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First Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Talon Air

Pilot

Farmingdale, NY · Remote

$75K - $250K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Tacoma, WA

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

Detroit, MI

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

Boise, ID

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

Tucson, AZ

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

Houston, 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 ...

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Milwaukee, WI

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 ...

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Portland, OR

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

Denver, CO

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

Phoenix, AZ

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

Chicago, IL

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

Fort Worth, 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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First Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do first pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 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.

What first pilot jobs are best for beginners?

Entry-level pilot jobs suitable for beginners include flight instructor, banner tow pilot, and aerial survey pilot, which often require a private pilot certificate and some flight hours. These roles provide practical experience and help build hours toward commercial pilot certification, with a focus on safety, communication, and aircraft handling skills.

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

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 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 is a first pilot?

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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First Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Pilot

Talon Air

Farmingdale, NY • Remote

$75K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 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 AirTalon 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 OpportunitiesTalon Air is currently hiring PICs and SICs for the following aircraft:Hawker 4000Falcon 2000Falcon 2000 LXSG200Challenger 604GV GIVG450Global 6000Global 5000Most 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 QualificationsATP CertificateType Rating required for PIC positions3,500+ Total Flight Time2,000+ PIC Time3,000+ Multi-Engine Land (MEL)1,500+ MEL PIC TimeFAA First Class MedicalValid PassportAbility to obtain and maintain CANPASS authorization for unrestricted commercial pilot travel to/from CanadaICAO Annex I – 2.1.10 compliant for international commercial air transport operations requiring more than one pilotOne year of Part 135 experience requiredSIC Qualifications1,500+ Total Flight Time1,000+ PIC Time500+ Multi-Engine Land (MEL)Jet or Turboprop experience requiredFAA First Class MedicalValid PassportAbility to obtain and maintain CANPASS authorization for unrestricted commercial pilot travel to/from CanadaICAO Annex I – 2.1.10 compliant for international commercial air transport operations requiring more than one pilotOne year of Part 135 experience preferredType Rating not requiredSchedule & CompensationHome-Based Opportunities Available12 On / 8 Off Rotation Schedule on Most FleetsCompetitive Salary and Benefits PackagePerformance-Based Incentive OpportunitiesIf 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.    Background & Drug Screen required to be hired for a role.