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Part 91 Flying Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SpaceX

Pilot in Command (PIC)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$225K - $325K/yr

... flying various aircraft. RESPONSIBILITIES: * Serve as Pilot in Command, conducting domestic and ... Strong knowledge of FAR Part 91 operations and corporate aviation standards. * Excellent ...

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All JobsPart 91 Flying JobsPart 91 Flying Jobs in California

Part 91 Flying information

See California salary details

$8

$31

$88

How much do part 91 flying jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for part 91 flying in California is $31.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.59 and $36.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is Part 91 flying?

Part 91 flying refers to operations conducted under Part 91 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), which govern general aviation in the United States. This includes private, non-commercial flying such as personal, business, and some corporate flights where the aircraft is not carrying people or property for compensation or hire. Pilots and operators under Part 91 have more flexibility and fewer regulatory requirements compared to commercial operators under Parts 121 or 135. However, they are still required to follow strict safety and maintenance rules set by the FAA.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Part 91 pilot?

To thrive as a Part 91 Pilot, you need a valid pilot’s license (typically a commercial or ATP certificate), strong aeronautical knowledge, and extensive flight experience. Familiarity with aircraft systems, avionics, and navigation tools such as GPS and flight management systems is essential, along with recurrent training and medical certification. Excellent decision-making, situational awareness, and strong communication skills are critical for ensuring safety and coordinating with passengers or crew. These skills and qualifications are vital for safe, efficient, and compliant operation of aircraft in a variety of private and corporate flying environments.

What are some common challenges pilots face when flying under Part 91 operations?

Pilots operating under Part 91 often encounter challenges such as managing more flexible scheduling, handling a broad variety of aircraft, and adapting quickly to changes in trip requirements. Part 91 pilots may also be responsible for their own flight planning, compliance with regulations, and sometimes even basic aircraft maintenance tasks. Unlike commercial operations, the level of support staff may be limited, so strong organizational and communication skills are essential to coordinate effectively with aircraft owners, dispatchers, and maintenance personnel.

What is the difference between Part 91 Flying vs Part 135 Charter Pilot?

AspectPart 91 FlyingPart 135 Charter Pilot
CertificationsPrivate Pilot License (PPL) or Commercial Pilot License (CPL)Commercial Pilot License (CPL) with additional certifications
Work EnvironmentPersonal or business flights, often private or corporateCommercial operations, passenger or cargo charter flights
UsageNon-commercial, personal use, or company flightsPaid passenger or cargo services

Part 91 Flying involves private or corporate flights with minimal regulatory requirements, focusing on non-commercial operations. In contrast, Part 135 Charter Pilots operate commercial flights, providing paid services under stricter regulations. Both roles require similar pilot certifications, but their work environments and legal obligations differ significantly.

How to become a Part 91 pilot?

To become a Part 91 pilot, you must obtain at least a private pilot certificate by completing FAA-approved flight training, passing written and practical exams, and accumulating the required flight hours. Additional certifications or ratings, such as an instrument or commercial pilot license, may be necessary depending on the type of flying and aircraft involved.

What are the most commonly searched types of Part 91 Flying jobs in California?

The most popular types of Part 91 Flying jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Part 91 Flying jobs in California?

For Part 91 Flying jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Part 91 Flying jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Part 91 Flying jobs in California are:

Part 91 Flying jobs near you
Infographic showing various Part 91 Flying job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,770 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Director of Aviation (Flying) - G700 - Bay Area, CA

Mente Group

San Jose, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Mente Group is excited to announce the launch of a brand-new Flight Department, based in the Southern Bay Area, CA, and operating a large-cabin Gulfstream (G700). We're seeking an experienced Director of Aviation (Flying) to lead this department from the ground up — building the team, setting the standard, occasionally flying as an active member of the flight crew, and overseeing every aspect of a world-class private flight operation.

If you're driven by a passion for aviation and a dedication to client service, Mente offers an exciting opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking team from the ground up. We're seeking a talented individual eager to contribute to our mission and grow with us.

Ready to make your mark in private aviation? Apply today.

THE ROLE:

The Director of Aviation will both lead the Flight Department and serve as a line pilot on the G700, splitting time between departmental oversight and active flight duties. This role will lead a team of pilots, a cabin attendant, and a maintenance manager, and ensure a seamless, safe, and discreet travel experience for the client.

Core responsibilities include:

  • Serving as Captain (PIC) on the assigned G700, flying scheduled trips as part of the regular crew rotation.
  • Overseeing all flight operations for the assigned Gulfstream G700, from scheduling through completion of each trip.
  • Hiring, training, and supervising pilots, cabin crew, and maintenance staff to Mente standards.
  • Ensuring full FAA Part 91 compliance across all flight operations.
  • Overseeing aircraft maintenance, inspections, and regulatory adherence in coordination with the Maintenance Manager.
  • Developing and managing the flight department's operational budget, controlling costs, and driving efficiency.
  • Serving as the primary point of contact between the aircraft owner, the client's team, and regulatory bodies — ensuring operations run safely, efficiently, and with complete discretion.

 

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS:

  • Pilot with extensive large-cabin jet experience; prior experience as a Chief Pilot, Aviation Manager, or Director of Flight Operations who also flew as line crew is ideal.
  • FAA ATP certification; Gulfstream G700 type rating (or the ability to obtain one) strongly preferred. G650 or G500/G600 acceptable.
  • Recent PIC experience in large-cabin, long-range aircraft.
  • Strong financial and business acumen, with experience managing multi-million-dollar aircraft budgets and vendor contracts.
  • Deep knowledge of FAA Part 91 regulations and aviation safety standards.
  • Proven crew leadership — experience hiring, training, and managing flight and support teams to a high standard of safety and service.
  • Discretion and polish in managing a private client's travel arrangements with the highest level of professionalism.
  • A degree in aviation management, business administration, or aeronautical engineering is a plus, though not required.

 

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be accessible by phone or email 24/7 except when on scheduled time off.
  • Must be willing to work nights, weekends, holidays as needed.
  • Work hours can extend beyond normal office hours.
  • Domestic and international travel may be required.
  • Ability to lift items weighing up to 40lbs from floor to shoulder level.
  • Physical ability to perform all required job functions must not be hindered.
  • Must be able to work alone with minimal supervision.