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Jet Pilot Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

You're in charge of directing the movement of the entire flight deck from the jet launch sequence to aircraft recovery. FIXED WING PILOT - In the C-2 Greyhound, you transport parts, personnel, and ...

You're in charge of directing the movement of the entire flight deck from the jet launch sequence to aircraft recovery. FIXED WING PILOT - In the C-2 Greyhound, you transport parts, personnel, and ...

You're in charge of directing the movement of the entire flight deck from the jet launch sequence to aircraft recovery. FIXED WING PILOT - In the C-2 Greyhound, you transport parts, personnel, and ...

You're in charge of directing the movement of the entire flight deck from the jet launch sequence to aircraft recovery. FIXED WING PILOT - In the C-2 Greyhound, you transport parts, personnel, and ...

You're in charge of directing the movement of the entire flight deck from the jet launch sequence to aircraft recovery. FIXED WING PILOT - In the C-2 Greyhound, you transport parts, personnel, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Jet Pilot information

See Minnesota salary details

$48.5K

$128.2K

$196.9K

How much do jet pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for jet pilot in Minnesota is $128,221.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,900.00 and $151,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What pilots make $500,000 a year?

Jet pilots, especially those flying for major airlines, corporate jets, or in specialized roles like test pilots, can earn $500,000 or more annually with experience, overtime, and additional allowances. High salaries are often associated with seniority, type of aircraft, and the complexity of the flying environment, along with certifications such as Airline Transport Pilot (ATP).

What is the difference between Jet Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectJet Pilot

Required CredentialsCommercial Pilot

Work EnvironmentJet Pilot

Employer & IndustryJet Pilot

Jet Pilots typically operate private or corporate jets, requiring specific certifications like the Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license and type ratings for jets. Commercial Pilots can fly a variety of aircraft for charter, cargo, or flight training, often with a commercial pilot license. While both roles involve flying aircraft, Jet Pilots usually work in high-end private aviation with a focus on jet aircraft, whereas Commercial Pilots serve broader industries. The main difference lies in aircraft type, certifications, and the nature of their flying jobs.

What are some common challenges jet pilots face during their typical missions, and how are these managed?

Jet pilots often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, high-stress decision-making, and managing complex aircraft systems. Missions may involve long hours and require constant vigilance, quick reflexes, and effective communication with ground control and crew members. To manage these challenges, pilots undergo rigorous training, practice emergency procedures regularly, and utilize advanced avionics to aid navigation and situational awareness. Teamwork, discipline, and adherence to safety protocols are crucial for successful and safe operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Jet Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Jet Pilot, you need advanced aeronautical knowledge, exceptional situational awareness, and typically a commercial pilot's license with multi-engine and instrument ratings. Familiarity with complex avionics systems, flight management software, and adherence to aviation regulations is crucial, often supplemented by simulator training and possible type ratings. Exceptional decision-making, stress management, and teamwork skills set top pilots apart in high-pressure environments. These skills ensure safe, efficient operations and the ability to respond effectively to dynamic flight conditions.

How do I become a jet pilot?

To become a jet pilot, you typically need to earn a private pilot license, gain experience flying small aircraft, and then pursue a commercial pilot license with additional training in jet aircraft. Military service or specialized flight training programs can also provide pathways to jet pilot roles, often requiring meeting specific age, health, and educational requirements. Advanced certifications and hours of flight experience are essential for operating jet aircraft professionally.

How long does it take to make $200,000 as a pilot?

Jet pilots typically reach a $200,000 annual salary after several years of experience, often around 5 to 10 years, depending on the airline, aircraft type, and flight hours accumulated. Factors such as certifications, seniority, and the complexity of the aircraft also influence earning potential.

How much do jet pilots make?

Jet pilots' salaries vary based on experience, employer, and aircraft type, but generally range from $70,000 to over $200,000 annually. Military pilots may earn less initially but can receive additional benefits, while commercial airline pilots often have higher pay and benefits packages. Experience, certifications, and flight hours significantly influence earnings in this profession.

What are jet pilots?

Jet pilots are highly trained professionals who operate jet-powered aircraft, which may include commercial airliners, military fighter jets, or private business jets. They are responsible for safely navigating, controlling, and managing the aircraft during all phases of flight. Jet pilots undergo rigorous training, obtain specialized licenses, and must meet strict physical and mental requirements to ensure safety and precision in their operations. Their duties can also include flight planning, communicating with air traffic control, and responding to in-flight emergencies. The specific responsibilities and required qualifications can vary depending on whether the pilot works in the military, commercial, or private sector.
What are the most commonly searched types of Jet Pilot jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Jet Pilot jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Jet Pilot jobs in Minnesota? For Jet Pilot jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Jet Pilot job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $128,221 per year, or $61.6 per hour.
Engineering Flight Test Pilot Principal

Engineering Flight Test Pilot Principal

Cirrus Aircraft

Duluth, MN

$170K - $255K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Cirrus Aircraft rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 71 rated aerospace companies


Job description

The Flight Test Pilot, Principal
is a senior technical role responsible for the strategic planning, execution,
and analysis of flight test programs for complex aerospace vehicles and
systems. This position involves high-level coordination, ensuring regulatory
compliance, leading large-scale testing efforts, and contributing to the
continuous improvement of testing methodologies. As a key technical authority,
the Flight Test Pilot Principle plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of
critical flight test operations. This role requires expertise in
experimental flight testing to support aircraft development and regulatory
compliance.
  • Acts as the Platform Lead Flight Test Pilot and provides technical oversight of all platform flight test projects.
  • Maintain a high level of pilot proficiency in both jet and propeller aircraft models.
  • Safely conduct experimental flight tests for aircraft development and certication projects.
  • Leads the planning and execution of multi-faceted flight test programs, including defining objectives, testing requirements, success criteria, and timelines.
  • Collaborate with senior management, project teams, and regulatory bodies to ensure test activities align with corporate goals and safety standards.
  • Serve as the primary pilot authority during test operations, providing technical guidance, monitoring test data, and making in the-moment adjustments to ensure data accuracy and safety.
  • Act as a liaison between the Engineering Flight Test team, engineers, and other support teams to facilitate effective communication and decision-making during testing.
  • Address complex technical challenges in real time, utilizing advanced problem-solving skills to adapt and respond to dynamic testing conditions.
  • Participate in test safety review process to ensure tests are conducted safely and appropriate safety mitigations are in place before flight.
  • Generate detailed technical reports that highlight test results, identify variances, and offer actionable insights for design refinement or procedural adjustments.
  • Develop, implement, and continuously improve safety protocols and risk assessment procedures for all test activities.
  • Collaborate with safety officers and regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with industry standards and mitigate potential risks.
  • Foster a culture of safety and continuous improvement, conducting thorough reviews of test procedures and outcomes to minimize risks.
  • Provide training and development opportunities for team members, helping to advance their technical skills and industry knowledge.
  • Work with engineering, design, manufacturing, and regulatory teams to align testing requirements and ensure consistency with project objectives.
  • Act as a pilot subject matter expert, providing insights and recommendations to cross-functional teams and senior management.
  • Participate in strategic planning discussions to improve test efficiency, data accuracy, and test program success.
  • Perform other departmental duties as assigned.

  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
  • 10+ years experimental flight test experience.
  • 7 years flight test pilot experience.
  • Pilot Experience 1500 hours total, 500 hours turbine, 100 hour in the last 12 months.
  • Previous turbojet type rating prefered.
  • Experience with FAA/TCCA/EASA Certification programs preferred.
  • Graduate of an accredited test pilot school long course or equivilent flight test pilot experience.
  • FAA DER/UM/ODA Flight Test Pilot experience preferred.
  • Knowledable in flight dynamics, aerodynamics, propulsion systems, avionics, and aircraft systems.
  • Comprehensive understanding of industry regulations and standards (e.g., FAA, EASA, MIL-STD) and safety protocols.
  • Experience in risk management and mitigation strategies for flight test programs.
  • Proven leadership skills leading cross-functional test teams.
  • Excellent communication skills, including the ability to present complex technical findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Ability to maintain flexability and a positive attitude and flexibilty in dynamic test program enviroment.

Our Benefits: Cirrus provides a range of exciting benefits, including:

  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, vision, dental, with additional dependent coverage options
  • Employer-Paid Coverages: Group term life, short- and long-term disability insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts: FSA and HSA offerings with company contributions to HSA
  • Well-being: Calm Health, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness incentives through medical provider
  • 401(k) Plan: Dollar-for-dollar match up to 5% after 90 days, with 100% vesting at 1 year of service
  • PTO: Various PTO plans starting at 100 hours accrued within the first year
  • Additional Time off Benefits: Paid holidays, 2 weeks of Paid Parental leave, paid time for funeral leave and jury duty
  • Career Development: Tuition reimbursement program and professional growth opportunities
  • Exclusive Discounts: Cirrus Store, partner and marketplace discounts available
  • Community & Engagement: Company and employee clubs at various locations

These benefits are designed to support your well-being, growth, and enjoyment at Cirrus!
Salary Range: USD $170,145.26/Yr. - USD $255,217.88/Yr.

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