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Part 91 Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Pilot 2/3

San Diego, CA · On-site

$137K - $206K/yr

Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history. Northrop Grumman Corporation is seeking a Pilot to operate our company-owned King Air 350 aircraft on scheduled Part 91 employee ...

Citation XLS Captain

Oakland, CA · On-site

$102K - $126K/yr

We have 3 Citation 560XLS's that will be flown part 91 for the owners and part 135 for charter ... pilots. When applying, please note the following information in the BODY OF YOUR EMAIL: 1) Your ...

We have 3 Citation 560XLS's that will be flown part 91 for the owners and part 135 for charter ... pilots. When applying, please note the following information in the BODY OF YOUR EMAIL: 1) Your ...

FPV Test Pilot

Torrance, CA · On-site

$91K - $127K/yr

Part 107 Nice to have * 5+ years experience in FPV * Blackbox analysis and PID tuning ... Experience with cinelifters or large FPV platforms US Salary Range $91,000 - $127,500 USD The ...

FPV Test Pilot

Torrance, CA · On-site

$91K - $127K/yr

Part 107 Nice to have * 5+ years experience in FPV * Blackbox analysis and PID tuning ... Experience with cinelifters or large FPV platforms US Salary Range $91,000 - $127,500 USD The ...

Showing results 21-40

Part 91 Pilot information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$129.2K

$198.4K

How much do part 91 pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for part 91 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 a part 91 pilot?

A Part 91 Pilot operates under FAA regulations in Part 91, which govern non-commercial flights such as private, corporate, and personal aircraft operations. These pilots do not fly for hire, meaning they are typically employed by private owners, businesses, or flight departments rather than airlines or charter companies. Their duties include pre-flight planning, ensuring aircraft readiness, and adhering to safety protocols. Unlike Part 135 or Part 121 pilots, they have more flexibility in flight schedules and operational requirements. However, they must still comply with FAA regulations, including currency and proficiency requirements.

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

To thrive as a Part 91 Pilot, you need comprehensive aeronautical knowledge, advanced flight proficiency, and typically an FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate or Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) rating. Mastery of avionics systems, flight management systems, and familiarity with regulatory compliance under FAR Part 91 are essential. Exceptional situational awareness, decision-making skills, and strong interpersonal communication set standout pilots apart. These qualifications ensure safe, efficient, and professional private or corporate flight operations, often with higher expectations for autonomy and customer service.

What are the most common challenges faced by part 91 pilots in their day-to-day operations?

Part 91 Pilots often work with flexible schedules and may be required to adapt quickly to changing itineraries or weather conditions, which can be challenging from a planning perspective. Since these pilots usually fly for private owners or corporate clients, they are expected to handle everything from pre-flight planning and maintenance checks to catering to passenger needs, sometimes as the sole crew member. Balancing the responsibilities of flight safety, regulatory compliance, and exceptional customer service can be demanding but also rewarding. Strong organizational skills, proactivity, and adaptability are key to overcoming these challenges and excelling in the role.

Do Part 91 pilots get paid?

Part 91 pilots are typically paid for their flying services, especially when operating for commercial purposes or on a scheduled basis. However, many private or recreational pilots fly without compensation, as Part 91 primarily governs private, non-commercial operations. Payment depends on the specific flight, employer, and whether the pilot is acting as a commercial or private operator.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Part 91 Pilot jobs?

Cities in California with the most Part 91 Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Part 91 Pilot job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,202 per year, or $62.1 per hour.

$137K - $206K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: None
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Corporation is seeking a Pilot to operate our company-owned King Air 350 aircraft on scheduled Part 91 employee Shuttle (Monday through Friday). This position is based San Diego, CA (MYF). Pilots are home almost every night, off on weekends, have an advanced one month work schedule.
Must possess airline transport license with multi-engine and instrument ratings, pass Class 1 physical examination, FAA examinations, and flight proficiency tests.
This position may be filled at a higher level based on the requirements below.
Basic Qualifications for Pilot 2:
• Bachelors Degree and 2 years of aviation experience or High School Diploma and 6 years aviation experience
• Minimum flight experience required - Must have passed ATP written test, and meets FAA requirements to obtain ATP.
• FAA multi-engine certificate and Class 1 medical certificate with no waivers is required
• An FAA pilot record check and a security background check will be performed; participation in an FAA-approved drug and alcohol screening program is required
• Residence/relocation within 1.0 hour driving time from Base airport location
Basic Qualifications for Pilot 3:
• Bachelors Degree and 5 years of aviation experience or High School Diploma and 9 years aviation experience
• Minimum flight experience required - 3000 hours total fixed wing; 1000 hours Multi-engine, and 500 hours turbine
• FAA multi-engine ATP certificate and Class 1 medical certificate with no waivers is required
• An FAA pilot record check and a security background check will be performed; participation in an FAA-approved drug and alcohol screening program is required
• Residence/relocation within 1.0 hour driving time from Base airport location
Preferred Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree
• Type-rated and current in the Be-350
Primary Level Salary Range: $111,000.00 - $166,600.00
Secondary Level Salary Range: $137,800.00 - $206,800.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939