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First Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Talon Air, Inc.

Pilot

East Farmingdale, NY · Remote

FAA First Class Medical * Valid Passport * Ability to obtain and maintain CANPASS authorization for unrestricted commercial pilot travel to/from Canada * ICAO Annex I - 2.1.10 compliant for ...

Talon Air

Pilot

Farmingdale, NY · Remote

$75K - $250K/yr

FAA First Class Medical * Valid Passport * Ability to obtain and maintain CANPASS authorization for unrestricted commercial pilot travel to/from Canada * ICAO Annex I - 2.1.10 compliant for ...

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Talon Air

Pilot

Farmingdale, NY · On-site

FAA First Class Medical * Valid Passport * Ability to obtain and maintain CANPASS authorization for unrestricted commercial pilot travel to/from Canada * ICAO Annex I - 2.1.10 compliant for ...

USAJOBS

AIRPLANE PILOT

Dover Air Force Base, DE

$140K/yr

For position requiring the piloting of fighter jet aircraft (e.g., F-16, A-10, F-15, F-22), each hours as First Pilot and/or Instructor Pilot in a fighter jet aircraft may be counted as two hours of ...

USAJOBS

AIRPLANE PILOT

Scott Air Force Base, IL · On-site

$131K/yr

For position requiring the piloting of fighter jet aircraft (e.g., F-16, A-10, F-15, F-22), each hours as First Pilot and/or Instructor Pilot in a fighter jet aircraft may be counted as two hours of ...

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Staff Test Pilot

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$204K - $306K/yr

Minimum 1500 hours First Pilot (USN/USMC) or Primary (USAF) flight time in turbojet, turbofan or ... turboprop aircraft * Current ACTIVE DoD Secret clearance or higher within the past two years with a ...

Pae

Functional Flight Check Pilot

Andrews, MD

$92.37/hr

Must have a minimum of 1,500 hours first pilot with 500 hours experience in helicopters of which at least 300 hours must have been in the UH-1 or commercial equivalent prior to performing functional ...

Amentum

Functional Flight Check Pilot

Andrews, MD · On-site

$92.37/hr

Must have a minimum of 1,500 hours first pilot with 500 hours experience in helicopters of which at least 300 hours must have been in the UH-1 or commercial equivalent prior to performing functional ...

Lockheed Martin

U-2 Pilot - Skunk Works

Palmdale, CA · On-site

S. passport • TOP SECRET security clearance Desired skills • 1,000 hours first pilot time. • Graduate of a formal Test Pilot School. • Experience in all flight test disciplines to include ...

Lockheed Martin

F-35 Test Pilot-Level 5

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$156K - $275K/yr

... hours first-pilot time in a tactical aircraft. • F-35 flying experience in excess of 100 hours. • Graduate of a military or recognized Test Pilot School (TPS). • SECRET or higher security ...

Lockheed Martin

F-16 Test Pilot Sr Stf (Level 5)

Edwards, CA · On-site

$179K - $311K/yr

Basic Qualifications -Suitable FAA commercial pilot's certificate (SE Land, Instrument Airplane). -Current FAA Class I or II medical certificate. -1,000 hours first-pilot time in a tactical aircraft ...

New

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Palm Springs, CA · On-site

Be at least 21 years of age Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate Hold a current FAA First Class ...

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Austin, TX

Be at least 21 years of age Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate Hold a current FAA First Class ...

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All JobsFirst Pilot Jobs

First Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do first pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for first 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.

How long does it take to make $200,000 as a pilot?

First pilots typically earn lower initial salaries, often between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, but experienced commercial pilots can earn over $100,000 per year. Reaching a $200,000 income generally requires several years of experience, additional certifications, and flying for major airlines or private clients, which can take 5 to 10 years or more depending on career progression and opportunities.

What are some common challenges First Pilots face during long-haul flights, and how are these managed on the job?

First Pilots on long-haul flights often face challenges such as fatigue management, maintaining situational awareness over extended periods, and adapting to rapidly changing weather or air traffic conditions. These are managed through regulated rest periods, effective crew resource management, and strict adherence to safety protocols. Collaboration with co-pilots, cabin crew, and air traffic controllers is essential to ensure safe and efficient operations throughout the flight. Continuous training and simulation exercises also help First Pilots stay prepared for unexpected situations.

What pilots make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced airline pilots, especially captains flying long-haul international routes for major carriers, can earn $500,000 or more annually, including base salary, bonuses, and overtime. These roles typically require extensive flight hours, seniority, and advanced certifications such as an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license.

Is it hard to get your first job as a pilot?

Securing a first pilot job can be challenging due to the competitive nature of the industry and the requirement for relevant certifications such as a commercial pilot license and flight hours. Building experience through flight training, internships, or entry-level positions is often necessary before qualifying for more advanced roles.

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

To thrive as a First Pilot, you need an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), strong aeronautical knowledge, and extensive flight experience. Familiarity with advanced avionics, flight management systems, and regulatory compliance tools is essential. Excellent decision-making, situational awareness, and communication skills set top pilots apart in the cockpit. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring passenger safety, efficient flight operations, and effective teamwork in high-pressure environments.

What are entry level pilot jobs?

Entry-level pilot jobs typically include positions such as flight instructor, charter pilot, or regional airline first officer. These roles often require a commercial pilot license, a minimum number of flight hours, and sometimes additional certifications or training. They serve as starting points for pilots to gain experience and advance to larger aircraft or airline roles.

What is the difference between First Pilot vs Co-Pilot?

AspectFirst PilotCo-Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificateCommercial Pilot License (CPL), often with additional type ratings
Work EnvironmentLeads flight operations, makes critical decisions, oversees crewAssists the First Pilot, manages navigation and communication
ResponsibilitiesOverall flight command, safety, and decision-makingSupports the First Pilot, handles specific flight tasks

The First Pilot is the primary authority during flights, responsible for safety and decision-making, while the Co-Pilot assists and supports the First Pilot in operating the aircraft. Both roles require similar certifications, but the First Pilot holds the lead position in flight operations.

What are First Pilots?

First Pilots, also known as captains, are the lead pilots responsible for commanding an aircraft during flights. They oversee all aspects of flight operations, including navigation, communication with air traffic control, and ensuring the safety of passengers and crew. First Pilots have the highest authority on the aircraft and make critical decisions, especially in emergency situations. They are required to have extensive flying experience, advanced training, and must hold an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). Their leadership and expertise are essential for the safe and efficient operation of commercial and cargo flights.
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What cities are hiring for First Pilot jobs? Cities with the most First Pilot job openings:
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First Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 9% Full Time, and 89% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Pilot

Pilot

Talon Air, Inc.

East Farmingdale, NY • Remote

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Talon Air is seeking qualified and professional PICs and SICs to join our growing fleet supporting Part 135 and Part 91 operations. With a diverse fleet of modern business aircraft, home-based opportunities, and competitive schedules, Talon Air offers pilots the opportunity to build a long-term career within a safety-first, pilot-focused organization.

Why Talon Air

Talon Air is a leading aircraft management and charter operator with FAA Part 135, Part 91, and Part 145 Repair Station capabilities. With a growing fleet of more than 40 aircraft, Talon Air offers pilots the stability of an established operation combined with the opportunities that come from continued growth and expansion.

Our team is committed to operational excellence, safety, and providing crews with the tools and support needed to succeed. Pilots benefit from a collaborative culture, modern fleet, strong maintenance infrastructure, and long-term career advancement opportunities.

Current Opportunities

Talon Air is currently hiring PICs and SICs for the following aircraft:

  • Hawker 4000
  • Falcon 2000
  • Falcon 2000 LXS
  • G200
  • Challenger 604
  • GV 
  • GIV
  • G450
  • Global 6000
  • Global 5000

Most positions are home-based, and the majority of our fleets operate on a 12 on / 8 off rotation schedule. Please note that days 1 and 12 are considered both travel and workdays.

PIC Qualifications
  • ATP Certificate
  • Type Rating required for PIC positions
  • 3,500+ Total Flight Time
  • 2,000+ PIC Time
  • 3,000+ Multi-Engine Land (MEL)
  • 1,500+ MEL PIC Time
  • FAA First Class Medical
  • Valid Passport
  • Ability to obtain and maintain CANPASS authorization for unrestricted commercial pilot travel to/from Canada
  • ICAO Annex I – 2.1.10 compliant for international commercial air transport operations requiring more than one pilot
  • One year of Part 135 experience required
SIC Qualifications
  • 1,500+ Total Flight Time
  • 1,000+ PIC Time
  • 500+ Multi-Engine Land (MEL)
  • Jet or Turboprop experience required
  • FAA First Class Medical
  • Valid Passport
  • Ability to obtain and maintain CANPASS authorization for unrestricted commercial pilot travel to/from Canada
  • ICAO Annex I – 2.1.10 compliant for international commercial air transport operations requiring more than one pilot
  • One year of Part 135 experience preferred
  • Type Rating not required
Schedule & Compensation
  • Home-Based Opportunities Available
  • 12 On / 8 Off Rotation Schedule on Most Fleets
  • Competitive Salary and Benefits Package
  • Performance-Based Incentive Opportunities

If you are a motivated aviation professional seeking the opportunity to join a growing operation with a strong culture of safety, professionalism, and operational excellence, we encourage you to apply.

 
 
 
 

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