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Per Diem Tailwheel Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Parish Transport

Pilot Car Escort

Ellisville, MS · On-site

$52K - $57K/yr

As a Heavy Haul Pilot Car Driver, you will play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient ... Competitive salary ($52,000-$57,200 annually) based on experience + per diem when away from ...

Solairus Aviation

General Application - Pilot

$50K/yr

S. Per Diem pilots are an on-call day rate part-time employee. The ideal candidate will need to be a team player while seeking excellence in every aspect of his/her performance. Join a hardworking ...

Parish Transport LLC

Pilot Car Escort

Ellisville, MS · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

As a Heavy Haul Pilot Car Driver, you will play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient ... Competitive salary ($75,000 - $90,000 annually) based on experience + per diem when away from ...

Parish Transport LLC

Pilot Car Escort

Ellisville, MS · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

As a Heavy Haul Pilot Car Driver, you will play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient ... Competitive salary ($75,000 - $90,000 annually) based on experience + per diem when away from ...

Alpine Air

Floater Pilot - B1900

Provo, UT · On-site

$90K/yr

First year pilots can typically expect to earn $90,000 per year , utilizing compensation programs like rate per route, per diem, etc. Some Alpine Air pilots make substantially more than this figure.

Alpine Air

Floater Pilot - B1900

Provo, UT · On-site

$90K/yr

First year pilots can typically expect to earn $90,000 per year , utilizing compensation programs like rate per route, per diem, etc. Some Alpine Air pilots make substantially more than this figure.

Survival Flight

Helicopter Pilot

Jerseyville, IL

$90K - $110K/yr

Mileage/per-diem/travel pay for work over shifts * $15,000 lump sum pilot referral bonus, subject to program criteria * Local Area Stipend- $15,000 (Residence within 60 miles of base) * Mileage ...

Survival Flight

Helicopter Pilot

Eureka Springs, AR · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Mileage/per-diem/travel pay for work over shifts * $15,000 lump sum pilot referral bonus, subject to program criteria * Local Area Stipend- $15,000 (Residence within 60 miles of base) * Mileage ...

Survival Flight

Helicopter Pilot

Jerseyville, IL · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Mileage/per-diem/travel pay for work over shifts * $15,000 lump sum pilot referral bonus, subject to program criteria * Local Area Stipend- $15,000 (Residence within 60 miles of base) * Mileage ...

Survival Flight

Helicopter Pilot

Jerseyville, IL · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

... per -diem/travel pay for work over shifts$15,000 lump sum pilot referral bonus, subject to program criteriaLocal Area Stipend- $15,000 (Residence within 60 miles of base)Mileage Stipend- $300 per ...

Survival Flight

Helicopter Pilot

Jerseyville, IL · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

... per -diem/travel pay for work over shifts$15,000 lump sum pilot referral bonus, subject to program criteriaLocal Area Stipend- $15,000 (Residence within 60 miles of base)Mileage Stipend- $300 per ...

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All JobsPer Diem Tailwheel Pilot Jobs

Per Diem Tailwheel Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do per diem tailwheel pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for per diem tailwheel 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a per diem tailwheel pilot?

To thrive as a Per Diem Tailwheel Pilot, you need a valid commercial or private pilot certificate with tailwheel endorsement, strong stick-and-rudder skills, and considerable tailwheel flying experience. Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS navigation systems, and compliance with FAA regulations is typically required. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making, and communication skills help pilots adapt to changing conditions and coordinate with ground crews. These abilities are essential for safe and efficient operations, especially given the unique handling characteristics and operational demands of tailwheel aircraft.

What are some common challenges faced by per diem tailwheel pilots, and how can they prepare for them?

Per diem tailwheel pilots often face challenges such as quickly adapting to unfamiliar aircraft, varied operating environments, and unpredictable schedules. Since assignments may involve flying different models with unique handling characteristics, staying current on type-specific procedures and maintaining strong stick-and-rudder skills is essential. Additionally, effective communication with flight coordinators and other pilots helps ensure safety and efficiency. Building a network within the aviation community and staying flexible with availability can also enhance opportunities and readiness for diverse flying missions.

What is a per diem tailwheel pilot?

A Per Diem Tailwheel Pilot is a professional pilot who operates aircraft equipped with a tailwheel landing gear configuration and is paid on a per-day (per diem) basis. These pilots often work on a flexible schedule and may be hired for specific flying jobs such as aerial surveys, agricultural flights, bush flying, or flight instruction. The tailwheel configuration requires specialized skills, as it can be more challenging to control during takeoff and landing compared to tricycle gear aircraft. Per diem arrangements offer both pilots and employers flexibility, making this role popular for seasonal or short-term aviation needs.

What is the difference between Per Diem Tailwheel Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectPer Diem Tailwheel PilotCommercial Pilot
CertificationsPrivate Pilot License (PPL), Tailwheel EndorsementCommercial Pilot Certificate, often with tailwheel endorsement
Work EnvironmentSmall aircraft, bush flying, short-term contractsCharter flights, aerial work, scheduled services
Employer & IndustryPart-time, seasonal, or contract-based operators in general aviationAirlines, charter companies, aerial survey

The main difference is that a Per Diem Tailwheel Pilot typically works on short-term, contract basis with a focus on tailwheel aircraft, while a Commercial Pilot has broader certification allowing a wider range of commercial flying activities. Both roles require similar certifications, but their work scope and employment settings differ.

More about Per Diem Tailwheel Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Per Diem Tailwheel Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Per Diem Tailwheel Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Tailwheel Pilot jobs?

The most popular types of Tailwheel Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Per Diem Tailwheel Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Per Diem Tailwheel Pilot jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Per Diem Tailwheel Pilot jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Per Diem Tailwheel Pilot jobs are:

Per Diem Tailwheel Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Per Diem Tailwheel Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Pilot Car Escort

Parish Transport

Ellisville, MS • On-site

$52K - $57K/yr

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
We are looking for experienced and safety-conscious Heavy Haul Pilot Car Drivers to join our team. As a Heavy Haul Pilot Car Driver, you will play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient transport of oversized and heavy loads. Your primary responsibility will be to escort and guide the movement of heavy haul vehicles, providing warnings and assistance to ensure the safety of the convoy and other road users. The ideal candidate should have a deep understanding of traffic laws, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards.
Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive salary ($52,000-$57,200 annually) based on experience + per diem when away from terminal
  • Full benefits package including:

Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) retirement plan
Paid vacation and holiday
Requirements
Qualifications:
Must have 3 years current verifiable Heavy Haul Escort experience
  • Must have a current Pilot Car certification
  • WITPAC Certification preferred but not required
  • HIGH POLE experience
  • Regular Drivers License with clean MVR

Responsibilities:
Lead and Escort: Operate a pilot car to lead and/or follow heavy haul vehicles, providing a clear path and warning to other drivers on the road.
Safety Protocols: Ensure compliance with all state and federal regulations, including obtaining necessary permits, and adhere to safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure the safe transport of oversized loads.
Route Planning: Work closely with heavy haul drivers and logistics teams to plan and review routes, identifying potential obstacles, low clearances, and other hazards.
Communication: Maintain clear and constant communication with the heavy haul driver, monitoring radio channels, and using signals to convey important information.
Traffic Control: Implement traffic control measures as necessary, including the use of flags, signs, and lights to direct traffic and create a safe path for the heavy haul convoy.
Emergency Response: Be prepared to respond to emergencies or unexpected situations, such as road closures, accidents, or equipment malfunctions, and coordinate with relevant authorities.
Documentation: Keep detailed records of travel routes, issues encountered, and communication logs to ensure accurate reporting and compliance.
Equipment Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance checks on the pilot car, ensuring that it is in good working condition and equipped with the necessary safety features.
Customer Service: Interact professionally with heavy haul drivers, clients, and law enforcement, representing our company in a positive and courteous manner.
Salary Description
$52,000-$57,200 PLUS Per Diem

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