1

Life Flight Pilot Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Full Company-Paid Life Insurance * AD&D Insurance * Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance ... Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by ...

Helicopter Pilot

Saint Louis, MO ยท On-site

$82K/yr

Full Company-Paid Life Insurance * AD&D Insurance * Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance ... Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by ...

Test Pilot DER

California, MO ยท On-site

$222.40 - $286.50/hr

Perform flight test activities including test planning, test execution as pilot, chase pilot ... life insurance, and more. Additional Information Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer. #J-18808 ...

AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Kirksville, MO ยท On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Pilot Incentives - This is pilot life at Global Medical Response: * Potential to earn up to $85,000 ... Ensure aircraft readiness for flight dispatches as described in the appropriate manuals, including ...

AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Louisiana, MO ยท On-site

$79K - $99K/yr

Pilot Incentives - This is pilot life at Global Medical Response: * Potential to earn up to $85,000 ... Ensure aircraft readiness for flight dispatches as described in the appropriate manuals, including ...

AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Kirksville, MO ยท On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Pilot Incentives - This is pilot life at Global Medical Response: * Potential to earn up to $85,000 ... Ensure aircraft readiness for flight dispatches as described in the appropriate manuals, including ...

AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Louisiana, MO ยท On-site

$79K - $99K/yr

Pilot Incentives - This is pilot life at Global Medical Response: * Potential to earn up to $85,000 ... Ensure aircraft readiness for flight dispatches as described in the appropriate manuals, including ...

AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Louisiana, MO ยท On-site

$79K - $99K/yr

Pilot Incentives - This is pilot life at Global Medical Response: * Potential to earn up to $85,000 ... Ensure aircraft readiness for flight dispatches as described in the appropriate manuals, including ...

AEL Helicopter Pilot - HAA

Louisiana, MO ยท On-site

$79K - $99K/yr

Pilot Incentives - This is pilot life at Global Medical Response: * Potential to earn up to $85,000 ... Ensure aircraft readiness for flight dispatches as described in the appropriate manuals, including ...

We offer competitive pay, excellent benefits that include Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life ... Position Summary As a Corporate Pilot, you will join a professional flight department dedicated to ...

We offer competitive pay, excellent benefits that include Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life ... Position Summary As a Corporate Pilot, you will join a professional flight department dedicated to ...

Flight Instructor

Saint Louis, MO ยท On-site

$40K - $44K/yr

SLU, which also has a campus in Madrid, Spain, is recognized for world-class academics, life ... required in the professional pilot programs at Saint Louis University. Participates in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Life Flight Pilot information

See Missouri salary details

$45K

$81.7K

$124.8K

How much do life flight pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for life flight pilot in Missouri is $81,742.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,600.00 and $95,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a life flight pilot?

Life Flight Pilots are specially trained helicopter or airplane pilots who transport critically ill or injured patients to medical facilities as quickly and safely as possible. They work as part of an air medical team and must have advanced flying skills, as well as the ability to operate under pressure in emergency situations. Life Flight Pilots often collaborate closely with paramedics, nurses, and doctors during patient transport. Their role is vital in saving lives, especially in cases where ground transportation would take too long or is inaccessible.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a life flight pilot?

To thrive as a Life Flight Pilot, you need an FAA commercial or ATP pilot license, extensive flight hours (often 2,000+), and specialized training in helicopter or fixed-wing aeromedical operations. Familiarity with advanced avionics, GPS navigation systems, and night vision equipment is typically required, along with certifications such as Instrument Rating and potentially NVG (Night Vision Goggle) endorsement. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making under pressure, and strong communication skills are crucial for effectively handling emergencies and coordinating with medical teams. These competencies ensure the safe, timely, and efficient transportation of critically ill or injured patients in high-stakes situations.

What are some common challenges life flight pilots face during emergency medical missions?

Life Flight Pilots often encounter challenging flight conditions, such as bad weather, night-time operations, and landing in unfamiliar or restricted areas. They must remain calm under pressure while coordinating closely with medical crews and air traffic control to ensure patient and crew safety. Additionally, responding to urgent calls requires adaptability and quick decision-making, as every mission can differ greatly in terms of location, patient needs, and logistical constraints.

What is the difference between Life Flight Pilot vs Helicopter Pilot?

AspectLife Flight PilotHelicopter Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, Medical Certificate, sometimes additional rotorcraft ratingsCommercial Pilot License, Medical Certificate, rotorcraft ratings
Work EnvironmentEmergency medical flights, hospitals, accident scenesVaried, including transportation, construction, tourism, and emergency services
Employer & IndustryAir ambulance services, hospitals, emergency response agenciesAirlines, private companies, government agencies, emergency services

While both roles require similar certifications and involve flying helicopters, Life Flight Pilots specifically operate in emergency medical and rescue settings, often under urgent conditions. Helicopter Pilots have a broader range of industries and environments, including commercial and private operations. The key difference lies in the specialized medical emergency focus of Life Flight Pilots versus the diverse applications of Helicopter Pilots.

How hard is it to be a life flight pilot?

Becoming a life flight pilot requires extensive training, including obtaining a commercial pilot license, flight hours, and specialized certifications such as instrument and multi-engine ratings. The job demands high levels of skill, quick decision-making, and the ability to operate in challenging environments, often under stressful conditions. It typically involves years of experience in aviation before qualifying for this role.

How much do life flight pilots make?

Life flight pilots typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Salaries can be higher for pilots with advanced training, such as instrument or commercial ratings, and those working in high-demand regions or for specialized medical transport services.

How to get a job as a Life Flight Pilot?

To become a Life Flight Pilot, candidates typically need a commercial pilot license with rotorcraft or fixed-wing ratings, extensive flight hours, and experience in emergency or medical transport operations. Additional certifications such as an instrument rating and specialized training in aeromedical services are often required, along with strong communication and decision-making skills. Employers also look for experience in high-pressure environments and a clean flying record.

What job categories do people searching Life Flight Pilot jobs in Missouri look for?

The top searched job categories for Life Flight Pilot jobs in Missouri are:

What cities in Missouri are hiring for Life Flight Pilot jobs?

Cities in Missouri with the most Life Flight Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Life Flight Pilot job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,742 per year, or $39.3 per hour.

Research Pilot

California, MO โ€ข On-site

Integration Innovation, Inc. (i3)
Manufacturingย โ€ขย 501 - 1,000 employees

$170 - $190/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Overview

NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) Aircrew member performs duties in support of the operations of all aircraft assigned to applicable base location. Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe operations are provided as tasked. Aircraft are operated to meet Agency platform, research, and support aircraft requirements. AFRC aircraft are located at the main campus at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Deployed operations, both CONUS and OCONUS, are routine for these aircrew positions.

Pay Range $170,000-$190,000.

The pay range for this position is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, geographic location, and any applicable laws.

Responsibilities

A successful candidate will conduct full-time Pilot duties on a variety of NASA aircraft as assigned to include, but not limited to: C-20A, Gulfstream (III, IV, and V), Pilatus PC-12, T-34, RQ-4 Global Hawk, and TG-14.

Duties include:

  • Conducting flight operations in accordance with FAA, Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), and other applicable directives, regulations, and instructions.
  • Maintaining performance standards in accordance with directives, training plans and Flight Crew Branch policies to include: Knowledge of safety precautions, Knowledge of airfield operations, Demonstrating Emergency Bold Face procedures from memory, and Knowledge of aircraft systems, limitations and ATC regulations / procedures.
  • Participating in i3 and NASA-directed Continuation Training, meetings, and other forums mandated by the on-site management team.
  • Performing any and all on-site tasks necessary at operating locations for a safe, secure, and professional operation.
  • Direct support to any administrative or flight operations scheduling / record keeping as needed
  • Other duties as assigned

Candidate must also maintain proficiency, currency, and annual requirements in accordance with NPR 7900.3C, NPD 7900.4D, AFPD 8700.1 and AFOP 7900.3-006 as applicable.

NASA will provide training and qualification checks for aircrew, including required periodic simulator training.

NASA authorized flight surgeon will provide periodic flight physicals for aircrew.

Qualifications

Required Skills:

  • Bachelorโ€™s degree, or higher, from an accredited university or college (Required), with major study in an appropriate field of engineering, physical science, life science, or mathematics (Desired).
  • Must be able to pass random drug screenings. (Required)
  • Possess a current US passport, valid through period of employment. (Required)
  • Formal military training in expected duties (with DD 214 annotating AFSC / MOS qualification) or applicable civilian experience. (Highly Desired)
  • Possess an FAA commercial pilot license with instrument, multiengine and single engine land ratings or possess a pilot and instrument rating from the armed services. (Required)
  • Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft with 500 hours of special missionsโ€™ experience (Highly Desired)
  • Must meet the security requirements of the position and pass a NASA Flight Medical Certification (Required).

Required Experience:

  • Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft with 500 hours of special missionsโ€™ experience (Highly Desired)
  • Should possess knowledge and first-hand experience necessary to succeed as a government contractor providing direct support to NASA AFRC staff as required.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Must be able to create, maintain and update briefings and statistical reporting.
  • Must be able to obtain a DoD SECRET security clearance.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

  • Light to medium work. Ability to lift, carry, push, pull, see, hear, stoop, crouch, feel, handle; manual dexterity.
  • Outside work. Ability to tolerate conditions in a deployed environment to include inclement weather, rain, humidity, cold and extreme heat. May be exposed to dust, fumes, odors, chemicals, and confined spaces.
  • Close, distance, color and peripheral vision and depth perception.
  • Ability to read and comprehend technical manuals and instructions; procedures, safety instructions, memos, reports. Ability to write at a level to relay data, details and information. Ability to perform shop math. Ability to speak clearly and concisely to relay information.
  • Office conditions: Moderate noise level. May be required to sit at computer station and/or type on keyboard for extended periods of time. May be required to lift objects such as laptop and office copy paper. May be required to view and read computer monitor for extended periods of time. May be required to take verbal messages per phone and face-to-face contact. Will occasionally be required to stand and walk to deliver items within office or on the flight line.
  • Flight line working conditions: Will be required to work day or night. May be exposed to high noise levels. Will be required to fly long missions (up to 12 hours) at high altitude in a confined space. May be subject to the altitude or physiological risks normally associated with flying.
Other Outstanding Benefits
  • Excellent insurance coverage
  • 401(k) match
  • Generous PTO
  • Health and wellness incentives
  • Tuition and certification reimbursement
  • Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares
#J-18808-Ljbffr