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On Call Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PJ Helicopters, Inc

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

Call when needed pilots will have an opportunity to participate in Fire Suppression, Utility and ... What You'll Get This is an on call position and will receive paid sick days Compensation RangeThe ...

Quanta Services

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

Call when needed pilots will have an opportunity to participate in Fire Suppression, Utility and ... This is an on call position and will receive paid sick days The anticipated compensation for this ...

Quanta Services, Inc.

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$120 - $150/hr

Call when needed pilots will have an opportunity to participate in Fire Suppression, Utility and ... What You'll Get This is an on call position and will receive paid sick days Compensation Range The ...

PJ Helicopters, Inc

SIC Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$91K - $113K/yr

Call when needed pilots will have an opportunity to participate in Fire Suppression, Utility and ... What You'll Get This is an on call position and will receive paid sick days Compensation Range The ...

ACI Jet

Chief Pilot (KSBP Based)

San Luis Obispo, CA

$250K - $300K/yr

The Chief Pilot may perform on-call duties and will require the candidate to work nights, weekends, and holidays. Equal Employment Opportunity ACI Jet is an equal opportunity employer and does not ...

ACI Jet

Chief Pilot (KSBP Based)

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$250K - $300K/yr

The Chief Pilot may perform on-call duties and will require the candidate to work nights, weekends, and holidays. Equal Employment Opportunity ACI Jet is an equal opportunity employer and does not ...

ACI Jet

Chief Pilot (KSBP Based)

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$250K - $300K/yr

The Chief Pilot may perform on-call duties and will require the candidate to work nights, weekends, and holidays. Equal Employment Opportunity ACI Jet is an equal opportunity employer and does not ...

ACI Jet

Chief Pilot (KSBP Based)

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$250K - $300K/yr

The Chief Pilot may perform on-call duties and will require the candidate to work nights, weekends, and holidays. Equal Employment Opportunity ACI Jet is an equal opportunity employer and does not ...

Imh

Fixed Wing Field Operations Manager

Valley Center, CA · On-site +1

$51.73 - $79.87/hr

The FOM manages pilot scheduling, monitors crew currency, handles operational adjustments, and ... Ability to work flexible hours, including availability for on-call responsibilities Physical ...

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All JobsOn Call Pilot JobsOn Call Pilot Jobs in California

On Call Pilot information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$129.2K

$198.4K

How much do on call pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for on call pilot in California is $129,202.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,700.00 and $153,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an on call pilot?

On call pilots are professional aviators who are available to fly aircraft on short notice, often filling in for scheduled pilots who are unavailable or responding to urgent flight needs. They may work for airlines, charter services, or private corporations, and their schedules can be unpredictable, requiring readiness to fly at any time. On call pilots must maintain current certifications, stay in compliance with regulations, and be prepared for a variety of flight assignments. This role demands flexibility, excellent communication, and strong problem-solving skills.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an on call pilot?

To thrive as an On Call Pilot, you need a commercial pilot’s license, strong flight skills, and a thorough understanding of aviation regulations, often supported by additional ratings such as instrument or multi-engine endorsements. Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS navigation systems, and aircraft-specific avionics is typically required. Exceptional decision-making, adaptability, and stress management are crucial soft skills for responding to unpredictable schedules and dynamic flight conditions. These competencies ensure safety, reliability, and professional performance in time-sensitive and variable operating environments.

What scheduling and lifestyle challenges do on call pilots face?

On Call Pilots often experience unpredictable schedules, requiring them to be ready to fly with short notice, sometimes during nights, weekends, or holidays. This variability can impact work-life balance, making it important for pilots to be flexible and maintain open communication with dispatchers and family. While the role can offer unique flying experiences and exposure to diverse routes, managing rest and staying prepared for immediate departures are key challenges. Pilots in these positions typically work closely with operations teams to ensure safe and timely flights, and demonstrate adaptability in dynamic environments.

What is the difference between On Call Pilot vs Charter Pilot?

AspectOn Call PilotCharter Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), Second-Class MedicalCommercial Pilot License (CPL), Second-Class Medical
Work EnvironmentOn-demand, flexible hours, various locationsScheduled flights, private or corporate clients
Employer & IndustryAir taxi services, emergency response, private operatorsPrivate charter companies, corporate flight services

Both On Call Pilots and Charter Pilots require similar certifications and often work within private or air taxi sectors. The main difference lies in their work schedules and client engagement: On Call Pilots typically operate on an as-needed basis with flexible hours, while Charter Pilots often follow scheduled flights for private or corporate clients. Understanding these distinctions helps pilots choose the right career path within the aviation industry.

How much do on call pilots get paid?

On call pilots' pay varies depending on the airline, experience, and flight hours, but they typically earn an hourly rate ranging from $50 to $150. Many on call pilots are paid for flight hours, standby time, and may receive additional compensation for overnight stays or irregular schedules.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot jobs in California?

The most popular types of Pilot jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to On Call Pilot jobs in California?

For On Call Pilot jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching On Call Pilot jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for On Call Pilot jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for On Call Pilot jobs?

Cities in California with the most On Call Pilot job openings:

On Call Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various On Call Pilot job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,202 per year, or $62.1 per hour.

SIC Pilot

PJ Helicopters, Inc

Red Bluff, CA • On-site

Full-time, Per diem

Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

About Us

PJ Helicopters is a family-run, world-class precision helicopter lift service operating nationwide. Since 1970, PJ Helicopters has earned a reputation for excellence by consistently delivering safe, reliable, and efficient aerial solutions for its customers.

With a fleet of more than 50 aircraft, PJH primarily supports the utility, forestry, and construction industries. Our operations are built on three core pillars: world-class equipment, highly skilled and experienced personnel, and an unwavering commitment to customer service. From project planning through execution, PJ Helicopters works closely with clients to ensure missions are performed safely, efficiently, and to the highest professional standard.

About this Role

PJ Helicopters is actively hiring Call When Needed Second in Command pilots for our CH-47D Utility Hook program.  Call when needed pilots will have an opportunity to participate in Fire Suppression, Utility and Construction operations. These challenging external load operations will help support our diverse customer base and wide range of utility contracts operating under Part 133.

What You'll Do
  • Call when needed opportunities available year-round
  • Per diem, lodging, and work-related travel to be provided by PJ Helicopters.
  • Our benefits package will be made available to those who are offered permanent full-time employment.
  • Call when needed employees are eligible for Paid Sick Leave per CA standards and eligible to join our 401k program after reaching 1,000 work hours in the year.
  • Opportunities for permanent full-time employment will be considered based on position vacancies and demonstrated job performance.
  • PJ Helicopters is an industry-leading Utility Helicopter Operator known for its state-of-the art external load capabilities and has established itself as an industry leader in safe and successful utility operations.
  • We take great pride in hiring the most talented and professional pilots in the industry.
  • Resumes are accepted on an annual recurring basis.
  • Only applicants who meet the minimum job requirements will be considered.
  • Additional opportunities available for pilots with recent flight experience in the following airframes: B407, B429, and AS350 aircraft
What You'll Bring
  • 500 hrs. total turbine helicopter time.
  • 500 hrs. total CH-47D/F (BV-234) 
  • FAA Commercial Rotorcraft Certificate with BV-234 Type Rating or proof of current qualification in CH-47D/F for military applicants.
  • Current FAA Class 1 or Class 2 medical certificate.
  • Current flight review within last 12 months of employment (Preferred)
  • Available to start and travel to California upon hire.
  • Pilots must provide own flight helmet and tan flight suit.
What You'll Get

This is an on call position and will receive paid sick days

Compensation RangeThe anticipated compensation for this position is - depending on experience and qualifications.Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company's Human Resources department.

Employment Type: OTHER

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