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Low Hour Second Command Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... hour requirements. * USFS Aerial Firefighting experience in Helicopters * Maintain a Second-Class ... The pilot in command of an aircraft is directly responsible for, and is the final authority as to ...

... hour requirements. * USFS Aerial Firefighting experience in Helicopters * Maintain a Second-Class ... The pilot in command of an aircraft is directly responsible for, and is the final authority as to ...

... hour requirements. * USFS Aerial Firefighting experience in Helicopters * Maintain a Second-Class ... The pilot in command of an aircraft is directly responsible for, and is the final authority as to ...

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Low Hour Second Command Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do low hour second command pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for low hour second command 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 Second Command Pilot, and why are they important?

To excel as a Low Hour Second Command Pilot, you need a commercial pilot license, strong aeronautical knowledge, and foundational flight experience as required by aviation authorities. Familiarity with flight management systems (FMS), electronic flight bags (EFBs), and specific aircraft type ratings or simulator training is often necessary. Excellent situational awareness, teamwork, and communication skills are essential for effective cockpit coordination and safe operations. These capabilities are vital to ensure regulatory compliance, safe flight operations, and seamless collaboration with the captain and crew.

What is a Low Hour Second in Command Pilot?

A Low Hour Second in Command (SIC) Pilot is an entry-level co-pilot who typically has fewer total flight hours than more experienced pilots. This role is often filled by recent graduates of flight training programs or those building experience toward higher certifications. The SIC assists the captain with flight operations, ensures safety procedures are followed, and helps with navigation and communication tasks. Being a Low Hour SIC is a common step for pilots working toward becoming a captain or First in Command (PIC).

What are some common challenges faced by low hour second in command (SIC) pilots, and how can they effectively address them?

Low hour second in command pilots often face challenges such as building confidence in high-pressure situations, adapting to different aircraft types, and mastering effective crew resource management. Working closely with more experienced captains and proactively seeking feedback can accelerate learning and skill development. Additionally, embracing continuous training and staying updated on standard operating procedures helps SIC pilots handle dynamic flight operations and prepare for future advancement.

What is the difference between Low Hour Second Command Pilot vs First Officer?

AspectLow Hour Second Command PilotFirst Officer
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot Certificate, Second Class Medical, type ratingsCommercial Pilot Certificate, Second Class Medical, type ratings
Work EnvironmentOperates as second-in-command on commercial flights, often with limited flight hoursFirst in line to assist the captain, often with more flight experience
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, charter companies, cargo carriersAirlines, corporate flight departments

Low Hour Second Command Pilots are typically newer pilots gaining experience as second-in-command, often with fewer total flight hours than First Officers. Both roles require similar certifications and operate in similar environments, but First Officers usually have more flight hours and experience. The main difference lies in experience level and career progression within the airline industry.

More about Low Hour Second Command Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Low Hour Second Command Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Low Hour Second Command Pilot job openings:
What states have the most Low Hour Second Command Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Low Hour Second Command Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Low Hour Second Command Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Low Hour Second Command Pilot jobs are:
Infographic showing various Low Hour Second Command Pilot job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 94% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Command Pilot (PIC)

Command Pilot (PIC)

Billings Flying Service

Billings, MT โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Billings Flying Service rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 52 rated aviation services


Job description

Summary

The Pilot-In-Command reports directly to the Chief Pilot/Assistant Chief Pilot and is responsible for the safe and efficient conduct of the flight assignment.ย  The Chief Pilot/Assistant Chief Pilot may delegate certain functions to the PIC to be authorized to conduct business in the absence of the Chief Pilot/Assistant Chief Pilot to meet certain Company and FAA requirements. The PIC will be responsible for all duties and responsibilities required as a Pilot in Command in accordance with the BFS General Operations Manual (GOM).

Requirements

Qualifications

  • PIC must be able to maintain thorough understanding of Billings Flying Services policies and procedures and must embody, exhibit, and ensure Billings Flying Services core values in everyday work.
  • PIC must be highly knowledgeable of FAA regulations, Operations Specifications, Flight Manuals and to the content of all BFS General Operations Manual, Training Manual, Standard Operating Procedures, and Approved/Accepted FAA/USFS Manual.
  • Minimum of 3500 total time / 2500 PIC and 1500 Turbine. Tandem Rotor time a plus.
  • Must satisfy the applicable USFS hour requirements.
  • USFS Aerial Firefighting experience in Helicopters
  • Maintain a Second-Class Medical.
  • Type Rated in the CH-47D (BV234) is favorable.
  • Vertical Reference proficient
  • NVG qualified
  • Available for Domestic and International assignments.

Duties and Responsibilitiesย 

  • Safety of Flight
  • Ability to maintain active Supervisory Responsibilities of field crew and copilots. ย Issue directives and notices to flight crews as required.
  • PIC may be requested to assist and perform OJT for flight crewmember training, PIC upgrade training, flight base audits/inspections, and any other aviation duties as directed by the Chief Pilot.
  • Participate in pilot training when qualified to do so.
  • Actively participate in ensuring Billings Flying Services Safety Management System (SMS) including reporting hazards and incidents encountered in daily operations; understanding, complying and promoting the Company Safety Policy and other safety duties as assigned.
  • Reviews flight assignments and obtain briefing information regarding the purpose of the flight, weather, operating procedures, and any special instructions.
  • Prepares or supervises preparation of flight plan considering such factors as altitude, terrain, weather, range, weight, cruise performance, airport facilities and navigational aids.
  • Ensures aircraft is preflight, inspected, loaded, equipped, and manned for the flight assignment.
  • Determine compliance with duty and flight time limitations, properly certificated, adequately rested and in proper dress.
  • Ensures that all required forms, equipment, and material are on board the aircraft prior to flight.
  • Records mechanical irregularities and discrepancies and ensures that maintenance personnel are informed of the item recorded.
  • Verifies before beginning any flight that recorded items have been procedurally complied with, deferred, or corrected by maintenance personnel in accordance with the approved Minimum Equipment List for that aircraft, as appropriate.
  • CFR 91.3 Responsibility and authority of pilot in command. The pilot in command of an aircraft is directly responsible for, and is the final authority as to, the operation of that aircraft, to include weather decisions.

Behavioral Competencies

ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย  Embody BFS core values

  • Identifying hazardous or potentially hazardous situations and taking appropriate action to maintain a safe environment for self and others.
  • Working collaboratively with others to achieve organizational goals.
  • Dealing with situations and issues proactively and persistently, seizing opportunities that arise.
  • Listening and communicating openly, honestly, and respectfully with different audiences, promoting dialogue, and building consensus.
  • Treatingย others fairly, honestly, and respectfully, furthering the integrity of the organization and its relationships of trust with team members and the broader community.
  • Energizing and inspiring others to strive for excellence and commit to common goals and purposes, creating a sense of self-efficacy, resilience, and persistence in followers.
  • Assuming a leadership role in helping others achieve excellent results.
  • Recognizing the need for change, being open to new ideas and methods, and championing transformational change within the organization and beyond.

Work Environment/Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Work performed in austere field settings.
  • Exposure to shop environment such as noise, dust, odors, and fumes.
  • Occasionally required to lift items weighing as much as 50Lbs.
  • Regularly required to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about facilities.

Behavioral Competencies

ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย  Embody BFS core values

  • Identifying hazardous or potentially hazardous situations and taking appropriate action to maintain a safe environment for self and others.
  • Working collaboratively with others to achieve organizational goals.
  • Dealing with situations and issues proactively and persistently, seizing opportunities that arise.
  • Listening and communicating openly, honestly, and respectfully with different audiences, promoting dialogue, and building consensus.
  • Treatingย others fairly, honestly, and respectfully, furthering the integrity of the organization and its relationships of trust with team members and the broader community.
  • Energizing and inspiring others to strive for excellence and commit to common goals and purposes, creating a sense of self-efficacy, resilience, and persistence in followers.
  • Assuming a leadership role in helping others achieve excellent results.
  • Recognizing the need for change, being open to new ideas and methods, and championing transformational change within the organization and beyond.

Work Environment/Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Work performed in austere field settings.
  • Exposure to shop environment such as noise, dust, odors, and fumes.
  • Occasionally required to lift items weighing as much as 50Lbs.
  • Regularly required to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about facilities.

Benefits

  • Full time employment with competitive compensation based on experience and credentials. Medical, dental and vision insurance. 401K with up to 4% company match.
  • These benefits are available after initial waiting period.