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Guard Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HELICOPTER PILOT

Las Cruces, NM · On-site +1

$110.87K - $144.14K/yr

NEW MEXICO ARMY NATIONAL GUARD *You must be a member of the New Mexico Army National Guard to be eligible for this position This National Guard position is for a HELICOPTER PILOT, Position ...

Pilot

Mobile, AL · On-site

Cooper Marine Pilots are responsible for safe and efficient operations and performance of his crew ... Coordinating with shoreside management and the Coast Guard on all reportable incidents * Conducting ...

Cooper Marine Pilots are responsible for safe and efficient operations and performance of his crew ... Coordinating with shoreside management and the Coast Guard on all reportable incidents * Conducting ...

Description Cooper Marine Pilots are responsible for safe and efficient operations and performance ... Coordinating with shoreside management and the Coast Guard on all reportable incidents * Conducting ...

AIRPLANE PILOT (TITLE 32)

IL · On-site +1

$131.84K - $171.40K/yr

This National Guard position is for a AIRPLANE PILOT (TITLE 32), Position Description Number D0253P02 and is part of the IL 126, National Guard. Learn more about this agency Duties Help As a AIRPLANE ...

Pilot

Mobile, AL · On-site

Cooper Marine Pilots are responsible for safe and efficient operations and performance of his crew ... Coordinating with shoreside management and the Coast Guard on all reportable incidents * Conducting ...

AIRCRAFT PILOT

$89.51K - $116.36K/yr

This National Guard position is for a AIRCRAFT PILOT, Position Description Number NGD0711000 and is part of the Guam State Army Aviation, National Guard. Learn more about this agency Duties Help ...

Apply Description Cooper Marine Pilots are responsible for safe and efficient operations and ... Coordinating with shoreside management and the Coast Guard on all reportable incidents * Conducting ...

$131.84K - $171.40K/yr

This is a Title 32 Excepted Service National Guard Employee Position Description Which Requires Military Membership*** As a HELICOPTER PILOT (Title 32) with the Texas Army National Guard, your duties ...

$131.84K/yr

... instructor pilots, and aeroscout observers in flying techniques and methods of instruction ... For Army National Guard positions, must have working experiences in civilian aviation programs; or ...

AIRPLANE PILOT (Title 32)

Tulsa, OK · On-site +1

$131.84K - $171.40K/yr

This National Guard position is for a AIRPLANE PILOT (Title 32), Position Description Number D0253P02 and is part of the OK 138th Fighter Wing, Oklahoma Air National Guard. Learn more about this ...

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Guard Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do guard pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for guard 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Guard Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Guard Pilot, you need a commercial or military pilot's license, strong aviation knowledge, and a thorough understanding of flight safety protocols. Familiarity with advanced avionics, navigation systems, and mission-specific equipment is typically required, along with completion of specialized military training and certifications. Exceptional decision-making, situational awareness, and teamwork skills are vital for handling high-pressure situations and coordinating with ground and air personnel. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring mission success and maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational effectiveness.

What are some common challenges Guard Pilots face during deployments, and how can they prepare for them?

Guard Pilots often encounter unique challenges during deployments, such as rapidly changing mission requirements, operating in unfamiliar or austere environments, and balancing civilian and military commitments. Preparing for these challenges involves maintaining a high level of proficiency through regular training, staying adaptable to new technologies and mission types, and fostering strong communication with both military teams and civilian employers. Building resilience and support networks within the unit also helps Guard Pilots manage the demands of deployment effectively.

What are Guard Pilots?

Guard Pilots are military aviators who serve in the Air National Guard or Army National Guard. Their primary duties include piloting aircraft for both state and federal missions, such as disaster response, homeland security, and combat operations. Guard Pilots may fly various types of aircraft, including fighters, cargo planes, and helicopters, depending on their unit and assignment. They balance military responsibilities with civilian life, often serving part-time while maintaining a civilian career. Training and qualifications are similar to those of active duty military pilots.

What is the difference between Guard Pilot vs Security Pilot?

AspectGuard PilotSecurity Pilot
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, Security ClearanceCommercial Pilot License, Security Clearance
Work EnvironmentAirborne security patrols, private security flightsAirborne security operations, surveillance flights
Employer & Industry UsagePrivate security firms, corporate securityGovernment agencies, private security companies

Both Guard Pilots and Security Pilots require similar certifications and often operate in airborne security roles. However, Guard Pilots typically focus on private security flights for corporations or individuals, while Security Pilots may work more frequently with government agencies or in surveillance roles. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify career paths and job expectations in airborne security services.

More about Guard Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Guard Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Guard Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Guard Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Guard Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Guard Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Guard Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Guard Pilot job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
HELICOPTER PILOT

HELICOPTER PILOT

Army National Guard Units

Las Cruces, NM • On-site, Remote

$110.87K - $144.14K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Army National Guard rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Summary
THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 32 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION.
NEW MEXICO ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

*You must be a member of the New Mexico Army National Guard to be eligible for this position
This National Guard position is for a HELICOPTER PILOT, Position Description Number D2929000 and is part of the NM Army Aviation Support Facility, National Guard.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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This position is eligible to be used at an Aviation Classification Repair Activity Depot (AVCRAD) or any Army Aviation Facility where the requirement is deemed appropriate by the AVCRAD Facility Supervisor or State Army Aviation Officer (SAAO). The purpose of this position is to pilot a variety of rotary wing aircraft in support of the missions and functions of the geographical area.
  • Pilots a variety of on one or more of the following helicopters: Attack Helicopter (AH-64); Cargo Helicopter (CH-47); Utility Helicopter (UH-60 series), (LUH-72 series) and others when assigned. Routinely operates with short takeoffs and landing capability, in all types of weather, day, and night over a variety of terrains and open bodies of water. Flights are made using landing facilities ranging from modern, improved airport with paved runways and navigational aids to unimproved strips of remote, isolated villages. This position will be required to make reconnaissance and observation flights. Makes test flights and checks all systems in connection with maintenance actions and takes necessary action to correct malfunctions. Participates in all-weather search and rescue operations as required utilizing a thorough knowledge of the terrain features of the geographical area. Conducts flight checks following repairs, maintenance, or installation of approved aircraft system modifications. Responsible for transportation of cargo and transporting passengers, among a variety of familiar destinations
  • Performs maintenance operation checks (MOCs) and general test flights of aircraft to ensure airworthiness upon completion of extensive disassembly for maintenance, repair or replacement of components or aircraft systems. Performs general test flights of aircraft upon completion of extensive disassembly, reassembly, and maintenance, repair, or replacement of parts where tests cannot determine the safe and or proper functioning of aircraft components or systems; and ensures the airworthiness component or aircraft systems. Performs acceptance test flights of new aircraft when required.
  • Serves as a member of a board pertaining to aviation accidents, flight evaluation, collateral investigations, standardization, and federal recognition.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • NATIONAL GUARD MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED.
  • This is an excepted service position that requires membership in a compatible military assignment in the employing state's National Guard, required prior to the effective date of placement.
  • Selectee will be required to wear the military uniform.
  • Acceptance of an excepted service position constitutes concurrence with these requirements as a condition of employment.
  • Males born after 31 December 1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • Federal employment suitability as determined by a background investigation.
  • May be required to successfully complete a trial period.
  • Participation in direct deposit is mandatory.
  • Incumbent is subject to uncommon tours of duty, rotational shift assignments and compensation
    and/or overtime duty.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain the appropriate security clearance of the position.
  • This position is covered by the Domestic Violence Misdemeanor Amendment (30 Sep 96) of the
    Gun Control Act (Lautenberg Amendment) of 1968.
  • An individual convicted of a qualifying crime of domestic violence may not perform the duties of this position.
  • Incumbent must possess and continue to maintain a US Army Class II Flight Physical.
  • Must be UH-72 A/B qualified, 50 hours P/C qualified within a year.

Qualifications
Military Grades: Officer (O-3 and below), Warrant Officer (CW2 and above)
Compatible Military Assignments: OBR: 15A
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:
GS-12 Army National Guard Warrant Officer Position: Must demonstrate the following specialized experience competencies (skills, knowledge, and abilities) to qualify for entry appointments to GS-2181-12 Army National Guard Dual Status Warrant Officer positions. Must have working experiences in civilian aviation programs; or, in military service aviation programs (active duty or reserve components); or, in the Army National Guard Aviation Support facilities; or, in Air National Guard Wing/ Operations Groups. To qualify, the applicant must have at least two years specialized competencies in operating a specific main-frame military aircraft, mission planning, and mission preparation. Experienced in reviewing and analyzing mission tasking, intelligence, and weather information. Experienced in filing flight plans and conducting crew briefings. Experienced in aircraft preflight inspections, aircraft loading, and equipment assessments. Experienced in performing or supervising work procedures involved in navigation, in-flight refueling, search and rescue operations or surveillance and reconnaissance. Competent in conducting or supervising the training of crew members in simple to complex mission specific tasks. Experienced in developing plans and policies, monitoring operations, and advising commanders. Knowledge is required in flight theory, air navigation, meteorology, flying directives, mission tactics, and operating procedures. Experienced in the unit flying, explosive, and ground safety programs in accordance with Department of Defense, Department of the Army, National Guard Bureau, and/or Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies, regulations, and directives.
GS-12 Army National Guard Officer Positions: Must demonstrate the following specialized experience competencies (skills, knowledge, and abilities) to qualify for appointments to GS-2181-12 Army National Guard Dual Status Officer positions. Must have working experiences in civilian aviation programs; or, military service aviation programs (active duty or reserve components); or, in the Army National Guard Aviation Support facilities; or, in the Air National Guard Operations Groups. Qualification competencies are determined by three factors in combination: The aircraft operated; the nature and purpose of assignments; and, the degree of hazard. Experienced in piloting and instructing pilot skills in one or more of the following main-frame/military aircraft: Fixed-wing, rotary, or remotely piloted aircraft (RPA). Although a variety of piloting administrative tasks are performed in support of an Army National Guard aviation program, experiences include the abilities to train and instruct others in the piloting of a main-frame military aircraft. Experienced in mission tasking, intelligence reporting, and applying weather information. Experienced in supervising and/or filing of flight plans and conducting crew briefings. Experienced in aircraft preflight inspections, aircraft loading, equipment assessments, and mission manning. Experienced in operating aircraft controls and equipment. Experienced in performing or supervising the work procedures involved in navigation, in-flight refueling; search and rescue operations; or surveillance and reconnaissance. Ability to conduct or supervise the training of crew members in simple to complex mission specific tasks. Experienced in developing plans and policies, monitoring operations, and advising commanders. Experienced in flight theory, air navigation, meteorology, flying directives, aircraft operating procedures, and mission tactics. Must have at least two years experiences in instructing others in a specific air-frame/military aircraft. Competent to complete various piloting administrative tasks performed in support of Army National Guard aviation programs. Skilled to instruct others to pilot military aircraft on a regular and recurring basis. Experienced in the aviation unit quality control management programs; plus, skilled in the unit flying, explosive, and ground safety programs in accordance with Department of the Army, National Guard Bureau, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration directives. Experienced in following directives, regulations, accident reports, safety data, and local operating conditions to determine unit safety program requirements. Experienced in coordinating with appropriate agencies to ensure compliance with all applicable safety regulations and programs. Experienced in one or more missions such as, air-to-air; air-to- ground; mortar-to-arm escort; surveillance; reconnaissance; surface attack; killer-scout; target illumination; or laser targeting. Experienced in piloting manned or unmanned aircraft. Experiences may include the traditional "stick and rudder" type controls for piloting aircraft direction, altitude, and speed. Experienced in on-board aircraft instrumentation and aircraft mounted video cameras. Experienced in visual flight-rule type flying and aircraft instrument flying. Experienced in flying simulated "real world" combat and non-combat missions and terrain. Experienced in planning, scheduling, and conducting flights through Federal Aviation Administration controlled national airspace. Experienced in applying operational directives, training directives, instructions, standard operating procedures, and special instructions of National Guard Bureau, United States Army, and gaining commands. Experienced in working independently to plan and perform work assignments. Experienced in completing safe and efficient missions through the use of Operational Risk Management. Experienced in cancelling flying activities, diverting aircraft, dictating mission requirements, approving specific activities, coordinating for airport or airspace utilization with FAA, and/or, directing emergency actions involving unit support agencies. Experienced in using applicable Army aviation regulations, policies, requirements and standards, skills and practices; and, the applying instructional techniques to the training of other pilots in the Army National Guard flying facilities. Experienced in conducting particular combat tactics, missions, or specific main-frame aircraft; or, flying in mountainous terrain, performing tactical remote site evaluation, performing landings on remote sites, providing ground and flight training, and conducting night-vision operations and instruction. Experienced in standardization and evaluation programs, written ground examinations, emergency procedures, and aircrew performance standards in accordance with applicable directives and Federal Aviation Administration certification requirements. Experienced in reviewing and complying with applicable service flight publications and directives for accuracy and currency; and knowledgeable of weapons and tactics for applicable military aircraft. Experienced in maintaining detailed wartime and peacetime contingency plans and supplements for unit mobility, deployment, strange field operations/ employment, and redeployment.
Education
Army National Guard Warrant Officer Positions- Must have a high school diploma or general education development (GED) diploma. An undergraduate degree from an accredited college/university is optimum. Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs or must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools.
Army National Guard Officer Positions- For Army National Guard Second and First Lieutenants must be actively pursuing an under- graduate degree with at least 90 validated credit hours in a specified program. For Captains and above, must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited college/university. A Graduate Degree from an accredited civilian academic college or from an equivalent professional military education school is optimum. Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs OR must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools.
You must provide transcripts or other documentation to support your Educational claims. To receive credit for Education, you must provide documentation of proof that you meet the Education requirements for this position.
Additional information
If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/1959 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you be registered or you are not eligible for appointment in this agency (Register | Selective Service System : Selective Service System (sss.gov)).
PROBATIONARY PERIOD: As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 2-year probationary period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider:
- your performance and conduct;
- the needs and interests of the agency;
- whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and
- whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.
Upon completion of your probationary period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the ...

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About Army National Guard

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The Army National Guard, headquartered in Arlington, VA, is a key constituent of the United States military, falling under the sector of Defense and Public Safety. Since its founding in 1636, it has served dual roles as both a state and federal military force that is activated in response to domestic emergencies and overseas combat missions. The Army National Guard embodies core values, including loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage, intending to uphold peace and serve the nation with unwavering dedication.

Industry

National security and international affairs

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US