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First Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

REACH Medical Holdings

Fixed Wing Pilot

Redding, CA · On-site

$113K - $125K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Redding, California Airframe: King Air B200 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days ... Current FAA First- or Second-Class Medical Certificate. * 2,500 Total Flight hours. * 2,000 Fixed ...

REACH Medical Holdings

Fixed Wing Pilot

Redding, CA

$113K - $125K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Redding, California Airframe: King Air B200 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days ... Current FAA First- or Second-Class Medical Certificate. * 2,500 Total Flight hours. * 2,000 Fixed ...

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 ...

REACH Medical Holdings

Fixed Wing Pilot

San Diego, CA

$113K - $125K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Redding, California Airframe: King Air B200 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days ... Current FAA First- or Second-Class Medical Certificate. * 2,500 Total Flight hours. * 2,000 Fixed ...

New

Global Medical Response

Fixed Wing Pilot

Redding, CA

$113K - $125K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Redding, California Airframe: King Air B200 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days ... Current FAA First- or Second-Class Medical Certificate. * 2,500 Total Flight hours. * 2,000 Fixed ...

REACH Medical Holdings

Fixed Wing Pilot

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$113K - $125K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Redding, California Airframe: King Air B200 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days ... Current FAA First- or Second-Class Medical Certificate. * 2,500 Total Flight hours. * 2,000 Fixed ...

New

REACH Medical Holdings

Fixed Wing Pilot

Crescent City, CA · On-site

$111K - $122K/yr

Position: Fixed Wing Pilot Airframe: King Air C90 Location: Crescent City, CA Schedule: 12 Hour ... Current FAA First or Second Medical Certificate. * 2,500 total flight hours. * 1,000 PIC hours ...

Global Medical Response

Fixed Wing Pilot

Crescent City, CA · On-site

$111K - $122K/yr

Position: Fixed Wing Pilot Airframe: King Air C90 Location: Crescent City, CA Schedule: 12 Hour ... Current FAA First or Second Medical Certificate. * 2,500 total flight hours. * 1,000 PIC hours ...

REACH Medical Holdings

Fixed Wing Pilot

San Diego, CA · On-site

$113K - $125K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Redding, California Airframe: King Air B200 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days ... Current FAA First- or Second-Class Medical Certificate. * 2,500 Total Flight hours. * 2,000 Fixed ...

New

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 ...

REACH Medical Holdings

Fixed Wing Pilot

Redding, CA

$113K - $125K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Redding, California Airframe: King Air B200 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days ... Current FAA First- or Second-Class Medical Certificate. * 2,500 Total Flight hours. * 2,000 Fixed ...

REACH Medical Holdings

Fixed Wing Pilot

Redding, CA

$113K - $125K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Redding, California Airframe: King Air B200 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days ... Current FAA First- or Second-Class Medical Certificate. * 2,500 Total Flight hours. * 2,000 Fixed ...

REACH Medical Holdings

Fixed Wing Pilot

Los Angeles, CA

$113K - $125K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Redding, California Airframe: King Air B200 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days ... Current FAA First- or Second-Class Medical Certificate. * 2,500 Total Flight hours. * 2,000 Fixed ...

New

REACH Medical Holdings

Fixed Wing Pilot

Redding, CA · On-site

$113K - $125K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Redding, California Airframe: King Air B200 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days ... Current FAA First- or Second-Class Medical Certificate. * 2,500 Total Flight hours. * 2,000 Fixed ...

New

Global Medical Response

Fixed Wing Pilot

Bishop, CA · On-site

$109K - $119K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Bishop, CA Airframe: Pilatus PC12 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days Off Annual ... Current FAA First- or Second-Class Medical Certificate. * 2,500 Total Flight hours. * 2,000 Fixed ...

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 ...

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 ...

REACH Medical Holdings

Fixed Wing Pilot

Redding, CA · On-site

$113K - $125K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Redding, California Airframe: King Air B200 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days ... Current FAA First- or Second-Class Medical Certificate. * 2,500 Total Flight hours. * 2,000 Fixed ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsFirst Pilot JobsFirst Pilot Jobs in California

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 15, 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 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, overtime, and bonuses. Corporate and private jet pilots with extensive flight hours and specialized certifications may also reach this level of income. Achieving this salary typically requires many years of experience, advanced training, and seniority within the airline or organization.

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 landing a first pilot role.

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 an airline transport pilot certificate, providing foundational experience for advancing to larger aircraft and more complex 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.

Is it true that 80% of flight students quit?

First pilots and other flight students often face high dropout rates, with estimates suggesting that around 70-80% may not complete their training. Factors include the demanding nature of the program, costs, and the need for strong technical skills and dedication. Success depends on commitment, proper training, and meeting certification requirements.
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.

Fixed Wing Pilot

REACH Medical Holdings

Redding, CA • On-site

$113K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Job Description

If your passion is flying and you want to work in an environment where every second counts, contact us today!

 

Position: Fixed Wing Pilot

Location: Redding, California

Airframe: King Air B200

Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days Off

Annual Salary Range: $113,820.92 - $125,203.02

  • 15,000 Sign-On Bonus (Must complete training and check ride). 
  • 40,000 Retention Bonus (There is a 6 Month waiting period and this is a 3 year program).
  • No Training Contract.

We're hiring a Fixed Wing Pilot to provide medical air transportation services to our customers. This pilot will be qualified to fly our King Air B200 aircraft. Scheduled shifts run 7/7 and service day or night trips. Safety is a key pillar of our services; therefore, all of our pilots work on a quality, professional team that are committed to high safety standards for the crew and our customers. 

Responsibilities: 

  • Pilot will work with a team of medical experts to safely transport customers to and from locations and facilities. 
  • Ensure aircraft readiness for flight dispatches as described in the appropriate manuals, including all FAR and company requirements, and aircraft cleanliness duties. 
  • Maintain accurate company and regulatory documentation and record keeping for shifts, load manifests, etc.  
  • Effectively communicate and collaborate with both air and ground dispatch, flight crews, facilities and partners. 
  • Provide shift change info to transitioning pilot and team, and follows protocols for recording company change board details. 
  • Pilots are accountable to maintain required certifications and ongoing ground and air training. 
  • Committed to being on-time, reliable, professional and meet our elevated standards in safety and service.  

MinimumRequired Qualifications: 

  • Commercial Airplane Multi Engine Land (C-AMEL) Required. 
  • Must be willing and able to obtain ATP within 5 years of employment.
  • The ideal candidate will have single pilot IFR experience.
  • Previous medevac and/or cargo experience preferred.  
  • Ability to provide logbooks listing all flight dates and corresponding hours, along with a cumulative total that substantiates the time reported on the resume.
  • Valid and unexpired driver's license. 
  • Current FAA First- or Second-Class Medical Certificate. 
  • 2,500 Total Flight hours. 
  • 2,000 Fixed Wing hours. 
  • 1,000 PIC hours.
  • 500 Cross Country hours.
  • 500 Multi-Engine hours.  
  • 100 Night hours. 
  • 75 Instrument (50 actual) hours.

Preferred Education:

  • Minimum of a High School Diploma, GED equivalent, or higher. 

Working Conditions: 

  • Required to work in outside weather conditions. 
  • Must be able to work night, day, and overnight shifts as assigned.
  • May need to de-ice the plane, assist with towing the aircraft and maneuvering in and out of the hangar, prep the plane for flight. 

Why Choose REACH? As a quality air medical transport service, REACH is one of Global Medical Response's (GMR) family of solutions. Our GMR teams deliver compassionate, quality medical care, primarily in the areas of emergency and patient relocation services. View the stories on how our employees provide care to the world at www.AtaMomentsNotice.com.  

GMR's Core Behaviors-keep care at the center, raise your hand, seek to understand, find a way together and be accountable-unite our teams and set us apart in emergency medical services. 

EEO Statement

Global Medical Response and its family of companies are an Equal Opportunity Employer, which includes supporting veterans and providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with a disability.

More Information about this Job

Check out our careers site benefits page to learn more about our benefit options.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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