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Navy Fighter Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Contract Instructor Pilots (CIPs) report to the Lead Instructor. They will be fully qualified to ... Navy Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN) Graduate * Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) Graduate

Fighter Pilot- Pt. Mugu - ATAC

Oxnard, CA ยท On-site

$93K - $116K/yr

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

Newport News, VA ยท On-site

$81K - $101K/yr

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

Mcbh Kaneohe Bay, HI ยท On-site

$89K - $111K/yr

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 ...

A flight operations company is seeking an experienced fighter pilot to fly the Dassault Mirage F-1 and support the US Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force training missions. The ideal candidate will ...

Navy, Marines and the US Air Force. ATAC operates simultaneously across eight permanent sites ... Previously qualified DoDโ€‘trained Fighter Pilot * Previously qualified 4โ€‘Ship/Division Flight ...

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 ...

Navy, Marines and the U.S. Air Force. ATAC operates simultaneously across eight permanent sites ... Previously qualified DoDโ€‘trained Fighter Pilot. * Previously qualified 4โ€‘Ship/Division Flight ...

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 ...

Aviation - Officer Careers - VA, DC, MD

Roanoke, VA ยท On-site

$87K - $109K/yr

AVIATION JOBS IN THE NAVY FIGHTER PILOT Complete complex air maneuvers while flying at Mach speeds. Catapult off carriers at 170 mph and land on moving runways only 300 feet long. Gather intel, drop ...

Aviation - Officer Careers - VA, DC, MD

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$88K - $110K/yr

AVIATION JOBS IN THE NAVY FIGHTER PILOT Complete complex air maneuvers while flying at Mach speeds. Catapult off carriers at 170 mph and land on moving runways only 300 feet long. Gather intel, drop ...

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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 Jul 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 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.

What's the average age of a Navy Fighter Pilot?

The average age of a Navy Fighter Pilot is typically in the early to mid-30s, as candidates usually complete extensive training and experience requirements before qualifying to fly fighter jets. Most pilots begin their training in their late 20s to early 30s after completing college and military officer training programs.

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, healthcare, and retirement options, with salaries increasing with promotions and time in service.

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.

How hard is it to be a Navy Fighter Pilot?

Becoming a Navy Fighter Pilot is highly challenging, requiring a rigorous selection process, extensive training, and meeting strict physical and academic standards. Candidates typically need a bachelor's degree, excellent vision, and strong skills in leadership, discipline, and problem-solving, with training lasting several years including flight school and advanced combat training.

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 also complete officer training and flight school, demonstrating strong leadership, technical skills, and physical fitness. Age limits typically restrict applicants to those under 27 or 29, depending on the program.
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:
FIGHTER PILOT

FIGHTER PILOT

DRG

Oklahoma City, OK โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Description:

Contract Instructor Pilots (CIPs) report to the Lead Instructor. They will be fully qualified to meet the applicable requirements and will instruct academics and in aircrew training devices. CIPs will be the focal point for technical content of applicable courseware for courseware development and revisions. Their in-depth knowledge of Joint Technical Data (JTD), service publications, and aircraft systems will allow them to provide accurate and consistent lesson content across a broad spectrum of training materials. Their understanding of syllabus flow and lesson content will help streamline training delivered to formal course students.


Key Responsibilities:

โ€ข Conduct quality academic instruction that covers applicable formal course syllabi and instruction guide requirements
โ€ข Conduct quality aircrew training device instruction, accomplish applicable syllabus, and mission guide requirements, and adhere to published Training and Readiness standards
โ€ข Maintain weapons system expertise
โ€ข Prepare classrooms or briefing rooms for instruction before the scheduled lesson or aircrew training device mission
โ€ข Clean-up classrooms or briefing rooms, returning them to the pre-class or pre-mission condition
โ€ข Evaluate and record student academic training, aircrew training device performance, and verbally debrief all errors committed
โ€ข Conduct remedial student academic or aircrew training device instruction when required
โ€ข Coordinate recommended corrective action and remedial training with the Lead Instructor and active-duty supervisors
โ€ข Conduct student academic evaluations IAW applicable syllabi and correct to 100% by reviewing incorrect responses with students
โ€ข Monitor courseware currency in applicable academic and trainer areas of responsibility and submit recommended revisions to the Lead Instructor
โ€ข Support lesson plan and mission guide revision efforts
โ€ข Support aircrew training device scenario design and programming efforts when directed by the Lead Instructor
โ€ข Review test analysis and critique summaries to identify instruction and testing that requires revision and make recommended revisions
โ€ข Coordinate lesson revision inputs with the Lead Instructor, other CIPs, and Courseware subcontractors, if required
โ€ข Review monthly/quarterly flying literature, safety reports and Service publications for updated information to be incorporated into training materials
โ€ข Participate in Human Factors Board (HFB), Aircraft Mishap Board (AMB), and Field Flight Performance Board (FFPB) proceedings as directed by the Training Operations Manager
โ€ข Perform related additional duties as assigned by the Site Director or Training Operations Manager
โ€ข Meet suspense dates for applicable new lessons and lesson revisions
โ€ข Be available for student assistance, questions, and aircrew training device missions when not scheduled for formal academic instruction, aircrew training device instruction, or courseware development and revisions
โ€ข Provide all levels of instructor operating station missions including, but not limited to, Forward Air Controller, Airborne Intercept Controller, Air Traffic Control, and threat simulation

Requirements:

Required Qualifications/Experience:

  • Bachelorโ€™s degree from an accredited college in a related discipline, or equivalent experience/combined education, with 12 years or more of professional experience; or 10 years of professional experience with a related masterโ€™s degrees
  • Must have a minimum of 1,000 hours experience in fourth and/or fifth generation fighter aircraft as a pilot (F-22, F-18, F-16, F-15, A-10)
  • Must have experience as a Military Instructor Pilot (IP) and multi-ship flight lead in tactical fighter aircraft
  • Must be willing to support flexible work hours to align with customer operational schedule
  • Position may require candidate to participate in deployed operations to support customer requirements
  • Strong, proven verbal communication skills
  • Proven successful experience with instructional products and services, evaluating pilot training and leading pilot students
  • Basic MS Office suite skills

Preferred Qualifications/Experience:

  • Experience with F-35 program highly desired
  • Experience with F-35 pilot training curriculum
  • F-35 system knowledge
  • F-35 Full Mission Simulator experience
  • Familiarity with the F-35 ALIS program
  • Prior experience in delivering Military Pilot Academic and Simulator Training in fourth and/or fifth generation tactical fighter aircraft
  • Experience with advanced sensor systems such as NVS, LANTIRN, Helmet Mounted Cuing, and the latest weapons inventory
  • Graduate of formal military Academic Instructor Course (AIC)
  • Formal Training Unit (FTU) or Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) Instructor Pilot experience
  • U.S. Navy Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN) Graduate
  • Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) Graduate
  • Fighter Weapons Instructor Course (FWIC)
  • Standardization/Evaluation Flight Examiner (SEFE); NATOPS Evaluator experience

Security Clearance Requirements:
This position is located at a facility that will require special access clearance

  • Must have an active secret clearance with a completed investigation within the last 6 years.
  • Must be able to attain and maintain F-35 Special Access Program (SAP) access
  • Candidates must have a final/transferable DoD Secret security clearance
  • Must be a US citizen

Delaware Resource Group of Oklahoma, LLC (โ€œDRGโ€) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. DRG provides affirmative action in employment for qualified individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veteransโ€™ Readjustment Assistance Act.