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Independent Contractor Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... resources and outside contractors to successfully complete job activities. This is a non ... Understanding of when to make an independent decision and when to ask for help. * Has interest and ...

... resources and outside contractors to successfully complete job activities. This is a non ... Understanding of when to make an independent decision and when to ask for help. * Has interest and ...

$95K - $143K/yr

As part of the world's largest independent flight test organization, supporting both US Government ... teams composed of government, military, contractor, and industry personnel. Roles ...

Work with external vendors and contractors to specify, purchase, and install equipment.Commission ... independently as well as in a diverse team, detail oriented, and safety commitment.Excited about ...

Inside Sales Representative - Full-Cycle Small Business Sales Commission-Only Independent Contractor | 3-Month Renewable Pilot About Virtu3D Virtu3D is an AI-powered, 3D-native product-creation ...

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Independent Contractor Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do independent contractor pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor 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 some of the unique challenges faced by Independent Contractor Pilots compared to full-time airline pilots?

Independent Contractor Pilots often manage their own schedules, contracts, and travel logistics, which can require significant self-organization and flexibility. Unlike airline pilots with set routes and support teams, contractor pilots may fly a variety of aircraft for different clients, adapting quickly to new procedures and work environments. They are also responsible for maintaining their own credentials, insurance, and compliance with all regulatory requirements. This autonomy provides greater freedom but also requires a proactive approach to time management, professional networking, and personal safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Independent Contractor Pilot position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Pilot, you need a valid commercial pilot’s license, extensive flight experience, and strong knowledge of aviation regulations. Proficiency with navigation systems, flight planning software, and safety management systems is typically required, along with up-to-date certifications such as an FAA medical certificate. Outstanding situational awareness, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate clearly with clients and aviation professionals are essential soft skills. These abilities ensure safe, efficient, and client-focused operations in a dynamic and self-directed professional environment.

What is an Independent Contractor Pilot job?

An Independent Contractor Pilot is a professional aviator who operates aircraft on a contract basis rather than as a direct employee of an airline or company. These pilots are typically hired for specific flights, short-term assignments, or ongoing freelance work. They may fly private jets, charter planes, cargo aircraft, or corporate flights, depending on their qualifications and experience. Independent Contractor Pilots must manage their own schedules, maintain necessary certifications, and ensure compliance with aviation regulations.

More about Independent Contractor Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Pilot jobs are:
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
KC-130 Pilot with Security Clearance

KC-130 Pilot with Security Clearance

KBR

La Canada Flintridge, CA • On-site

$155K - $225K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

102nd of 368 rated engineering


Job description

Title:
KC-130 Pilot KBR is seeking a highly qualified C/KC-130 Pilot to support tasking at the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) with Air Test and Evaluation Squadron THREE ZERO (VX-30) at NAS Point Mugu, CA. As part of the world's largest independent flight test organization, supporting both US Government and commercial agencies, you will be joining a highly talented and experienced aircrew services team that has provided over 40 continuous years of Test Aircrew support for NAVAIR. As a long-term incumbent and leader in test aircrew expertise, the selected applicant will work within the VX-30 environment composed of government, military, contractor, and industry personnel while supporting flight test and range support operations. Roles & Responsibilities: * This position serves as a pilot for C/KC-130 aircraft, supporting flight test, aerial refueling, logistics, and post-maintenance check flights as an Aircraft Commander across legacy C-130 platforms.
* Directs aircraft operations planning, scheduling, execution, and reporting in support of collateral tasks within the customer flight program.
* Once qualified, perform duties as an instructor for all applicable K/C-130 mission sets, including aerial refueling, logistics, and post maintenance check flying.
* Must be able to travel up to 25% as required by contract.
* Note: This is a full-time position, but highly qualified part-time applicants may be considered.
Basic Qualifications: * Bachelor's Degree.
* At least 10 years of related experience, including 3 or more years of Test Project Officer experience in military test and evaluation.
* Minimum of 1,000 pilot hours in the C-130 aircraft and have been designated as an Aircraft Commander in the C-130. Instructor experience or designation as a flight crew check pilot and a Type/Model/Series Instructor in C/KC-130J and/or Legacy C-130 aircraft platforms.
* Must be able to maintain an FAA Class II medical certificate. Navy Aeromedical Standard Service Group 1 may be substituted. Must be FAA or Military instrument flight rule certified and have at least an FAA Commercial Pilot's License with Multi-Engine Land rating.
* Must meet current CNAF 3710.7 series physical and physiological minimums for C-130 T/M/S aircrew positions.
* Individuals must be able to pass the physical and training qualification requirements to provide contract aircrew support, including completion of survival and aviation physiology training.
* Clearance & Citizenship: Must have a current DoD Secret Clearance or ability to obtain and maintain. Contract requires US Citizenship. Applicant selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
Preferred Qualifications: * Master's degree. Engineering related masters preferred.
* A minimum of 1,500 flight hours as Pilot-in-Command * 2 years direct experience in test and evaluation of fixed-wing aircraft
* A graduate of one of the following test pilot schools: USNTPS, USAFTPS, Empire Test Pilot School, or EPNER Test Pilot School
Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40 hours/week. This is a full-time position, but highly qualified part-time applicants may be considered. Compensation: $155,000-$225,000. The salary range posted is based on the national average. The offered rate will be based on the selected candidate's location, knowledge, skills, abilities, and/or experience, contract affordability, and in consideration of internal parity. Additional Compensation: KBR may offer bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation to certain job titles or levels per internal policy or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, short-term incentives, long-term incentives, or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. KBR Benefits: KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development . #LI-KW1 Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together. KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998