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Independent Contractor Helicopter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Independent Viewer

Augusta, GA

$25/hr

International advertising giant needs 100 viewers in the Augusta area who are over the age of 21 to invest up to 10 hours weekly providing comments on commercials, TV pilot programs, movie trailers ...

Blue Air Training

Pilot (Part-Time)

North Las Vegas, NV · On-site

OV-10 Bronco, PC-9, IAR-823 Brasov, Bell-206 helicopter, and A-90 Raider in support of our customer ... Must be a self-starter, able to work independently or as part of a team. Must maintain a FAA issued ...

Blue Air Training

Pilot (Part-Time)

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

OV-10 Bronco, PC-9, IAR-823 Brasov, Bell-206 helicopter, and A-90 Raider in support of our customer ... Must be a self-starter, able to work independently or as part of a team. Must maintain a FAA issued ...

Blue Air Training

Pilot (Part-Time)

Avon Park, FL · On-site

OV-10 Bronco, PC-9, IAR-823 Brasov, Bell-206 helicopter, and A-90 Raider in support of our customer ... Must be a self-starter, able to work independently or as part of a team. Must maintain a FAA issued ...

Hillsboro Aviation

B205A1++ Fire/Utility Pilot

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

About Hillsboro Aviation Founded in 1980, Hillsboro Aviation offers complete helicopter and ... Ideal candidates are engaging, energetic, and driven; can work independently within his/her areas ...

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

BHH Pilot

Kahului, HI · On-site

Have a Commercial-instrument Helicopter Rating. * Must be able to communicate effectively and ... Must be a team player with the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment. * Ability ...

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

BHH Pilot

Lihue, HI · On-site

Have a Commercial-instrument Helicopter Rating. * Must be able to communicate effectively and ... Must be a team player with the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment. * Ability ...

Ball Arena

SkyCam Pilot

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

Title: Pilot Department: Production SkyCam Business Unit: SkyCam Location: Fort Worth, Texas ... Independent Contractor or OCE Job Type: Contract Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE) is an ...

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All JobsIndependent Contractor Helicopter Pilot Jobs

Independent Contractor Helicopter Pilot information

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$71.5K

$100.2K

$123.5K

How much do independent contractor helicopter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor helicopter pilot in the United States is $100,249.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an independent contractor helicopter pilot?

An independent contractor helicopter pilot is a licensed pilot who operates helicopters on a contract basis rather than as a direct employee of a single company. These pilots are typically self-employed and may provide services such as aerial photography, charter flights, search and rescue, utility work, or agricultural spraying to various clients. They are responsible for securing their own contracts, managing their schedules, maintaining their certifications, and often providing their own insurance and equipment. This role offers flexibility and variety but also requires strong business management skills and the ability to work independently.

Can pilots be independent contractors?

Yes, helicopter pilots can work as independent contractors if they operate their own aircraft or provide services on a contract basis. Many pilots in this role are self-employed, managing their schedules and equipment, but they must meet licensing, certification, and insurance requirements. Employment status depends on the specific arrangement with clients or companies, and some pilots may also work as employees depending on the employer's structure.

What are some common challenges faced by independent contractor helicopter pilots, and how can they be addressed?

Independent contractor helicopter pilots often face challenges such as irregular work schedules, varying client expectations, and the need to maintain their own equipment and certifications. Because assignments can fluctuate, pilots must be highly adaptable and proactive in networking to secure consistent contracts. Managing paperwork, insurance, and compliance with aviation regulations is also crucial. Building strong relationships with clients and staying organized can help mitigate these challenges and lead to more stable opportunities.

Is there a high demand for helicopter pilots?

The demand for helicopter pilots, including independent contractor pilots, is generally steady due to their roles in emergency services, transportation, and aerial work. Job availability can vary based on industry needs, geographic location, and pilot experience, with certifications such as commercial pilot licenses being essential for employment. Overall, opportunities exist but may require specialized skills and certifications.

How much do independent helicopter pilots make?

Independent helicopter pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, type of work, and flight hours. Pilots with specialized skills, certifications, and a strong safety record can command higher rates, especially for commercial or aerial work such as filming, surveying, or charter services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Independent Contractor Helicopter Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Helicopter Pilot, you need an FAA commercial or ATP helicopter pilot license, strong flight skills, and substantial flight hours, often with specialized ratings or endorsements. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, aircraft maintenance software, and adherence to aviation regulations is typically required. Exceptional situational awareness, decision-making, and effective communication are vital soft skills for ensuring safety and client satisfaction. These competencies are crucial for navigating challenging flight conditions, complying with industry standards, and maintaining a strong professional reputation in a competitive field.

Can you make money as a private helicopter pilot?

Independent contractor helicopter pilots can earn income through various flying jobs such as tours, charters, aerial photography, and training. Earnings depend on experience, certifications, flight hours, and the type of work performed, with many pilots supplementing income through multiple contracts or specialized services.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Helicopter Pilot vs Commercial Helicopter Pilot?

AspectIndependent Contractor Helicopter PilotCommercial Helicopter Pilot
CredentialsCommercial Pilot Certificate, specific ratingsCommercial Pilot Certificate, specific ratings
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed, contract-based flightsEmployed by companies or operators, scheduled flights
Employer/Industry UsageContracts with clients, freelance workEmployers or flight companies, industry standard
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding freelance vs employed rolesClarifying employment status and job scope

Independent Contractor Helicopter Pilots operate on a freelance basis, contracting directly with clients for specific flights, while Commercial Helicopter Pilots are typically employed by companies or operators to perform scheduled flights. Both roles require similar certifications but differ mainly in employment structure and work environment.

What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Helicopter Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Helicopter Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Helicopter Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Helicopter Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Helicopter Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Helicopter Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Helicopter Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Helicopter Pilot jobs are:
Independent Contractor Helicopter Pilot jobs near you
Instructor / Developmental Test Pilot (DTP)

Instructor / Developmental Test Pilot (DTP)

CACI International, Inc.

Fort Campbell, KY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Instructor / Developmental Test Pilot (DTP)
Job Category: Aviation
Time Type: Full time
Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Secret
Employee Type: Regular
Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 50%
Type of Travel: Continental US
* * *
The Opportunity:
CACI has an immediate opening for an Instructor / Developmental Test Pilot located in Fort Campbell, KY. As the selected Instructor / Developmental Test Pilot (DTP), you will assist in curriculum development for the MH-47 Active Parallel Actuator Subsystem (APAS) and follow-on instruction of the system to the operational force.
Responsibilities:
  • Develop, coordinate, and execute test plans, procedures, and reports.
  • Collaborate with program office, engineers, and developers to ensure system performance meets system specifications and user requirements.
  • Conduct developmental test flights on new or modified SOA helicopters and upgraded systems to evaluate performance, operational suitability, and safety.
  • May perform maintenance test flights (MTFs) on primary model aircraft which have undergone maintenance, modification, or overhaul, or on new production aircraft, where a follow-up/acceptance MTF is not performed by the Government.
  • Comply with all flight regulations, rules, and standards in accordance with (IAW) DCMA INST 8210.1D, AR 95-1, USASOC Sup 1 to AR 95-1, ARSOA 3-04.11, 160th RTSOP, and applicable ARSOA series Aircrew Training Manuals.
  • Provide flight instruction to students on topics within the flight instruction curriculum.
  • Train Commissioned Officers, Warrant Officers, Government, Partner Nation and Contractor rotary wing aviators in the basic mission skills to conduct night vision goggle (NVG) helicopter operations at terrain flight altitudes under various light and weather conditions to standard per the ARSOA-47 Aircrew Training Manual.
  • Qualify Commissioned Officers, Warrant Officers, Government, and Contractor rotary wing aviators for duty as a Basic Mission Qualified (BMQ) Pilot, Instructor Pilot, and/or Maintenance Test Pilot in the MH- 47G ARSOA rotary wing airframes.
  • Perform crew duties during training support flights, recovery flights, demonstration flights, and as co-pilot for maintenance test flights when approved by the GFR.
  • Assist with training schedules and aircraft scheduling.
  • Coordinate aircraft and resource scheduling to support POI training.
  • Responsible for project planning, coordination, execution, and reporting.
  • Represent the SOA user at conferences, meetings, and other industry events related to helicopter development, testing, and emerging technologies.

Qualifications:
Required:
  • Secret Security Clearance.
  • Minimum of 15 years' experience with military rotary wing aircraft.
  • Qualified in the MH-47 model aircraft.
  • Graduate of DoD course of instruction for Instructor Pilots
  • Current FAA commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument Rating (Helicopter) as required by AR 95-20.
  • 2,000-hours minimum pilot/copilot experience in rotary wing aircraft.
  • 1,000 hours as a Pilot in Command (PIC).
  • 500 hours flying with Night Vision Goggles (NVG).
  • Minimum of 3 years' experience with current aircraft and aircraft related technical systems development, architecture, integration testing, fielding, and sustainment.
  • Bachelors' degree in technical or management field.
  • Minimum of two years' experience as a Fully Mission Qualified (FMQ), Flight Lead (FL), Standardization Instructor Pilot (SIP) or Instructor Pilot (IP) in Army Special Operations rotary wing helicopters.
  • Graduate of the US Army Instructor Pilot Course or have completed an equivalency evaluation conducted by the Directorate of Evaluation and Standardization, U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence.

Desired:
  • Qualified in an approved Crew Dunker or equivalent.
  • Qualified on Emergency Breathing Device (HEEDS).

What You Can Expect:
A culture of integrity.
At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust.
CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth.
Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy.
Pay Range:
There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.
The proposed salary range for this position is:
$94,600 - $208,000
CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.

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