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National Guard Pilot Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Army

MATE TUG CLASS I

Detroit, MI · On-site

$48.44/hr

Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technician Eligible ... Work is performed inside and outside of the pilot house, on deck and in other locations of the ...

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

MATE TUG CLASS I

Detroit, MI · On-site

$48.44 - $56.50/hr

Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: a Mate of Self-propelled vessels not ... Work is performed inside and outside of the pilot house, on deck and in other locations of the ...

All JobsNational Guard Pilot JobsNational Guard Pilot Jobs in Michigan

National Guard Pilot information

See Michigan salary details

$43.1K

$114.1K

$175.2K

How much do national guard pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for national guard pilot in Michigan is $114,106.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,200.00 and $135,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a National Guard pilot?

National Guard pilots are highly trained military aviators who serve part-time in the Air National Guard or Army National Guard, flying aircraft such as fighter jets, helicopters, or transport planes. In addition to their flying duties, they often participate in training exercises, disaster response, and homeland defense missions. Many National Guard pilots also maintain civilian careers, balancing their service commitments with their personal and professional lives. They play a critical role in both state and federal missions, supporting local communities and national security.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a National Guard pilot?

To thrive as a National Guard Pilot, you need a strong background in aviation, excellent hand-eye coordination, and completion of military flight training, along with a bachelor's degree and officer commissioning. Familiarity with advanced avionics, navigation systems, and aircraft-specific simulators is essential, as is maintaining required flight certifications and medical clearances. Leadership, adaptability, and clear communication are standout soft skills for managing high-pressure missions and working effectively within a team. These abilities are vital to ensure mission success, safety, and seamless coordination during both routine and emergency operations.

What are some unique challenges National Guard pilots face compared to civilian pilots?

National Guard Pilots often balance their military responsibilities with civilian careers, which can lead to unique scheduling and time-management challenges. They may be called upon for sudden deployments or emergency missions, requiring adaptability and readiness to shift priorities quickly. Additionally, National Guard Pilots frequently operate in diverse environments, from domestic disaster relief to overseas operations, which demands a high level of flexibility and resilience. The need to maintain proficiency in both military and, often, civilian flight operations also requires ongoing training and commitment.

What is the difference between National Guard Pilot vs Army Pilot?

AspectNational Guard PilotArmy Pilot
Required CertificationsFAA pilot license, military flight trainingFAA pilot license, military flight training
Work EnvironmentNational Guard bases, military aircraftArmy bases, military aircraft
Employer & IndustryU.S. National Guard, military aviationU.S. Army, military aviation

Both roles require similar certifications and military flight training, with work environments centered around military bases. The main difference lies in their employer and operational focus: National Guard Pilots serve part-time in the National Guard, often balancing civilian careers, while Army Pilots are full-time military personnel within the U.S. Army. Understanding these distinctions helps aspiring pilots choose the right career path in military aviation.

Can you be a pilot for the National Guard?

Yes, the National Guard employs pilots who typically hold a private pilot license or higher, along with military flight training and specialized certifications. Candidates must meet age, education, physical, and security clearance requirements, and often serve part-time while maintaining civilian careers or education. Flight hours, technical skills, and physical fitness are essential for this role.

How much do National Guard pilots get paid?

National Guard pilots are typically paid based on their rank, experience, and flight hours, with salaries ranging from approximately $50,000 to over $100,000 annually. They also receive additional benefits such as allowances, bonuses, and retirement options, and must meet specific training and certification requirements. Pay can vary depending on duty status and deployment circumstances.

Is it hard to become a National Guard pilot?

Becoming a National Guard pilot requires meeting strict eligibility criteria, completing a rigorous training program, and obtaining necessary certifications such as a private pilot license and military flight training. Candidates must also pass physical and background checks, and often have prior military or aviation experience, making the process competitive and demanding.

What do National Guard pilots do?

National Guard pilots operate aircraft such as helicopters and fixed-wing planes to perform missions including transportation, reconnaissance, search and rescue, and disaster response. They undergo specialized training, hold pilot certifications, and often serve part-time while supporting both military and emergency operations.

What are popular job titles related to National Guard Pilot jobs in Michigan?

For National Guard Pilot jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching National Guard Pilot jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for National Guard Pilot jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for National Guard Pilot jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most National Guard Pilot job openings:

National Guard Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various National Guard Pilot job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 84% In-person, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,106 per year, or $54.9 per hour.

Great Lakes Piloting Mate

Grand River Navigation Company

Traverse City, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Come Sail with us on the Great Lakes!
If you are looking to become part of our team that strongly values safety, efficient operations, a family-oriented environment, come sail with us! Grand River Navigation has one of the best leave and rotation systems on the Great Lakes. With unprecedented teamwork and some of the most talented colleagues in the industry we can guarantee you will enjoy a career with us!
Grand River Navigation Company is the U.S. operating subsidiary of Mainstay Maritime. We are one of the largest marine transportation service providers operating on the Great Lakes today with a combined fleet of 15 bulk freight vessels that provide service to over 50 customers across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway.
Competitive total rewards package including income, paid travel to/from the vessel, healthcare benefits, retirement savings plans and work/life balance with best-in-class rotation. We have many education opportunities and upgrade bonuses to support career growth at a pace that is right for each individual.
"We can go where the big ships go and also where they can't!"
Our Company is searching for qualified candidates for the position of Mate / First Class Pilot aboard our US flagged self-unloading vessels.
Responsibilities
  • Serve as the senior deck officer and principal assistant to the Master in the safe navigation and operation of the vessel.
  • Direct and maintain safe navigational watches, ensuring compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and established maritime practices.
  • Lead, coordinate, and oversee all Deck Department personnel, promoting a culture of safety, professionalism, and operational excellence.
  • Plan, supervise, and ensure the effective maintenance, preservation, and upkeep of the vessel's hull, decks, superstructure, and deck machinery.
  • Manage all cargo operations, including the safe loading, unloading, stowage, and securing of cargo while ensuring compliance with vessel stability and safety requirements.
  • Ensure all lifesaving, firefighting, emergency, and pollution prevention equipment is properly maintained, inspected, and ready for immediate use.
  • Coordinate deck maintenance programs, vessel inspections, and regulatory compliance activities to meet company, U.S. Coast Guard, and industry standards.
  • Manage the procurement, inventory, and control of deck stores, equipment, and supplies to support efficient vessel operations.
  • Conduct crew training, safety meetings, and emergency drills to ensure preparedness and adherence to the vessel's Safety Management System (SMS).
  • Maintain accurate records, logs, maintenance reports, and regulatory documentation as required.
  • Assume command responsibilities in the absence of the Master, as directed.
  • Perform additional duties and special assignments as delegated by the Master.

Benefits
  • As an employee you are part of the Mainstay Maritime family where Teamwork and safety are a core value
  • Highly competitive wages and benefits including medical, dental, vision, company paid long-term and short-term disability and life insurance, 401K with company match.
  • Excellent safety record
  • Company paid training and education opportunities

Requirements
  • TWIC Card - Transportation Worker Identification Credential
  • United States Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC) issued by the United States Coast Guard (USCG)
  • Endorsement as Mate of Unlimited Tonnage upon the Great Lakes and Inland Waters (minimum)
  • First Class Pilot of Vessels of Unlimited Tonnage upon the Great Lakes between Duluth, Gary, Buffalo and Port Weller to Cape Vincent
  • Unexpired US Passport or Enhanced Driver's License and allowed entry into Canada
  • Legally authorized to work in the US, without restriction
  • Excellent communication and ability to multi-task
  • Experience working as a team and desire to working together as a team player
  • Experience and desires to align to our Values: Creating a Positive Customer Experience, Health/Safety/Environment focused, High Integrity and Teamwork

Grand River Navigation is an Equal Opportunity Employer - All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality or sex, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We also comply with Family Medical Leave Act and Employee Rights Employee Polygraph Protection Act.

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