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Low Hour Pilot Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Location Davenport, Iowa, offers a low cost of living, diverse job opportunities, and excellent ... Regular scheduled attendance (7/7 schedule - 12 hour shifts) Subject to applicable laws and Air ...

Location Davenport, Iowa, offers a low cost of living, diverse job opportunities, and excellent ... Regular scheduled attendance (7/7 schedule - 12 hour shifts) Subject to applicable laws and Air ...

Location Davenport, Iowa, offers a low cost of living, diverse job opportunities, and excellent ... Regular scheduled attendance (7/7 schedule - 12 hour shifts) Subject to applicable laws and Air ...

Helicopter Pilot

Davenport, IA · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Location Davenport, Iowa, offers a low cost of living, diverse job opportunities, and excellent ... Regular scheduled attendance (7/7 schedule - 12 hour shifts) Subject to applicable laws and Air ...

Helicopter Pilot

Davenport, IA · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Location Davenport, Iowa, offers a low cost of living, diverse job opportunities, and excellent ... Regular scheduled attendance (7/7 schedule - 12 hour shifts) Subject to applicable laws and Air ...

Cashier

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$12.20 - $16.53/hr

... hour Are you passionate about team building, customer service, and meeting new people? Pilot ... Free daily meals * $10 low-cost health plans (for full-time team members) * Paid time off * Family ...

Cashier

Williams, IA · On-site

$11.38 - $14.88/hr

... hour Are you passionate about team building, customer service, and meeting new people? Pilot ... Free daily meals * $10 low-cost health plans (for full-time team members) * Paid time off * Family ...

Cashier

Percival, IA

$12.20 - $16.53/hr

... hour Are you passionate about team building, customer service, and meeting new people? Pilot ... Free daily meals * $10 low-cost health plans (for full-time team members) * Paid time off * Family ...

Deli Production Team Member

Williams, IA · On-site

$11.54 - $16.08/hr

... hour Are you passionate about team building, customer service, and meeting new people? Pilot ... Free daily meals * $10 low-cost health plans (for full-time team members) * Paid time off * Family ...

Cashier

Williams, IA

$11.38 - $14.88/hr

... hour Are you passionate about team building, customer service, and meeting new people? Pilot ... Free daily meals * $10 low-cost health plans (for full-time team members) * Paid time off * Family ...

Cashier

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$11.38 - $14.88/hr

... hour Are you passionate about team building, customer service, and meeting new people? Pilot ... Free daily meals * $10 low-cost health plans (for full-time team members) * Paid time off * Family ...

Cashier

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$12.20 - $16.53/hr

... hour Are you passionate about team building, customer service, and meeting new people? Pilot ... Free daily meals * $10 low-cost health plans (for full-time team members) * Paid time off * Family ...

Deli Production Team Member

Williams, IA · On-site

$11.54 - $16.08/hr

... hour Are you passionate about team building, customer service, and meeting new people? Pilot ... Free daily meals * $10 low-cost health plans (for full-time team members) * Paid time off * Family ...

Deli Production Team Member

Williams, IA · On-site

$11.54 - $16.08/hr

... hour Are you passionate about team building, customer service, and meeting new people? Pilot ... Free daily meals * $10 low-cost health plans (for full-time team members) * Paid time off * Family ...

Cashier

Clear Lake, IA · On-site

$11.60 - $15.70/hr

... hour Are you passionate about team building, customer service, and meeting new people? Pilot ... Free daily meals * $10 low-cost health plans (for full-time team members) * Paid time off * Family ...

Cashier

Clear Lake, IA · On-site

$11.60 - $15.70/hr

... hour Are you passionate about team building, customer service, and meeting new people? Pilot ... Free daily meals * $10 low-cost health plans (for full-time team members) * Paid time off * Family ...

Deli Production Team Member

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$11.54 - $16.08/hr

... hour Are you passionate about team building, customer service, and meeting new people? Pilot ... Free daily meals * $10 low-cost health plans (for full-time team members) * Paid time off * Family ...

Cashier

Williams, IA · On-site

$11.38 - $14.88/hr

... hour Are you passionate about team building, customer service, and meeting new people? Pilot ... Free daily meals * $10 low-cost health plans (for full-time team members) * Paid time off * Family ...

Cashier

Percival, IA

$12.20 - $16.53/hr

... hour Are you passionate about team building, customer service, and meeting new people? Pilot ... Free daily meals * $10 low-cost health plans (for full-time team members) * Paid time off * Family ...

Cashier

Clear Lake, IA · On-site

$11.60 - $15.70/hr

... hour Are you passionate about team building, customer service, and meeting new people? Pilot ... Free daily meals * $10 low-cost health plans (for full-time team members) * Paid time off * Family ...

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Showing results 1-20

Low Hour Pilot information

See Iowa salary details

$46.5K

$123K

$188.8K

How much do low hour pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for low hour pilot in Iowa is $122,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,900.00 and $145,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a low hour pilot?

Low hour pilots are individuals who have recently obtained their pilot licenses and have comparatively few flight hours logged, typically under 500 hours. They are often at the start of their aviation careers and may be seeking entry-level positions to build experience. Low hour pilots usually work in roles such as flight instructors, banner towing, or pipeline patrol to accumulate the necessary hours required for more advanced positions, like commercial airline pilot roles. Gaining experience and flight hours is essential for career progression in the aviation industry.

What are some common pathways for low hour pilots to gain experience and progress in their aviation careers?

Low hour pilots often begin their careers in entry-level positions such as flight instructing, banner towing, or flying for small charter and regional operators. These roles provide valuable flight time and exposure to diverse flying conditions, which are essential for meeting airline or corporate aviation hiring minimums. Networking within the aviation community, staying up-to-date with industry regulations, and regularly applying for time-building opportunities can significantly enhance career progression. As experience accumulates, pilots may qualify for more advanced roles, including first officer positions with regional airlines or corporate flight departments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a low hour pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Low Hour Pilot, you need a valid commercial pilot license (CPL), foundational flight experience (typically under 500 hours), and strong knowledge of aviation regulations and safety procedures. Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS navigation systems, and aircraft-specific instrumentation is typically required. Excellent situational awareness, effective communication, and a willingness to learn make candidates stand out in this early career stage. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure safety, build trust with employers, and support ongoing professional development in aviation.

What is the difference between Low Hour Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectLow Hour PilotCommercial Pilot
Required CertificationsPrivate Pilot License (PPL), possibly a Commercial Pilot CertificateCommercial Pilot Certificate, often with additional ratings
Work EnvironmentFlight training, small aircraft, entry-level flyingPaid flying jobs, charter, banner towing, aerial photography
Employer & Industry UsageFlight schools, training programsAirlines, charter companies, aerial services

In summary, a Low Hour Pilot typically holds a Private Pilot License or a basic Commercial Pilot Certificate and is gaining flight hours, often in training environments. A Commercial Pilot has more experience, holds a Commercial Pilot Certificate, and is qualified to be paid for flying. The main difference lies in experience level, certification, and the type of flying jobs they can perform.

What are popular job titles related to Low Hour Pilot jobs in Iowa?

For Low Hour Pilot jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Low Hour Pilot jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Low Hour Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Low Hour Pilot job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 55% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,965 per year, or $59.1 per hour.

$82K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Overview

University of Iowa AirCare

EC130 (VFR)

Salary Range: ($82,900 - $93,251)

+ $40,000 Stipend

+ Experience Stipend: Up to $12,000

$15,000 Sign On Bonus

AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE!

As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our communities. We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high-performing culture, sparked by teammates who deliver on being the best!

Location

Davenport, Iowa, offers a low cost of living, diverse job opportunities, and excellent educational institutions, providing a comfortable and affordable lifestyle. The city boasts a high quality of life with access to cultural and recreational activities, top-notch healthcare, and a friendly community. Additionally, Davenport's strong transportation infrastructure and proximity to other cities in the Quad Cities metropolitan area enhance its appeal.

Benefits

Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package created with the diverse needs of our teammates in mind:

  • Health, Dental and Vision
  • Competitive 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Flexible Spending Account Benefit Plans
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Full Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • AD&D Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Business Travel Accident Insurance
  • Voluntary Legal
  • Relocation Assistance
  • Employee Assistance and Benefit Concierge Service Programs

Job Summary

Responsible to ensure aircraft and weather conditions are airworthy to transport medical crew and patient to receiving hospital within an assigned operational area. Responsible for compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR), Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), General Operations Manual guidelines (GOM), and thorough knowledge of Air Methods policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

Essential Functions and Responsibilities include the following:

  • Operates Air Methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner.
  • Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by sign off of Daily Flight Log. Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight and upon completion of each flight.
  • Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and equipment.
  • Must be thoroughly familiar with all aircraft and medical systems of backup aircraft utilized at operational area and also ensures that the medical flight team is familiar and comfortable with the medical interior and systems.
  • Responsible for completion of required documentation.
  • Able to conduct detailed flight planning with little notice to exacting standards.
  • Participates regularly in Air Methods meetings, activities, projects, committees and community outreach.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Additional Job Requirements

  • Regular scheduled attendance (7/7 schedule - 12 hour shifts)

Subject to applicable laws and Air Method's policies, regular attendance is an essential function of the position.  All employees must follow Air Methods' employment practices and policies.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position has no supervisory responsibilities. 

Qualifications

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  In accordance with applicable laws, Air Methods will provide reasonable accommodations that do not create an undue burden so disabled employees may perform the essential functions of the position.

Pay Scale

Based on flight and EMS experience.

Education & Experience

  • Associate's degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school and two  to five years' related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Bachelor's degree preferred

Operation and Safety Requirements:

  • As a member of the Flight Crew, any person employed in this position shall maintain a weight not to exceed 250 pounds and shall be less than seventy (70) years old.

Skills

  • Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment
  • Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months

Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program:

  • 2000 total flight hours with a minimum of 1500 flight hours in category
  • 1000 hours PIC in category
  • 500 hours of rotor wing turbine
  • 200 hours of cross-country flight time, at least 50 hours at night
  • 100 hours unaided night as PIC (50 hours of unaided can be substituted by 100 hours of NVG time, but cannot be reduced below 50 hours of unaided time)
  • 50 hours total actual or hood instrument time in flight and in category (for a RW candidate who is FW rated, 100 hours or greater of FW actual or hood Instrument time can reduce the RW required instrument time to 25 hours)

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

  • Instrument rating (for category and class of aircraft)(ATP rating in category meets this requirement)
  • Fixed wing multiengine rating is required for twin-engine aircraft
  • Commercial single-engine land is required for single-engine aircraft
  • First OR Second Class FAA Medical certificate required.

Internal Bidding Ends: 7/8/2026

Minimum payUSD $82,900.00/Yr.Maximum PayUSD $93,251.00/Yr.Benefits

For more information on our industry-leading benefits, please visit our benefits page here. 

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Employment Type: FULL_TIME