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National Guard Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$101K - $131K/yr

Brendon Holbrook Learn more about this agency Duties Help Pilots a variety of on one or more of the ... Alaska Army National Guard membership is required. * Males born after 31 December 1959 must be ...

$56K - $73K/yr

Conducts preflight pilot briefings in accordance with National Guard regulations and directives. Briefs pilots on mission, aircraft and flight plan. Briefs and provides pilots with information on ...

$55K - $72K/yr

Learn more about this agency Duties Help As a FLIGHT OPERATIONS SPECIALIST (TITLE 32), GS-2102-8, you will conduct preflight pilot briefings in accordance with National Guard regulations and ...

In this position, you will play a critical role in preparing Army National Guard aviators for the demanding operational environments they face. The selected Instructor Pilot will conduct flight ...

In this position, you will play a critical role in preparing Army National Guard aviators for the demanding operational environments they face. The selected Instructor Pilot will conduct flight ...

This role places you at the center of a mission that directly strengthens Army National Guard ... Instructor Pilots also perform Instructor Operator duties and deliver platform academic instruction ...

This role places you at the center of a mission that directly strengthens Army National Guard ... Instructor Pilots also perform Instructor Operator duties and deliver platform academic instruction ...

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National Guard Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do national guard pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for national guard 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a National Guard Pilot, and why are they important?

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 National Guard pilots?

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 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.

More about National Guard Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for National Guard Pilot jobs? Cities with the most National Guard Pilot job openings:
What states have the most National Guard Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for National Guard Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various National Guard Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. 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.
HELICOPTER PILOT

$101K - $131K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Army National Guard rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Summary
Opened Area(s) of Consideration: 1, 2
DEFINITION OF AREA(S) OF CONSIDERATION:
Area 1 - AKNG Permanent or Indefinite technicians.
Area 2 - All AKNG members.
PDCN: D2929000
Selecting Supervisor: Brendon Holbrook
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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Pilots a variety of on one or more of the following helicopters: Attack Helicopter (AH-64); Cargo Helicopter (CH-47); Utility Helicopter (UH-60 series), (LUH-72 series) and others when assigned. Routinely operates with short takeoffs and landing capability, in all types of weather, day, and night over a variety of terrains and open bodies of water. Flights are made using landing facilities ranging from modern, improved airport with paved runways and navigational aids to unimproved strips of remote, isolated villages. This position will be required to make reconnaissance and observation flights. Makes test flights and checks all systems in connection with maintenance actions and takes necessary action to correct malfunctions. Participates in all-weather search and rescue operations as required utilizing a thorough knowledge of the terrain features of the geographical area. Conducts flight checks following repairs, maintenance, or installation of approved aircraft system modifications. Responsible for transportation of cargo and transporting passengers, among a variety of familiar destinations.
Performs maintenance operation checks (MOCs) and general test flights of aircraft to ensure airworthiness upon completion of extensive disassembly for maintenance, repair or replacement of components or aircraft systems. Performs general test flights of aircraft upon completion of extensive disassembly, reassembly, and maintenance, repair, or replacement of parts where tests cannot determine the safe and or proper functioning of aircraft components or systems; and ensures the airworthiness component or aircraft systems. Performs acceptance test flights of new aircraft when required.
Serves as a member of a board pertaining to aviation accidents, flight evaluation, collateral investigations, standardization, and federal recognition.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Requirements
Help
Conditions of employment
  • Incumbent is subject to termination due to loss or reduction in funding for this position.
  • Alaska Army 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.
  • U.S. Citizenship and Secret Clearance is required.
  • Bargaining Unit: Non-bargaining
  • APPOINTMENT FACTORS: Excepted/Warrant Officer/Officer in the Alaska Army National Guard.
  • This is an Army National Guard dual status technician position which requires military membership.
  • Incumbent is subject to uncommon tours of duty, rotational shift assignments and compensation and/or overtime duty.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain the appropriate security clearance of the position.
  • 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.
  • The employee may be required to travel in military and/or commercial aircraft to perform temporary duty assignments.
  • Incumbent must possess and continue to maintain a US Army Class II Flight Physical.
  • Employee will be required to wear and use personal protective equipment as required and provided by the employer.
  • MILITARY GRADE REQUIREMENT: Due to the nature of this position, the minimum military grade is Chief Warrant Officer (CW2/W-2) and the maximum military grade is Captain (CPT/O-3).
  • Possess a valid state driver's license to operate government motor vehicles, for the state in which they live or are principally employed.
  • MOS REQUIREMENT: Due to the nature of this position, you must currently hold an MOS in the 15 series or 67J.
  • Current and qualified in UH-60 MDS and assigned, or able to be assigned, to Alpha Company, 1-168.

Qualifications
GENERAL EXPERIENCE - An applicant must have a competent understanding of the occupation's basic principles and concepts. Applicants should have a minimum of one year on-the-job experience in the grade (or a comparable military rank) immediately below the next higher level.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE - Is experience that prepares the applicant to perform the Dual Status technician duties and responsibilities. To qualify, an applicant's educational-degree study program, military professional and technical training schools or academies, and aviation certifications may apply as substitutions for some specialized experience factors.
Applicants must demonstrate the following specialized experience competencies (skills, knowledge, and abilities) to qualify for entry appointments to GS-2181-12 Army National Guard Dual Status Warrant Officer positions. Qualification competencies are determined by three factors: The aircraft operated; the nature and purpose of assignments; and, the degree of hazard. For Army National Guard positions, must have working experiences in civilian aviation programs; or, in military service aviation programs (active duty or reserve components); or, in the Army National Guard Aviation Support facilities; or, in Air National Guard Wing/ Operations Groups.
GS-12 Army National Guard Warrant Officer- To qualify, the applicant must have at least two years (24 months) specialized competencies in operating a specific main-frame military aircraft, mission planning, and mission preparation. Experienced in reviewing and analyzing mission tasking, intelligence, and weather information. Experienced in filing flight plans and conducting crew briefings. Experienced in aircraft preflight inspections, aircraft loading, and equipment assessments. Experienced in performing or supervising work procedures involved in navigation, in-flight refueling, search and rescue operations or surveillance and reconnaissance. Competent in conducting or supervising the training of crew members in simple to complex mission specific tasks. Experienced in developing plans and policies, monitoring operations, and advising commanders. Knowledge is required in flight theory, air navigation, meteorology, flying directives, mission tactics, and operating procedures. Experienced in the unit flying, explosive, and ground safety programs in accordance with Department of Defense, Department of the Army, National Guard Bureau, and/or Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies, regulations, and directives.
GS-12 Army National Guard Officers- To qualify, the applicant must have at least two years (24 months) experience in piloting and instructing pilot skills in one or more of the following main-frame/military aircraft: Fixed-wing, rotary, or remotely piloted aircraft (RPA). Although a variety of piloting administrative tasks are performed in support of an Army National Guard aviation program, experiences include the abilities to train and instruct others in the piloting of a main-frame military aircraft. Experienced in mission tasking, intelligence reporting, and applying weather information. Experienced in supervising and/or filing of flight plans and conducting crew briefings. Experienced in aircraft preflight inspections, aircraft loading, equipment assessments, and mission manning. Experienced in operating aircraft controls and equipment. Experienced in performing or supervising the work procedures involved in navigation, in-flight refueling; search and rescue operations; or surveillance and reconnaissance. Ability to conduct or supervise the training of crew members in simple to complex mission specific tasks. Experienced in developing plans and policies, monitoring operations, and advising commanders. Experienced in flight theory, air navigation, meteorology, flying directives, aircraft operating procedures, and mission tactics. Experiences in instructing others in a specific air-frame/military aircraft. Competent to complete various piloting administrative tasks performed in support of Army National Guard aviation programs. Skilled to instruct others to pilot military aircraft on a regular and recurring basis. Experienced in the aviation unit quality control management programs; plus, skilled in the unit flying, explosive, and ground safety programs in accordance with Department of the Army, National Guard Bureau, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration directives. Experienced in following directives, regulations, accident reports, safety data, and local operating conditions to determine unit safety program requirements. Experienced in coordinating with appropriate agencies to ensure compliance with all applicable safety regulations and programs. Experienced in one or more missions such as, air-to-air; air-to- ground; mortar-to-arm escort; surveillance; reconnaissance; surface attack; killer-scout; target illumination; or laser targeting. Experienced in piloting manned or unmanned aircraft. Experiences may include the traditional "stick and rudder" type controls for piloting aircraft direction, altitude, and speed. Experienced in on-board aircraft instrumentation and aircraft mounted video cameras. Experienced in visual flight-rule type flying and aircraft instrument flying. Experienced in flying simulated "real world" combat and non-combat missions and terrain. Experienced in planning, scheduling, and conducting flights through Federal Aviation Administration controlled national airspace. Experienced in applying operational directives, training directives, instructions, standard operating procedures, and special instructions of National Guard Bureau, United States Army, and gaining commands. Experienced in working independently to plan and perform work assignments. Experienced in completing safe and efficient missions through the use of Operational Risk Management. Experienced in cancelling flying activities, diverting aircraft, dictating mission requirements, approving specific activities, coordinating for airport or airspace utilization with FAA, and/or, directing emergency actions involving unit support agencies. Experienced in using applicable Army aviation regulations, policies, requirements and standards, skills and practices; and, the applying instructional techniques to the training of other pilots in the Army National Guard flying facilities. Et cetera.
**The applicant's specialized experience credit, for Series GS 2181, begins on his or her Aviation Service Entry Date (ASED) as annotated on DA Form 759, Individual Flight Record and Flight Certificate; DA Form 1059-1, Civilian Institution Academic Evaluation Report; along with other Federal Aviation Administration certifications and/or military service aviation certifications, current aeronautical ratings and aviation service qualifications, military and civilian performance records, resume, training certificates, and educational accomplishments must be submitted to show possession of the competencies needed to fully perform aircraft operations work.**
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
Resume must have complete dates and hours worked per week for each occurrence of both civilian and military employment (Example: 2 JAN 1980 to 3 MAR 1981; 0800-1630 M-F or JAN 1980 to MAR 1981; 40 hrs/wk) Use of year only will result in disqualification. The duties listed must fully substantiate -in your own words- that you meet the minimum requirements and specialized experience listed above, in detail; otherwise, you will not be considered qualified for this position.
Length of time is not of itself qualifying. Your experience will be evaluated on the basis of duties performed. Your record of experience and/or training must show possession of the knowledge, skills and abilities needed to fully perform the duties of the position.
Education
GS-12 Army National Guard Warrant Officers - Must have a high school diploma or general education development (GED) diploma. An undergraduate degree from an accredited college/university is optimum. Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs or must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools.
GS-12 Army National Guard Officers - For Army National Guard Second and First Lieutenants, must be actively pursuing an under-graduate degree with at least 90 validated credit hours in a specified program. For Captains and above, must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited college/university. Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs OR must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools.
Additional information
- INDEFINITE: Indefinite employees may be separated with a 30 days' notice. Indefinite employment is temporary and is expected to last more than one year but no more than five consecutive years. Indefinite employees may be converted to permanent without further competition.
- If you are a current Federal employee or former Federal employee, you must submit a copy of your latest SF-50 "Notification of Personnel Action" and/or a copy of the SF-50. You may submit your most recent performance appraisal.
- The National Guard is exempt from the Veterans Preference Act. Submission of a copy of your DD-214 is not required unless you are hired for technician position.
- If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/59 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.
- Cost of Living Allowance (COLA): Entitled to 1.49% COLA in addition to base salary, subject to change.
- Direct Deposit Program: If selected for technician position with the Alaska National Guard, you will be required to participate in the Direct Deposit Program. (Salary will be automatically deposited to bank/credit union account).
- Military Bonuses And Student Loan Repayment Program:

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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