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First Pilot Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Pilot Flying J

Retail Merchandiser

Benton Harbor, MI · On-site

$14.95 - $22.22/hr

Company Description Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than ... Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture and ...

Pilot Company

Food Services Leader

Holland, MI · On-site

$14.95 - $22.22/hr

Company Description Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than ... Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture and ...

Pilot Company

Guest Services Leader

Ottawa Lake, MI

$15.70 - $23.33/hr

Company Description Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than ... Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture and ...

Pilot Company

Guest Services Leader

Ionia, MI · On-site

$14.95 - $22.22/hr

Company Description Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than ... Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture and ...

Pilot Company

Food Services Leader

Saginaw, MI · On-site

$14.95 - $22.22/hr

Company Description Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than ... Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture and ...

Pilot Company

Food Services Leader

Holland, MI · On-site

$14.95 - $22.22/hr

Company Description Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than ... Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture and ...

Pilot Company

Guest Services Leader

Ionia, MI · On-site

$14.95 - $22.22/hr

Company Description Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than ... Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture and ...

Pilot Company

Deli Shift Leader

Ottawa Lake, MI · On-site

$15.70 - $23.33/hr

Company Description Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than ... Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture and ...

Pilot Company

Deli Shift Leader

Ottawa Lake, MI · On-site

$15.70 - $23.33/hr

Company Description Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than ... Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture and ...

Pilot Company

Food Services Leader

Saginaw, MI · On-site

$14.95 - $22.22/hr

Company Description Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than ... Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture and ...

Pilot Company

Food Services Leader

Saginaw, MI · On-site

$14.95 - $22.22/hr

Company Description Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than ... Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture and ...

Pilot Company

Deli Shift Leader

Ottawa Lake, MI · On-site

$15.70 - $23.33/hr

Company Description Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than ... Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture and ...

Pilot Company

Guest Services Leader

Ottawa Lake, MI · On-site

$15.70 - $23.33/hr

Company Description Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than ... Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture and ...

Pilot Company

Guest Services Leader

Ionia, MI · On-site

$14.95 - $22.22/hr

Company Description Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than ... Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture and ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsFirst Pilot JobsFirst Pilot Jobs in Michigan

First Pilot information

See Michigan salary details

$43.1K

$114.1K

$175.2K

How much do first pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for first pilot in Michigan is $114,106.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,200.00 and $135,100.00 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 Michigan?

For First Pilot jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching First Pilot jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for First Pilot jobs in Michigan are:

First Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Pilot job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,106 per year, or $54.9 per hour.

Great Lakes Piloting Mate

Grand River Navigation Company

Traverse City, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Come Sail with us on the Great Lakes!
If you are looking to become part of our team that strongly values safety, efficient operations, a family-oriented environment, come sail with us! Grand River Navigation has one of the best leave and rotation systems on the Great Lakes. With unprecedented teamwork and some of the most talented colleagues in the industry we can guarantee you will enjoy a career with us!
Grand River Navigation Company is the U.S. operating subsidiary of Mainstay Maritime. We are one of the largest marine transportation service providers operating on the Great Lakes today with a combined fleet of 15 bulk freight vessels that provide service to over 50 customers across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway.
Competitive total rewards package including income, paid travel to/from the vessel, healthcare benefits, retirement savings plans and work/life balance with best-in-class rotation. We have many education opportunities and upgrade bonuses to support career growth at a pace that is right for each individual.
"We can go where the big ships go and also where they can't!"
Our Company is searching for qualified candidates for the position of Mate / First Class Pilot aboard our US flagged self-unloading vessels.
Responsibilities
  • Serve as the senior deck officer and principal assistant to the Master in the safe navigation and operation of the vessel.
  • Direct and maintain safe navigational watches, ensuring compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and established maritime practices.
  • Lead, coordinate, and oversee all Deck Department personnel, promoting a culture of safety, professionalism, and operational excellence.
  • Plan, supervise, and ensure the effective maintenance, preservation, and upkeep of the vessel's hull, decks, superstructure, and deck machinery.
  • Manage all cargo operations, including the safe loading, unloading, stowage, and securing of cargo while ensuring compliance with vessel stability and safety requirements.
  • Ensure all lifesaving, firefighting, emergency, and pollution prevention equipment is properly maintained, inspected, and ready for immediate use.
  • Coordinate deck maintenance programs, vessel inspections, and regulatory compliance activities to meet company, U.S. Coast Guard, and industry standards.
  • Manage the procurement, inventory, and control of deck stores, equipment, and supplies to support efficient vessel operations.
  • Conduct crew training, safety meetings, and emergency drills to ensure preparedness and adherence to the vessel's Safety Management System (SMS).
  • Maintain accurate records, logs, maintenance reports, and regulatory documentation as required.
  • Assume command responsibilities in the absence of the Master, as directed.
  • Perform additional duties and special assignments as delegated by the Master.

Benefits
  • As an employee you are part of the Mainstay Maritime family where Teamwork and safety are a core value
  • Highly competitive wages and benefits including medical, dental, vision, company paid long-term and short-term disability and life insurance, 401K with company match.
  • Excellent safety record
  • Company paid training and education opportunities

Requirements
  • TWIC Card - Transportation Worker Identification Credential
  • United States Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC) issued by the United States Coast Guard (USCG)
  • Endorsement as Mate of Unlimited Tonnage upon the Great Lakes and Inland Waters (minimum)
  • First Class Pilot of Vessels of Unlimited Tonnage upon the Great Lakes between Duluth, Gary, Buffalo and Port Weller to Cape Vincent
  • Unexpired US Passport or Enhanced Driver's License and allowed entry into Canada
  • Legally authorized to work in the US, without restriction
  • Excellent communication and ability to multi-task
  • Experience working as a team and desire to working together as a team player
  • Experience and desires to align to our Values: Creating a Positive Customer Experience, Health/Safety/Environment focused, High Integrity and Teamwork

Grand River Navigation is an Equal Opportunity Employer - All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality or sex, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We also comply with Family Medical Leave Act and Employee Rights Employee Polygraph Protection Act.

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