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Government Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Staff Pilot Test

Edwards, CA · On-site

$214K - $321K/yr

Candidate may conduct demonstration flights with customers, government officials or other personnel ... Provides test pilot expertise to assigned programs; technology/research efforts to ensure man ...

Research Pilot

Edwards, CA · On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe ... Should possess knowledge and first-hand experience necessary to succeed as a government contractor ...

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 ...

$120 - $190/hr

Perform instructor pilot duties or maintenance examiner duties for government aircrew members in the AFTD aircrew training program. * Coordinate usage of assets at home station and at temporary duty ...

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UAS Operator / Pilot

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$75K - $135K/yr

Our pilots can serve as both Air Vehicle Operators and External/Safety Pilots, operating fixed-wing ... S. Government Security Clearance. * Excellent communication and organizational skills.

PILOT

Aberdeen, MD · On-site +1

$142K - $185K/yr

You will serve as a Pilot and fly multi engine airplanes and/or helicopters on extended flights ... Serve as Government Flight Representative responsible for surveillance of all contractor flight and ...

Showing results 41-60

Government Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do government pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 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.
More about Government Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Government Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Government Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Government Pilot jobs?

The most popular types of Government Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Government Pilot jobs?

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

What job categories do people searching Government Pilot jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Government Pilot jobs are:

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

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

 

Pilot Instructor

Location: Various Locations* 

Clearance: Secret Clearance, or ability to obtain one


*Note: You would not support various locations but you would be assigned a location upon hire based on your preference.


NOVA Technologies is continuously looking for qualified candidates to fill new and upcoming Pilot Instructor positions for our current and upcoming government programs. If you are interested in joining our team now or at any point in the future, please submit your application for consideration. You will be asked to confirm your specific airframe experience (C130J, C-17, F-16, F-15E, HH-60G, etc.), location preferences, and availability to start a new position within the application.  


As a Pilot Instructor, you will contribute to the development and enhancement of skills through comprehensive training programs. This is a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic environment, collaborating with other aviation professionals to ensure the highest standards of safety, performance, and professionalism.


Job Duties:

  • Deliver high-quality flight instruction to aspiring pilots, including ground school, simulator sessions, and actual flight hours, while adhering to established curriculum guidelines and safety protocols.

  • Provide training for Visual Threat Recognition Avoidance Training (VTRAT).

  • Provide Crew Resource Management (CRM) and Instrument Refresher Course (IRC) training.

  • Instill a strong culture of safety by effectively communicating safety procedures, risk management strategies, and emergency response protocols to trainees.

  • Collaborate with curriculum development teams to create and refine training materials, flight plans, and course content to meet regulatory requirements and industry standards.

  • Conduct regular assessments and evaluations of trainees' progress, providing constructive feedback and guidance to support their development and growth.

  • Stay current with relevant aviation regulations, policies, and procedures, ensuring all training activities are in alignment with applicable standards and requirements.

  • Assist in the maintenance and upkeep of training aircraft, simulators, and other training equipment to ensure they are in optimal condition for safe and effective training sessions.

  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of trainee progress, training hours, and other administrative tasks as required by company policies and government regulations.

  • Foster open and effective communication with trainees, fellow instructors, and supervisory personnel to ensure a cohesive and supportive training environment.

  • Conduct ground training for other crewmembers to include diagnosis and remediation of student issues.

  • Assist in project and development work as assigned.

  • Perform administrative duties such as scheduling, record keeping, monitoring student progress, counseling, quality assurance, safety, security, and maintenance of training programs and equipment.


Qualifications:

  • Candidate must have prior experience in delivering military pilot academics and simulator training and be familiar with current instructional techniques and delivery methods

  • Bachelor’s Degree

  • Must have recent experience as an Instructor Pilot or Evaluator Pilot.

  • Must have EXPERT Common Immersive Theater Environment (XCITE) experience.

  • Completion of a formal USAF Instructor training course. 

  • Must have recent National Industrial Security Program Manual (NISPOM) related security management experience. 

  • Must have experience of use of the Computer-Aided Assessment System. 

  • Knowledge of and experience with the Visual Threat Recognition Avoidance Trainer (VTRAT).

  • Must be eligible for DoD Personnel Security Clearance

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey complex aviation concepts to diverse audiences.

  • Collaborative mindset, capable of working effectively within a team of aviation professionals.

  • A deep commitment to safety and a track record of adhering to strict safety protocols.

  • Must be thoroughly proficient in demonstrating, evaluating, diagnosing, and critiquing student performance; identifying learning difficulties; recognizing objectives not accomplished; and prescribing and conducting remedial instruction.

  • Must be physically able to enter the simulator, experience simulator motion, and take cognizance of attendees’ safety when on board the simulator.

  • Ability to adapt to changing training needs, technology, and regulations within the aviation industry.

  • Aptitude for identifying challenges and providing innovative solutions to enhance training effectiveness.

  • Proficiency in using aviation training software, flight simulators, and other relevant technology.


Veteran-founded in 1997, NOVA Technologies provides best in class Modeling & Simulation, Weapon Systems Training, Simulator Operations & Maintenance, Cybersecurity, and Mission Planning Support worldwide to the Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps and USSOCOM.


For over 25 years we have ensured that our nation’s Warfighters are put first - from initial training to their safe return home.


We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits and programs. NOVA Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity, consistent with Title VII), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable law