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Lockheed Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are Lockheed Martin You will be a C-130J Test Pilot for the C-130 Flight Operations team. Our team is responsible for conducting acceptance check flights of newly assembled C-130J aircraft and ...

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Lockheed Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do lockheed pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for lockheed pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Lockheed Pilot, you need advanced aeronautical knowledge, a commercial or military pilot license, and extensive flight hours in complex aircraft. Familiarity with Lockheed-specific avionics, flight management systems, and sometimes military-grade simulators or mission planning tools is typically required. Exceptional situational awareness, decision-making under pressure, and strong communication skills set top pilots apart. These competencies ensure the safe and effective operation of sophisticated aircraft in demanding environments, where precision and reliability are critical.

How much do Lockheed U 2 pilots make?

Lockheed U-2 pilots, who operate high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft for the military, typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, rank, and years of service. Military pilots often receive additional benefits such as housing allowances, retirement plans, and specialized training.

What are the typical challenges Lockheed pilots face when operating advanced military aircraft?

Lockheed pilots often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving technology, managing complex avionics systems, and maintaining peak performance during high-stress missions. Additionally, they must stay current with frequent updates to tactical procedures and comply with rigorous safety protocols. Collaboration with ground crews, mission planners, and other pilots is essential for mission success, and pilots are expected to continually refine their skills through ongoing training and simulation exercises.

How much does a Lockheed Martin pilot make?

A Lockheed Martin pilot's salary varies based on experience, role, and location, but typically ranges from $70,000 to over $150,000 annually. Pilots often require specialized training, certifications, and security clearances, and may work in military or aerospace environments with demanding schedules.

How hard is it to get hired by Lockheed Martin?

Getting hired as a Lockheed Pilot is competitive and typically requires a strong aviation background, relevant flight hours, and specialized training or certifications such as an FAA pilot license. Candidates often go through a rigorous interview process, background checks, and assessments of technical skills and experience in military or commercial aviation environments.

What is the difference between Lockheed Pilot vs Boeing Pilot?

AspectLockheed PilotBoeing Pilot
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, Type Ratings for Lockheed aircraftCommercial Pilot License, Type Ratings for Boeing aircraft
Work EnvironmentMilitary and government operations, specialized aircraftCommercial airlines, passenger and cargo flights
Employer & IndustryLockheed Martin, defense and aerospace industryBoeing, commercial aviation industry

Both Lockheed Pilots and Boeing Pilots require similar certifications like a Commercial Pilot License and specific type ratings. Lockheed Pilots typically operate military or government aircraft in defense settings, while Boeing Pilots work for commercial airlines flying passengers or cargo. The work environments and industry focus differ, but the core pilot qualifications are comparable.

What are Lockheed pilots?

Lockheed pilots are highly trained professionals who operate aircraft manufactured by Lockheed Martin, such as the F-35 Lightning II, C-130 Hercules, and other military or specialized planes. These pilots are typically members of the military or contractors who receive specialized training to handle the advanced technology and systems in Lockheed aircraft. Their responsibilities include conducting test flights, executing missions, and ensuring the safety and performance of the aircraft. Lockheed pilots play a crucial role in defense operations, research, and development of aviation technology.

Is there a demand for pilots now?

The demand for Lockheed pilots remains strong due to ongoing military operations, defense contracts, and the need for experienced aviators in national security. Pilots with military experience, specialized training, and certifications such as FAA licenses are highly sought after, especially for advanced aircraft and leadership roles.
More about Lockheed Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Lockheed Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Lockheed Pilot job openings:
What states have the most Lockheed Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Lockheed Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Lockheed Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 97% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Contract Instructor Pilot / CIP / F-35 / Tyndall AFB, FL

Contract Instructor Pilot / CIP / F-35 / Tyndall AFB, FL

Lockheed Martin

Panama City, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 388 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 61 rated aerospace companies


Job description


WHO WE ARE
Lockheed Martin is a global leader in aerospace, defense, and technology solutions, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation and shaping the future of the industry. With a rich legacy of excellence and a commitment to delivering advanced capabilities to our customers, we are proud to be at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and engineering.
THE WORK
We're seeking a highly skilled and experienced Pilot Instructor to join our team at Tyndall, AFB, FL. As a key member of our Lockheed Martin training team, you will play a critical role in shaping the next generation of F-35 pilots.
The successful candidate will be responsible for supporting military pilots' flight procedures and maintaining their qualification level in the Pilot Training Device. This will be achieved by executing approved pilot training syllabi, upgrade, and tactics training using the Full Mission Simulator (FMS) and/or Deployable Mission Rehearsal Trainer (DMRT).
Key Responsibilities:
• Provide instruction to military pilots using the FMS and/or DMRT, focusing on flight procedures, tactics, and qualification level maintenance
• Operate the Instructor Operating Station (IOS) to deliver training and support pilot development
• Serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for pilot training and tactics development, providing recommendations for courseware updates and improvements
• Collaborate with other members of the Lockheed Martin team at Tyndall AFB to fulfill F-35 training and continuation training objectives
• Implement and support Lockheed Martin initiatives, programs, and policies as directed
• Develop and maintain a deep understanding of F-35 aircraft systems, procedures, and tactics to provide expert instruction and guidance
• Stay current with updates and changes to F-35 training programs, procedures, and policies
The job may require a flexible work schedule to provide coverage for on-site customer requirements.
Travel to support other sites CONUS and OCONUS may also be required.
F-35 Fast Facts
Basic Qualifications
• Final Transferable Secret security clearance with last Periodic Reinvestigation within the last six years.
• Ability to attain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) access.
• Candidate must have a minimum of 1000 hours Fighter Flight Time in forth and/or fifth generation multi-role fighter aircraft.
• Former Instructor Pilot (IP) experience required.
• Prior experience in Military Pilot Academic and Simulator Training.
• Operational experience with advanced sensor systems (NVS, LANTIRN, Helmet Mounted Cuing, etc.)
• Familiarity with current instructional techniques and delivery methods.
• In-depth knowledge of military publications and 4th and/or 5th generation aircraft systems.
• Candidate should have experience working in a collaborative environment with cross-functional teams and stakeholders from various backgrounds and disciplines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
• Outstanding interpersonal skills, leadership traits, and communication abilities.
• Ability to organize and provide customer support.
• Willingness to support flexible work hours to align with customer operational schedule.
Desired skills
• Current or demonstrated experience as a USAF/USN/USMC IP with multi-role fighter experience.
• Former Weapon School, Top Gun, or MAWTS graduate desired.
• Fifth generation Full Mission Simulator (FMS) experience as an operator and/or instructor.
• Minimum of 1000 hours Fighter Flight Time in fourth and/or fifth generation multi-role fighter aircraftF-35 flight time.
• F-35 Instructor Pilot experience.
• Experience with F-35 pilot training curriculum.
• Familiarity with F-35 program requirements.
• F-35 system knowledge.
• F-35 Full Mission Simulator experience.
• Familiarity with the F-35 ALIS program.
EEO
Lockheed Martin is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.
The application window will close in 90 days; applicants are encouraged to apply within 5 - 30 days of the requisition posting date in order to receive optimal consideration.
*
At Lockheed Martin, we use our passion for purposeful innovation to help keep people safe and solve the world's most complex challenges. Our people are some of the greatest minds in the industry and truly make Lockheed Martin a great place to work.
With our employees as our priority, we provide diverse career opportunities designed to propel, develop, and boost agility. Our flexible schedules, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits enable our employees to live a healthy, fulfilling life at and outside of work. We place an emphasis on empowering our employees by fostering an inclusive environment built upon integrity and corporate responsibility.
If this sounds like a culture you connect with, you're invited to apply for this role. Or, if you are unsure whether your experience aligns with the requirements of this position, we encourage you to search on Lockheed Martin Jobs, and apply for roles that align with your qualifications.
Other Important Information
By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified you may be contacted for this and future openings.
Work Schedule Information
Lockheed Martin supports a variety of alternate work schedules that provide additional flexibility to our employees. Schedules range from standard 40 hours over a five day work week while others may be condensed. These condensed schedules provide employees with additional time away from the office and are in addition to our Paid Time off benefits.
National Pay Statement
Pay Rate: The annual base salary range for this position in California, Massachusetts, and New York (excluding most major metropolitan areas), Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, Vermont, Washington or Washington DC is $139,600 - $246,100. For states not referenced above, the salary range for this position will reflect the candidate's final work location. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays.
(Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.
This position is incentive plan eligible.
Premium Pay Statement
Pay Rate: The annual base salary range for this position in most major metropolitan areas in California, Massachusetts, and New York is $160,500 - $278,300. For states not referenced above, the salary range for this position will reflect the candidate's final work location. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays.
This position is incentive plan eligible.

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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912