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Light Aircraft Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

i3

ER-2 Research Pilot

Edwards, CA

$170K - $185K/yr

AFRC aircraft are located at the main campus at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Deployed ... Light to medium work. * Ability to lift, carry, push, pull, see, hear, stoop, crouch, feel, handle ...

Navstar

ER-2 Research Pilot

Edwards, CA

$170K - $185K/yr

AFRC aircraft are located at the main campus at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Deployed ... Light to medium work. * Ability to lift, carry, push, pull, see, hear, stoop, crouch, feel, handle ...

State of Maryland - MSP - Support Services Bureau

MD · On-site

Employees in this classification will act as the Second-in-Command (SIC) pilot of helicopters ... aircraft interiors and exteriors, refueling and adding necessary fluids, and replacing light bulbs ...

Fly Eagle Sport

Aircraft Mechanic

Glendale, AZ

$35K/yr

... Light Sport Aircraft experience · Prefer holding a Private Pilot Certificate or greater (or can obtain one with us) · Prefer a mechanic that wants to stay long term and grow with this company!

Fly Eagle Sport

Aircraft Mechanic

Glendale, AZ

$35K/yr

... Light Sport Aircraft experience · Prefer holding a Private Pilot Certificate or greater (or can obtain one with us) · Prefer a mechanic that wants to stay long term and grow with this company!

Platform Aerospace

UAV Pilot/Instructor

Blackstone, VA · On-site

$30 - $70/hr

Comfortable operating a UAS in various weather and light conditions. BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A LEVEL ... Working in confined spaces and around aircraft * Ascending and descending ladders or stairs as ...

PACCAR

Chief Pilot, Seattle 1

Seatac, WA · On-site

... light-, medium- and heavy-duty trucks under the Kenworth, Peterbilt and DAF nameplates and provides ... We operate two Gulfstream G280 aircraft from Seattle, WA and one Falcon 50EX from Denton, TX. ...

Pae

Aircraft Servicer

Laredo, TX

$33.79/hr

... pilot's maneuvering of the aircraft on ground, using hand or light signals or drives light truck with guiding sign, and secures aircraft in parking position with aircraft wheel chocks, installs ...

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Light Aircraft Pilot information

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$48K

$87.1K

$133K

How much do light aircraft pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for light aircraft pilot in the United States is $87,144.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $102,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Light Aircraft Pilot job?

A Light Aircraft Pilot operates small aircraft for various purposes, including private transport, aerial surveying, law enforcement, or flight instruction. They are responsible for flight planning, navigation, and ensuring the safety of passengers and cargo. Pilots must adhere to aviation regulations, conduct pre-flight checks, and respond to weather or emergency conditions. Typically, they hold a private or commercial pilot’s license, depending on the nature of their work.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Light Aircraft Pilot?

As a Light Aircraft Pilot, your daily duties typically include conducting thorough pre-flight inspections, reviewing weather conditions and flight plans, and communicating with air traffic control. You'll be responsible for safely operating the aircraft during takeoff, flight, and landing, as well as monitoring instruments and responding to any in-flight challenges. Additionally, you may need to handle routine paperwork, maintain flight logs, and occasionally assist with passenger briefings or cargo loading. This role often involves collaborating closely with ground crews and maintenance personnel to ensure the aircraft is safe and ready for each journey.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Light Aircraft Pilot position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Light Aircraft Pilot, you need excellent flight proficiency, navigation skills, and strong situational awareness, typically backed by a valid private or commercial pilot license and relevant flight hours. Familiarity with avionics systems, GPS navigation tools, and adherence to FAA regulations are essential technical requirements. Strong decision-making, communication, and stress management skills help pilots excel in high-pressure scenarios and coordinate with ground staff or passengers. These competencies ensure the safe and effective operation of light aircraft in varying weather and airspace conditions.

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Light Aircraft Pilot jobs near you
ER-2 Research Pilot

ER-2 Research Pilot

Integration Innovation, Inc.

Edwards, CA • On-site

$170K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 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.
A successful candidate will conduct full-time Pilot duties on ER-2 (U-2) and a variety of other NASA aircraft as assigned to include, but not limited to: Gulfstream III, Gulfstream IV Beechcraft King Air, C-20A, F-18 A/B, F-15 B/D, RQ-4 Global Hawk, T-34C, TG-14.
Pay Range $170,000-$185,000.
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.
To learn more about the work done at NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) check out these videos:
Advancing NASA's mission to explore the secrets of the universe for the benefit of all
NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center 2023 Highlights
Responsibilities
  • 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:
  • Bachelor'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 preferred to have at least 1000 hours in the U-2 and have been a current U-2 pilot within the past five years to be qualified to begin duty as a NASA ER-2 (Highly Desired).
  • Must meet the security requirements of the position and pass a NASA Flight Medical Certification (Required).

Required Experience:
  • 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.
About i3
i3 is a technically diverse, 100% team member owned business, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services, electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis, UAS system integration and flight operations, full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training, simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services, Missile Defense Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.
Perks of being a team member owner include:
  • Long-term financial security
  • Higher job satisfaction
  • Greater job security
  • Personal and professional growth
  • Great company culture

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

We work hard. We compete hard. We play hard. Apply now to join us!

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