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Fighter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fly in support of 4th and 5th Generation Fighter operational and conversion syllabus and ... Act as, or support the individual responsible for, pilot Scheduling, Training, NATOPS/Standards ...

Candidate must have a minimum of 8 years as a fighter pilot in a fourth or fifth generation fighter aircraft * International pilot experience desired * F-16 Weapons School graduate desired BGI is an ...

Pilot

Kinston, NC · On-site

Employ fighter aircraft throughout their flight envelope as a surrogate Adversary, Red Air, Aggressor or Close Air Support pilot for US Military aircrew * Attend mass briefings, adversary ...

$106.44K/yr

The primary purpose of this position is to provide aircraft simulator and academic courses following the prescribed syllabus for the graduate fighter pilot flying training program; instructs students ...

Physical Therapist for Fighter Pilots

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$1.54K - $1.99K/wk

Testudo Logistics is seeking a highly qualified, multi-credentialed PT / CSCS or USA Weightlifting certified candidate to support the Optimizing Human Weapon System program for fighter pilots of the ...

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Fighter Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do fighter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for fighter 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 is a Fighter Pilot job?

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 in the Fighter Pilot position, and why are they important?

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.
What cities are hiring for Fighter Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Fighter Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Fighter Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Fighter Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Fighter Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Fighter Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Fighter Pilot job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, and 60% Part Time. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Instructor Pilot / VATS / Fighter Operations SME / J-NEEO / Nellis AFB

Instructor Pilot / VATS / Fighter Operations SME / J-NEEO / Nellis AFB

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 377 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 59 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!
Position Assignment: Fighter Pilot Subject Matter Expert (SME) supporting J-NEEO at Nellis AFB.
Lockheed Martin is seeking a Flight Simulation Trainer to serve as a Pilot and Subject Matter Expert (SME) as a member of the Modeling, Simulation, and Training team at the Joint Integrated Test and Training Center - Nellis (JITTC-N), Nellis Air Force Base (AFB), NV. The individual's primary responsibility would be to operate the advanced fighter simulator console for training audiences to support the USAF Weapons School, operational test units, and deployed combat squadrons. The individual may also be tasked to provide subject matter expertise in mission planning, simulator academics, and operating debrief tools. This will require coordination with unit Weapons Officers/Instructor Pilots (IPs) to present a realistic air picture to achieve mission training objectives.
Primary duties include, but are not limited to:
Operate simulation cockpits and/or consoles to represent realistic synthetic replication.
Operate cockpit controls, including digital cockpit displays, stick and throttle, advanced sensor integration and fusion, as well as multi-aircraft formations and tactical employment.
Serve as Mission Director on an as-needed basis.
Operating the simulator console and debriefing system during and after missions.
Providing subject matter expertise regarding adversary tactics
Supporting the development, coordination, and integration of JITTC-N events to maximize training.
Orchestrating scenarios and constructive inputs for training events.
Creating and modifying mission-planning materials and academics to ensure participants achieve maximum training.
Providing advanced threat knowledge to help shape tactical training for participants.
Reporting issues related to simulation software applications and providing basic troubleshooting support.
May supervising small groups of personnel involved in JITTC operations.
A current active Top Secret Level Clearance with an investigation completed within the last five years is required.
The selected applicant selected may be required to work rotating shifts, and work in excess of 40 hours per week.

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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