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First Pilot Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

This Captain will serve as a member of a two pilot team during flights and will maintain ... first day of employment * 100% Company paid benefits include Group Life Insurance, Short-Term ...

Title: Pilot/Escort Driver Job Status: Full Time Department: Clayton Connect Work Schedule ... BENEFITS: 401(K) includes 100% company match of the first 4% Medical and Dental Plan with ...

This Captain will serve as a member of a two pilot team during flights and will maintain ... first day of employment * 100% Company paid benefits include Group Life Insurance, Short-Term ...

Title: Pilot/Escort Driver Job Status: Full Time Department: Clayton Connect Work Schedule ... BENEFITS: • 401(K) includes 100% company match of the first 4% • Medical and Dental Plan with ...

This Captain will serve as a member of a two pilot team during flights and will maintain ... first day of employment * 100% Company paid benefits include Group Life Insurance, Short-Term ...

Title: Pilot/Escort Driver Job Status: Full Time Department: Clayton Connect Work Schedule ... BENEFITS: 401(K) includes 100% company match of the first 4% Medical and Dental Plan with ...

We are caregivers, first and foremost, and we will be there when you need us.This posting is for ... This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic ...

Title: Pilot/Escort Driver Job Status: Full Time Department: Clayton Connect Work Schedule ... BENEFITS: • 401(K) includes 100% company match of the first 4% • Medical and Dental Plan with ...

We are caregivers, first and foremost, and we will be there when you need us. This posting is for ... This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic ...

We are caregivers, first and foremost, and we will be there when you need us. This posting is for ... This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic ...

Helicopter Pilot

Nashville, TN · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

We are caregivers, first and foremost, and we will be there when you need us. This posting is for ... This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic ...

Helicopter Pilot

Memphis, TN · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

We are caregivers, first and foremost, and we will be there when you need us. This posting is for ... This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic ...

Helicopter Pilot

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

We are caregivers, first and foremost, and we will be there when you need us. This posting is for ... This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic ...

Helicopter Pilot

Nashville, TN · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

We are caregivers, first and foremost, and we will be there when you need us. This posting is for ... This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic ...

Helicopter Pilot

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

We are caregivers, first and foremost, and we will be there when you need us. This posting is for ... This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic ...

Helicopter Pilot

Memphis, TN · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

We are caregivers, first and foremost, and we will be there when you need us. This posting is for ... This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic ...

Helicopter Pilot

Memphis, TN · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

We are caregivers, first and foremost, and we will be there when you need us. This posting is for ... This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic ...

Helicopter Pilot

Nashville, TN · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

We are caregivers, first and foremost, and we will be there when you need us. This posting is for ... This is not a Float Pilot position. Starting Salary Range: $87,019 - $95,720 Up to 30% geographic ...

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Showing results 1-20

First Pilot information

See Tennessee salary details

$44.9K

$118.8K

$182.4K

How much do first pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for first pilot in Tennessee is $118,822.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,800.00 and $140,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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 cities in Tennessee are hiring for First Pilot jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most First Pilot job openings:
Infographic showing various First Pilot job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,822 per year, or $57.1 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Contour is a long-established aviation services company with a diverse range of capabilities. At Contour, our core values guide every action and decision. We are unwavering in our commitment to integrity and safety, which remains at the heart of all our business lines. Our team members exemplify an attitude of excellence, consistently striving to think like a customer. We believe there is strength in unity, and we work together as a team to achieve ambitious goals.


Full-Time Employee Benefits & Compensation Overview

As a full-time employee of Contour, you are eligible for the following benefits and programs:

Insurance

  • Health, vision, and dental insurance, plus short/long-term disability and voluntary life insurance (effective the first day of the month following your hire date)

401(k) Savings Plan

  • Eligibility begins the first day of the month following your hire date.
  • The Company offers a matching contribution up to 6% of your eligible compensation.
  • Enrollment guidelines and a 401(k) Enrollment Guide will be provided during onboarding.

Paid Sick Leave

  • Accrual of up to 56 hours of paid sick leave per year.
  • Unused sick leave rolls over annually until your sick bank reaches 480 hours.

Vested Vacation Hours

  • Eligible to receive vacation hours on January 1st following your hire date.
  • These hours will be vested and available for use in accordance with Company policies.

Non-Revenue/Space Available (NRSA) Travel Privileges

  • NRSA (non-revenue/space available) travel privileges on Contour Airlines upon hire and access to MyID Travel after 6 months of service.

Leaves of Absence

  • Eligible for various types of leave, including:
    • Medical Leave
    • Non-Medical Family Care Leave
    • Maternity and Paternity Leave
    • Personal Leave
  • Detailed leave policies are outlined in the Contour Airlines Employee Handbook, which will be provided during onboarding.

Compensation Details

  • Contour offers a competitive salary based on your prior work experience.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Contour is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, citizenship, color, creed, sex, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, political affiliation, marital status, pregnancy, pre-disposing genetic characteristics, veteran status, military status, disability, gender identity or expression, familial status, criminal history, status as a victim of domestic violence, or any other protected status.


Accommodations

Contour is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees. If you require accommodations during the application or onboarding process, please contact Human Resources at hr@flycontour.com.


Join Our Growing Team

Our rapid growth has created exciting career opportunities. We invite you to become part of our family and contribute to our ongoing success.


Summary of Essential Duties

The Assistant Chief Pilot reports directly to the Chief Pilot, is delegated the authority and duties of the Chief Pilot role, and assumes Chief Pilot duties in the Chief Pilot’s absence. This position provides pilot leadership across all Contour domiciles while also serving as an active crewmember. The Assistant Chief Pilot must be qualified through training, experience, and expertise consistent with 14 CFR 119.69 and 119.71.

The successful candidate provides guidance, coaching, mentoring, and support across all divisions to ensure safe and efficient operations. The role also drives continuous improvement of flight operations processes and pilot standards to strengthen compliance posture and operational effectiveness.


Key Responsibilities

  • Supervise company pilots to ensure flights are conducted safely and in accordance with applicable CFRs, Operations Specifications, Company policies, Pilot Work Rules, and procedures.
  • Ensure flight operations are conducted in accordance with Company policies and applicable federal, state, local, and foreign regulations.
  • Maintain the required number of qualified flight crew members to conduct reliable flight operations that satisfy Company requirements.
  • Conduct line supervisory flying to ensure the professionalism of pilots and the maintenance of overall pilot standards.
  • Maintain the highest possible standards of performance, image, and conduct for pilots, and ensure pilot appearance, attendance, and personal conduct comply with Company policy.
  • Administer disciplinary action in coordination with Flight Operations management and Human Resources.
  • Conduct pilot interviews and perform other duties as assigned.
  • Assist with the administrative requirements of the Chief Pilot’s Office and perform other administrative duties as assigned by the Chief Pilot.
  • Encourage employees to make suggestions for process improvements or to report errors.
  • Represent the Company in government, industry, and community activities.
  • Maintain current knowledge of the General Operations Manual, Operations Specifications, and federal regulations applicable to Company operations.
  • Other duties as assigned by the leadership.

Delegated Authority

Delegated by the Director of Operations to exercise limited authority for operational control of flight operations.

  • Delegated the authority and duties of the Chief Pilot and assumes Chief Pilot duties in the Chief Pilot’s absence.
  • Be at least 23 years of age
  • Be authorized to work in the United States and able to travel in and out of the United States.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license and good driving record.
  • Must understand, read, and write English.
  • Basic knowledge in Microsoft suite of products including Office 365, Excel, Outlook, and Word. Must also have a basic understanding of similar soft wares
  • Able to pass a 10-year work history review and submit to criminal background and fingerprint checks.
  • Must pass a DOT-required pre-employment drug screening and be willing to submit to and pass FAA and Company-mandated random drug and alcohol testing.
  • Possess polished and professional interpersonal skills with a positive attitude and a customer-oriented mindset.
  • Possess strong leadership and organizational skills.
  • Must have well-developed people skills and ability to work with a variety of personalities.
  • Able to coordinate multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
  • Able to handle interruptions and a fast-paced environment.
  • Maintain strong attention to detail.
  • Be self-motivated and able to motivate others.
  • Excellent communication skills both written and verbal delivered with tact and professionalism.
  • Able to work nights, weekends, holidays, and varying schedules.
  • Ability to work in a safe professional manner adhering to all regulatory requirements including OSHA, EPA, state, and federal regulations.
  • Meet the applicable requirements of 14 CFR Part 119, including 119.69 and 119.71, for Chief Pilot responsibilities in 14 CFR Part 135 operations.
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Two years of experience with a regional or major airline.
  • U.S. Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate.
  • First-Class FAA Medical Certificate.
  • Type rated, or capable of becoming type rated, on a Contour-operated aircraft.
  • Not on a step of discipline (if currently employed at Contour).
  • Ability to lift 70 pounds.
  • Comprehensive understanding and knowledge of Contour’s General Operations Manual, Operations Specifications, and applicable 14 CFR Parts 119 and 135.

Disclaimer: The above statements are intended only to describe the general nature and level of work required for the referenced position; they are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of individuals in the position. Please be advised that the duties and expectations of this position may be subject to change.