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Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Helicopter Pilot

Sayre, PA

$95K - $119K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - Guthrie AirSayre, PAEMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC135 IFR$20,000 Annual ... Living in Sayre, PA, is a special experience marked by its charming small-town atmosphere and ...

Helicopter Pilot

Aberdeen, NC · On-site

$74K - $93K/yr

Aberdeen, NC delivers small-town charm with big-time access-nestled in the Sandhills and just ... Operates Air methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner. Completes pre-flight before every flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Martinsburg, WV · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - HealthNetMartinsburg, WVEMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC135 (IFR)$15,000 ... Living and working in Martinsburg, WV, offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city ...

Helicopter Pilot

Martinsburg, WV · On-site

$83K - $104K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - HealthNetMartinsburg, WVEMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC135 (IFR)$15,000 ... Living and working in Martinsburg, WV, offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city ...

Helicopter Pilot

Holyoke, CO · On-site

$25K/mo

Location Holyoke, Colorado, is a charming small town that embodies the essence of rural living with ... Operates Air Methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner. * Completes pre-flight before every ...

Location Life in Chiefland offers a refreshing change of pace where natural beauty and small-town ... Operates Air Methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner. * Completes pre-flight before every ...

Helicopter Pilot

Griffin, GA · On-site

$82K/yr

... of small-town charm and modern convenience. The city features a revitalized downtown district ... Operates Air Methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner. * Completes pre-flight before every ...

Helicopter Pilot

Moundsville, WV · On-site

$77K - $96K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - HealthNetMoundsville, WVEMS Air Medical Aircraft: H135 (IFR)$20,000 ... Nestled along the Ohio River, its charming small-town atmosphere and scenic landscapes make it a ...

Drone Pilot

Decatur, AL · On-site

$25/hr

POSITION: Remote Pilot in Command (RPIC) for Public Safety Drone as First Responder (DFR ... small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (sUAS)operations. ● Maintain strong radio communication skills ...

New

Helicopter Pilot

Holyoke, CO · On-site

$82.90 - $93.25/hr

Location Holyoke, Colorado, is a charming small town that embodies the essence of rural living with ... Operates Air Methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner. * Completes pre-flight before every ...

Showing results 21-40

Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do freelance small aircraft pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance small aircraft pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance small aircraft pilot do?

A freelance small aircraft pilot operates light aircraft on a contract or project basis instead of being employed full-time by a single company. Their duties can include flying passengers, transporting cargo, conducting aerial surveys, or providing flight instruction. Freelance pilots are responsible for maintaining their certifications, ensuring aircraft safety, and managing scheduling and administrative tasks. They often work with private clients, charter services, or small businesses, offering flexible flying services based on demand.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance small aircraft pilot?

To thrive as a Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot, you need a valid commercial pilot’s license, strong knowledge of aviation regulations, and extensive flight experience in small aircraft. Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS navigation systems, and aircraft maintenance logs is typically required. Excellent situational awareness, adaptability, and clear communication are standout soft skills for client interactions and responding to in-flight challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring passenger safety, regulatory compliance, and successful mission completion in diverse flying conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance small aircraft pilots, and how can they be managed?

Freelance small aircraft pilots often encounter challenges such as irregular schedules, variable demand, and the need to juggle multiple clients. Managing these challenges involves proactive communication with clients, maintaining flexibility in availability, and staying current with certifications and regulatory requirements. Building a strong professional network and consistently delivering safe, reliable service can also help secure repeat business and referrals, making the freelance career path more stable and rewarding.

What is the difference between Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot vs Commercial Small Aircraft Pilot?

AspectFreelance Small Aircraft Pilot
CertificationsPrivate Pilot License (PPL), possibly Commercial Pilot License (CPL) depending on work
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed, on-demand flights, varied locations
EmployerIndependent, clients or charter companies

While both roles require pilot certifications, Freelance Small Aircraft Pilots operate independently, offering flexible, on-demand services. Commercial Small Aircraft Pilots typically work for companies or charter services, with more structured schedules and employment terms. The key difference lies in employment status and work setup, with freelancers managing their own contracts and clients.

More about Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Small Aircraft Pilot jobs?

The most popular types of Small Aircraft Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot jobs are:

Infographic showing various Freelance Small Aircraft Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Assembler Technician Level III - Second Shift

Cirrus Aircraft

Duluth, MN • On-site

$22.31 - $33.47/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Cirrus Aircraft rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Overview

As a Production Technician in Composites or Assembly, you will be responsible for a variety of tasks that are pivotal to building a plane or jet. As a technician you will be learning to use a variety of hand tools and use of pneumatic fixtures to assemble parts. The role requires flexibility, adaptability, and willingness to learn new skills as needed.

Responsibilities
  • Diverse knowledge in multiple primary responsibilities within assembly area. New hires would have responsibility to learn multiple disciplines/builds/skillsets initially within 6 months depending on assembly area starting within.
  • Masterfully install components for fit, clearance, alignment, and functional performance within design requirements
  • Troubleshoots aircraft system issues and develops solutions
  • Conducts on-the-job training with Technicians
  • Inspecting, building and installing aircraft components
  • Understanding engineering drawing and specifications
  • Will document and describe defect(s) on non-conforming articles or defective parts
  • Set up and use of fixturing for all areas of bonding, drilling, and assembly
  • Installs rivets, screws and bolts, using appropriate tools
  • Routes wires, cables and tubing
  • Torques hardware and fitting using various tools and test equipment
  • Follows and properly documents aircraft build instructions
  • Wears personal protective equipment as required including respirator
  • Mixes and applies adhesives, resins, and sealants per instructions
  • Maintains a clear and organized workstation to department standards
  • Capable of demonstrating procedures and installation techniques to others
Qualifications

Required:

  • High School diploma or GED required. 
  • Minimum five years related experience, education and/or training required.
  • Experience examples: relevant medium/low volume manufacturing, automotive, military aircraft and maintenance, experience in other fields/skills listed in the next section also considered as partially relevant.
  • Required knowledge of basic tools and uses good judgment when selecting the proper tool for the job.

Preferred:

  • Auto/marine mechanic and collision repair: Ability to work on auto/marine items to remove and install components.
  • Assembly: Perform basic assembly tasks, such as installing parts and hardware, as required following specific instructions.
  • Low/Medium volume Manufacturing: Slower manufacturing settings where some hands-on assembly is required.
  • High Volume Manufacturing: High volume manufacturing settings that are more station based or automation is used to produce the product.
  • Military: Guard, Reserves and active military experience in a non-mechanical discipline.
  • Surface Preparation: Prep surfaces for adhesives by cleaning, sanding, and masking areas to ensure proper adhesion.
  • Carpentry skills: Fine detail carpentry building such as furniture, cabinets, etc.
  • Construction/DIY: Building, framing, construction, etc. as well as detailed major home repair.
  • Plumbing: Installing and torquing flared fittings such as fuel, oil and hydraulic. Also experience within the plumbing trade.
  • General aircraft knowledge: Knowledge of working around aircraft with specific experience such as obtaining a pilot's license, multiple experiences flying in small aircraft, military working on and around aircraft but not maintenance related, etc.
  • Fast paced environments: Work environments like quick oil change, tire change, line cooks, fast food, health care, etc.

Our Benefits: Cirrus provides a range of exciting benefits, including:

  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, vision, dental, with additional dependent coverage options
  • Employer-Paid Coverages: Group term life, short- and long-term disability insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts: FSA and HSA offerings with company contributions to HSA
  • Well-being: Calm Health, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness incentives through medical provider
  • 401(k) Plan: Dollar-for-dollar match up to 5% after 90 days, with 100% vesting at 1 year of service
  • PTO: Various PTO plans starting at 100 hours accrued within the first year
  • Additional Time off Benefits: Paid holidays, 2 weeks of Paid Parental leave, paid time for funeral leave and jury duty
  • Career Development: Tuition reimbursement program and professional growth opportunities
  • Exclusive Discounts: Cirrus Store, partner and marketplace discounts available
  • Community & Engagement: Company and employee clubs at various locations

These benefits are designed to support your well-being, growth, and enjoyment at Cirrus!

Pay RangeSalary Range: USD $22.31/Hr. - USD $33.47/Hr.Sign On BonusUSD $2,000.00Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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