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Lead Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Helicopter Pilot

Detroit, MI · On-site

$89K - $110K/yr

Reporting directly to the Chief Pilot or Lead Pilot Responsible for the safe conduct of flights to which assigned Has the final authority in the operation of the aircraft PICs must ensure compliance ...

Reporting directly to the Chief Pilot or Lead Pilot Responsible for the safe conduct of flights to which assigned Has the final authority in the operation of the aircraft PICs must ensure compliance ...

As "lead" pilot for this category; assigns work, evaluates performance, ensures staffing levels are appropriate and coordinates with Aviation Program Manager to ensure goals of the program are being ...

When acting as a Lead Pilot, accountable for assisting with administering and managing satellite base functions and activities. Additional accountability for taking corrective action as necessary ...

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.

As qualified may perform Chief or Lead pilot duties as designated by the Site Supervision. * Must be capable of Aircraft Technical Inspection (TI) as additional duty. * Plan and conduct aircraft ...

As "lead" pilot for this category; assigns work, evaluates performance, ensures staffing levels are appropriate and coordinates with Aviation Program Manager to ensure goals of the program are being ...

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Lead Pilot information

See salary details

$60.5K

$123.8K

$175K

How much do lead pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 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.

Is there a shortage of pilots right now?

The aviation industry is experiencing a pilot shortage due to increased travel demand and retirements, leading airlines and private operators to seek qualified lead pilots. This shortage has created opportunities for experienced pilots with commercial and airline transport pilot certifications, along with strong leadership skills. The demand is expected to continue as the industry recovers and expands.

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 jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles such as airline pilots, especially lead pilots or senior captains, can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and benefits. Other executive positions like CEOs or specialized surgeons may also reach this level, but these are less common and typically require extensive experience, certifications, and leadership responsibilities.

What is the highest paying job for a pilot?

The highest paying pilot jobs are typically airline captains for major international airlines, with salaries often exceeding $200,000 annually. These roles require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and often involve long hours and international routes.

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 jobs make 10,000 a month without a degree?

Lead pilots, especially in private or corporate aviation, can earn $10,000 or more monthly without a college degree, relying instead on extensive flight experience, certifications like an Airline Transport Pilot license, and a strong safety record. Other high-paying roles without degrees include certain sales positions, real estate brokers, and skilled trades like commercial diving or specialized construction, which often require technical training or apprenticeships. These jobs typically demand significant experience, specialized skills, or certifications rather than formal degrees.

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
What cities are hiring for Lead Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Lead Pilot job openings:
What states have the most Lead Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Lead Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $123,849 per year, or $59.5 per hour.

$89K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
Responsible for acting as the pilot flying Helicopter for our tours, VFR day/night/NVG by performing the following duties.
Responsibilities:
Reporting directly to the Chief Pilot or Lead Pilot
Responsible for the safe conduct of flights to which assigned
Has the final authority in the operation of the aircraft
PICs must ensure compliance with all federal, state, local and foreign regulations, as well as the policies and procedures specified in the company operations manual
Providing excellent customer service
Complying with schedules and other directives governing the aircraft's operation
Ensuring the preflight inspection is completer before each departure
Ensures passengers have been briefed in accordance as per 14 CFR 135.117
Ensures that each flight is conducted in accordance with 14 CFR 135 or 91 as appropriate
Checking all applicable NOTAMs, studying weather conditions at destination, enroute, alternate airports and departure points
Preparing flight plans as appropriate
Ensuring that the aircraft is clean and prepared for flight
Ensuring that the aircraft is airworthy, duly registered and that all required documentation is on board the aircraft
Reviewing and calculating the aircraft weight and balance, fuel and oxygen requirements and performance charts
Using checklists and operating procedures noted in this manual
Making decisions necessary to start, delay, or cancel flights and deviate the flight from planned route or destination when operating conditions dictate
Notify authorities of any accident, suspected communicable disease, acts of unlawful interference, or landing at an airport other than planned or as caused by circumstances beyond the control of the PIC
Completing all post flight duties, including flight logs, deferred item sheet, notification to the company of any deviation from the planned itinerary or overnight location
When necessary, utilizes the authority to refuse transportation of any person or object if the carriage poses any risk to the safety of the aircraft or its occupants
Ensuring that he/she is current and qualified to operate the aircraft to which he/she is assigned. This includes, but is not limited to: training, testing, compliance with flight time restrictions and rest requirements, maintaining a current medical certificate as required and notifies the chief pilot if any medical (physical or mental) condition exists that may impair his/her ability to perform as a crewmember, and all other applicable Federal Aviation Regulations.
Assists with cleaning of aircraft and work areas
Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Language Ability:
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public.
Math Ability:
Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference, and fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry. Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
Reasoning Ability:
Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.
Computer Skills:
To perform this job successfully, an individual should have knowledge of word processing software, spreadsheet software, and internet software.
Education/Experience:
High school diploma or general education degree (GED); and eight to ten years related experience and/or training; 2000 hours as a pilot; 1000 hours as a PIC, 250 hours cross country time; 250 hours at night un-aided; or equivalent combination of education and experience. NVG experience preferred.
Specialized Training:
  • Helicopter pilot training
  • Commercial helicopter training
  • Individual aircraft training

Certificates and Licenses:
  • FAA Commercial Helicopter, with instrument rating
  • FAA Class 2 Medical

Equipment:
  • Flight helmet
  • Flight suit
  • Black leather boots above ankle
  • Night Vision Goggles (NVG)

Knowledge, Skills and Other Abilities:
Ability to work with a diverse group of co-workers and customers
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit; use hands; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; and taste or smell. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, ability to adjust focus, and ability to see color.
Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to outdoor weather conditions. The employee is frequently exposed to work near moving mechanical parts; work in high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; toxic or caustic chemicals; extreme cold (non-weather); extreme heat (non-weather); and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to wet or humid conditions (non-weather) and risk of electrical shock.
The noise level in the work environment is usually very loud.