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Ferry Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Coulson Aviation

CH47-Pilot In Command

Thermal, CA · On-site

Missions may include: - Aerial firefighting (day and night operations) - Ferry and repositioning ... Pilots are expected to manage daily operational requirements, support contract execution, and ...

New

Hornblower

Captain - Alcatraz Cruises

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$61.83/hr

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private ... rooms, trash, common areas, pilot house, and gangways). * Comply with all USCG regulations.

Mare Island Brewing Co.

Brewer

Vallejo, CA

$20 - $25/hr

... Ferry Terminal Taproom and Benicia First Street Taphouse locations. We brew on a 15bbl Prospero brewhouse and 1bbl Blichmann pilot system . We can with a CODI 6-head counter-pressure filling canning ...

Mare Island Brewing Co.

Brewer

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... Ferry Terminal Taproom and Benicia First Street Taphouse locations. We brew on a 15bbl Prospero brewhouse and 1bbl Blichmann pilot system . We can with a CODI 6-head counter-pressure filling canning ...

Mare Island Brewing Co.

Brewer

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... Ferry Terminal Taproom and Benicia First Street Taphouse locations. We brew on a 15bbl Prospero brewhouse and 1bbl Blichmann pilot system . We can with a CODI 6-head counter-pressure filling canning ...

Metrea

US Navigational Sytems Operator

Temecula, CA · On-site

... ferry, and transport operations. * Operate and manage advanced navigation systems such as GPS, INS ... Coordinate with pilots and boom operators to ensure precise rendezvous and refueling procedures.

Metrea

US Navigational Sytems Operator

Temecula, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

... ferry, and transport operations. * Operate and manage advanced navigation systems such as GPS, INS ... Coordinate with pilots and boom operators to ensure precise rendezvous and refueling procedures.

Rain Industries Inc

Autonomy Software Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$150 - $230/hr

You will collaborate directly with firefighters, pilots, and your engineering colleagues to ... The office is easily accessible by ferry, bike and scooter, and there is ample parking. Some travel ...

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Ferry Pilot information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$129.2K

$198.4K

How much do ferry pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for ferry pilot in California is $129,202.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,700.00 and $153,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ferry pilot?

Ferry pilots are professional aviators who specialize in transporting aircraft from one location to another, often over long distances or international borders. Their main responsibility is to deliver planes safely, whether for new aircraft delivery, post-maintenance relocation, or moving planes to new owners. Ferry pilots must be skilled in flying various types of aircraft and often face unique challenges such as unfamiliar routes, weather changes, and long solo flights. They play a crucial role in the aviation industry by ensuring that aircraft are positioned where they are needed most.

What does a ferry pilot do?

A ferry pilot transports aircraft from one location to another. Your duties usually focus on the transport of new or used aircraft from a manufacturer or seller to a buyer. Ferry flying can involve different types of airplanes, but when you pilot a ferry flight, the plane does not have passengers or cargo. You can also transport an aircraft to a specific location for maintenance or perform a return flight for an aircraft that provided one-way service to private clients. Some ferry pilots work with commercial airlines. Your responsibilities in this scenario involve moving aircraft to different airports where the airline needs them.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ferry pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ferry Pilot, you need a commercial pilot license, strong navigation skills, and extensive experience with various aircraft types. Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS navigation systems, and international aviation regulations is essential. Excellent decision-making, adaptability, and communication skills help manage unexpected situations and coordinate with clients and authorities. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and compliant delivery of aircraft across diverse and sometimes challenging routes.

What are some common challenges ferry pilots face during long-distance aircraft deliveries?

Ferry pilots often encounter unique challenges such as navigating unfamiliar airspace, managing fuel stops in remote locations, and adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions. Additionally, they may need to fly aircraft that are not fully equipped with advanced avionics or comfort features, requiring extra vigilance and preparation. Effective communication with air traffic control and coordination with ground support are also essential to ensure safe and timely deliveries, especially when crossing international borders.

What is the difference between Ferry Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectFerry PilotCommercial Pilot
CertificationsRequires a Commercial Pilot Certificate, often with additional type ratings for specific aircraftRequires a Commercial Pilot Certificate; may need additional ratings depending on the job
Work EnvironmentPrimarily flying aircraft between locations, often over long distances, with minimal passenger interactionVaries; includes aerial work, charter flights, and other paid flying activities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by aircraft operators, ferry companies, and private owners for repositioning aircraftEmployed by charter companies, flight schools, and aerial service providers

Ferry pilots and commercial pilots both hold commercial certifications and operate aircraft, but ferry pilots focus on relocating aircraft between locations, often over long distances, while commercial pilots engage in a broader range of paid flying activities. Understanding these differences helps aspiring pilots choose the right career path.

More about Ferry Pilot jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Ferry Pilot jobs in California?

The most popular types of Ferry Pilot jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Ferry Pilot jobs in California?

For Ferry Pilot jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ferry Pilot jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Ferry Pilot jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Ferry Pilot jobs in CA?

For Ferry Pilot jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Ferry Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ferry Pilot job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,202 per year, or $62.1 per hour.

CH47-Pilot In Command

Thermal, CA • On-site

Coulson Aviation
See more jobs at Coulson Aviationexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description


About Coulson Aviation

Coulson Aviation is a global leader in aerial firefighting, operating across the United States, Canada, Australia, and South America. Our diverse fleet of fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft supports rapid response wildfire suppression, including both initial and extended attack operations.

As part of the Coulson Group, we have over 65 years of operational experience and continued growth in the aviation and firefighting industry.

No relocation required. Pilots may live anywhere in the U.S. we provide travel to and from assignments.

 

Position Overview

The CH47 Pilot in Command (PIC) reports to the Chief Pilot and is responsible for the safe, efficient, and professional execution of all assigned flight operations.

This role requires a strong working knowledge of applicable FAA regulations (Parts 91 and 135), company procedures, and operational best practices.

 

Missions may include:

- Aerial firefighting (day and night operations)

- Ferry and repositioning flights

- Reconnaissance (day and night operations)

- Emergency response and disaster mitigation

-Pilots are expected to manage daily operational requirements, support contract execution, and represent Coulson Aviation with professionalism in all interactions.


Key Responsibilities

- Exercise final authority for the safe operation of the aircraft in accordance with 14 CFR 91.3.

- Review flight assignments, weather, NOTAMs, and mission-specific requirements.

- Ensure proper preflight planning, including weight & balance, fuel, routing, and performance.

- Conduct thorough aircraft inspections and ensure readiness for flight.

- Verify all maintenance discrepancies have been procedurally complied with, deferred, or corrected by maintenance personnel in accordance with the approved Minimum Equipment List for the aircraft, prior to flight.

- Ensure all required documents, equipment, and materials are onboard.

- Maintain accurate flight logs and operational records.

- Conduct passenger and crew briefings, when applicable.

- Coordinate effectively during pilot shift changes.

- Ensure compliance with duty and flight time limitations.

- Assist with aircraft cleanliness and basic support to maintenance as needed.

- Maintain a high standard of professionalism with clients and stakeholders.


Minimum Requirements

- FAA Commercial Rotorcraft License

- Instrument Rating (Helicopter)

- Qualified to act as PIC in CH47

- Minimum 2,500 hours PIC (helicopter) preferred

- Must meet or exceed USFS PIC qualification requirements

- No FAA violations or enforcement actions within the past 5 years

- Strong knowledge of FAA regulations and operational standards

- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment

- Team-oriented with strong decision-making skills

- High school diploma or equivalent

 

Preferred Qualifications

- Night Vision Goggle (NVG) experience

- Previous firefighting or utility helicopter experience

- Experience supervising crews

 

Work Environment

- Field-based operations in dynamic and remote environments

- Exposure to noise, dust, fumes, and varying weather conditions

- Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs

 

Compensation & Benefits

- Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications

- Company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance

- 401(k) with company match

- Flexible work schedule supporting work-life balance

- Travel provided to and from assignments

 

Equal Opportunity Employer

Coulson Aviation is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities and reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process.



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