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Fighter Pilot Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

THE WORK We are seeking experienced fighter pilots to serve as Contract Instructor Pilots to support our Rotary and Mission Systems (RMS) business area at Luke Air Force Base The role involves ...

New

Founded in 2000 by three former Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) CF-18 fighter pilots who identified an opportunity to improve military readiness training, Top Aces has since established itself as the ...

Founded in 2000 by three former Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) CF-18 fighter pilots who identified an opportunity to improve military readiness training, Top Aces has since established itself as the ...

Founded in 2000 by three former Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) CF-18 fighter pilots who identified an opportunity to improve military readiness training, Top Aces has since established itself as the ...

Founded in 2000 by three former Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) CF-18 fighter pilots who identified an opportunity to improve military readiness training, Top Aces has since established itself as the ...

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Fighter Pilot information

See Arizona salary details

$46.1K

$122K

$187.3K

How much do fighter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for fighter pilot in Arizona is $121,999.00, 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 a fighter pilot?

A fighter pilot is a military aviator trained to operate advanced aircraft in air-to-air and air-to-ground combat missions. They are responsible for defending national airspace, engaging enemy threats, and supporting ground forces. Fighter pilots undergo rigorous training in flight maneuvers, weapons systems, and tactical operations. They must maintain peak physical and mental fitness to handle high-speed aerial combat and stressful situations. This role requires leadership, quick decision-making, and a commitment to mission success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fighter pilot?

To thrive as a Fighter Pilot, you need exceptional situational awareness, advanced aeronautical knowledge, physical fitness, and usually a bachelor's degree along with military officer training. Familiarity with advanced flight simulators, avionics systems, weapon platforms, and a valid military flight certification are essential. Strong decision-making, resilience under pressure, and teamwork help pilots excel in high-stress, rapidly changing conditions. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining mission effectiveness, personal safety, and successful team operations in demanding environments.

What are the typical career progression and advancement opportunities for fighter pilots?

Fighter pilots typically start as junior pilots and, with experience, can advance to leadership roles such as Flight Lead, Squadron Commander, or Instructor. Career progression often depends on demonstrated leadership, flight hours, mission performance, and ongoing training achievements. Many fighter pilots also take on additional duties, such as mission planning or training new pilots, which can further develop their career. In the long term, successful fighter pilots may transition into higher command positions, strategic planning roles, or specialized test pilot assignments within the military.

How much do fighter pilots get paid?

Fighter pilots in the military typically earn between $60,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on rank, experience, and service branch. Civilian fighter pilots or commercial pilots with fighter jet experience can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $200,000 with additional benefits and allowances for training, flight hours, and specialized skills.

Is there a demand for fighter pilots?

Fighter pilots are in demand within military organizations worldwide due to ongoing defense needs and technological advancements. The demand can fluctuate based on military budgets, geopolitical factors, and the retirement of experienced pilots, making it a competitive and specialized career path that requires rigorous training and certifications. Opportunities are often available through military service, with some civilian roles in aerospace and defense industries also requiring fighter pilot skills.

What are popular job titles related to Fighter Pilot jobs in Arizona?

For Fighter Pilot jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fighter Pilot jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Fighter Pilot jobs in Arizona are:

Infographic showing various Fighter Pilot job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,999 per year, or $58.7 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Lockheed Martin rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 396 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Standard 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 We are seeking experienced fighter pilots to serve as Contract Instructor Pilots to support our Rotary and Mission Systems (RMS) business area at Luke Air Force Base The role involves providing 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 members of the Lockheed Martin training team to achieve F-35 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. The Contract Instructor Pilot will instruct pilots in flight procedures and techniques in ground school courses and flight training. Prepares lesson plans. Acts as a subject matter expert by applying advanced technical concepts in the area of aviation and provides assistance in creation of training material. 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 student's performance. This position is typically represented by an experienced pilot. 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. #OneLMHotJobs #extrefer Basic Qualifications Must have an active secret clearance with a completed investigation within the last 5 years or be enrolled in Continuous Evaluation. Must be able to attain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) access. Must have a minimum of 1000 hours experience in tactical fighter aircraft as a pilot. Must have experience as a multi-ship flight lead in tactical fighter aircraft. Experience with simulator devices and an understanding of fighter tactics, techniques, and procedures. Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and communicate effectively with leadership and interact with multiple functional areas and personnel of a diverse nature. Candidate must have outstanding interpersonal skills, excellent leadership traits, strong oral & written communication abilities, solid ability to organize, and a high desire to provide customer satisfaction. Position may require candidate to participate in deployed operations to support customer requirements. Must be willing to support flexible work hours to align with customer operational schedule. Use of Microsoft Office products (Word, PowerPoint and Excel) is required. Desired Skills 1000 hours experience in fourth and/or fifth generation tactical fighter aircraft as a pilot is highly desired. Flight experience in the F-35 is highly desired. Experience as a Military Instructor Pilot (IP) in tactical fighter aircraft. Past experience with F-35 pilot training curriculum. Familiarity with F-35 program requirements. F-35 system knowledge. F-35 Full Mission Simulator experience. Familiarity with the F-35 ALIS program. Prior experience in delivering Military Pilot Academic and Simulator Training in fourth and/or fifth generation tactical fighter aircraft. Experience with advanced systems such as NVS, targeting pods, datalinks, Helmet Mounted Cueing, and the latest weapons inventory. Graduate of formal military Academic Instructor Course (AIC). Formal Training Unit (FTU) or Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) Instructor Pilot experience. Fighter Weapons Instructor Course (FWIC); Top Gun: Weapons Tactics Instructor (WTI) graduate. Standardization/Evaluation Flight Examiner (SEFE); NATOPS Evaluator experience. Experience with training management systems (TMS), learning management systems (LMS), and electronic grade books. Pay Information $107.08 - $107.08 At Lockheed Martin, we know mission success starts with taking care of our people. Our Total Rewards program is designed to attract top talent, support your well-being, and help you grow-both professionally and personally. The salary range for this position is as listed on the requisition. Please note that the salary information listed is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market(work location) and business considerations when extending an offer. Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible work arrangements and schedules (e.g., 4x10), 401(k) match, Paid time off, Holidays, Parental Leave, EAP, Flexible Spending Accounts, Education Assistance, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability. Additional specific benefits are dependent upon the business unit and the collective-bargaining agreement. Annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs may be offered depending on the position. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and can vary from year to year and are tied to a range of performance metrics. For (Washington state applicants only) Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.

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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