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National Guard Pilot Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Benson, NC · On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

With a focus on national security and economic resiliency, we serve critical industries such as ... guard interlocks, and safety-rated stops -- and demonstrate each one at Factory Acceptance Test ...

Controls Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$80K - $104K/yr

With a focus on national security and economic resiliency, we serve critical industries such as ... guard interlocks, and safety-rated stops -- and demonstrate each one at Factory Acceptance Test ...

National Guard Pilot information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$48.1K

$127.3K

$195.4K

How much do national guard pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for national guard pilot in Raleigh, NC is $127,254.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,200.00 and $150,700.00 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 Raleigh, NC?

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

What job categories do people searching National Guard Pilot jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for National Guard Pilot jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for National Guard Pilot jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most National Guard Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various National Guard Pilot job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $127,261 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

FLIGHT OPERATIONS SPECIALIST (TITLE 32)

Army National Guard Units

Morrisville, NC • On-site, Remote

$58K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Army National Guard rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Summary
THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 32 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION.
This National Guard position is for a FLIGHT OPERATIONS SPECIALIST (TITLE 32), Position Description Number D0671000 and is part of the NC ASO, National Guard (ASO - AASF #1 / MD 4141-105).
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Duties
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As a FLIGHT OPERATIONS SPECIALIST (TITLE 32), GS-2102-8, conduct preflight pilot briefings in accordance with National Guard regulations and directives; brief pilots on mission, aircraft and flight plan; brief and provide pilots with information on mission restrictions, on-route navigational facilities and equipment, hazards and terrain; weather forecasts, notices to airmen (NOTAMS) and deviations to flight plans when required; be responsible for assuring pilot and crew are qualified in aircraft to be flown and for type of mission to be performed; be responsible for completion of risk analysis projection; determine when flight requires higher level approving authority; sign briefing documents upon completion of mission preflight briefings, make recommendations to pilot-in-charge when flights should not be attempted; conduct post mission debriefs; provide flight following services for all local and maintenance test flights; be responsible for direct voice communication with aviators in flight to transmit and receive information ; process extended and local clearances, including examination for conformance with flight rules and regulations; process, clear and transmit flight plans and flight progress messages to appropriate agencies (FSS, ACT tower, ARTCC); be responsible for initiating search and rescue for overdue aircraft and implementing the crash rescue plan in the event of an aircraft accident; prepare, maintain and file records, charts, graphs, and reports allied to flight operations and flight training activities; compile and summarize reports for analysis; maintain and account for aircrew training records, medical recommendations, aeronautical orders, physiological training, and aviation service data; maintain arrival and dispatch records for inbound and outbound aircraft; schedule and dispatch assigned aircraft and aircrews; serve as the Synthetic Flight Training System (SFTS) coordinator by scheduling and providing necessary administrative support for aviator training; maintain current file of aircraft flying regulations and navigational information; supervise on-the-job training of unit flight operations personnel performing equivalent training or accomplishing a split unit training assembly at the facility; perform other duties as assigned.
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • National Guard Membership is required.
  • Males born after 31 December 1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • Federal employment suitability as determined by a background investigation.
  • You may be required to successfully complete a 1- or 2- year probation/trail period to assess performance, conduct, agency needs, public interest, and efficiency. Employment ends unless certified in writing that it advances the agencies interest.
  • Selectee will be required to wear the military uniform.
  • Acceptance of an excepted service position constitutes concurrence with these requirements as a condition of employment.
  • Applicants who are not currently a member of the National Guard must be eligible for immediate membership and employment in the National Guard in the military grade listed in this announcement.
  • Participation in direct deposit is mandatory.
  • This position is covered by the Domestic Violence Misdemeanor Amendment (30 Sep 96) of the Gun Control Act (Lautenberg Amendment) of 1968. An individual convicted of a qualifying crime of domestic violence may not perform the duties of this position.

Qualifications
Military Grades: Enlisted (E7 and below)
Minimum Requirements: Experience, education, or training interpreting, explaining, and/or applying basic rules, regulations, policies, and procedures of a transportation program. Experience using computer and automation systems..
Specialized Experience: (Must have at least 18 months) experience, education, or training arranging and interpreting directives and regulations governing transportation of personnel, cargo or freight. Experience applying directives and regulations governing transportation of personnel, cargo or freight. Experience verifying legal entitlements or official authorizations for travel, securing from carriers guides and timetables, information regarding schedules, fares, and availability of space accommodations. Experience planning and organizing the work of others.
Additional information
If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/1959 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you be registered or you are not eligible for appointment in this agency (https://www.sss.gov/RegVer/wfRegistration.aspx).
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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About Army National Guard

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The Army National Guard, headquartered in Arlington, VA, is a key constituent of the United States military, falling under the sector of Defense and Public Safety. Since its founding in 1636, it has served dual roles as both a state and federal military force that is activated in response to domestic emergencies and overseas combat missions. The Army National Guard embodies core values, including loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage, intending to uphold peace and serve the nation with unwavering dedication.

Industry

National security and international affairs

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US