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Lead Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

If off duty and unavailable, the lead pilot will assure that open shifts are covered by a responsible party. * Timely distribution of monthly schedule to appropriate departments including timely ...

If off duty and unavailable, the lead pilot will assure that open shifts are covered by a responsible party. * Timely distribution of monthly schedule to appropriate departments including timely ...

Off-Duty Housing provided Lead Pilot Duties: * Under the supervision of Air Medical Base Supervisor/Business Operations Manager, Area Operations Manager and general direction of the Director of ...

Off-Duty Housing provided Lead Pilot Duties: * Under the supervision of Air Medical Base Supervisor/Business Operations Manager, Area Operations Manager and general direction of the Director of ...

Rotor Wing Pilot - Base Lead

Rice Lake, WI · On-site

$53.74 - $67.11/hr

As a Base Lead Pilot at Life Link III, you play a critical dual role-serving as a highly skilled Pilot in Command while also leading and supporting the day-to-day operations of your assigned base.

Fixed Wing Pilot

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$111.59K - $122.75K/yr

Pilot shift assignments consist of either a day duty period or a night duty period and are scheduled the month prior by the Base Lead Pilot to provide pilots sufficient opportunity to prepare their ...

Fixed Wing Pilot

San Antonio, TX

$111.59K - $122.75K/yr

Pilot shift assignments consist of either a day duty period or a night duty period and are scheduled the month prior by the Base Lead Pilot to provide pilots sufficient opportunity to prepare their ...

Fixed Wing Pilot

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$111.59K - $122.75K/yr

Pilot shift assignments consist of either a day duty period or a night duty period and are scheduled the month prior by the Base Lead Pilot to provide pilots sufficient opportunity to prepare their ...

Fixed Wing Pilot

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$91.29K - $104.33K/yr

Pilot shift assignments consist of either a day duty period or a night duty period and are scheduled the month prior by the Base Lead Pilot to provide pilots sufficient opportunity to prepare their ...

Fixed Wing Pilot

San Antonio, TX

$111.59K - $122.75K/yr

Pilot shift assignments consist of either a day duty period or a night duty period and are scheduled the month prior by the Base Lead Pilot to provide pilots sufficient opportunity to prepare their ...

Fixed Wing Pilot

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$91.29K - $104.33K/yr

Pilot shift assignments consist of either a day duty period or a night duty period and are scheduled the month prior by the Base Lead Pilot to provide pilots sufficient opportunity to prepare their ...

Fixed Wing Pilot

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$91.29K - $104.33K/yr

Pilot shift assignments consist of either a day duty period or a night duty period and are scheduled the month prior by the Base Lead Pilot to provide pilots sufficient opportunity to prepare their ...

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Lead Pilot information

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$60.5K

$123.8K

$175K

How much do lead pilot jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead pilot in the United States is $123,849.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $153,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Lead Pilot, you need an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, extensive flight experience, and in-depth knowledge of aviation regulations and procedures. Mastery of flight management systems, avionics, and familiarity with specific aircraft types—often supported by type ratings and recurrent training—are essential. Exceptional leadership, decision-making ability, and strong communication skills help manage crew and ensure safe operations. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining safety, regulatory compliance, and effective crew coordination during complex flight operations.

What are some common challenges Lead Pilots face when managing a flight crew, and how can they effectively address them?

Lead Pilots are responsible for not only flying the aircraft, but also managing and coordinating the flight crew to ensure smooth operations. Common challenges include balancing crew schedules, addressing interpersonal conflicts, and maintaining high communication standards during flights. Effective Lead Pilots foster a collaborative environment by encouraging open communication, providing clear instructions, and addressing concerns proactively. They also stay adaptable to changes in flight plans or unexpected situations, ensuring the team remains focused and safety-oriented.

What are Lead Pilots?

Lead Pilots are experienced aviators responsible for overseeing flight operations and ensuring the safety and efficiency of flights. They often supervise other pilots, coordinate flight plans, and serve as the primary point of contact between the flight crew and ground operations. In addition to flying, Lead Pilots handle administrative duties, training, and compliance with aviation regulations. Their role is crucial in maintaining high standards of safety and operational excellence within an aviation team.

What pilots make $500,000 a year?

Pilots such as airline captains, especially those flying international or long-haul routes for major carriers, can earn $500,000 or more annually with experience, seniority, and additional pay components like bonuses and per diems. Corporate and private jet pilots with extensive experience and high-profile clients may also reach this level of compensation, often supplemented by benefits and allowances.

What is the difference between Lead Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectLead PilotCommercial Pilot
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), additional leadership trainingCommercial Pilot License (CPL), specific aircraft ratings
Work EnvironmentLeading flight teams, managing flight operationsFlying for hire, transporting passengers or cargo
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, charter companies, flight trainingCharter services, cargo carriers, aerial work

Lead Pilots typically hold a Commercial Pilot License and take on leadership roles overseeing flight crews and operations. Commercial Pilots focus on flying aircraft for hire, performing specific flight duties. While both roles require similar certifications, Lead Pilots emphasize leadership and management, whereas Commercial Pilots concentrate on flying skills and operational tasks.

More about Lead Pilot jobs
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What states have the most Lead Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Pilot jobs include:

Full-time

Medical

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Join our life-saving team in Sierra Vista, AZ and take advantage of:

  • Sign-On Bonus up to $50,000!

Are you an exceptional pilot looking to make a real impact from the cockpit? PHI Health is seeking skilled and dedicated pilots to join our elite team. You will be at the forefront of life-saving missions, delivering critical care to those in need with speed, precision, and unwavering commitment.

Our pilots are not just aviators; they are heroes in the sky, providing rapid medical response in challenging and diverse environments. In this role, you'll experience the thrill of aviation combined with the profound satisfaction of knowing that your expertise and quick thinking can change the course of a patient's future. If you thrive under pressure, have a passion for excellence, and are ready to elevate your career to new heights, PHI Health is the place for you.

Who We Are:

PHI Health is the leading air ambulance provider in the United States. With an unmatched safety record and the best aviation, medical and communication specialists in the field, we set the standard in the air medical industry. We transport more than 22,000 patients each year from our more than 80 bases across the country, all while offering services and outreach education to local communities and leading healthcare systems. Our mission is simple: move communities to health while maintaining the highest standard of safety, period.

Job Summary:

  • PHI Air Medical (operating under CAMTS guidelines)

  • AS350VFR/NVG (Instrument rating required)

  • 24-hour operations (day/night rotation)

  • If successful applicant requires aircraft transition - 1 year minimum service requirement per CBA

  • Relocation package is available - If relocation package is utilized - 2 year minimum service requirement per CBA

Lead Pilot Duties:

  • Under the supervision of Air Medical Base Supervisor/Business Operations Manager, Area Operations Manager and general direction of the Director of Operations, Chief Pilot, and the Manager of the Scheduling Department, insure a staff of pilots are maintained with the knowledge and skill required to operate the various types of aircraft at that base I.A.W. General Operations Manual (GOM) and FAA regulations.

  • Coordinates with Air Medical Base Supervisor/Business Operations Manager and Area Manager for business planning, marketing and efficient operation of EMS base.

  • Supervision of EMS base pilots to include, professional development, assessments, counseling and recommending disciplinary action as required.

  • Responsible to work with Air Medical Base Supervisor/Business Operations Manager for scheduling base pilots' occupational health compliance, safety training and assisting the Training Dept in the scheduling of recurrent training.

  • Per base scheduling duties to include monthly schedule, workover assignments and status, sick call,/vacation/open shift coverage, to include collaboration with other lead pilots, if necessary to cover open shifts.

  • If off duty and unavailable, the lead pilot will assure that open shifts are covered by a responsible party.

  • Timely distribution of monthly schedule to appropriate departments including timely updates regarding changes to Area Manager and appropriate offices/supervisors.

  • Responsible to work with Air Medical Base Supervisor/Business Operations Manager for base pilots' bonus /expense vouchers approvals for payment.

  • Audits routine base bills and processes for payment. Per other duties that may be assigned to them by the Air Medical Base Supervisor/Business Operations Manager and Area Operations Manager.

  • Insure that all paperwork and reports are neat, accurate and submitted in a timely manner.

  • Insure compliance with FAA Regulations and Company Policies and Procedures by all personnel under their supervision.

  • Keeps the Area and Maintenance Managers and Scheduling Department informed of the operational status of his/her aircraft.

  • Participate in safety meetings and assist the base safety representatives in insuring flight safety, maintain a safe workplace and safety audits.

Other:

  • External search may run concurrently with internal job posting.

  • Successful applicant will participate in community outreach programs and adhere to PHI Air Medical policies.

  • Some lifting will be required to assist in the loading and unloading of patients and equipment.

  • Perform line pilot duties IAW GOM.

  • Support Safety Management System, Destination Zero, and other company safety campaigns.

  • Work with both internal and external customers to provide safe, efficient, courteous, and reliable service.

Compensation and Benefits:

  • We offer a range of competitive pay and benefits package to keep our teams happy, healthy, and invested.

  • This package includes competitive pay, shift bonuses, shift incentives, Annual Safety Bonus, Annual Employee Bonus, and much more!

The Successful Candidate Will Have:

  • Commercial and Instrument Helicopter Ratings

  • First Class Medical

  • CAMTS Requirement // 2,000 Total Hours // 1,500 Hours Helicopter // 1,000 Hours PIC Helicopters // 500 Hours Turbine Helicopters // 100 Hours in Unaided Night Operations or 50 Hours Unaided and 100 Hours Night Vision Goggles (NVG)

  • Must meet and maintain the company's flight personnel weight restriction policy, which limits individual weight to 235 lbs or less

  • Strong Communication, Internal and External Customer Service Skills

  • Interview and acceptance by customer/PHI management

  • Must be able to pass pre-placement physical exam including functional capacity exam (strength and flexibility assessment, lift 100 pounds to assist in the loading and unloading of patients and equipment.), drug screening and background screen.

  • Demonstrated Internal and External Customer Service skills

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Schedule/Location:

  • Schedule 7/7, Day of week the base changes schedules, and schedule change may be required

  • Must reside within 1-hour or less commute of the base

Our Core Competencies:

  • Safe.We are absolute in our belief in the tenets of Destination Zero and that Zero is not only achievable, but the only acceptable outcome.

  • Efficient.We are focused on outcomes that are smart and responsible by making the best use of our resources to maximize overall productivity andachieve sustainable profitabilityas a high performing organization.

  • Quality.We are committed to ensuringexcellent organizational performance which producessustainable and reliable outcomes.

  • Service.We are dedicated to the service of our customers, our communities and each other.

The PHI Health Advantage:

For more than 40 years, our company has been providing critical air medical transport services across the country. As an organization, weoutfit each aircraft we fly with the most advanced technology,subject our crews to the most rigorous protocols and trainingand pioneer the most-forward thinking safety program in the country.

Everything that we do comes back to the safety of our crew and our patients.Our accident rate is well below the national average and we were the first to receive the Vision Zero Aviation Safety Award.This belief has guided us towards a number of industry firsts and has given us the highest safety rating in the industry.

PHI Health

DISCLAIMER

The above Statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed, as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.

PHI, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws