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Patrol Pilot Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

... patrol, electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and search and rescue missions. * As Pilots ... operate aircraft from ships and shore, conduct carrier qualifications, and execute missions that ...

... patrol, electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and search and rescue missions. * As Pilots ... operate aircraft from ships and shore, conduct carrier qualifications, and execute missions that ...

... patrol, electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and search and rescue missions. * As Pilots ... operate aircraft from ships and shore, conduct carrier qualifications, and execute missions that ...

... patrol, electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and search and rescue missions. * As Pilots ... operate aircraft from ships and shore, conduct carrier qualifications, and execute missions that ...

... patrol, electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and search and rescue missions. * As Pilots ... operate aircraft from ships and shore, conduct carrier qualifications, and execute missions that ...

... patrol, electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and search and rescue missions. * As Pilots ... operate aircraft from ships and shore, conduct carrier qualifications, and execute missions that ...

... patrol, electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and search and rescue missions. * As Pilots ... operate aircraft from ships and shore, conduct carrier qualifications, and execute missions that ...

... patrol, electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and search and rescue missions. * As Pilots ... operate aircraft from ships and shore, conduct carrier qualifications, and execute missions that ...

... patrol, electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and search and rescue missions. * As Pilots ... operate aircraft from ships and shore, conduct carrier qualifications, and execute missions that ...

... patrol, electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and search and rescue missions. * As Pilots ... operate aircraft from ships and shore, conduct carrier qualifications, and execute missions that ...

... patrol, electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and search and rescue missions. * As Pilots ... operate aircraft from ships and shore, conduct carrier qualifications, and execute missions that ...

... patrol, electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and search and rescue missions. * As Pilots ... operate aircraft from ships and shore, conduct carrier qualifications, and execute missions that ...

... patrol, electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and search and rescue missions. * As Pilots ... operate aircraft from ships and shore, conduct carrier qualifications, and execute missions that ...

... patrol, electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and search and rescue missions. * As Pilots ... operate aircraft from ships and shore, conduct carrier qualifications, and execute missions that ...

... patrol, electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and search and rescue missions. * As Pilots ... operate aircraft from ships and shore, conduct carrier qualifications, and execute missions that ...

... patrol, electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and search and rescue missions. * As Pilots ... operate aircraft from ships and shore, conduct carrier qualifications, and execute missions that ...

... patrol, electronic warfare, airborne early warning, and search and rescue missions. * As Pilots ... operate aircraft from ships and shore, conduct carrier qualifications, and execute missions that ...

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Showing results 1-20

Patrol Pilot information

See Arizona salary details

$46.1K

$122K

$187.3K

How much do patrol pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for patrol pilot in Arizona is $121,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,200.00 and $144,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a patrol pilot?

Patrol Pilots are specialized aviators responsible for flying aircraft to monitor and survey specific areas, such as coastlines, borders, forests, or pipelines. Their main duties include observing and reporting suspicious activity, conducting search and rescue missions, and supporting law enforcement or environmental protection operations. Patrol Pilots often work for government agencies, private companies, or organizations focused on security, conservation, or resource management. They must be skilled in navigation, communication, and emergency procedures to perform their roles effectively.

What does a patrol pilot do?

As a patrol pilot, your job is to fly a small aircraft on behalf of a government agency or private company and keep watch for a specific type of problem during their daily operations. For example, some states hire fire patrol pilots to fly through the air and look for signs of wildfires and provide initial fire suppression, while businesses may hire aerial patrol pilots to supervise the area and help deter any third-party activities that might impact pipelines or remote facilities. Patrol pilots also support other law enforcement and security efforts, such as by monitoring the national border or helping the highway patrol pursue a fleeing vehicle. Most patrol pilots fly small aircraft, but in recent years, this job has expanded to include piloting drones and looking at live video feeds.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a patrol pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Patrol Pilot, you need a valid commercial pilot’s license, strong flight proficiency, and knowledge of aviation regulations and navigation. Familiarity with aircraft-specific systems, GPS navigation tools, and sometimes certifications like instrument or multi-engine ratings are typically required. Exceptional situational awareness, decision-making skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for high-pressure situations. These qualifications ensure safe, efficient surveillance and response during patrol missions, often in challenging environments.

What are some common challenges faced by patrol pilots during routine patrol missions?

Patrol Pilots often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, navigating difficult or remote terrain, and maintaining constant vigilance for potential hazards or suspicious activities. Additionally, they must effectively communicate with ground teams and coordinate with other air or maritime units, which requires strong situational awareness and teamwork. Adhering to strict safety protocols while managing long hours and variable schedules can also be demanding but is essential for mission success.

What is the difference between Patrol Pilot vs Security Pilot?

AspectPatrol PilotSecurity Pilot
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), specific flight hoursPrivate Pilot License (PPL) or CPL, depending on role
Work EnvironmentAirborne patrols, surveillance flights, remote areasSecurity patrols, surveillance, monitoring facilities
Employer & IndustryPrivate security firms, government agencies, private clientsSecurity companies, private security firms

Patrol Pilots and Security Pilots both operate aircraft for surveillance and patrol purposes, often requiring similar pilot certifications. However, Patrol Pilots typically work in remote or expansive areas conducting surveillance, while Security Pilots focus on monitoring security sites. Both roles are essential in security and surveillance industries, with overlapping skills and certifications.

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Patrol Pilot jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Patrol Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Patrol Pilot job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $121,999 per year, or $58.7 per hour.

Pilot (Rotary Wing) - YCSO (Countywide)

AZ • On-site

$43.31 - $67.13/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Salary: $43.31 - $67.13 Hourly
Location : Countywide, AZ
Job Type: Full Time - Non Exempt
Job Number: 202600262
Department: Sheriff's Office
Opening Date: 08/13/2026
Closing Date: 8/26/2026 5:00 PM Arizona
Role
Under minimal supervision, operates helicopters in emergency evacuations, search and rescue, and law enforcement operations for the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office and other law enforcement agencies, as required.
Major Duties, Responsibilities
  • As pilot in command, operates rotary wing aircraft in support of public safety missions, including surveillance, patrol, pursuit, search and rescue, aerial photography, and transport of personnel. Performs specialized maneuvers, one-skid landing, external load/short-haul operations, night, and mountain flying.
  • Evaluates requests for air support.
  • Schedules flight plans in connection with flight missions.
  • Inspects, tests, and maintains aircraft and all mission-related equipment.
  • Cleans aircraft, unit quarters, and hangar.
  • Performs pre- and post-flight inspections.
  • Plans flights, loads passengers, baggage, and cargo, and analyzes weather conditions.
  • Maintains logs and records, as required, and prepares written reports.
  • Operates aircraft tug, tractor, and/or ground handling equipment.
  • Coordinates pilot training programs and maintains training records.
  • Trains pilots on various safety and aviation procedures and issues.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
Education:
High school diploma or GED.
Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of 2,000 hours of flying time as pilot in command in helicopters, of which 1,000 hours must be in turbine engine helicopters.
A minimum of 100 hours must have been within the 24-month period immediately prior to the application date.
Additional Requirements:
Must possess a valid Arizona driver's license.
Must have possession of a valid FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Rotorcraft-Helicopter and Instrument Helicopter.By the starting date, must be a resident of the State of Arizona.
Must meet all applicable FAA requirements and be in good standing.
Must hold at least a current FAA Second Class Medical Certificate.
Other Skills
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Knowledge of:
  • Weather systems regarding aircraft operations.
  • Aircraft systems and operations, aerial navigation and maintenance regarding normal operating
  • procedures, limitations, and emergency procedures.3. Federal Aviation Administration Regulations, Arizona Revised Statutes, Departmental General Orders, Aviation Bureau Standard Operating Procedures and Aviation Unit Special Procedures.
  • Aircraft ground handling procedures.
  • Geography, topography, and climate regarding the State of Arizona.
  • Maintenance test flight procedures.
  • Department radio procedures.
  • Aerodynamics and the fundamentals of flight regarding aircraft.
  • Federal Communications Commission Regulations.
  • Aviation fuel quality assurance testing procedures.
  • Rescue procedures.
  • Aeromedical operations.
  • Flight scheduling procedures.
  • Crisis management techniques and procedures.
  • Basic aircraft maintenance techniques and procedures.
  • Coordinated search patterns.
  • Principles and practices of supervision.
Skill in:
  • Oral communication.
  • Written communication to complete required reports and records.
  • The operation of ground vehicles (e.g., motor vehicles, fuel trucks, fuel pumps, aircraft etc.).
  • The use of aircraft flight logs.
Ability to:
  • Read and interpret aviation and weather maps.
  • Perform operations under highly stressful or emergency conditions.
  • Work independently.
  • Compute basic mathematical and statistical calculations.
  • Read and interpret written material of moderate difficulty.
  • Prioritize flight missions.
  • Operate Heliwagon.
  • Handle confidential matters and maintain discretion.
  • Act with courtesy, tact, and diplomacy.
Work Environment:
The work environment is indoors and outdoors in varying weather and inclement conditions. Requires the ability to maintain mental and physical readiness required by the FAA.
Must have the flexibility to work any hours, including weekends, holidays, rotating shifts, callouts, and overtime.
Must be willing to work in varying climates, temperatures, and weather conditions.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time. Sufficient vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; hearing and speech ability to communicate effectively in person and telephonically. Capable of frequent repetitive movement of arms, fingers, and wrists. Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
Additional Job Information:
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Grade: 19
Classification: At-Will
Safety Sensitive: No
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Yavapai County Government offers a comprehensive employee benefits package to
Full-Time employees working 30 or more hours per week that includes but is not limited to:
• 10 Paid Holidays Per Year
• Annual Leave
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Health Care Insurance - Medical, Dental, Vision
• Life Insurance
• Long-Term & Short-Term Disability
• Retirement Plans
• Sick Leave
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
ELECTIVE COVERAGE
• 457 Deferred Compensation Program
• Dependent Health Care Insurance - Medical, Dental, Vision
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Short-Term Disability
• Supplemental Life (for employees & dependents)
PLEASE NOTE
• Part-Time, Temporary and Seasonal employees accrue Sick Leave based on hours worked.
• Part-Time employees have limited benefits available.
• Temporary and Seasonal employees are not eligible to accrue Annual Leave.
01
Do you have a high school diploma or equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have a minimum of 2,000 hours of flying time as pilot in command in helicopters, of which 1,000 hours must be in turbine engine helicopters. A minimum of 100 hours must have been within the 24-month period immediately prior to the application date.
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have possession of a valid FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Rotorcraft-Helicopter and Instrument Helicopter?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Are you or will you be a resident of the State of Arizona?
  • Yes
  • I will be a resident of the State of Arizona by the starting date.
  • No

05
You must meet all applicable FAA requirements and be in good standing.
  • I acknowledge my understanding of this requirement.

06
Do you hold at least a current FAA Second Class Medical Certificate?
  • Yes
  • No

07
I agree to accept text messages for the purposes of employment such as appointments, document requests, and employment related reminders. Answer "YES" to accept or "NO" to decline.
  • Yes
  • No

08
Are you willing to work shift work to include, day or night shift, rotating shifts, various days off, holidays, and weekends?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question