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Navy Fighter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fighter Pilot- Pt. Mugu - ATAC Textron Systems is part of Textron, a $14 billion, multi-industry ... Navy, Marine and Air Force pilots. ATAC operates simultaneously across eight sites and two ...

Navy, Marines and the US Air Force. ATAC operates simultaneously across eight permanent sites ... Previously qualified DoD-trained Fighter Pilot * Previously qualified 4-Ship/Division Flight Lead ...

Fighter Pilot- Pt. Mugu - ATAC Textron Systems is part of Textron, a $14 billion, multi-industry ... Navy, Marine and Air Force pilots. ATAC operates simultaneously across eight sites and two ...

Fighter Pilot- Pt. Mugu - ATAC Textron Systems is part of Textron, a $14 billion, multi-industry ... Navy, Marine and Air Force pilots. ATAC operates simultaneously across eight sites and two ...

Fighter Pilot- Pt. Mugu - ATAC Textron Systems is part of Textron, a $14 billion, multi-industry ... Navy, Marine and Air Force pilots. ATAC operates simultaneously across eight sites and two ...

Fighter Pilot- Pt. Mugu - ATAC Textron Systems is part of Textron, a $14 billion, multi-industry ... Navy, Marine and Air Force pilots. ATAC operates simultaneously across eight sites and two ...

Navy, Marines and the US Air Force. ATAC operates simultaneously across eight permanent sites ... Previously qualified DoD-trained Fighter Pilot * Previously qualified 4-Ship/Division Flight Lead ...

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Navy Fighter Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do navy fighter pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for navy fighter 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 Navy Fighter Pilots?

Navy Fighter Pilots are highly trained military aviators who operate advanced fighter aircraft from naval vessels, primarily aircraft carriers. Their main responsibilities include defending naval fleets, engaging in air-to-air and air-to-ground combat, and supporting various military operations. Navy Fighter Pilots undergo rigorous training in both flight skills and tactical combat, and they play a critical role in ensuring the security and effectiveness of naval missions. They must also maintain a high level of physical fitness, mental acuity, and adaptability to succeed in challenging and dynamic environments.

What is the TOPGUN in real life?

In the context of a Navy fighter pilot, TOPGUN refers to the United States Navy Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor program, a highly selective training course that teaches advanced aerial combat tactics and skills to experienced pilots. Graduates are considered expert pilots and often serve as instructors or leaders within the Navy's fighter community.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Navy Fighter Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Navy Fighter Pilot, you need a bachelor's degree, completion of Officer Candidate School, and rigorous flight training, along with excellent physical fitness and vision. Mastery of advanced aircraft systems, navigation technology, and simulation software is essential, and additional military certifications are often required. Outstanding situational awareness, quick decision-making, teamwork, and communication skills distinguish top performers in this high-stakes role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring mission effectiveness, operational safety, and successful coordination during complex and demanding flight operations.

How much do Navy fighter pilots make?

Navy fighter pilots typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, rank, and years of service. They also receive additional benefits such as housing allowances, special pay, and comprehensive healthcare. Salaries increase with promotions and time in service, and pilots often undergo rigorous training and certifications.

What are some common challenges faced by Navy Fighter Pilots during carrier operations?

Navy Fighter Pilots frequently encounter unique challenges when operating from aircraft carriers, including landing on a moving, limited runway in varying weather and sea conditions. Precision, timing, and the ability to quickly adapt to rapidly changing situations are essential. Pilots must also work closely with the deck crew, air traffic controllers, and other pilots to ensure safe and effective flight operations. These demanding scenarios require both technical skill and strong teamwork, fostering a high level of camaraderie and trust among the squadron.

Do Navy pilots fly F-35?

Navy fighter pilots do fly the F-35C Lightning II, which is the carrier-based variant of the F-35. They train extensively on this advanced stealth fighter to perform a variety of combat and reconnaissance missions from aircraft carriers.

What is the difference between Navy Fighter Pilot vs Navy Pilot?

AspectNavy Fighter PilotNavy Pilot
Required CredentialsMilitary aviation training, pilot certification, military academy or ROTCMilitary aviation training, pilot certification, military academy or ROTC
Work EnvironmentCombat aircraft, military bases, aircraft carriersTransport, reconnaissance, or training aircraft, military bases
Employer & IndustryU.S. Navy, military aviationU.S. Navy, military aviation

Both Navy Fighter Pilots and Navy Pilots require similar military training and certifications. However, Navy Fighter Pilots specialize in combat aircraft and operate in high-intensity environments like aircraft carriers, focusing on aerial combat. Navy Pilots may operate various aircraft types, including transport and reconnaissance planes, with less emphasis on combat missions. The key difference lies in the specialization and mission focus within military aviation.

Can I be a fighter pilot in the Navy?

Navy fighter pilots are selected through a competitive process that requires meeting specific eligibility criteria, including U.S. citizenship, a bachelor's degree, and passing physical and medical exams. Candidates must complete officer training and flight school, demonstrating strong skills in leadership, discipline, and technical knowledge. Physical fitness and vision standards are also essential for qualification.
More about Navy Fighter Pilot jobs
What states have the most Navy Fighter Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Navy Fighter Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Navy Fighter Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Navy Fighter Pilot jobs are:
Infographic showing various Navy Fighter Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Fighter Pilot- Pt. Mugu - ATAC

Fighter Pilot- Pt. Mugu - ATAC

Textron

Tomales, CA

$217K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


Textron rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Fighter Pilot- Pt. Mugu - ATAC

Textron Systems is part of Textron, a $14 billion, multi-industry company employing 35,000 talented makers, thinkers, creators and doers worldwide. We make things that fly, hover, zoom and launch. Things that move people. Protect soldiers. Power industries. We serve customers in industries spanning aerospace and defense, specialized vehicles, turf care and fuel systems. This role is in Textron System's Airborne Tactical Advantage Company (ATAC) business area. Textron Systems - ATAC provides tactical flight training and adversary aggressor services for U.S. Navy, Marine and Air Force pilots. ATAC operates simultaneously across eight sites and two continents and comprises the world's largest outsourced civilian, tactical airborne training organization and proudly provides the highest quality live training to Squadrons, Air Wings, and Battle Groups.

SCOPE: Fly the IAI F-21 Kfir, the MK-58 Hawker Hunter, F-1 Mirage, or the AERO Vodochody L-39 Albatros, in regular support of US Navy, Marine Corps, and US Air Force training and readiness missions. Fly in support of 4th and 5th Generation Fighter operational and conversion syllabus and continuation training missions. Support surface fleet pre-deployment training and large force employment missions. Navy Contracts: Conduct flight operations from any of ATAC's four permanent facilities (Newport News Virginia, Pt Mugu NAS California, Fallon NAS California, Kaneohe Bay MCAS Hawaii), or deployed locations. Deploy as required to locations including but not limited to Key West NAS, Fallon NAS, Beaufort MCAS, Jacksonville NAS, Lemoore NAS, Eglin AFB, Charleston Intl Airport, Jacksonville Intl Airport, Cherry Point MCAS, and various USAF, USN, USMC bases throughout Alaska, Guam, Japan, Korea, and the Philippines.

RESPONSIBILITIES: Employ the ATAC fighter aircraft throughout their flight envelope as a surrogate Adversary, Red Air, Aggressor or Close Air Support pilot for US Navy, Marine Corps and USAF aircrew, JTAC, surface fleet, large force employment exercise, or intercept controller training. Maintain FAA instrument currency, Second Class medical certification, adversary mission qualifications and associated mission currencies, to include low level, dynamic mission, and unlimited air combat tactics maneuvering in the high-G environment. Attend mass briefings, adversary coordination briefings and other pre-flight briefings. Plan and fly adversary missions. Accomplish flight debriefings and attend mass debriefings. Adhere to all training rules and pre-briefed maneuvering restrictions. Collect and disseminate lessons learned. Accomplish necessary ground training prior to flights. Deploy as required to support mission requirements. Additional Duties: Act as, or support the individual responsible for, pilot Scheduling, Training, NATOPS/Standards & Evaluation, Safety, or other Program Management duties as required.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Travel Requirements: 20%

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Previously DoD Tactically Trained Fighter Pilot Previously qualified 4-Ship/Division Flight Lead 700 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DOD-owned/operated fighter aircraft 100 hours PIC at night Logged 100 hours PIC time in the past 12 months Current FAA Second Class Medical Certificate FAA Commercial, Airplane Single Engine Land Privileges Secret Security Clearance, US Citizen Specific Navy Contract Qualifications 1000 hours PIC of a military tactical aircraft 500 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DOD-owned/operated fighter aircraft

How We Care At Textron Systems, our talented people make us successful. We promote an inclusive environment where we value individuality, differences, and unique perspectives. Our Company is committed to offering employees opportunities to grow and develop. Our benefits and compensation packages are designed to help our talented employees excel and achieve their goals, so they can make a difference every day in and outside of the workplace. Below are just a few examples! Flexible Work Schedules Education Assistance Career Development & Training Opportunities Wellness Program (including Fitness Reimbursement) Medical, Dental, Vision & 401(K) with Company Funding Paid Parental Leave

Textron's compensation package includes competitive base pay and provides eligible employees with benefit programs. Benefits may include health insurance and prescription plan coverage, dental insurance, family building benefits, vision insurance, mental health resources, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and programs that provide employees time away from work. The pay range should be used as a general guide only. Compensation is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. In compliance with the local pay transparency law, the pay range for this position is $217,401.60-$217,401.6 per year.

Textron is committed to providing Equal Opportunity in Employment, to all applicants and employees regardless of race, color, religion, age, national origin, military status, veteran status, disability, sex (including pregnancy and sexual orientation), genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements, including US Citizenship, for access to classified information. Preference given to Veterans of the U. S. Armed Forces.


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About Textron

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Textron Systems is part of Textron, a $14 billion, multi-industry company employing 35,000 talented makers, thinkers, creators and doers worldwide. We make things that fly, hover, zoom and launch. Things that move people. Protect soldiers. Power industries. We serve customers in industries spanning aerospace and defense, specialized vehicles, turf care and fuel systems.

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Providence, RI, US

Year founded

1923