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First Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

STS Technical Services

VFR Helicopter Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

First Class FAA Medical Flight Experience Requirements * 2,000 Total Flight Hours * 1,500 Helicopter Flight Hours * 1,000 Hours Pilot in Command Helicopters * 500 Hours Turbine Helicopter Time * 100 ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Test Pilot

Concord, CA

$97K - $167K/yr

... first autonomy approach. We build and deploy autonomy, perception, planning, and radar systems ... Drawing on experience crewed and UAS the role will fulfill pilot command duties during ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Test Pilot

Concord, CA

$97K - $167K/yr

Joby Flight Research designs, develops, and flight-tests novel aircraft using a software-first ... Joby Aviation's Flight Research team is looking for a Test Pilot to operate research and ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Test Pilot

Concord, CA · On-site

$97K - $167K/yr

... first autonomy approach. We build and deploy autonomy, perception, planning, and radar systems ... Drawing on experience crewed and UAS the role will fulfill pilot command duties during ...

Navstar

ER-2 Research Pilot

Edwards, CA · On-site

$170K - $185K/yr

Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe ... Should possess knowledge and first-hand experience necessary to succeed as a government contractor ...

i3

ER-2 Research Pilot

Edwards, CA

$170K - $185K/yr

Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe ... Should possess knowledge and first-hand experience necessary to succeed as a government contractor ...

PHI Health

VFR Pilot

Red Bluff, CA

$105K - $130K/yr

Our pilots are not just aviators; they are heroes in the sky, providing rapid medical response in ... First Class Medical * CAMTS Requirement // 2,000 Total Hours // 1,500 Hours Helicopter // 1,000 ...

PHI Health

VFR Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

Our pilots are not just aviators; they are heroes in the sky, providing rapid medical response in ... First Class Medical * CAMTS Requirement // 2,000 Total Hours // 1,500 Hours Helicopter // 1,000 ...

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First Pilot information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$129.2K

$198.4K

How much do first pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for first pilot in California is $129,202.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,700.00 and $153,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, 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 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.
What are popular job titles related to First Pilot jobs in California? For First Pilot jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Pilot jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for First Pilot jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for First Pilot jobs? Cities in California with the most First Pilot job openings:
First Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Pilot job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $129,202 per year, or $62.1 per hour.
VFR Helicopter Pilot

VFR Helicopter Pilot

STS Technical Services

Red Bluff, CA • On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

STS Technical Services is hiring a VFR Helicopter Pilot to support air medical transport operations based in Red Bluff, California. This position places experienced pilots at the center of emergency medical response, flying critical care missions where safety, precision, and disciplined decision making are essential.
Pilots in this role operate Bell 407 aircraft in support of rapid patient transport across the region. Operations run 24 hours per day with rotating day and night schedules under VFR and Night Vision Goggle (NVG) conditions.
This is a mission driven aviation role built for professionals who value purpose, operational discipline, and a strong safety culture.
Position Overview
STS Technical Services is recruiting an experienced Air Medical Helicopter Pilot to support operations for a leading air medical transport provider based in Red Bluff, California.
Pilots in this role conduct critical care transport missions, providing rapid response to patients in urgent situations. You will operate in challenging environments where precision, professionalism, and safety are essential.
Operations include 24 hour coverage with day and night rotations, flying under VFR and Night Vision Goggle (NVG) conditions.
Aircraft and Operational Details
  • Aircraft: Bell 407
  • Location: Red Bluff, California
  • Schedule: 7 days on / 7 days off rotation
  • 24 hour operational coverage
  • Day and night flight operations
  • VFR and NVG operations

Compensation
  • Sign On Bonus: Up to $50,000
  • Location Bonus: Up to 25%
  • Potential annual earnings: $105,073 to $130,391
  • Shift bonuses, overtime incentives, and annual safety and performance bonuses

Note: California candidates may receive up to $25,000 of the sign on bonus, with additional overtime and double time hours potentially increasing total bonus value.
Relocation assistance is available, but housing is not provided.
Key Responsibilities
  • Perform line pilot duties in accordance with operational procedures
  • Safely operate a Bell 407 helicopter during air medical transport missions
  • Assist with patient and equipment loading as needed
  • Maintain strict adherence to operational procedures and safety protocols
  • Participate in community outreach and company safety initiatives
  • Collaborate with medical crews to ensure safe and efficient patient transport

Minimum Qualifications
  • Commercial Helicopter Pilot Certificate
  • Instrument Rating
  • First Class FAA Medical

Flight Experience Requirements
  • 2,000 Total Flight Hours
  • 1,500 Helicopter Flight Hours
  • 1,000 Hours Pilot in Command Helicopters
  • 500 Hours Turbine Helicopter Time
  • 100 Hours Unaided Night Operations - or -
  • 50 Hours Unaided Night + 100 Hours Night Vision Goggle (NVG)

Additional Requirements
  • Maximum body weight: 235 lbs
  • Ability to assist with lifting up to 100 pounds during patient or equipment loading
  • Must pass pre placement physical, drug screen, and background check
  • Strong communication and customer service skills
  • Candidates must reside within one hour of the base location

Schedule
  • 7 days on / 7 days off rotation
  • Day and night flight operations
  • Base schedule may rotate depending on operational needs

About STS Technical Services
STS Technical Services is a leading provider of workforce solutions across aviation, aerospace, defense, manufacturing, and industrial markets. We connect highly skilled professionals with mission critical roles that make a real difference.
STS Technical Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected status.
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