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Noaa Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AIS Inc

Glider (AUV) Technician I

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

... piloting, and data analysis of autonomous underwater gliders used to monitor pelagic ecosystems in the Southern and Pacific Oceans. The position supports NOAA's mission to collect ecosystem ...

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How much do noaa pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for noaa 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 some typical missions or assignments NOAA Pilots may undertake, and how do these impact the work schedule?

NOAA Pilots frequently participate in specialized missions such as hurricane tracking, coastal mapping, snow and ice surveys, or marine mammal research, which often require flying in challenging conditions and remote locations. These assignments can demand irregular schedules, extended travel, and flexibility to respond to rapidly developing weather events or scientific needs. Teamwork is essential, as pilots regularly collaborate with scientists, engineers, and mission planners to ensure successful data collection and mission safety. The dynamic nature of these assignments makes the work both demanding and rewarding, offering the chance to contribute directly to important environmental research and public safety initiatives.

What is a NOAA Pilot job?

A NOAA Pilot is a highly trained aviator responsible for operating aircraft in support of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's scientific missions. They conduct aerial surveys, environmental monitoring, and emergency response operations, often flying over oceans, coastal regions, and remote areas. NOAA Pilots work closely with scientists and meteorologists to collect critical data for weather forecasting, climate research, and resource management. They must hold FAA certifications and typically have extensive flight experience, including specialized training for flying in challenging conditions.

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

To thrive as a NOAA Pilot, you need an FAA commercial pilot license (with multi-engine and instrument ratings), extensive flight experience, and a background in meteorology or related sciences. You must be adept at using advanced avionics, GPS navigation, and mission-specific scientific equipment for atmospheric or marine data collection. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial for coordinating with scientists and ground crews. These skills ensure accurate data gathering and safe operations in often challenging weather and mission environments.

How to become a NOAA Corps pilot?

To become a NOAA Corps pilot, applicants typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as engineering, science, or technology, along with experience in aviation and a valid pilot certificate. Candidates must pass a physical exam, meet age requirements, and complete NOAA Corps training, which includes leadership and operational skills development.

How much do NOAA pilots get paid?

NOAA pilots, who operate aircraft for scientific and environmental missions, typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, seniority, and location. They often require specialized certifications and flight hours, and may work irregular schedules during field operations.

Does NOAA hire pilots?

Yes, NOAA hires pilots for specialized roles such as flying research and survey aircraft. Candidates typically need a commercial pilot license, relevant flight experience, and often experience with aircraft used in scientific or environmental missions.

How much does a NOAA flight engineer make?

A NOAA flight engineer typically earns between $70,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience and location. The role involves maintaining aircraft systems and supporting flight operations, often requiring specialized certifications and experience in aviation and engineering.
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NOAA Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Noaa Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Glider (AUV) Technician I

Glider (AUV) Technician I

AIS Inc

La Jolla, CA • On-site

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, PTO

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

Job description

Salary:

A.I.S., Inc. (AIS) is a national scientific services firm supporting maritime activities requiring certification of compliance with environmental regulations as well as collecting data for use by Federal, State, Municipal, and other government agencies along the US coastline. AIS is looking for a Glider (AUV) Technician I to support the SWFSCs Ecosystem Science Division (ESD).


Primary Function:

The Glider (AUV) Technician I will support the Southwest Fisheries Science Center's (SWFSC) Ecosystem Science Division in the preparation, deployment, recovery, piloting, and data analysis of autonomous underwater gliders used to monitor pelagic ecosystems in the Southern and Pacific Oceans. The position supports NOAA's mission to collect ecosystem observations that characterize the physical environment and marine organisms, providing data used for fisheries management, Antarctic conservation, and California Current ecosystem assessments.


Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Ballasting gliders and cleaning/sealing them in preparation for deployment
  • Performing pre-deployment system checks and test flights in the SWFSC tech tank
  • Defining mission parameters and preparing mission files for deployment
  • Calibrating and preparing ADCP/Es, CTD sensors, and mooring buoys for deployment
  • Piloting gliders throughout deployments on rotating 24-hour shifts, monitoring flight performance, and responding to mission interruptions
  • Going to sea on small boats or research vessels to deploy and recover gliders
  • Maintaining clean, organized, and accessible glider workspaces
  • Submitting monthly progress reports reflecting status and progress of all tasks


Compensation: Candidates will be paid an hourly rate to be negotiated, and total compensation will vary depending on candidates' depth of experience. This is a full-time position. AIS benefits package includes health and dental insurance, vacation, sick and holiday benefits.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university with a major in natural or physical science, computational science, mechanical engineering, or electrical engineering, plus one (1) year of experience in a related field; or a combination totaling five (5) years of combined education and experience


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Familiarity with oceanographic instruments including CTD sensors, dissolved oxygen sensors, acoustic and optical systems
  • Prior experience with California Cooperative Oceanic Fisheries Investigations (CalCOFI) survey operations
  • Experience preparing hazardous materials shipping documentation

Travel:

  • Travel is required (personnel will be expected to go to sea on small boats or research vessels to deploy and recover gliders, and potentially for longer survey activities)
  • Travel frequency is variable and dependent on deployment schedules.

Location:

  • 8901 La Jolla Shores Dr., La Jolla, CA 92037 (Southwest Fisheries Science Center)

Contact:

If you would like to apply for this exciting new opening, please visit our Careers Page to submit the required information:

  • Resume
  • Cover letter detailing relevant experience.
  • 3 professional references (name, email address and phone number)

All documents must be submitted for your application to be considered. If you have any questions pertaining to this opening, please reach out to our Talent Team or call 774-770-5833.


An Equal Opportunity Employer

It is the policy of A.I.S. to recruit, hire, train, promote, transfer and compensate our employees and provide all other conditions of employment including Company sponsored events without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, lawful alien status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, citizenship status, veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law.

Must be able to work in the U.S. VEVRAA Federal Contractor Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals Equal Opportunity Employer