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Jump Pilot Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Pilot In Command Since 2001 Kalitta Charters has provided top-quality service to the aviation ... Jump Seat privileges and cockpit access for work and personal travel * KCM (Known Crewmember)

Pilot In Command Since 2001 Kalitta Charters has provided top-quality service to the aviation ... Jump Seat privileges and cockpit access for work and personal travel * KCM (Known Crewmember)

Jump Pilot information

See Michigan salary details

$43.1K

$114.1K

$175.2K

How much do jump pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for jump pilot in Michigan is $114,106.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,200.00 and $135,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Jump Pilot, you need a commercial pilot’s license, strong airmanship, and experience flying aircraft used in skydiving operations. Familiarity with jump aircraft such as Cessna Caravans, proficiency in weight and balance calculations, and a current FAA medical certificate are commonly required. Excellent communication, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure the safety of both skydivers and crew, efficient flight operations, and effective coordination during high-adrenaline situations.

What is the difference between Jump Pilot vs Skydiving Instructor?

AspectJump PilotSkydiving Instructor
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot Certificate, specific jump pilot ratingsUSPA Instructor Certification, skydiving licenses
Work EnvironmentAircraft cockpit, jump aircraft, airportsDrop zones, aircraft, training facilities
Employer & Industry UsageSkydiving companies, adventure sports operatorsSkydiving centers, adventure sports industry

Jump Pilots operate aircraft to transport skydivers and ensure safe jumps, requiring pilot certifications. Skydiving Instructors train and certify skydivers, focusing on safety and technique. While both roles are integral to the skydiving industry, Jump Pilots focus on flying, whereas Skydiving Instructors focus on training and safety instruction.

What is a jump pilot?

Jump pilots are specially trained pilots responsible for flying aircraft that carry skydivers to altitude for parachute jumps. Their primary duties include maintaining flight safety, following precise flight patterns to designated drop zones, and communicating effectively with drop zone operators and jumpers. Jump pilots often work at skydiving centers and must be skilled at handling planes during short takeoffs, landings, and high-density operations. They play a crucial role in the safety and success of skydiving operations.

What are some common challenges faced by jump pilots during busy skydiving operations?

Jump pilots often contend with tight turnaround times, rapidly changing weather conditions, and the need for precise coordination with ground crew and skydivers. Maintaining situational awareness is critical, especially when flying multiple loads in succession and operating out of smaller airfields. Additionally, jump pilots must be adept at handling unexpected situations, such as last-minute changes in jump runs or emergency procedures, while ensuring the safety of both passengers and aircraft.

What does a jump pilot do?

Jump pilots fly aircraft for skydivers. In this role, you prepare the plane for each flight, monitor conditions in the air, and ensure the jumpers are secure and ready to dive out of the plane. Unlike commercial airline pilots, jump pilots make many flights each day, taking off and landing every fifteen to twenty minutes during their shift. You must communicate with air traffic controllers throughout the trip, make sure that the passengers are ready for the skydive, and notify them as you approach the drop zone. Jump pilots also relay any necessary information about wind, jump timing, and other factors that may affect the jump.

What are popular job titles related to Jump Pilot jobs in Michigan? For Jump Pilot jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Jump Pilot jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Jump Pilot job openings:
Infographic showing various Jump Pilot job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $114,106 per year, or $54.9 per hour.

Helicopter / Fixed Wing Pilot (First Officer)

Amway

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$190K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Helicopter / Fixed Wing Pilot (First Officer)
Posting Start Date: 8/6/26
Posting Location: Ada (Grand Rapids), MI
Requisition ID: 43335
Job title: Helicopter / Fixed Wing Pilot (First Officer)
Department: Aircraft Administration / Corporate Aviation
Salary Grade: EXW_16
Salary Range: $190,270 - $200,284
Location: Gerald R. Ford International Airport
What's special about this team:
The Corporate Flight team at Amway provides aircraft services to AMWAY executives and employees. This team is known for professionalism and service in the air and on the ground. This world-class fight department has set the highest standards of professionalism, safety ,and customer service for sixty years. This team works collaboratively to deliver a superior flight experience, offering protection and comfort to all passengers. Your flexibility to accommodate business needs and your emotional intelligence to adapt to various situations and individuals will be valued on this team. You will support global travel, flying and average of 12 days a month, with extended overnights required.
How you would contribute to the role:
If you are a professional corporate pilot with experience flying in a global environment, this role may be for you! You will prioritize safety and be responsible for the overall operation of this aircraft, passengers, and crew. You will ensure that all flight and ground operations comply with FAA regulations and will prepare the plane for flight by pre-flight inspections, flight planning, routing, fuel requirements, airport requirements, and traffic control. This is critical as your decisions directly impactall passengers and crew safety. This role will have you gone several weekends and some holidays but will offer abundant experiences. Consider this role if you seek a role that provides a premier travel experience without the hassle of airport terminals, hotel shuttles, commuting, or jump seats!
Perks in this role include:
  • Industry leading full time salary with annual increases, holiday pay and annual bonuses
  • Initial and recurrent training through FlightSafety International
  • Private world-class 190,000 sq. ft. hanger complex based in Grand Rapids, MI
  • Hotels, meals, and expenses paid while flying trips
  • Company provided uniforms and dry cleaning service
  • Benefits: Health, dental, vision, STD/LTD, Life, Loss of Medical Coverage, 401K with match up to 6%
  • Relocation support
  • Job Stability associated with the flight department operating for over 60 years with 11 jet aircraft and 2 helicopters

Required Qualifications:
  • ATP MEL
  • Helicopter Rating
  • 2000 hours total flight time, 500 hours multi-engine, 1,000 hours helicopter
  • Type rating in CE-525, EMB-550 preferred
  • FCC Radio License, Valid Driver's License and current valid Passport
  • First Class Medial
  • Ability to fulfill and comply with all entry requirements for countries visited in the scope of flying

Skills to be successful in the role:
  • Ability to work weekends and holidays and support a schedule of 9 -12 days a month
  • High Standards for professionalism, safety, and customer service

Amway does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need Amway immigration sponsorship (e.g., H-1B, STEM OPT, TN, etc.) now or in the future.