Overnight Air Tractor Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ABOUT US

Founded in 1866, The Sanborn Map Company (Sanborn) is one of the oldest continuously operating mapping and geospatial information technology companies in the US. Our work is highly visual, and our mapped data and applications are an essential part of today’s information economy. We serve many industries and government departments and need to communicate effectively with them about our wide range of products and services. We remain at the forefront of the GIS and photogrammetry industry by offering high quality, technologically superior products and services backed by the industry’s most experienced staff. We are looking for a talented individual to fill this role working in a collaborative environment ready to innovate workflow.

SUMMARY:

The Senior Pilot operates aircraft to fly aerial photo missions in support of mapping and LiDAR projects. As Pilot in Command of the aircraft, the pilot directs onboard crew to ensure safe and efficient acquisition missions. Responsibilities include performing flight operations within schedule and budget; coordinating with authorities to obtain flight permission/clearance within restricted or Class B airspace; maintaining flight records; and advising supervisors of any equipment maintenance requirements or safety concerns.

The Senior Pilot is responsible for the safe, compliant, and efficient operation of Sanborn’s fleet of turbine-powered aircraft, including Aero Commander, Navajo and King Air 300 series (if type rated). The pilot will lead flight operations for airborne data acquisition, primarily under FAA Part 91 regulations. This position requires extensive travel and overnight deployments, with absences from home base potentially exceeding 200 days per year. The pilot is expected to maintain the highest professional and safety standards in accordance with FAA regulations and company policies.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITES:

• Adhere to FAA regulations and meet the requirements for a Pilot in Command (PIC) per FAA part 91.
• Coordinate logistics and daily flight scheduling to ensure a smooth continuation of work.
• Adhere to standard operating procedures, insuring compliance.
• Participate in pilot training programs.
• Attend periodic safety meetings and other safety training as needed.
• Adhere to the company Flight Operations Manual (FOM).
• Perform to project budgets.
• Stay current with requirements of reporting mechanisms such as pilot logs, dailies, ACLs.
• Provide weekly reports and other reports as necessary to executive management.
• Review the weather forecasts and make recommendations for the relocation of aircraft and crew to maximize the acquisition of data.
• Provide reports in reference to the progression of the photo acquisition.
• Ensure that procedures with Air Traffic control centers and they are being followed.
• Coordinate in obtaining airspace clearance for restricted airspace areas.
• Coordinate with flight planning staff to insure efficient collection scenarios are devised for the type of aircraft to be used.
• Collaborate with all flight operations staff as needed to ensure the maintenance and the operational status of the aircraft.
• Present and demonstrate aircraft capabilities to clients as requested.
• Other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Not applicable.

QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION:

• High school Diploma. Associates degree in aviation or equivalent experience preferred.
• ATP required

EXPERIENCE:

• Required minimum of 3,000 hours total flying time. 1,500 as pilot in command.
• Preferred minimum of 1,500 hours MEL to be considered to operate multi-engine aircraft.
• 1000 hours turbine minimum
• Recent flight experience per FAA Part 61 & 61.57.
• Proficiency with computers and software.
• Geospatial industry aerial acquisition experience preferred.
• Aero Commander and King Air 300 series type rating highly preferred.
• Annual ground and flight training required in King Air 300 series aircraft.
• Operate King Air 300 series aircraft for data acquisition primarily in night operations.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

• Active commercial pilot’s license.
• FAA IFR Rating.
• 1st class medical certification from FAA.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Approval from chief pilot and acceptance/insurability by Sanborn’s aviation carrier.
• Successful completion of initial drug screen and subsequent drug screens.
• Successful completion of a background check, including driving record.
• Ground and flight training required in make and model of designated aircraft.
• Ability to provide flight training in designated make and model to staff pilots.
• Valid passport and ability to travel anywhere in North America.

Position Location: Nationwide

Salary Range - $35-45/Hour

Additional Requirements:

Applicant must live in the U.S. and be authorized to work in the U.S.

Sanborn offers a comprehensive health and wellness program which includes medical, dental, vision, 401k, holiday, PTO, EAP, disability and life insurance benefits.

TO APPLY: Visit our website: www.Sanborn.com under the Careers menu option to apply. We are accepting applications for this position until August 15, 2026. Sanborn is a Veteran/Disability Equal Opportunity Employer.