Patuxent River, MD · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Minimum of 1000 hours in a 5th generation aircraft (F-22, F-35) * Current and qualified F-22 / F-35 pilot or qualified contract instructor pilot in the last year * USAF Fighter Weapons Instructor ...

... F-35 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 ...

Showing results 41-60

F35 Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do f35 pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 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 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.

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 to fly the F-35. The process is highly competitive and demanding, reflecting the aircraft's advanced technology and operational importance.
More about F35 Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for F35 Pilot jobs? Cities with the most F35 Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of F35 Pilot jobs? The most popular types of F35 Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most F35 Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for F35 Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various F35 Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Flight Instructor Manager / F-35 / NAS Lemoore

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Lemoore, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 391 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 72 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!
We are seeking an experienced Flight Instructor Manager to support Training Operations at NAS Lemoore.
The Flight Instructor Manager will lead the team of Flight Instructors and collaborate with other sections of Training Operations to facilitate effective F-35 pilot training. The successful candidate will provide academic instruction using Electronic Mediated Lecture (EML) and/or Interactive Courseware (ICW), as well as instruct flight procedures in the Pilot Training Devices, following the approved pilot training syllabus. Additionally, the Instructor will utilize Full Mission Simulators (FMS) to provide realistic and immersive training experiences. The Instructor will also operate Instructor Operating Stations (IOS) and serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for all pilot training courseware updates. As a key member of the Lockheed Martin training team, the successful candidate will work closely with colleagues to achieve F-35 training objectives and implement Lockheed Martin initiatives, programs, and policies as directed.
F-35 Fast Facts
WHO YOU ARE
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.
WHY JOIN US
Opportunity for Impact: Join a team that is at the forefront of innovation in the aerospace and defense industry and make a significant impact on the success of our organization.
Professional Development: Take advantage of unparalleled opportunities for growth and advancement within Lockheed Martin, with access to world-class training and development programs.
Collaborative Culture: Work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry who share your passion for excellence and who are committed to supporting each other's success.
Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, as well as competitive salary offerings.
Cutting-Edge Technology: Be part of a dynamic and forward-thinking work environment where you will have the opportunity to work with the latest technology and contribute to groundbreaking projects that are shaping the future of aerospace and defense.

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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