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Low Hour Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ · On-site

$85.30K - $106.20K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - Native Air Show Low, AZ EMS Air Medical Aircraft: AS350 (VFR) $15,000 ... We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ · On-site

$85.30K - $106.20K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - Native AirShow Low, AZ EMS Air Medical Aircraft: AS350 (VFR)$15,000 ... We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ

$85.30K - $106.20K/yr

Rotor Wing Pilot - Native Air Show Low, AZ EMS Air Medical Aircraft: AS350 (VFR) $15,000 Annual ... We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ

$85.30K - $106.20K/yr

Rotor Wing Pilot - Native Air Show Low, AZ EMS Air Medical Aircraft: AS350 (VFR) $15,000 Annual ... We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ

$85.30K - $106.20K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - Native AirShow Low, AZ EMS Air Medical Aircraft: AS350 (VFR)$15,000 ... We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ

$85.30K - $106.20K/yr

Rotor Wing Pilot - Native Air Show Low, AZ EMS Air Medical Aircraft: AS350 (VFR) $15,000 Annual ... We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ

$85.30K - $106.20K/yr

Rotor Wing Pilot - Native Air Show Low, AZ EMS Air Medical Aircraft: AS350 (VFR) $15,000 Annual ... We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ

$85.30K - $106.20K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - Native AirShow Low, AZ EMS Air Medical Aircraft: AS350 (VFR)$15,000 ... We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day ...

Helicopter Pilot

Olney, IL · On-site

$82.90K/yr

With a strong sense of community, low cost of living, and a slower, more meaningful pace of life ... Regular scheduled attendance. (7/7 schedule - 12-hour shifts) Subject to applicable laws and Air ...

With a low cost of living, growing job market, and a welcoming community, Little Rock makes it easy ... Regular scheduled attendance. (7/7 schedule - 12-hour shifts) Subject to applicable laws and Air ...

Helicopter Pilot

Texarkana, AR · On-site

$82.90K/yr

Residents enjoy a low cost of living, a relaxed pace, and easy access to outdoor spaces like Spring ... Regular scheduled attendance. (7/7 schedule - 12-hour shifts) Subject to applicable laws and Air ...

Helicopter Pilot

Olney, IL · On-site

$82.90K/yr

With a strong sense of community, low cost of living, and a slower, more meaningful pace of life ... Regular scheduled attendance. (7/7 schedule - 12-hour shifts) Subject to applicable laws and Air ...

Boasting an unprecedented safety record with more than 2.5 million hours of flight instruction ... low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job ...

Boasting an unprecedented safety record with more than 2.5 million hours of flight instruction ... low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job ...

Boasting an unprecedented safety record with more than 2.5 million hours of flight instruction ... low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job ...

Helicopter Pilot

Davenport, IA · On-site

$82.90K - $93.25K/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 ...

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Low Hour Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do low hour pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for low hour 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 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 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 low hour pilots?

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 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.

More about Low Hour Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Low Hour Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Low Hour Pilot job openings:
What states have the most Low Hour Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Low Hour Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Low Hour Pilot job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 12% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 53% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 11% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Helicopter Pilot

Helicopter Pilot

Air Methods

Show Low, AZ • On-site

$85.30K - $106.20K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Air Methods rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

102nd of 864 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
Rotor Wing Pilot - Native Air
Show Low, AZ

EMS Air Medical Aircraft: AS350 (VFR)
$15,000 Annual Stipend, Off-Duty Housing and $15,000 Sign-on Bonus Available

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!
Nestled high in the White Mountains, Show Low offers cool pine-covered landscapes and four-season adventure, a refreshing escape from Arizona's desert heat. Surrounded by the sprawling Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, it's a paradise for hiking, wildlife spotting, and miles of scenic trails. Crystal-clear waters at Show Low Lake and Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area deliver year-round fishing, boating, and camping just minutes from town.
Nearby mountain communities like Pinetop-Lakeside add charm, while bigger hubs like Phoenix are just a scenic drive away. With cooler temps, stunning starry skies, and endless outdoor recreation, Show Low blends small-town living with big-time adventure in Arizona's high country.
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 days on/7 days off (12-hour shifts)
• Indicate the percentage of time spent traveling: 10%
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.
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.
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

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

Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum Required Flight Times:
  • 2000 total flight hours with minimum of 1500 flight hours in category
  • 1000 hours PIC in category
  • 500 hours of rotor wing turbine time
  • 200 hours of cross-country flight time, at least 50 hours of which were at night
  • 100 hours unaided night as PIC (50 hours of unaided can be substituted for 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 (simulator time does not count) (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
  • Commercial & Instrument Rating (for category and class of aircraft)
  • ATP rating in category meets this requirement
  • First OR Second Class FAA Medical certificate required.

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.

Internal Bidding Ends: 05/06/2026
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)
Air Methods is an EEO/AA employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

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About Air Methods

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Air Methods is the most responsive and reliable provider of critical care transportation solutions. We partner with our EMS and hospital customers to solve the challenges of patient logistics and save lives. We deliver industry-leading performance in safety, clinical quality, and patient advocacy, committing to zero balance bills. In addition to caring for others, we care for our own teammates: building a high-performing culture where people are passionate about their work and always bring their best. We can't be the industry-leading air medical company without you.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Englewood, CO, US

Year founded

1980