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Fighter Jet Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Avionics Technician

San Antonio, TX

$35/hr

Perform depot and heavy maintenance tasks on aircraft electrical systems with a focus on fighter jet platforms. * Inspect, test, and verify the performance and integrity of avionics systems after ...

Solcoa Industries

Your Dream Job

Alameda, CA · On-site

... every fighter jet, EV, wind turbine, and phone. For decades, the West has depended on China to produce these materials. Solcoa is rebuilding that supply chain at home: we're one of the very few ...

TAD PGS, Inc.

Avionic Technician

Greenville, SC

$27 - $35.25/hr

Avionics/Harness Mod Experience in required. * 6+ years of solid electrical/AVI experience, will consider candidates with 4 years of Recent Aircraft experience if they have relevant fighter jet ...

Spartech

Quality Operator - (Lab) (REQ850)

Goodyear, AZ · On-site

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

Our Goodyear facility manufactures premium optical acrylic sheet which is used primarily in high performance aerospace applications like fighter jet canopies and aircraft windows. Our employees take ...

Spartech

Quality Operator - (Lab) (REQ850)

Goodyear, AZ · On-site

$19.25 - $24.50/hr

Our Goodyear facility manufactures premium optical acrylic sheet which is used primarily in high performance aerospace applications like fighter jet canopies and aircraft windows. Our employees take ...

TAD PGS, Inc

Avionic Technician

Greenville, SC

$34 - $40/hr

Avionics/Harness Mod Experience in required. * 6+ years of solid electrical/AVI experience, will consider candidates with 4 years of Recent Aircraft experience if they have relevant fighter jet ...

Spartech

Quality Operator - (Lab) (REQ850)

Goodyear, AZ · On-site

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

Our Goodyear facility manufactures premium optical acrylic sheet which is used primarily in high performance aerospace applications like fighter jet canopies and aircraft windows. Our employees take ...

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All JobsFighter Jet Jobs

Fighter Jet information

See salary details

$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do fighter jet jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for fighter jet in the United States is $59,606.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs work on fighter jets?

Jobs that work on fighter jets include aerospace engineers, aircraft maintenance technicians, avionics technicians, and pilots. These roles involve designing, repairing, maintaining, and operating fighter jets, often requiring specialized training, certifications, and working in military or defense environments.

What is the difference between Fighter Jet vs Pilot?

AspectFighter JetPilot
Required CredentialsMilitary pilot training, aviation licenses, specialized fighter jet trainingCommercial or private pilot licenses, flight training, aviation certifications
Work EnvironmentMilitary airbases, combat zones, training facilitiesAirlines, private companies, charter services, airports
Industry UsageMilitary defense, combat missions, air superiorityPassenger transport, cargo, private flying

While both Fighter Jets and pilots involve aviation skills, Fighter Jets refer to military aircraft operated by trained military pilots for defense and combat, whereas pilots can also include commercial or private pilots flying non-military aircraft. The key differences lie in training, work environment, and industry focus.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Fighter pilots in the military or commercial airline captains with extensive experience and seniority can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. High-level executives in aerospace or defense companies may also reach this income level, often through bonuses and stock options. These roles typically require specialized training, certifications, and significant experience in the field.

Is 25 too old to become a fighter pilot?

Fighter pilots typically need to meet age requirements that often cap entry around age 30, depending on the country's military regulations. At 25, it is generally still possible to pursue a career as a fighter pilot if you meet other qualifications such as vision, physical fitness, and education, and can complete the necessary training and certifications.

What are fighter jets?

Fighter jets are fast, highly maneuverable military aircraft designed primarily for air-to-air combat against other aircraft. They are equipped with advanced avionics, powerful engines, and a variety of weapons systems, allowing them to engage enemy targets in the air and sometimes on the ground. Fighter jets play a crucial role in maintaining air superiority during military operations and can also perform reconnaissance and ground attack missions. Modern fighter jets are often equipped with stealth technology, making them less detectable by radar.

How much do you get paid to fly a fighter jet?

Fighter jet pilots in the military typically earn between $60,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on rank, experience, and service branch. Military pilots also receive benefits such as housing allowances, healthcare, and retirement plans. Civilian fighter jet pilots, such as test pilots or contractors, can earn significantly higher salaries, often exceeding $200,000 per year, based on expertise and the complexity of missions.

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

To thrive as a Fighter Jet Pilot, you need advanced aeronautical knowledge, superior physical fitness, and completion of rigorous military flight training programs. Proficiency with avionics systems, navigation technology, and weapons control systems is typically required, often supported by military certifications such as completion of Undergraduate Pilot Training (UPT). Strong decision-making, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring mission success, personal safety, and effective team operations in high-stakes environments.

What are some common challenges faced by fighter jet pilots during training and in active duty?

Fighter jet pilots often face intense physical and mental challenges, including mastering complex aircraft systems, maintaining situational awareness at high speeds, and enduring high G-forces during maneuvers. Training is rigorous and ongoing, requiring quick decision-making and the ability to perform under pressure. Additionally, pilots must work closely with ground crews, air traffic controllers, and mission planners to ensure safety and mission success. Balancing these demands with personal resilience and teamwork is key to thriving in this high-stakes role.
More about Fighter Jet jobs
What states have the most Fighter Jet jobs? States with the most job openings for Fighter Jet jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Fighter Jet jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Fighter Jet jobs are:
Fighter Jet jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fighter Jet job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.
Avionics Technician

Avionics Technician

Aerotek

San Antonio, TX

$35/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Avionics Technician / Aircraft Electrician – F/A-18

If interested/qualified please reach out to kenna at 843 972 1886

This role focuses on troubleshooting, installing, repairing, maintaining, and modifying avionics and electrical systems on F/A-18 aircraft, including Super Hornet variants. You will work on complex systems such as radar, communications, and secure communications equipment, ensuring aircraft are mission-ready and fully compliant with technical and operational standards.

Responsibilities

  • Perform advanced avionics troubleshooting on F/A-18 aircraft to identify and resolve issues in electrical and electronic systems.
  • Install, repair, and maintain avionics and electrical components, including radar packages and communications systems.
  • Execute modifications and upgrades to radar packages, communications, and Comm Sec equipment, as well as other avionics enhancements as required.
  • Read, interpret, and work from electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical publications to perform accurate installations and repairs.
  • Install and route wiring harnesses and fiber optic cables in accordance with aviation standards and aircraft specifications.
  • Conduct operational level (O-level) maintenance on avionics and electrical systems for F/A-18E/F and related fighter jet platforms.
  • Perform depot and heavy maintenance tasks on aircraft electrical systems with a focus on fighter jet platforms.
  • Inspect, test, and verify the performance and integrity of avionics systems after installation, repair, or modification.
  • Document maintenance actions, repairs, and modifications in accordance with applicable procedures and standards.
  • Collaborate with other technicians, engineers, and support personnel to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality aircraft maintenance.
  • Follow all safety protocols and maintenance procedures while working in hangar and flightline environments.

Essential Skills

  • 4–7 years of depot or heavy maintenance experience on aircraft electrical systems, preferably on fighter jets.
  • Hands-on experience with F-18 or F/A-18E/F Super Hornet aircraft strongly preferred.
  • Avionics systems troubleshooting, installation, maintenance, and repair on military or equivalent aircraft.
  • Experience with O-level (operational level) maintenance on aircraft avionics and electrical systems.
  • Proficiency in reading and interpreting electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals.
  • Ability to install, route, and terminate aircraft wiring harnesses and electrical cabling.
  • Experience with fiber optic cable installation and maintenance in an aviation environment.
  • Familiarity with radar systems, communications systems, and Comm Sec equipment on fighter aircraft.
  • Prior Navy rating of AE (Aviation Electrician’s Mate) or AT (Aviation Electronics Technician) is highly preferred.
  • Experience with NAV or “magic box” avionics systems is highly preferred.
  • Eligibility to obtain and maintain a SECRET security clearance.
  • Eligibility to obtain required badging for access to facilities and programs.
  • Strong attention to detail and adherence to aviation maintenance and safety standards.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Previous experience supporting U.S. Navy aircraft or similar military aviation programs.
  • Experience working on flightline and hangar-based maintenance operations.
  • Ability to work from technical data, engineering change orders, and modification instructions.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to diagnose complex avionics and electrical issues.
  • Effective communication skills to coordinate with team members and support personnel.
  • Commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement in maintenance practices.

Why Work Here?

You will support critical missions for the U.S. Navy while working with highly reputable government integrators on advanced fighter aircraft programs. The role offers a stable program environment, recognition of federal and government holidays, and the opportunity to contribute directly to the readiness of U.S. Navy warfighters. You will work with experienced professionals on sophisticated avionics systems, gaining valuable exposure to cutting-edge defense technology and long-term career growth opportunities.

Work Environment

You will work primarily in an aircraft hangar environment with some duties on the flightline. Most work takes place indoors and is generally protected from direct exposure to the elements, although the hangar is not climate-controlled and temperatures may vary with the seasons. The position requires flexibility to work either 1st or 2nd shift as assigned. You will work around active aircraft, ground support equipment, and standard aviation maintenance tools and test equipment, following all safety and operational procedures appropriate to a fighter jet maintenance setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of San Antonio, TX.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $35.00 - $40.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in San Antonio,TX.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 22, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.