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Military Helicopter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Helicopter Pilot

Yakima, WA · On-site

$106K/yr

As a Helicopter Pilot is located in the Headquarters section of the United States Army Air ... Your application packet MUST include a copy of certificates/military ratings. Flight hour ...

HELICOPTER PILOT

Ronkonkoma, NY · On-site +1

$123K - $161K/yr

Learn more about this agency Duties Help As a HELICOPTER PILOT (GS-2181-12), you will pilot a ... If you are not sure you are eligible for military membership, please contact a National Guard ...

Helicopter Pilot

Yakima, WA · On-site +1

$106K - $138K/yr

As a Helicopter Pilot is located in the Headquarters section of the United States Army Air ... Execution of aviation duties will require candidates to maintain a Class II Military Flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Jerseyville, IL · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Survival Flight is accepting resumes for a full-time Helicopter Air Ambulance (HAA) Pilot position ... present military service, genetic information, or any other status protected by the laws or ...

Helicopter Pilot

Aberdeen, NC

$74K - $93K/yr

Skills Pilots must have flown in category for a commercial operator or in the military within the ... FAA Commercial Helicopter Certificate with Instrument Helicopter Rating. * BA or BS degree ...

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Military Helicopter Pilot information

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$71.5K

$100.2K

$123.5K

How much do military helicopter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for military helicopter pilot in the United States is $100,249.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a military helicopter pilot do?

A Military Helicopter Pilot is responsible for operating helicopters in a variety of missions, including combat, transport, reconnaissance, search and rescue, and medical evacuation. They undergo rigorous training to master flight operations, navigation, and emergency procedures. Pilots must also coordinate with ground and air units to complete missions effectively. Their role requires discipline, quick decision-making, and the ability to perform under high-pressure conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a military helicopter pilot?

To thrive as a Military Helicopter Pilot, you need a solid background in aviation, strong situational awareness, excellent hand-eye coordination, and typically a bachelor's degree along with completion of military flight school. Familiarity with advanced avionics, navigation systems, and compliance with military certifications like the Army Aviator Badge are essential for operating and maintaining helicopters safely. Exceptional decision-making, leadership, and teamwork skills help pilots manage high-stress situations and coordinate effectively with ground and air support teams. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure mission success, safety, and effective collaboration in demanding operational environments.

What are the typical career advancement opportunities for a military helicopter pilot?

Military Helicopter Pilots can pursue a variety of advancement opportunities as they gain experience, such as becoming instructor pilots, test pilots, or moving into command roles overseeing flight operations and aviation units. They may also have the chance to specialize in different aircraft or mission types, including search and rescue, medevac, or special operations. Many pilots further their education through advanced military training or leadership courses, which can open doors to higher-ranked positions. Additionally, experience as a military pilot is highly respected and can transfer to civilian aviation careers after military service.

Can I become a military helicopter pilot?

Military helicopter pilots are typically required to be U.S. citizens, meet age and education requirements, and pass physical and medical exams. They must complete military flight training and obtain necessary certifications, such as a pilot's license, before serving in the armed forces. Additional qualifications may include security clearances and specialized skills in aviation and navigation.

How do you become a military helicopter pilot?

To become a military helicopter pilot, candidates must meet age and physical requirements, complete basic training, and attend a military flight school where they learn to operate helicopters and obtain necessary certifications. Prior military service or enlistment in the armed forces is typically required, along with passing medical and aptitude tests, and gaining flight hours through training programs.

How much do military helicopter pilots make?

Military helicopter pilots typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on rank, experience, and years of service. They often receive additional benefits such as housing allowances, healthcare, and retirement plans, and must complete specialized training and certifications to operate military aircraft.
More about Military Helicopter Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Military Helicopter Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Military Helicopter Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Military Helicopter Pilot jobs?

The most popular types of Military Helicopter Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Military Helicopter Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Military Helicopter Pilot jobs include:

Infographic showing various Military Helicopter Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,249 per year, or $48.2 per hour.

$106K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 538 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: As a Helicopter Pilot is located in the Headquarters section of the United States Army Air Ambulance Detachment located at the Yakima Training Center in Washington State.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience which includes 1) Operating a twin-engine helicopter at minimum controllable speeds and at low altitudes and 2) Over unfavorable terrain while providing lifesaving medical evacuation for a MEDEVAC Detachment and 3) Analyzing present and future weather conditions along the route of flight, avoiding unfavorable weather considering alternate routes and destinations. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-12).
Minimum Eligibility Requirements: Possession of the appropriate Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pilot certificates, and/or military rating, meeting the applicable flight hour requirements, and possession of the knowledge and skills required for the position. Flight hour information MUST in the body of the resume. Your application packet MUST include a copy of certificates/military ratings.
Flight hour requirements:
Total flight time: 1750 hours;
Pilot in Command: 1150 hours;
Night flying: 75 hours;
Last 12 months: 100 hours;
Heavy Helicopter: 500 hours;
Instrument: 75 hours.
Please review the OPM qualification standard for specific flight requirements: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/2100/aircraft-operation-series-2181/
Time in Grade Requirement: Applicants who have held a General Schedule (GS) position within the last 52 weeks must have 52 weeks of Federal service at the next lower grade or equivalent (GS-12).Education:Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience alone--no substitution of education for experience is permittedEmployment Type: OTHER

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