1

First Pilot Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Fixed Wing Pilot

Scottsbluff, NE · On-site

$104K - $114K/yr

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

Fixed Wing Pilot

Scottsbluff, NE · On-site

$104K - $114K/yr

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

Fixed Wing Pilot

Scottsbluff, NE · On-site

$104K - $114K/yr

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

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

PIC - Gulfstream G200 Floater

Omaha, NE · On-site

$195K - $251K/yr

Description Pilot in Command - Gulfstream G200 Full-Time - Commutable, USA Jet Linx is seeking ... Maintain a current 1st Class medical certificate * Convey strong, proactive decision-making skills

PIC - Gulfstream G200 Floater

Omaha, NE · On-site

$195K - $251K/yr

Pilot in Command - Gulfstream G200 Full-Time - Commutable, USA Jet Linx is seeking qualified Pilot ... Maintain a current 1st Class medical certificate * Convey strong, proactive decision-making skills

next page

Showing results 1-20

First Pilot information

See Nebraska salary details

$47.2K

$124.8K

$191.6K

How much do first pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for first pilot in Nebraska is $124,822.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,300.00 and $147,800.00 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 Nebraska? For First Pilot jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Pilot jobs in Nebraska look for? The top searched job categories for First Pilot jobs in Nebraska are:
Infographic showing various First Pilot job openings in Nebraska as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,822 per year, or $60 per hour.
Flight Operations, Pilot in Command

Flight Operations, Pilot in Command

TREGO DUGAN AVIATION OF GRAND ISLAND INC

North Platte, NE • On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Trego-Dugan Aviation rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 54 rated aviation services


Job description

TITLE: Pilot (PIC)

Department: Flight

Reports to: Chief Pilot

Approved by: Human Resources Date: April 2026

General Purpose of Job:

This position is based in Wheeling, IL (PWK) and operates under FAR parts 135 and/or 91.

Essential Duties and RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Ensure compliance with Trego / Dugan Aviation (TDA) policies and procedures.
  • Manage duty, flight, and rest times to the requirements of both CFRs and TDA.
  • Maintain communication with TDA for standby duty, trip notifications, and pre- and post-flight reporting.
  • Maintain a current 1st Class Medical certificate.
  • Ensures correct communication of flight schedule (and updates).
  • Identifies operational or flight department issues and communicates those promptly and directly to the Chief Pilot.
  • Other duties as assigned by the Chief Pilot.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license.
  • Must pass a background check and pre-employment drug test.
  • Must have authorization to work in the U.S. as defined in the Immigration Act of 1986.
  • Compliance with Federal Regulations and all company policies and procedures. This includes FAR/GOM/SOP company revisions and updates.

CORE Requirements:

  • Total Time – 2800 hours
  • Total Multi-Engine – 1000 hours
  • Total Turbine – 250 hours
  • Current in Type Lear 45 – preferred 25 hours
  • ATP (or ability to obtain)
  • 1st Class Medical
  • Pass pre- / random-drug/alcohol testing as directed
  • Unrestricted ability to travel (e.g., Mexico, Canada, etc.)
  • Live within a 2-hour call-out time of Wheeling, IL (PWK)

PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The majority of work is completed in and around aircraft and FBOs/terminals. Must have physical dexterity sufficient to perform repetitive tasks and motions, including sustaining positions for extended amounts of time. Must have adequate vision and the ability to perform the essential functions of the position safely. Must be able to easily lift baggage weighing an average of 50 lbs. and occasionally as much as 100 lbs.

Other Requirements and Qualifications:

Airport environment: Indoors and Outdoors. Extreme outdoor conditions where significant temperature ranges may be encountered. Must be willing to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and/or holidays.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Type LJ45 (strongly preferred) but willing to type the right candidate
  • ATP
  • 3000 TT
  • EFIS Experience
  • Clean FAA Record
  • 1st class medical

Must successfully pass a background investigation with a fingerprint-based criminal records check by Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 1542, and Airport Security, as required by the Transportation Security Administration. Must pass periodic random drug testing as required in 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 40 for safety-sensitive employees. Must be able to work a variety of assigned shifts, including evenings and weekends.

  • Education: 4-Year College Degree or equivalent (preferred)
  • Knowledge: Ability to pass/maintain initial and recurrent training in type.

____________________________________________ ___________________________

Employee / Acknowledgment Date


What Trego-Dugan Aviation employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom