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First Pilot Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Pentastar Aviation

Challenger 604 SIC

Waterford, MI

$80K - $100K/yr

General Description The successful candidate will join an existing two pilot crew as a Second-In ... First Class medical certification PI13bd34664505-25405-39896263

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Pilot Company

Restaurant Manager - Trainee

Holland, MI

$43K - $59K/yr

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

Restaurant Manager - Trainee

Holland, MI

$43K - $59K/yr

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

Restaurant Manager - Trainee

Holland, MI · On-site

$43K - $59K/yr

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

$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

$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

Deli Shift 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

Lead Guest Services Team Member

Ionia, MI

$13.73 - $17.85/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 1-20

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 Jul 3, 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.

How long does it take to make $200,000 as a pilot?

First pilots typically earn lower initial salaries, often between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, but experienced commercial pilots can earn over $100,000 per year. Reaching a $200,000 income generally requires several years of experience, additional certifications, and flying for major airlines or private clients, which can take 5 to 10 years or more depending on career progression and opportunities.

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, bonuses, and overtime. These roles typically require extensive flight hours, seniority, and advanced certifications such as an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license.

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 qualifying for more advanced roles.

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 additional certifications or training. They serve as starting points for pilots to gain experience and advance to larger aircraft or airline 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.
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
Challenger 604 PIC

Challenger 604 PIC

Pentastar Aviation, LLC.

Waterford, MI

$80K - $100K/yr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description

General Description

The successful candidate will join an existing two pilot crew as a Pilot in Command (PIC) conducting 14 CFR Part 91 operations in a Challenger 604 based at Oakland County International Airport (PTK).

The PIC has delegated responsibility for the safety of passengers and crew and the comfortable, timely operation of the aircraft. They ensure that all flight and ground operations comply with FAA Regulations. As may be delegated by the PIC, they determine flight routes, speed, takeoff and landing times to fulfill scheduling requirements. They may perform other aircraft related duties when not flying, to include preflight planning, aircraft performance calculations, accomplishment of initial and recurrent training requirements, expense processing, etc.


This position is located in Waterford, MI. The individuals selected for this position must live within 2 hours of Waterford, MI. As a pilot for Pentastar Aviation, crew members can expect to fly about 300 hours per year.

Requirements

Qualifications

ATP Certificate (preferred)

Commercial Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument ratings and prior turbojet experience required

For Non-ATP Certificate holders, ATP/CTP course completion is preferred

Minimum of 4000 hours of Total Flight Time

Bachelor's degree preferred

Prior business aviation experience required

Ability to manage changing work schedules

Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain an FAA First Class medical certification

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