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First Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

PHI Health, LLC

VFR Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$105.07 - $130.39/hr

Commercial and Instrument helicopter ratings (First Class Medical CAMTS requirement). * Minimum 2,000 total flight hours: 1,500 helicopter, 1,000 PIC in helicopter, 500 turbine, 100 unaided night ...

Northrop Grumman

Staff Pilot Test

Edwards, CA · On-site

$214K - $321K/yr

... first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for ... Northrop Grumman's Test and Evaluation (T&E) organization is seeking a Staff Test Pilot for ...

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 · 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 ...

Guardian Flight

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 ...

Guardian Flight

$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 ...

Guardian Flight

Fixed Wing Pilot

Ridgecrest, 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 ...

Guardian Flight

Fixed Wing Pilot

Big Pine, 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 ...

Guardian Flight

Fixed Wing Pilot

Lone Pine, 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 ...

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Showing results 41-60

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 Sep 6, 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 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.

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 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 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,202 per year, or $62.1 per hour.

Flight Research Test Pilot

Joby Aviation

Concord, CA • On-site

$97K - $167K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate research and development crewed and UAS aircraft platforms as the pilot in command during flight testing.

  • Create test plans, conduct data analysis, and provide feedback for system improvements.

  • Collaborate with team members in test preparation, execution, and post-test activities.

Job description

Company Overview
Joby Flight Research designs, develops, and flight-tests novel aircraft using a software-first autonomy approach. We build and deploy autonomy, perception, planning, and radar systems across conventional, electric, and hydrogen-electric aircraft in both CTOL and VTOL configurations.
Overview
Joby Aviation's Flight Research team is looking for a Test Pilot to operate research and development crewed and UAS platforms, with the primary focus of the Cessna Caravan program. Drawing on experience crewed and UAS the role will fulfill pilot command duties during developmental and operational flight testing. Joining a small, fast moving team this position will support the full spectrum of test pilot duties as well as supporting engineering development activities.
Location: Concord, CA with <25% travel, will travel to occasional deployed testing including participation in military exercises.
Responsibilities
  • Act both as the airborne and remote pilot in command for various R&D aircraft platforms depending on the phase of the program
  • Uphold standard operating procedures and regulatory requirements
  • Uphold a strong safety culture
  • Create test plans, cards, and reports
  • Conduct data analysis
  • Collaborate with other crewmembers in preparation, execution, and post test activities
  • Provide detailed feedback and recommendations for system improvements
  • Play an active role in engineering design activities with a particular emphasis on human interfaces and airspace integration

Required
  • FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate
  • Instrument Airplane rating
  • A minimum of 750 hours pilot in command (PIC) flight time and 100 hours of turbine time
  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM field, preferably Engineering
  • At least 5 years of experience in aviation operations
  • At least 3 years of experience in as a test pilot
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work extended hours and travel as required
  • Read and speak English proficiently
  • Willingness to work extended hours
  • Willingness to travel domestically and internationally for business purposes

This position must meet US export control compliance requirements, therefore a candidate must qualify as a "US Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15. "US Person" includes US Citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees.
Desired
  • SETP recognized Test Pilot School Graduate
  • FAA certified flight instructor
  • Leadership positions in a flight test organization
  • C-208 experience
  • Experience in highly automated aircraft
  • Experience as an operator/pilot of UAS system(s)

Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $97,000 - $167,000/yr. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.
Additional Information
Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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