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First Pilot Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Air Evac Lifeteam

AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Knoxville, 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 ...

Imh

$18.06 - $48.12/hr

Essential Functions * Assist the Pilot-in-Command with pre-flight planning, including weather ... Pass a 135.293 check ride within the first 60 days of hire Preferred Qualifications * Current ...

Imh

$45.55 - $71.73/hr

As an Air Ambulance Pilot, you are the critical link in delivering rapid, life-saving ... Pass a 135.293 check ride within the first 60 days of hire Preferred Qualifications * Air ambulance ...

Clay Lacy Aviation

$250K - $290K/yr

Serve as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) of Dassault Falcon 900 aircraft, operating domestic and ... Mentor First Officers, assisting with their professional development and ensuring their adherence ...

Cirrus Aircraft

SF50 Flight Instructor

Alcoa, TN · On-site

... world's first single engine Personal Jet and recipient of the 2017 Robert J. Collier Trophy ... Duties include acting as pilot in command of Cirrus aircraft while performing 14 CFR part 91 ...

Pilot Company

Retail General Manager

Jackson, TN

$54K - $80K/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

Retail General Manager

Fairview, TN

$54K - $80K/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 ...

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All JobsFirst Pilot JobsFirst Pilot Jobs in Tennessee

First Pilot information

See Tennessee salary details

$44.9K

$118.8K

$182.4K

How much do first pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 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 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, overtime, and bonuses. Corporate and private jet pilots with extensive flight hours and specialized certifications may also reach this level of income. Achieving this salary typically requires many years of experience, advanced training, and seniority within the airline or organization.

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 landing a first pilot role.

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 an airline transport pilot certificate, providing foundational experience for advancing to larger aircraft and more complex 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.

Is it true that 80% of flight students quit?

First pilots and other flight students often face high dropout rates, with estimates suggesting that around 70-80% may not complete their training. Factors include the demanding nature of the program, costs, and the need for strong technical skills and dedication. Success depends on commitment, proper training, and meeting certification requirements.
What are popular job titles related to First Pilot jobs in Tennessee? For First Pilot jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Pilot jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for First Pilot jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for First Pilot jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most First Pilot job openings:
First Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Pilot job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 30% Full Time, and 68% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,822 per year, or $57.1 per hour.
AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Air Evac Lifeteam

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

We invite you to join a team of highly skilled emergency medical experts, pilots and mechanics!
Our mission of providing care to the world at a moment‘s notice is at the heart of everything we do. We are caregivers, first and foremost, and we will be there when you need us.

This posting is for multiple Visual Flight Rules (VFR) positions, we have many other opportunities available! By applying through this posting, we are able to move your application to the open location of your choosing. This is not a Float Pilot position.

Starting Salary Range: $87,019 – $95,720

Up to 30% geographic modifier, depending on location

15K Sign on Bonus
40K Retention Bonus after 3 years

On Duty Housing at all locations

7/7 Schedule at most locations

JOB SUMMARY

Ensures all operations involving Company aircraft are in compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations, Air Evac EMS Operations Manual, and all state and municipal regulations.

  • Operates the aircraft in a safe and efficient manner, with emphasis on compliance with the Rotorcraft Flight Manual
  • Monitors forecast changes and current weather situations
  • Conducts preflight of the aircraft prior to starting shift and/or accepting transports or flights. Preflight will be conducted utilizing the appropriate rotorcraft flight manual. Discrepancies noted during the pre-flight will be noted in the engineering log with a notification to maintenance of the discrepancy and what corrective action is being taken
  • Reports to his/her shift rested and prepared for duty and stays current of weather and forecast changes


QUALIFICATIONS

Experience:

2000 hours total flight time
1500 hours helicopter time
1000 hours helicopter pilot in command
500 hours turbine
100 hours night unaided, or 50 hours unaided with 100 hours aided
Previous HAA experience or equivalent – preferred
Education and Credentials:


Rotorcraft-Helicopter Commercial Certificate
Rotorcraft-Helicopter Instrument Rating

High school diploma or equivalent
Other:

230-pound weight limit dressed in flight suit and boots

Upload your Pilot License and FAA Medical Certificate

Global Medical Response teams deliver compassionate, quality medical care, primarily in the areas of emergency and patient relocation services around the world. We provide end-to-end medical transportation as well as fire services, integrated healthcare solutions and disaster response.

This is an evergreen role with no anticipated close date.

EEO Statement:

Global Medical Response and its family of companies are an Equal Opportunity Employer, which includes supporting veterans and providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with a disability. Pilots

More Information about this Job:

Check out our careers site benefits pageto learn more about our comprehensive benefit options, which include medical, vision, dental, 401k, disability, FSA, HSA, EAP, vacation and paid time off.

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