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Patrol Pilot Jobs (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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Patrol Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do patrol pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for patrol pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are Patrol Pilots?

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 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 are hiring for Patrol Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Patrol Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Patrol Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Patrol Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Patrol Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Patrol Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Patrol Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Training Expert - P-8A Pilot/Flight Instructor

Training Expert - P-8A Pilot/Flight Instructor

ASEC

Jacksonville, FL • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description

Location: Jacksonville, FL

Security Clearance Requirement: Active DoD Secret, or the ability to obtain a Secret clearance. 


What You'll Do:

The Full-Time Training Expert - P-8A Pilot / Flight Instructor plays a key role in enhancing pilot proficiency and mission readiness by delivering high-quality simulator, classroom, and flight instruction. This position provides mission-focused training both on-site and at customer locations, with periodic travel required.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Deliver simulator and classroom instruction for P-8A pilots in accordance with established training standards and program objectives. 
  • Conduct pilot evaluations, including mission planning, systems knowledge, and operational procedures.
  • Provide structured feedback to support pilot qualification, proficiency, and professional development.
  • Maintain accurate training records and documentation. 
  • Collaborate with SMEs, instructors, and program personnel to ensure training accuracy and consistency. 
  • Promote a strong safety culture and adherence to all operational and training standards. 
  • Support a flexible schedule, including occasional weekend instruction as needed. 
  • This position will require up to 25% annual travel, both CONUS and OCONUS.

This description outlines the general nature and scope of the role. Additional duties may be assigned as necessary. 

Requirements

What You'll Bring:

  • Minimum 8 years of operational flight experience, including substantial time in the P-8A aircraft, required. 
  • Prior experience as a P-8A Pilot Instructor or Evaluator strongly preferred.
  • Extensive background in fleet or training squadron environments (e.g., FRS or operational units).
  • Strong knowledge of P-8A aircraft systems and operations, Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance mission sets, Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles.
  • Familiarity with simulator-based training environments and modern training technologies. 
  • Experience supporting simulator instruction in a training or operational environment is a plus.
  • Advanced instructor qualifications or designations (e.g., WTI, MTS), preferred.

Certification Requirements: 

  • P-8A Pilot Instructor qualification (or previously qualified). 
  • NATOPS Instructor or Evaluator designation preferred.
  • Relevant military or FAA pilot certifications.

Equally Important:

  • Ability to build positive, collaborative relationships across teams and with external partners.
  • Effective communicator with strong verbal and written skills.
  • Proactive, self-directed work style with the ability to operate independently.
  • Analytical thinker with proven problem-solving capabilities.
  • Highly organized, with the ability to balance competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

ASEC is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, activities, programs, and employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other applicable laws.


Security Clearance Requirement:

  • This position requires U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain a DoD Secret clearance.  Active Secret clearance is preferred.

Who We Are:


ASEC offers meaningful, mission-driven work within a culture that supports your professional and personal growth. We partner with our government customers to deliver innovative solutions across engineering, information technology, training, and logistics. Above all, we are committed to doing what's right for the Warfighter-plain and simple. Explore what makes ASEC different by visiting our website.


Why work at ASEC?

  • 100% employee-owned company. Learn more about our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) here!
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including 11 paid holidays, medical/dental/vision coverage, HSA/FSA options, disability insurance, and more!
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Tuition assistance for undergraduate and graduate education
  • Veteran-friendly employer
  • Thriving employee culture

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ASEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We recruit, hire, train, compensate, and promote employees based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, genetic information, pregnancy or related conditions (including breastfeeding), or any other status protected by law.

ASEC also complies with all applicable pay transparency laws and will not discriminate against employees or applicants for inquiring about, discussing, or disclosing compensation.