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Military Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KBR

$95K - $143K/yr

Past designation as an FAA Commercial Pilot or Military Pilot/UAS Air Vehicle Pilot by the U.S. Armed Forces is desired. * Familiarity with operations from Webster Outlying Field and UAS operations ...

Pae

CH47- Maintenance Test Pilot

Knoxville, TN

The CH47- Maintenance Test Pilot utilizes flight test techniques to perform test flights of ... Initiate and complete all military flight or maintenance forms to document maintenance test flight ...

Hermeus

Senior Manager of Operational Test

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$169K - $228K/yr

A commercial or military pilot license is highly valued, as pilot perspective plays an important role in mission planning, range coordination, test card development, and operational decision-making.

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do military pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for military 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.

Do pilots make $300 an hour?

Military pilots typically do not earn $300 an hour; their pay is based on rank, years of service, and flight hours, with annual salaries often ranging from $60,000 to over $150,000. Flight hours and specialized skills can increase earning potential, but hourly rates of $300 are uncommon in military aviation. Civilian airline pilots may reach higher hourly rates, but this varies widely by airline and experience level.

How can I become a military pilot?

To become a military pilot, you typically need to meet age, education, and physical fitness requirements, complete basic training, and attend a military flight training program. Candidates often need a bachelor's degree, a valid driver's license, and must pass medical and aptitude tests; some branches also require passing the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB).

What is a Military Pilot job?

A Military Pilot operates aircraft for defense and combat missions, reconnaissance, transport, or search and rescue. They are trained to fly jets, helicopters, or transport planes while executing mission objectives under high-pressure conditions. Military Pilots undergo rigorous training, including flight school and survival training, to develop their skills. They play a critical role in national security, often requiring quick decision-making and teamwork.

What is the $600000 bonus for the Air Force?

The $600,000 bonus for the Air Force typically refers to enlistment or retention incentives offered to military pilots, including fighter and combat pilots, to encourage service commitment. These bonuses are part of recruiting efforts to address pilot shortages and may require a multi-year service agreement and specific qualifications. Such bonuses are subject to change based on military needs and policies.

Can you be a pilot with schizophrenia?

Military pilots are required to pass strict medical and psychological evaluations, and a diagnosis of schizophrenia typically disqualifies individuals from obtaining or maintaining a pilot's license due to safety and cognitive requirements. Mental health stability is essential for operating aircraft, and individuals with schizophrenia usually need ongoing treatment and monitoring that may conflict with military aviation standards.

What does a typical career path look like for a Military Pilot?

A Military Pilot often starts as a junior officer after completing rigorous flight school and initial aircraft qualification. With time and experience, pilots may progress to advanced aircraft assignments, instructor positions, or take on leadership roles such as flight commander or operations officer. Career advancement can include attending specialized training schools, participating in joint exercises, or moving into staff and planning roles within the military hierarchy. Continuous education and demonstrated leadership can open pathways to senior command positions or advanced technical specialties. This role offers a structured path with increasing levels of responsibility, skill development, and opportunities to contribute to mission planning and execution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Military Pilot position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Military Pilot, you need strong aeronautical knowledge, physical fitness, and completion of specialized military flight training and certification. Familiarity with advanced avionics systems, navigation technology, and weapons platforms is essential. Excellent decision-making, composure under pressure, and effective communication are critical soft skills in this role. These capabilities are vital for ensuring mission success, operational safety, and efficient teamwork in dynamic and high-stakes environments.

More about Military Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Military Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Military Pilot job openings:
What states have the most Military Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Military Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Military Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Military Pilot jobs are:
Military Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Military Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 16% Full Time, and 80% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Flight Instructor, HondaJet Pilot - Abilene, TX

XSTAR Aviation

Abilene, TX • On-site

$125K - $190K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Description
XSTAR Aviation is seeking experienced multiengine flight instructors to help build the next generation of Air Force aviators. This role supports a unique and rewarding mission focused on developing airmanship, increasing repetition, and enhancing overall flying proficiency within the bomber aircrew community.
In this role, CFIs will fly multiple times each week, deliver ground-based instruction, and provide focused, high-quality training to military aircrew.
This is an in-person, non-commuter position. Pilots must live, or be willing to relocate, within 30 minutes of Abilene, TX. The schedule is Monday through Friday each week and does not follow a traditional airline or rotational pilot schedule.
This position operates under FAA Part 91 and requires sound aeronautical judgment, strong crew coordination, and the ability to safely execute operations in a fast-paced environment. Pilots will work closely with program leadership, operations support personnel, and maintenance teams to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable daily operations.
In addition to flight operations, pilots will deliver ground-based instruction focused on the differences between FAA and USAF operating procedures, airspace, and regulatory frameworks to support pilot understanding and transition between environments.
Each pilot will also be assigned a ground duty aligned with site operations (e.g., safety, training coordination, or program administration). These responsibilities are integrated into standard duties and support overall program execution. The organizational structure and expectations are similar to a military flying unit.
Essential Functions
  • Act as CFI/PIC and conduct safe and efficient multi-engine flight operations in accordance with FAA Part 91 regulations and company procedures.
  • Plan and execute flight profiles, and instruct aircrew on flight planning, aeronautical decision-making, and mission execution.
  • Mentor and instruct U.S. Air Force aviators on instrument procedures, out-and-back mission profiles, and terminal area operations.
  • Execute proficiency-focused flight profiles designed to enhance airmanship, repetition, and overall pilot performance.
  • Deliver ground-based instruction on FAA and USAF procedural, regulatory, and airspace differences to support pilot understanding and operational integration.
  • Maintain a high standard of aeronautical decision-making, risk management, and crew coordination in all phases of flight.
  • Collaborate with operations support personnel, maintenance teams, and program leadership to ensure effective daily flight execution.
  • Perform assigned ground duty roles (e.g., safety, training coordination, or program administration) in support of site operations.
  • Participate in safety programs, reporting processes, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Maintain accurate and timely flight, training, and administrative records.
  • Support operational planning, scheduling coordination, and program meetings as required.
  • Represent XSTAR Aviation professionally in interactions with military personnel, government stakeholders, and industry partners.

Minimum Qualifications
(Military pilots may apply a 1.5× conversion factor.)
1,500 hours total flight time.
750 hours of PIC time.
500 hours of instructor time.
500 hours of turbine time.
One of the following:
  • FAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI/CFII) and Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI), or
  • Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate with multi-engine privileges and prior CFI experience, or
  • Current or Former Military Instructor Pilots

Multi-engine experience required; multi-engine turbine experience preferred
Demonstrated experience providing flight instruction in multi-engine aircraft.
Current FAA Medical Certificate (Class II or higher).
Strong aeronautical decision-making and risk management skills.
Excellent communication and instructional ability.
Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented operational environment.
Minimum of 10 years of aviation experience.
HA-420 experience is highly sought after.
*Prior military pilots who do not meet these minimums may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Multi-engine turbine experience
  • Prior military aviation experience
  • Instructor pilot experience in structured training program
  • Experience operating under FAA Part 91 or Part 135
  • HA-420 Flight experience
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Experience mentoring developing pilots in a training environment.

Physical Demands
  • Ability to operate aircraft safely and perform duties associated with flight operations.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain an FAA medical certificate (Class II or higher).
  • Prolonged periods sitting in aircraft and/or at a computer workstation.

Travel Required
Limited travel may be required for training, aircraft repositioning, or program coordination.
Work Authorization / Security Requirements
  • U.S. Citizen required
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Clearance (Preferred)

Equal Opportunity Statement
XSTAR Aviation is an equal opportunity employer committed to equal opportunity in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristics as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
Notice
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.

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