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Government Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vexcel

Check Airman / Training Pilot

Medford, OR · On-site

... government agencies. We are building on leading imagery and cloud technologies. If you are ... This role requires an experienced pilot with good interpersonal skills who enjoys working with and ...

Sanborn Map

Senior Pilot

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

We serve many industries and government departments and need to communicate effectively with them ... The Senior Pilot operates aircraft to fly aerial photo missions in support of mapping and LiDAR ...

A2G

Chief Pilot

Titusville, FL · On-site

The Chief Pilot will play a key role in ensuring the safe and effective operation of our fleet ... Coordinate with government agencies, contractors, and other stakeholders to facilitate smooth ...

A2G

Chief Pilot

Titusville, FL · On-site

The Chief Pilot will play a key role in ensuring the safe and effective operation of our fleet ... Coordinate with government agencies, contractors, and other stakeholders to facilitate smooth ...

KBR

RC & Large Model Aircraft Pilot

Lexington Park, MD

$95K - $143K/yr

As part of the world's largest independent flight test organization, supporting both US Government ... Serves as a UAS Pilot and provide all aspects of project officer duties for the Counter UAS and ...

KBR

$95K - $143K/yr

As part of the world's largest independent flight test organization, supporting both US Government ... Serves as a UAS Pilot and provide all aspects of project officer duties for the Counter UAS and ...

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP

$180 - $230/hr

PILOT SpaceX is looking for an in-house pilot for various aircraft. You will have the opportunity ... S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S ...

KBR, Inc.

Senior E-130J Pilot

Lexington Park, MD · On-site

$171K - $240K/yr

Senior E-130J Pilot KBR is seeking a highly qualified Senior C/KC-130J Pilot to join the E-130J ... Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, and government stakeholders to support integrated test ...

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Government Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do government pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for government 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 a government pilot?

A Government Pilot operates aircraft for federal, state, or local government agencies, performing missions such as law enforcement, surveillance, transport, firefighting, and search-and-rescue. They may work for agencies like the FAA, U.S. Forest Service, or military branches. Responsibilities include flight planning, ensuring aircraft safety, and complying with aviation regulations. Government Pilots typically need a commercial pilot’s license, flight experience, and may require additional certifications based on the agency’s needs.

What types of missions or assignments can a government pilot expect to perform?

Government Pilots typically undertake a wide variety of assignments, which may include aerial surveillance, search and rescue operations, law enforcement support, firefighting, disaster response, or transportation of officials and equipment. The exact nature of missions depends on the agency, such as law enforcement, public safety, or environmental monitoring. These roles often involve working alongside ground crews, technical specialists, and other pilots in coordinated efforts. Pilots must be prepared for irregular hours, on-call duties, and adapting to rapidly changing conditions to carry out crucial public service missions. This dynamic work environment provides a sense of purpose and varied day-to-day experiences for those seeking meaningful aviation careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a government pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Government Pilot, you need advanced flight proficiency, a commercial pilot's license, and in many cases, specific government or military flight certifications. Mastery of navigation systems, radio communications, and government-operated aircraft—such as helicopters or fixed-wing planes—is required. Excellent decision-making, adaptability, and teamwork skills are vital for responding to dynamic situations and collaborating with diverse personnel. These competencies ensure mission success, operational safety, and effective performance under the unique demands of public sector aviation.

How much does a government pilot make?

Government pilots typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and agency. They often require commercial pilot certifications and may work irregular hours or on specialized aircraft.

What are government pilot jobs?

Government pilot jobs involve operating aircraft for government agencies, such as transportation departments, law enforcement, or emergency services. These roles typically require a commercial pilot license, relevant certifications, and adherence to safety and regulatory standards. Pilots in these positions may work on scheduled flights, search and rescue missions, or specialized transportation tasks.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Government Pilot jobs?

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What states have the most Government Pilot jobs?

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Government Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Government Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Check Airman / Training Pilot

Medford, OR • On-site

Vexcel
51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Vexcelexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

About the Organization
Vexcel Imaging US Inc. is a technology company that manufactures market-leading aerial survey cameras. In addition, the Vexcel Data Program brings world class imagery to internet-scale cloud services with our imagery acquisition program.
We are imaging the world for companies to use the highest quality data to manage their businesses more efficiently. Our backbone is the best-in-class UltraCam hardware and software, our job is to work with worldwide partners to take this aerial imagery and build a scaled-out cloud service that supports commercial and government agencies. We are building on leading imagery and cloud technologies. If you are passionate about mapping and a high growth business this role is for you.
Description
Vexcel Aerial Imagery is looking for a Check Airman/Training Pilot. This position assists in the development and verification of our commercial pilots in the safe operation of single and multi-engine aircraft. This role requires an experienced pilot with good interpersonal skills who enjoys working with and educating our commercial pilots.
The Check Airman is responsible for ensuring that company pilots can safely operate our high performance single and multi-engine aircraft in complex airspace and ever changing weather. Along with the rest of the training team the Check Airman duties are to annually verify that every Vexcel pilot is competently and safely able to operate Vexcel's fleet of aircraft. This person will be responsible for providing simulator and aircraft checkouts in our wide range of aircraft, which includes Cessna 206's and 210's, Piper Aztecs & Navajo's, Cessna 310's and other models. As Check Airman, you will be a key component in ensuring Vexcel maintains a safe and productive working environment through initial and recurrent training.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Achieve expert level knowledge of all aircraft and systems used by Vexcel and deliver initial and recurrent training to the pilots in each aircraft they are authorized to operate.
  • Utilize a flight simulator to evaluate and verify pilot skills and ensure pilots are fully capable of handling known emergency situations.
  • Perform 'in aircraft' skill verification and provide local & cross-country skill training for pilots in the type aircraft they are being checked in.
  • Ensure pilots are safely operating aircraft in compliance with all laws and regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration.
  • Document all training in the company databases along with maintaining and updating training materials in the company database.
  • Coordinate pilot training and instruction events as required in support of the Lead Training Pilot and Chief Pilot.
  • Recommend improvements to flight training operations.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned by management.

Position Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • FAA Commercial Single and Multi-Engine Pilot License
  • FAA Certified Flight Instructor
  • Minimum 1500 hours PIC and 500 hours of multi-engine flight time
  • Experience flying high performance piston twin engine aircraft
  • Ability to evaluate and verify pilot skills to safely operate single and multi-engine high-performance aircraft
  • Good judgement with the ability to make timely and safe decisions
  • Good interpersonal skills.
  • Good written and oral communication skills
  • Familiar with laws, regulations, and best practices applicable to aerial operations
  • Versatile, flexible, innovative, and willing to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm within a team
  • Proven ability to handle multiple priorities and meet deadlines
  • Must have and maintain a valid driver's license
  • Ability to travel up to 75% of time

LOCATION:
This is a remote work position with travel to locations to perform the Check Airman duties.
Vexcel Imaging offers a competitive compensation package and a friendly, collaborative culture that values personal initiative and professional achievement.
Vexcel is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. Vexcel is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status.
Vexcel Imaging is a leading provider of high-resolution aerial imagery and geospatial data, aerial remote sensor systems, 3D data, and fully integrated photogrammetric software. Vexcel imagery and data services are delivered via the Vexcel Data Platform (VDP) and used in a variety of industry solutions worldwide such as local and federal government programs, financial services, insurance, telecommunications, environmental, energy & utilities, mining, and many others that require the most accurate view of cities and lands in a consumable, digital format.
Location
OR GVA
Full-Time/Part-Time
Full-Time
EOE Statement
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
This position is currently accepting applications.

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