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First Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

You will be flying well maintained Boeing 767-200F and 767-300F aircraft around the world as a first officer for ABX Air. You will be a member of a team that is responsible for the safe, efficient ...

You will be flying well maintained Boeing 767-200F and 767-300F aircraft around the world as a first officer for ABX Air. You will be a member of a team that is responsible for the safe, efficient ...

In general, the duty of the First Officer is to assist the Captain in the performance of all duties relative to the safe and efficient operations of the aircraft * Assist the Pilot-in-Command in the ...

As a First Officer with Vista America, you will push the boundaries of service and excellence. We are seeking First Officers that are great problem solvers, brand ambassadors and always ready to lend ...

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First Officer information

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$63K

$161.4K

$262K

How much do first officer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for first officer in the United States is $161,372.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,500.00 and $206,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are First Officers?

First Officers, commonly known as co-pilots, are licensed pilots who assist the Captain in operating an aircraft. They share responsibilities for flying, navigation, and communication with air traffic control, as well as managing aircraft systems. In the event of the Captain’s incapacitation, the First Officer is trained and authorized to take full command of the flight. Their role is crucial for ensuring flight safety and efficiency, and they often gain experience to eventually become Captains themselves.

What is the difference between First Officer vs Second Officer?

AspectFirst OfficerSecond Officer
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) often preferredSame as First Officer, often with less experience
Work EnvironmentCabin crew on commercial flights, assisting the CaptainTypically on long-haul flights, supporting the First Officer and Captain
Employer & Industry UsageCommercial airlines, private jet operatorsCommercial airlines, especially on international routes

The First Officer and Second Officer roles are both vital in commercial aviation, sharing responsibilities for flight safety and operation. The First Officer is the primary co-pilot, often with more experience and acting as the second-in-command. The Second Officer usually serves as a relief pilot or on long-haul flights, with similar certifications but typically less experience. Both roles require similar credentials and work in the same industry environment, but their specific duties and seniority differ.

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

To thrive as a First Officer, you need a commercial pilot license, strong aeronautical knowledge, and excellent decision-making skills. Proficiency with cockpit instrumentation, flight management systems, and navigation software is typically required. Situational awareness, teamwork, and calm communication under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial to ensure passenger safety, maintain efficient flight operations, and support the Captain in all aspects of flying.

How does a First Officer typically collaborate with the Captain and cabin crew during a flight?

As a First Officer, you play a crucial role in supporting the Captain by assisting with flight planning, conducting pre-flight checks, and managing communication with air traffic control. Throughout the flight, you share flying duties with the Captain, monitor aircraft systems, and help troubleshoot any issues that arise. You also coordinate with the cabin crew to ensure passenger safety, relay important information, and respond to any onboard situations, fostering a team-oriented and safety-focused work environment.

What Does a First Officer Do?

Within the aviation industry, the first officer working in a commercial airline is the second pilot or co-pilot to the captain. Your responsibilities in this career include taking over full command of the aircraft, crew, and passengers if the captain is no longer able to do so. As second-in-command, you generally have equal control of the airplane while flying, with your position being designated as the “pilot not flying” or “pilot monitoring” and you are sitting on the right side of the airplane. Other duties include completing preflight inspections, and ensuring the aircraft is safe to fly in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) and company policies. You provide the captain with a flight plan including weather information and other required reports and let passengers know about turbulent weather or other operational details affecting their flight. The safety of your passengers is your number one concern.

What cities are hiring for First Officer jobs? Cities with the most First Officer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of First Officer jobs? The most popular types of First Officer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for First Officer jobs? The top employers for First Officer jobs are:
What states have the most First Officer jobs? States with the most job openings for First Officer jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to First Officer jobs? For First Officer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various First Officer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $161,372 per year, or $77.6 per hour.
First Officer - Learjet 40XR

First Officer - Learjet 40XR

Thrive Aviation

Henderson, NV • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Description:

The First Officer is primarily responsible for safe and efficient ground and in-flight operations of the aircraft. A successful First Officer will exceed our customers’ expectations while maintaining clear and effective communication with Leadership, Team Members and dispatch.


Duties & Responsibilities

  • Administratively responsible to the Chief Pilot.
  • Primarily responsible for safe and efficient ground and in-flight operation of the aircraft.
  • Anticipate our customers’ needs and strive to exceed their expectations.
  • Comply with FAA regulations, Thrive’s GOM, Operational Specifications, and adhere to department operating procedures.
  • Maintain communications and coordination with assigned crew, dispatch, maintenance, and administration.
  • Other duties as assigned by management or senior leadership.
Requirements:

Experience & Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

  • 1,000 hours of Fixed Wing Total Time
  • 500 hours of PIC Total Time
  • Valid US Passport (must not be expired)
  • Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi/Instrument Rating
  • FCC Radio License
  • Current, valid FAA First Class Medical Certificate
  • The ability to communicate effectively.
  • Eligible to fly internationally into any country or jurisdiction without restrictions
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and willing to take on new challenges as the company grows.
  • Live within 2 hours of KLAS or one of Thrive Aviation’s remote Crew Bases

Preferred Qualifications (in addition to Thrive Aviation’s minimum qualification requirements for this position as listed above):

  • 1,500+ hours of Fixed Wing Total Time
  • 50+ hours of Multi-Engine Time
  • 500 hours of Total Turbine Time
  • Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate
  • Previous experience in Corporate Aviation/Part 135 Charter
  • Current type rating for aircraft within our fleet.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform required duties.

  • Must have and maintain FAA First Class Medical Certificate.
  • Must be able to maintain the seated position in a small space for an extended period.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee will encounter while in a Flight Crew position.

  • The work is typically done while sitting for a long period of time.
  • Employee will interact with the customer and other flight crew in a small space.
  • Employee may be required to spend several days/weeks away from home each week while working.
  • Employee may have irregular hours and be called to fly or notified of canceled flights with little notice.