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Freight Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sr Specialist, Supply Chain

Knoxville, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Pilot Company supports a growing portfolio of brands with expertise in supply chain and retail ... Collaborate with freight carriers and logistics partners to evaluate transportation performance ...

First Officer - Alaska Airlines

Seatac, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Company Alaska Airlines The Team As a pilot at Alaska Airlines, you are committed to living our ... Perform as Second in Command in the transport of passengers, mail, freight, or for other commercial ...

First Officer - Alaska Airlines

Seatac, WA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Alaska Airlines As a pilot at Alaska Airlines, you are committed to living our values. You "Own ... Perform as Second in Command in the transport of passengers, mail, freight, or for other commercial ...

Sr Specialist, Supply Chain

Knoxville, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Pilot Company supports a growing portfolio of brands with expertise in supply chain and retail ... Collaborate with freight carriers and logistics partners to evaluate transportation performance ...

Sr Specialist, Supply Chain

Knoxville, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Pilot Company supports a growing portfolio of brands with expertise in supply chain and retail ... Collaborate with freight carriers and logistics partners to evaluate transportation performance ...

Sr Specialist, Supply Chain

Knoxville, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Pilot Company supports a growing portfolio of brands with expertise in supply chain and retail ... Collaborate with freight carriers and logistics partners to evaluate transportation performance ...

Sr Specialist, Supply Chain

Knoxville, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Pilot Company supports a growing portfolio of brands with expertise in supply chain and retail ... Collaborate with freight carriers and logistics partners to evaluate transportation performance ...

CDL A Truck Driver - Dry Van

Mapleton, KS · On-site

$1.7K/wk

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

When you drive with us, you're part of the Tucker Freight Lines team. Owners Sauny and AJ Tucker ... Bring your co-pilot. Pet and rider policies available, so you're never on the road alone. All pay ...

CDL A Truck Driver - Dry Van

Dalton, MO · On-site

$1.7K/wk

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

When you drive with us, you're part of the Tucker Freight Lines team. Owners Sauny and AJ Tucker ... Bring your co-pilot. Pet and rider policies available, so you're never on the road alone. All pay ...

CDL A Truck Driver - Dry Van

Green City, MO · On-site

$1.7K/wk

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

When you drive with us, you're part of the Tucker Freight Lines team. Owners Sauny and AJ Tucker ... Bring your co-pilot. Pet and rider policies available, so you're never on the road alone. All pay ...

Showing results 21-40

Freight Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do freight pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for freight 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 is the difference between Freight Pilot vs Truck Driver?

AspectFreight PilotTruck Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), FAA certificationCommercial Driver's License (CDL)
Work EnvironmentAirports, cargo planes, aviation facilitiesRoadways, trucking companies, highways
Industry UsageAviation and air freightGround freight and logistics
Common Search IntentComparison of pilot roles in freightGround transportation jobs

Freight Pilots operate cargo aircraft and require aviation certifications, working primarily in airports and air freight logistics. Truck Drivers operate on roads with a CDL and are involved in ground freight transportation. While both roles involve freight delivery, they differ significantly in work environment, required credentials, and industry focus.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a freight pilot?

To thrive as a Freight Pilot, you need a commercial pilot’s license, strong knowledge of aviation regulations, and expertise in flight planning and navigation. Proficiency with avionics systems, cargo loading procedures, and flight management software is typically required. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making, and stress management skills set top performers apart in this field. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and timely delivery of cargo under diverse and challenging conditions.

What is a freight pilot?

Freight pilots are professional aviators who operate aircraft to transport cargo rather than passengers. They are responsible for ensuring the safe and timely delivery of goods, which can include anything from mail and medical supplies to industrial equipment. Freight pilots often fly at night or during irregular hours to meet tight delivery schedules. They must be skilled in handling large and sometimes specialized aircraft, and are required to follow strict safety regulations and procedures. The job can involve both domestic and international routes, depending on the employer.

What challenges do freight pilots face during their flights?

Freight pilots often encounter challenges such as irregular schedules, night flying, and navigating adverse weather conditions. Unlike passenger flights, cargo operations can involve frequent late-night or early-morning departures and arrivals, requiring strong time management and adaptability. Pilots must also be prepared for rapid changes in routing due to cargo priorities or unforeseen delays. Effective communication with dispatchers and ground crews, as well as adherence to safety protocols, helps manage these challenges and ensures timely, safe delivery of cargo.
More about Freight Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Freight Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Freight Pilot job openings:

What states have the most Freight Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freight Pilot jobs include:

Infographic showing various Freight Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 85% In-person, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Experienced First Officer - Horizon Air

Horizon Air

Portland, OR

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

CompanyHorizon AirThe Team

As a pilot for Horizon Air, you will be among the best in the regional airline industry as you fly throughout the West. To help keep you at the top of your game, we offer attractive compensation, development opportunities, a path to our mainline carrier Alaska Airlines, and a great team that's known for its skill and close-knit teamwork. 

Role Summary

The First Officer Experienced is responsible for ensuring a safe journey and a positive experience for all Horizon Air (QX) guests while continually maintaining a high-level of professionalism. This is a union represented position.

Key Duties
  • Perform as Second in Command in the transport of passengers, mail, freight, or for other commercial purposes. Responsible for all aspects and conduct of flight to include preflight of required paperwork and restrictions, conduct of safe flight, and all post flight duties.
  • Comply with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAA), Company Flight Procedures, and Company Policies on scheduled flights and routes to ensure safety of flight.
  • Coordinate tasks to permit flight fueling, loading, passenger handling, etc. and associated duties to transport passengers in a safe manner in accordance with company policies and procedures, FOM, FAR's, and CRF's.
  • Pilots are team members both in the flight deck (Cockpit Resource Management), and with other operational departments.
  • Pilots are expected to present a professional image, including grooming standards and demeanor, at all times as a key representative of the company to both internal and external customers.
Job-Specific Experience, Education & Skills

Required

  • 200 hours of FAA-approved Prior Qualifying Time to serve as pilot in command in part 121 operations (per FAR 121.436(a)(3)). Candidates will need to provide proof they have obtained this flight time requirement. All prior qualifying time will be verified in pilot logbooks with the System Chief Pilot and/or the Director of Operations at time of interview.
    • 200 hours as second in command at a part 121 carrier (per FAR 121.436(a)(3)); or
    • 200 hours as pilot in command at a part 91 carrier flying a multi-engine turbine-powered fixed-wing or powered-lift aircraft with an Airline transport pilot license and an applicable type rating (per FAR 91.1053(a)(2)(i)); or
    • 200 hours as pilot in command at a part 135 carrier in passenger-carrying operations of a turbojet airplane with a passenger-seat configuration, excluding each crewmember seat, of 10 seats of more (per FAR 135.243(a)(1)); or
    • 200 hours as pilot in command at a part 135 carrier in passenger-carrying operations of a multiengine airplane in a commuter operation (per FAR 135.243(a)(1)); or
    • 200 hours as pilot in command at a part 135 carrier holding an airline transport pilot certificate and if required appropriate type rating for that airplane (per FAR 135.243(a)(1)); or
    • 200 hours of military flight time obtained as pilot in command of a multiengine turbine-powered, fixed-wing airplane or powered-lift aircraft in an operation requiring more than one pilot (per FAR 121.436 (c)).
  • A minimum of 1,465 hours of total flight time or R-ATP qualified.
  • 500 hours of cross-country flight time or 200 if R-ATP or military qualified.
  • 100 hours of night flight time.
  • 250 total hours of flight time as pilot in command including 100 hours of cross-country flight time and 25 hours of night flight time.
  • 75 hours of instrument flight time in actual or simulated instrument conditions.
  • 25 hours of multi-engine flight time.
  • FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with multi-engine and instrument ratings.
  • Must possess a current First-Class FAA Medical Certificate.
  • FCC permit restricted radiotelephone operator.
  • Must have and be able to maintain a valid passport allowing unrestricted travel, without a TRP, to and from the U.S.
  • Must possess a valid Driver's License.
  • Excellent judgment, leadership skills, demonstrated command ability and maturity.
  • Must be willing to accept a base assignment in Seattle, WA; Portland, OR; Spokane, WA; Boise, ID; Medford, OR; Anchorage, AK or Everett, WA based on company need.
  • Must be willing to work multiple days away from home, working a varied schedule, including weekends and holidays without restrictions.
  • Ability to communicate in English.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum age of 21 years old.
  • Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Preferred

  • 100 hours of multi-engine flight time.
  • 100 hours flown in the last 12 months.
  • Four-year degree from an accredited University.
Airport SIDA Badge Requirements

Important notification for employees working at an airport or maintenance hangar: Employees will be required to obtain a SIDA badge provided by the airport authority and maintain good standing in order to keep their SIDA badge. Review the SIDA Badge Requirements document for a comprehensive overview. If an employee does not qualify for a SIDA badge or has their SIDA badge pulled from them, the employee will be terminated. 

Job-Specific Leadership Expectations

Embody our values to own safety, do the right thing, be caring and kind, and deliver performance.

BonusPay Details

Prior Part 121 Longevity Pay Credit:

We are offering a longevity match for hourly rates with no cap for pilots with prior part 121 experience. Year-for-year longevity pay is contingent upon the pilot maintaining a permanent bid preferencing all Captain positions as their highest priority bids.

Salary Details
  • First year pay rate: $92.72
  • Monthly pay guarantee (jet): 75 credit hours
  • Reserve pay guarantee: 73 credit hours
Total Rewards

Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and Horizon Air pay and benefits can vary by company, location, number of regularly scheduled hours worked, length of employment, and employment status.

  • This role pays per collective bargaining agreement.
  • Free stand-by travel privileges on Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines & Horizon Air
  • Comprehensive well-being programs including medical, dental and vision benefits
  • Generous 401k contribution/match program
  • Annual bonus plans
  • Generous holiday and paid time off

For more information about Alaska/Hawaiian/Horizon Total Rewards please visit our career site and view benefits.

FLSA StatusExemptRegular/TemporaryRegularApply by 7:00 PM Pacific Time on9/30/2026LocationPortland, OR - PilotsRegulatory Information

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy Statement  

It is the policy of Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and Horizon Air to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment and to ensure equal opportunity in all terms, conditions, and benefits of employment or potential employment.   

We also prohibit discrimination and harassment against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information and other legally protected categories.  

We have established an EEO Compliance Program under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 ("Section 503") and the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 ("VEVRAA").  All applicants and employees are treated without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. In addition, we have established an audit and reporting system to allow for effective measurement of its equal employment opportunity activities.   

To implement this policy, we will: 

(1) Recruit, hire, train and promote qualified persons in all job titles, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information and any other legally protected categories; (2) Ensure that employment decisions are based only on valid job requirements; and (3) Ensure that all personnel actions and employment activities such as compensation, benefits, promotions, layoffs, return from layoff, Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and Horizon Air sponsored programs, and tuition assistance will be administered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information and other legally protected categories. 

Employees and applicants for employment will not be subjected to harassment, intimidation, threats, coercion or discrimination because they have engaged or may engage in (1) filing a complaint, (2) opposing any act or practice made unlawful by, or exercising any other right protected by, any Federal, State or local law requiring equal opportunity, including Section 503 and the equal opportunity provisions of VEVRAA, or (3) assisting or participating in any investigation, compliance evaluation, hearing, or any other activity related to the administration of any Federal, State or local law requiring equal opportunity, including Section 503 and the equal opportunity provisions  of VEVRAA. 

Government Contractor & Department of Transportation (DOT) Regulations Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines & Horizon Air are regulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT - regulations, 49 CFR part 40) and all applicants are advised that post-offer and/or pre-employment drug testing will be conducted to determine the presence of marijuana, cocaine, opioids, phencyclidine (PCP) and amphetamines or a metabolite of these drugs prior to any offer or employment or transfer into a safety-sensitive position. Failure to submit to testing or positive indications of drug use will render the applicant ineligible for employment with Alaska Airlines/Hawaiian Airlines/Horizon Air and any employment offer will be withdrawn. 

Requisition TypeFrontlineRequisition ID2026-18545Employment Type: FULL_TIME