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Government Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

The Corporate pilot will communicate regularly with the Assistant chief pilots, to ensure that all ... Responsibilities Participate in ensuring that all government, industry and company safety and ...

Amentum is currently accepting applications for the position of Helicopter Pilot (Instructor) at ... Government approval and terms of a 12 month Employee Agreement. Compensation Details: $55.85 ...

Responsibilities • Participate in ensuring that all government, industry and company safety and ... Chief Pilot via the Safety Management System • Complete all required preflight planning and ...

Amentum is currently accepting applications for the position of Helicopter Pilot (Instructor) at ... Government approval and terms of a 12 month Employee Agreement. Compensation Details: $55.85 ...

$350K - $400K/yr

Relocation bonus iQuasar is seeking to fill a F-16 WIC Instructor Pilot at Thumrait, Oman. At ... S. government I-9 form, and successfully pass a government background check. * An active current ...

S. Government contract requirements, only U.S. citizens are eligible for this role. Preferred Skills * Associate of Science degree. * Graduate of DoD helicopter instructor pilot course. * Total ...

$350K - $400K/yr

Relocation bonus iQuasar is seeking to fill a F-16 WIC Instructor Pilot at Thumrait, Oman. At ... S. government I-9 form, and successfully pass a government background check. * An active current ...

Production / Training Pilot

Stratford, CT · On-site

$128K - $225K/yr

Pilots aircraft or acts as instructor pilot for training customer pilots and aircrew during ... May conduct demonstration flights with customers, government officials, or other personnel aboard ...

... and federal government (if sworn), to provide aerial view and support to ground units, and to ... Pilots helicopter for medical evacuation, EMS, public relations, photograph, VIP, training and ...

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Government Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do government pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 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 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 in the Government Pilot position, 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.

What is a Government Pilot job?

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.

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:
Infographic showing various Government Pilot job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

$170K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview

NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) Aircrew member performs duties in support of the operations of all aircraft assigned to applicable base location. Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe operations are provided as tasked. Aircraft are operated to meet Agency platform, research, and support aircraft requirements. AFRC aircraft are located at the main campus at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Deployed operations, both CONUS and OCONUS, are routine for these aircrew positions.

Pay Range $170,000-$190,000.

The pay range for this position is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, geographic location, and any applicable laws.

Responsibilities

A successful candidate will conduct full-time Pilot duties on a variety of NASA aircraft as assigned to include, but not limited to: C-20A, Gulfstream (III, IV, and V), Pilatus PC-12, T-34, RQ-4 Global Hawk, and TG-14.

Duties include:

  • Conducting flight operations in accordance with FAA, Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), and other applicable directives, regulations, and instructions.
  • Maintaining performance standards in accordance with directives, training plans and Flight Crew Branch policies to include: Knowledge of safety precautions, Knowledge of airfield operations, Demonstrating Emergency Bold Face procedures from memory, and Knowledge of aircraft systems, limitations and ATC regulations / procedures.
  • Participating in i3 and NASA-directed Continuation Training, meetings, and other forums mandated by the on-site management team.
  • Performing any and all on-site tasks necessary at operating locations for a safe, secure, and professional operation.
  • Direct support to any administrative or flight operations scheduling / record keeping as needed
  • Other duties as assigned

Candidate must also maintain proficiency, currency, and annual requirements in accordance with NPR 7900.3C, NPD 7900.4D, AFPD 8700.1 and AFOP 7900.3-006 as applicable.

NASA will provide training and qualification checks for aircrew, including required periodic simulator training

NASA authorized flight surgeon will provide periodic flight physicals for aircrew

Qualifications

Required Skills:

  • Bachelor's degree, or higher, from an accredited university or college (Required), with major study in an appropriate field of engineering, physical science, life science, or mathematics (Desired).
  • Must be able to pass random drug screenings. (Required)
  • Possess a current US passport, valid through period of employment. (Required)
  • Formal military training in expected duties (with DD 214 annotating AFSC / MOS qualification) or applicable civilian experience. (Highly Desired)
  • Possess an FAA commercial pilot license with instrument, multiengine and single engine land ratings or possess a pilot and instrument rating from the armed services. (Required)
  • Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft with 500 hours of special missions' experience (Highly Desired)
  • Must meet the security requirements of the position and pass a NASA Flight Medical Certification (Required).

Required Experience:

  • Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft with 500 hours of special missions' experience (Highly Desired)
  • Should possess knowledge and first-hand experience necessary to succeed as a government contractor providing direct support to NASA AFRC staff as required.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Must be able to create, maintain and update briefings and statistical reporting.
  • Must be able to obtain a DoD SECRET security clearance.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

  • Light to medium work. Ability to lift, carry, push, pull, see, hear, stoop, crouch, feel, handle; manual dexterity.
  • Outside work. Ability to tolerate conditions in a deployed environment to include inclement weather, rain, humidity, cold and extreme heat. May be exposed to dust, fumes, odors, chemicals, and confined spaces.
  • Close, distance, color and peripheral vision and depth perception.
  • Ability to read and comprehend technical manuals and instructions; procedures, safety instructions, memos, reports. Ability to write at a level to relay data, details and information. Ability to perform shop math. Ability to speak clearly and concisely to relay information.
  • Office conditions: Moderate noise level. May be required to sit at computer station and/or type on keyboard for extended periods of time. May be required to lift objects such as laptop and office copy paper. May be required to view and read computer monitor for extended periods of time. May be required to take verbal messages per phone and face-to-face contact. Will occasionally be required to stand and walk to deliver items within office or on the flight line.
  • Flight line working conditions: Will be required to work day or night. May be exposed to high noise levels. Will be required to fly long missions (up to 12 hours) at high altitude in a confined space. May be subject to the altitude or physiological risks normally associated with flying.
About i3

i3 is a technically diverse, 100% team member owned business, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services, electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis, UAS system integration and flight operations, full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training, simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services, Missile Defense Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.

Perks of being a team member owner include:

  • Long-term financial security
  • Higher job satisfaction
  • Greater job security
  • Personal and professional growth
  • Great company culture

Other outstanding benefits:

  • Excellent insurance coverage
  • 401(k) match
  • Generous PTO
  • Health and wellness incentives
  • Tuition and certification reimbursement
  • Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares

We work hard. We compete hard. We play hard. Apply now to join us!

Employment Type: FULL_TIME