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Freelance 500 Hour Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Corewell Health

Helicopter Pilot Aero Med

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$86K - $107K/yr

Helicopter Pilots: 2,500 hours helicopter flight experience, 1,500 hours pilot in command hours, 150 hours pilot in command unaided night hours. * Experience in Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) and ...

Spectrum Health

Helicopter Pilot Aero Med

Grand Rapids, MI

$86K - $107K/yr

Helicopter Pilots: 2,500 hours helicopter flight experience, 1,500 hours pilot in command hours, 150 hours pilot in command unaided night hours. * Experience in Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) and ...

Johnson Development

Corporate Pilot

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Minimum 3,000 hours total flight time; minimum 1,500 hours Pilot in Command time. * Minimum 2,000 hours turbine/jet time. * International flight experience preferred. * Experience with highly ...

STS Technical Services

VFR Helicopter Pilot

Oracle, AZ · On-site

$50K/yr

First Class FAA Medical Flight Experience Requirements * 2,000 Total Flight Hours * 1,500 Helicopter Flight Hours * 1,000 Hours Pilot in Command Helicopters * 500 Hours Turbine Helicopter Time * 100 ...

STS Technical Services

VFR Helicopter Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

First Class FAA Medical Flight Experience Requirements * 2,000 Total Flight Hours * 1,500 Helicopter Flight Hours * 1,000 Hours Pilot in Command Helicopters * 500 Hours Turbine Helicopter Time * 100 ...

STS Technical Services

VFR Helicopter Pilot

Marion, IN · On-site

$50K/yr

First Class FAA Medical Flight Experience Requirements * 2,000 Total Flight Hours * 1,500 Helicopter Flight Hours * 1,000 Hours Pilot in Command Helicopters * 500 Hours Turbine Helicopter Time * 100 ...

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Freelance 500 Hour Pilot information

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How much do freelance 500 hour pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance 500 hour pilot in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance 500 hour pilot?

A Freelance 500 Hour Pilot is an independent commercial pilot who has accumulated at least 500 hours of total flight time. These pilots typically work on a contract basis for various clients, performing tasks such as charter flights, ferrying aircraft, or aerial photography. The '500 hour' designation often indicates a level of experience that meets or exceeds the minimum requirements for many entry-level commercial pilot positions. Freelance pilots enjoy flexibility in choosing assignments but must manage their own scheduling, licensing, and insurance. This role is common among pilots building hours toward more advanced aviation careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance 500 hour pilot?

To thrive as a Freelance 500 Hour Pilot, you need a commercial pilot certificate, a minimum of 500 flight hours, and thorough knowledge of aviation regulations and safety procedures. Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS navigation systems, and aircraft-specific avionics is typically required. Strong decision-making, communication, and adaptability are essential soft skills for managing diverse flight scenarios and interacting with clients or crews. These skills and qualifications are critical for ensuring safe operations, client satisfaction, and regulatory compliance in varied and sometimes unpredictable flying assignments.

What are some common challenges freelance 500 hour pilots face when securing new flying opportunities?

Freelance 500-hour pilots often encounter challenges such as fluctuating demand for contract pilots, competition from more experienced aviators, and the need to continually network to find new assignments. Building a strong reputation for reliability and professionalism is crucial for securing repeat business. Additionally, freelancers must stay current with certifications and adapt quickly to different aircraft and operational procedures, as clients may vary widely in equipment and expectations.

What is the difference between Freelance 500 Hour Pilot vs Part-Time Commercial Pilot?

AspectFreelance 500 Hour PilotPart-Time Commercial Pilot
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot Certificate, 500 flight hoursCommercial Pilot Certificate, often with additional ratings
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed, varied locations, flexible schedulePart-time employment, fixed schedules, employer-based
Industry UsageFreelance flying jobs, private charters, aerial workScheduled flights, charter services, flight instruction

The Freelance 500 Hour Pilot typically works independently, offering services on a flexible basis with at least 500 flight hours. In contrast, a Part-Time Commercial Pilot is usually employed by a company or flight school, working scheduled hours. Both roles require a commercial pilot certificate, but their work settings and employment structures differ significantly.

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What cities are hiring for Freelance 500 Hour Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance 500 Hour Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of 500 Hour Pilot jobs?

The most popular types of 500 Hour Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance 500 Hour Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance 500 Hour Pilot jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Freelance 500 Hour Pilot jobs look for?

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Freelance 500 Hour Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance 500 Hour Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 48% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 13% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Helicopter Pilot Aero Med

Corewell Health

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$86K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

Corewell Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 778 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

414th of 893 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Corewell Health is offering up to a $20,000 sign-on bonus for this position!
About the Team:
At Corewell Health Aero Med and North Flight Aero Med, our pilots don't just fly aircraft - they are trusted professionals, safety leaders, and essential members of a highly skilled medical transport team. As part of a hospital-based air medical program, you'll support critical care transport across Michigan, serving rural and urban communities when they need us most. Our pilots operate in a collaborative, just-culture environment where safety is never compromised and professional judgment is respected. You'll fly modern, well-maintained aircraft, work alongside experienced maintenance, medical and dispatch teams, and be supported by an aviation leadership team that understands what it takes to operate safely in our community.
Essential Functions
  • Operates a Corewell Health Hospitals aircraft.
  • Maintains required documentation per FAA / company standards.
  • Communicates, collaborates and acts as a resource to team members and others in order to facilitate continuity and coordination of services. Acts as a resource to members of the community in outreach initiatives.
  • Maintain accountability for the safety of aircraft operations.
  • Provides input into the development / revision of policies / procedures related to area of accountability. Participates in process improvement activities to improve outcomes.
  • Demonstrates commitment to patient and team member safety. Considers safety as the primary factor in all decisions.

Qualifications
Required
  • Helicopter Pilots: 2,500 hours helicopter flight experience, 1,500 hours pilot in command hours, 150 hours pilot in command unaided night hours.
  • Experience in Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) and night operation
  • CRT-Air Transport Pilot - Needs by 2 years
  • CRT-FAA Flight Physical - DOT Department of Transportation Upon Hire
  • LIC-Commercial Pilot License - FAA upon hire

Preferred
  • Fixed Wing Pilots: 3,500 hours total flight experience, 2,000 hours pilot in command of multi-engine aircraft, and 1,500 hours of pilot in command of a turbine powered aircraft
  • EMS flight experience
  • FAA part 135 experience
  • Winter Operations

Why Pilots Choose Aero Med & North Flight Aero Med
  • Hospital-Based, Mission-Driven Program
    Fly for a not-for-profit, hospital-based operation with its own FAA Part 135 certificate where safety and patient care drive every decision.
  • Safety Is the Standard, Not a Slogan
    A mature Safety Management System, just culture, and leadership that fully supports conservative go/no-go decisions.
  • Modern Aircraft and Strong In-House Maintenance Support
    Well-maintained aircraft (Sikorsky S-76 C++ and King Air 200/250) supported by dedicated aviation maintenance teams focused on reliability and safety.
  • Respect for Pilot Authority and Judgment
    Our pilots are trusted professionals with clear operational authority over safety, weather, and aircraft decisions.
  • Collaborative, Professional Crew Environment
    Work alongside experienced nurses, paramedics, mechanics, and dispatchers who value Crew Resource Management, communication, and mutual respect.
  • Challenging, Meaningful Flying
    IFR, night, winter, and rural operations across Michigan - flights that demand skill, judgment, and professionalism.
  • Investment in Training and Professional Growth
    Ongoing initial and recurrent training (no contract), in full flight simulators (twice annually), and opportunities to contribute to safety, policy, and operational improvements.
  • Stable Schedules and Sustainable Careers
    Three 12-hour shifts with predictable rotations designed to support work-life balance and long-term pilot retention - no need to live out of your suitcase.

If you're looking for a program where professionalism is expected, safety is protected, and every flight has purpose, Aero Med and North Flight Aero Med may be the place for you.
Work Perks:
  • Comprehensive full-time benefit package offered by Corewell Health
  • Additional provided life insurance coverage for pilots
  • Company provided flight suit, coat and helmet
  • Private pilot's quarters with bed, desk and computer
  • Well maintained base facility with modern fitness room, full kitchen
  • Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS) accredited
  • Part 135 certificate managed by Spectrum Health Hospitals d/b/a Aero Med BTEA482C

How Corewell Health cares for you
  • Comprehensive benefits package to meet your financial, health, and work/life balance goals. Learn more here.
  • On-demand pay program powered by Payactiv
  • Discounts directory with deals on the things that matter to you, like restaurants, phone plans, spas, and more!
  • Optional identity theft protection, home and auto insurance
  • Traditional and Roth retirement options with service contribution and match savings
  • Eligibility for benefits is determined by employment type and status

Primary Location
SITE - Aero Med Base - 4494 Corporate Dr - Grand Rapids
Department Name
Aero Med - Grand Rapids Hosp
Employment Type
Full time
Shift
Rotating (United States of America)
Weekly Scheduled Hours
36
Hours of Work
Variable
Days Worked
Variable
Weekend Frequency
Every other weekend
CURRENT COREWELL HEALTH TEAM MEMBERS - Please apply through Find Jobs from your Workday team member account. This career site is for Non-Corewell Health team members only.
Corewell Health is committed to providing a safe environment for our team members, patients, visitors, and community. We require a drug-free workplace and require team members to comply with the MMR, Varicella, Tdap, and Influenza vaccine requirement if in an on-site or hybrid workplace category. We are committed to supporting prospective team members who require reasonable accommodations to participate in the job application process, to perform the essential functions of a job, or to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment due to a disability, pregnancy, or sincerely held religious belief.
Corewell Health grants equal employment opportunity to all qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, genetic information, marital status, height, weight, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other legally protected category.
An interconnected, collaborative culture where all are encouraged to bring their whole selves to work, is vital to the health of our organization. As a health system, we advocate for equity as we care for our patients, our communities, and each other. From workshops that develop cultural intelligence, to our inclusion resource groups for people to find community and empowerment at work, we are dedicated to ongoing resources that advance our values of diversity, equity, and inclusion in all that we do. We invite those that share in our commitment to join our team.
You may request assistance in completing the application process by calling 616.486.7447.

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