ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Independent Contractor Helicopter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Army Forces Command

PILOT

Aberdeen, MD · On-site +1

$142K - $185K/yr

Serve as Government Flight Representative responsible for surveillance of all contractor flight and ... Helicopter Up to 250 hours flying time acquired in heavy multi-engine airplanes may be substituted.

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Arlington, TN · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Searcy, AR · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Jackson, MS · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Cordova, TN · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Hot Springs, AR · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Brandon, MS · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Jackson, MS · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Memphis, TN · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Gulfport, MS · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Nashville, TN · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Columbia, TN · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Ruston, LA · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Clarksville, TN · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Benton, AR · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Biloxi, MS · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Bowling Green, KY · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

Dart

CDL-A Independent Contractor

Hendersonville, TN · On-site

$400/wk

Dart is Now Seeking CDL-A Independent Contractors w/ LP Opportunities CDL-A Independent Contractors ... Mainstream contractors are issued an EFS Fuel Card (no user charge if used at Pilot Flying J)

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All Jobsfreelance JobsTravel JobsAviation JobsPilot JobsIndependent Contractor Helicopter Pilot Jobs

Independent Contractor Helicopter Pilot information

See salary details

$71.5K

$100.2K

$123.5K

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

As of Aug 18, 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor helicopter pilot?

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.

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.

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.

How much do independent contractor helicopter pilots make?

Independent contractor helicopter pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, type of flights, and hours worked. Pay can vary widely based on the complexity of missions, location, and whether they work on a contract or per-flight basis.

Is there a high demand for independent contractor helicopter pilots?

The demand for independent contractor helicopter pilots varies by industry and region but generally remains steady in sectors such as aerial surveying, emergency services, and tourism. Pilots with specialized certifications, experience, and skills in operating different helicopter models are often sought after, especially during peak seasons or in areas with active infrastructure projects.

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
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Helicopter Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,249 per year, or $48.2 per hour.

PILOT

U.S. Army Forces Command

Aberdeen, MD • On-site, Remote

$142K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Summary
About the Position: You will serve as a Pilot and fly multi engine airplanes and/or helicopters on extended flights supporting the airlift requirements of CBRNE Analytical and Remediation Activity (CARA), 20th CBRNE Command, and additional subordinate elements. The 20th CBRNE Command is the higher headquarters for the majority of Army's CBRNE and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) units assigned to US Army Forces Command.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
Help
  • Operates multi engine airplanes and/or helicopters in support of CBRNE Analytical and Remediation Activity (CARA), 20th CBRNE Command, and additional subordinate elements.
  • Serves as rotary and/or fixed wing instructor pilot and instructs and evaluates rated pilots in basic and advanced flight procedures and maneuvers.
  • Serve as Government Flight Representative responsible for surveillance of all contractor flight and ground operations involving Army aircraft.
  • Provides aircraft qualification training to newly assigned pilots and maintains individual aircrew training records.
  • Conducts flights on a wide variety of airfields and landing sites to include day and night under favorable and unfavorable weather conditions.
  • Transports hazardous materiel to include neat chemical agents, biological agents and recovered chemical warfare materiel.
  • Serve as rotary and/or fixed wing maintenance test pilot and performs general and limited test flights following maintenance repairs and modifications.
  • Monitors flight and ground operations detecting and correcting unsafe practices and procedures; and advises the detachment commander on all matters pertaining to aviation safety.

Requirements
Help
Conditions of employment
  • Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
  • This position has a Temporary Duty (TDY) or business travel requirement of 50% or less of the time.
  • This position requires FAA License: commercial or higher with the following privileges multi engine airplane, instrument airplane and commercial helicopter, instrument helicopter or equivalent military ratings.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a determination of eligibility for a Secret security clearance or access for the duration of employment. A background investigation and credit check are required.
  • This position requires the completion of a pre-employment Physical Examination and an annual examination thereafter to ensure the continued, required level of physical health and ability or fitness to perform the duties of the position.
  • The duties of this position meet the criteria for compliance with Federal and Department of the Army Drug Free Workplace Programs. Detection of the presence of drugs is warranted.
  • This position is subject to a pre-employment screening, and random testing thereafter, to include testing based on reasonable suspicion and testing due to direct involvement with an on-duty accident.
  • This position is subject to a one-year probationary period unless the appointee has previously met the requirements as described in 5 CFR Part 315. While probationary, the selectee can be terminated with limited appeal rights.
  • Due to the nature of this position, employees are required to work both planned and unscheduled overtime.
  • Flight physical requirements must be completed before the final job offer is made if not currently in a DA flight status.
  • This position requires enrollment/certification in the Chemical Personnel Reliability Program (CPRP) in accordance with AR 50-6, as a condition of employment.
  • This position requires the employee to use personal protective equipment provided by the employer.

Qualifications
Who May Apply: Only applicants who meet one of the employment authority categories below are eligible to apply for this job. You will be asked to identify which category or categories you meet, and to provide documents which prove you meet the category or categories you selected. See Proof of Eligibility for an extensive list of document requirements for all employment authorities.
  • 30 Percent or More Disabled Veterans
  • Current Civilian Employees of the Command
  • Current Department of Army Civilian Employees
  • Current Department of Defense (DOD) Civilian Employee (non-Army)
  • Domestic Defense Industrial Base/Major Range and Test Facilities Base Civilian Personnel Workforce
  • Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan
  • Land Management Workforce Flexibility Act
  • Military Spouses, under Executive Order (E.O.) 13473
  • Non-Department of Defense (DoD) Transfer
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technician Eligible
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD MR and NG Preference Eligible Tech Receiving Disability Retirement
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Retained Grade Preference Eligible
  • Reinstatement
  • Veterans Employment Opportunity Act (VEOA) of 1998

Basic Requirements for the 2181 Pilot Occupational Series:
  • Medical Certificate: At the time of initial appointment, candidates for all pilot positions must possess a current first or second-class medical certificate in accordance with FAA regulations; both meet the intent of the requirement. You must submit supporting documentation for this requirement.
  • A current Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Commercial Pilot Certificate and/or the appropriate military rating. Current Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certificate with commercial or higher with the following privileges: multi engine airplane, instrument airplane and/or commercial helicopter, instrument helicopter or equivalent military ratings. NOTE: Candidates establishing eligibility based on military flight experience must provide official orders, forms, or logbooks showing their status as a rated military pilot, flight instructor, or flight examiner, as appropriate. Please note - the pilot certificate must include the rating(s) appropriate to the work of the position to be filled. For example, a position that involves flying a multi-engine airplane to various destinations under instrument flight rules would require the Commercial Pilot Certificate with the airplane, multi-engine, and instrument ratings or appropriate U.S. military ratings. You must submit supporting documentation for this requirement.
  • Minimum Flight Hours Requirement: Applicants for this position must meet certain minimum flight hour requirements, including recent flight experience. Minimum requirements are total flight time 1500 hours, pilot in command 250 hours, night flying 75 hours, flying time in the last 12 months 100 hours, heavy multi-engine airplane 500 hours (heavy is defined as gross takeoff weight in excess of 12,500 pounds), heavy helicopter 500 hours (Up to 250 hours flying time acquired in heavy multi-engine airplanes may be substituted), 75 hours instrument (at least 10 of the required hours must have been logged in actual instrument weather. The balance may have been acquired in a flight simulator or as other types of instrument flight time, e.g., hood instrument). (Note: documentation of flight hours must be provided at time of application). You must submit supporting documentation for this requirement.
    • When the position requires operation of heavy multi-engine airplanes (i.e., gross takeoff weight in excess of 12,500 pounds) at least 50 percent of the flight hours must have been in such heavy airplanes, except as indicated below. Up to 250 hours flying time acquired in heavy helicopters (gross takeoff weight in excess of 12,500 pounds) may be substituted (Note: documentation of flight hours must be provided at time of application).
    • Helicopter Up to 250 hours flying time acquired in heavy multi-engine airplanes may be substituted.
    • Instrument at least 10 of the required hours must have been logged in actual instrument weather. The balance may have been acquired in a flight simulator or as other types of instrument flight time, e.g., hood instrument. You must submit supporting documentation for this requirement. *These minimum qualifications requirements can also be found at the URL below: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/2100/aircraft-operation-series-2181/

In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level in the Federal service which includes flying heavy multi engine airplanes and/or helicopters on extended flights, transporting passengers and/or cargo to a wide variety of domestic and foreign points, and managing the suitability of aircraft components or systems for a flight activity/aviation program. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-12).
You will be evaluated on the basis of your level of competency in the following areas:
  • Attention to Detail
  • Customer Service
  • Decision Making
  • Flexibility
  • Influencing/Negotiating
  • Integrity/Honesty
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Learning
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Self-Management
  • Stress Tolerance
  • Teamwork

Time in Grade Requirement: Applicants who have held a General Schedule (GS) position within the last 52 weeks must have 52 weeks of Federal service at the next lower grade or equivalent (GS-12).
Separated Military Members: Resumes will be accepted from members of the Armed Forces who indicate in their applications that they are available for appointment within 120 days of the closing date of this announcement. Military members may be appointed while on terminal/transitional leave, before the effective date of their military retirement/separation.
Military Retirees: A retired member of the Armed Forces may not be appointed to a civilian position in DoD (including a non-appropriated fund position) within 180 days after retirement and are subject to the provisions of 5 United States Code 3326 or 5 U.S.C. 5305.
Education
Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience aloneno substitution of education for experience is permitted.
Additional information
  • Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
  • You will be required to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship.
  • One year trial/probationary period may be required.
  • Direct deposit of pay is required.
  • Selection is subject to restrictions resulting from Department of Defense referral system for displaced employees.
  • If you have retired from federal service and you are interested in employment as a reemployed annuitant, see the information in the Reemployed Annuitant information sheet.
  • This is a Career Field 64 - Aviation position.
  • Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement.
  • Salary includes applicable locality pay or Local Market Supplement.
  • You may qualify for reimbursement of relocation expenses in accordance with agency policy.
  • Recruitment incentives may be authorized.
  • Permanent Change of Station (PCS) allowances may be authorized, subject to the provisions of the Joint Travel Regulations and an agency determination that a PCS move is in the Government Interest.

Expand Hide additional information
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
Help
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.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

Apply