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Pilot Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

VFR Pilot

Red Bluff, CA ยท On-site

$105.07 - $130.39/hr

Perform line pilot duties in accordance with GOM ... Support Safety Management System, Destination Zero, and other safety campaigns. * Assist in loading ...

UAS Test Pilot, RPIC

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$92 - $138/hr

You will pilot UAVs, assist in test event planning, manage flight readiness of aircraft, and ensure all operations comply with rigorous safety and regulatory standards. You'll be a key contributor to ...

UAS Test Pilot, EP

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$92 - $121/hr

From build validation and flight testing to field deployment and customer demonstrations, you will pilot UAVs, perform safety pilot duties, assist in test event planning, and help ensure all ...

Fixed Wing Pilot

Bishop, CA ยท On-site

$109K - $119K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Bishop, CA Airframe: Pilatus PC12 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days Off Annual ... May need to de-ice the plane, assist with towing the aircraft and maneuvering in and out of the ...

$109K - $119K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Bishop, CA Airframe: Pilatus PC12 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days Off Annual ... May need to de-ice the plane, assist with towing the aircraft and maneuvering in and out of the ...

Fixed Wing Pilot

Ridgecrest, CA ยท On-site

$109K - $119K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Bishop, CA Airframe: Pilatus PC12 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days Off Annual ... May need to de-ice the plane, assist with towing the aircraft and maneuvering in and out of the ...

Fixed Wing Pilot

Big Pine, CA ยท On-site

$109K - $119K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Bishop, CA Airframe: Pilatus PC12 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days Off Annual ... May need to de-ice the plane, assist with towing the aircraft and maneuvering in and out of the ...

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Bishop, CA Airframe: Pilatus PC12 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days Off Annual ... May need to de-ice the plane, assist with towing the aircraft and maneuvering in and out of the ...

Fixed Wing Pilot

Lone Pine, CA ยท On-site

$109K - $119K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Bishop, CA Airframe: Pilatus PC12 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days Off Annual ... May need to de-ice the plane, assist with towing the aircraft and maneuvering in and out of the ...

Fixed Wing Pilot

Mammoth Lakes, CA ยท On-site

$109K - $119K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Bishop, CA Airframe: Pilatus PC12 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days Off Annual ... May need to de-ice the plane, assist with towing the aircraft and maneuvering in and out of the ...

Fixed Wing Pilot

Bishop, CA ยท On-site

$109K - $119K/yr

Fixed Wing Pilot Location: Bishop, CA Airframe: Pilatus PC12 Schedule: 7 Days On 7 Days Off Annual ... May need to de-ice the plane, assist with towing the aircraft and maneuvering in and out of the ...

Showing results 21-40

Pilot Assistant information

See California salary details

$9

$28

$66

How much do pilot assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for pilot assistant in California is $28.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.24 and $33.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pilot assistant?

Pilot Assistants are professionals who support pilots before, during, and after flights by handling various operational and administrative tasks. Their responsibilities often include preparing flight documentation, assisting with flight planning, coordinating with ground crews, and ensuring that pilots have all necessary resources for a safe and efficient flight. They play a critical role in ensuring that flight operations run smoothly by managing communications, scheduling, and sometimes aiding in navigation and compliance procedures. Pilot Assistants work closely with flight crews and airline operations teams, contributing to both safety and efficiency in aviation.

How does a pilot assistant typically collaborate with the flight crew during a flight?

A Pilot Assistant works closely with the pilot and co-pilot to ensure smooth flight operations. They assist in monitoring flight instruments, managing communication with air traffic control, and handling navigation or documentation tasks as required. Collaboration is key, as the Pilot Assistant may also help with pre-flight checks and in-flight troubleshooting, supporting the crew to maintain safety and efficiency. This teamwork is essential to adapt quickly to changing conditions and ensure a successful flight.

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

To thrive as a Pilot Assistant, you need a solid understanding of aviation operations, flight planning, and communication protocols, often supported by relevant coursework or certifications in aviation or flight operations. Familiarity with flight management systems, navigation software, and radio communication equipment is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities are vital soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient flight operations and effective support for pilots in dynamic and high-pressure environments.

What is the difference between Pilot Assistant vs Flight Dispatcher?

AspectPilot AssistantFlight Dispatcher
Required CredentialsOften requires aviation-related certifications or training, such as a Pilot Assistant certificate or relevant experienceRequires FAA certification as a Flight Dispatcher and relevant licensing
Work EnvironmentSupports pilots in the cockpit or ground operations, often working closely with flight crewsWorks primarily in airline offices or operations centers, planning and coordinating flights
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by airlines, charter companies, and private aviation firmsEmployed by airlines, cargo carriers, and aviation companies for flight planning

While both roles support flight operations, a Pilot Assistant primarily assists pilots with pre-flight and in-flight tasks, whereas a Flight Dispatcher handles flight planning, weather analysis, and regulatory compliance. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the aviation industry.

How to become a pilot assistant?

To become a pilot assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong organizational and communication skills, and familiarity with aviation operations. Some roles may require prior experience in aviation or related fields, and certifications such as a ground school or safety training can be beneficial. Knowledge of aviation software and the ability to work flexible hours are also important.

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

The most popular types of Pilot jobs in California are:

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Pilot Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Pilot Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Pilot Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,844 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

VFR Pilot

PHI Health, LLC

Red Bluff, CA โ€ข On-site

$105.07 - $130.39/hr

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

PHI Health is seeking skilled and dedicated pilots to join our elite team in Red Bluff, CA. The role places you at the forefront of lifeโ€‘saving missions, delivering critical care to those in need with speed, precision, and unwavering commitment.

PHI Air Medical operates under CAMTS guidelines and requires a BH407 VFR/NVG instrument rating. This position involves 24โ€‘hour operations with day/night rotation. A minimum service requirement of 1 year applies for aircraft transition, and 2years if a relocation package is utilized.

Responsibilities
  • Perform line pilot duties in accordance with GOM.
  • Support Safety Management System, Destination Zero, and other safety campaigns.
  • Assist in loading and unloading patients and equipment (some lifting required).
  • Provide safe, efficient, courteous, and reliable service to internal and external customers.
Compensation and Benefits
  • Potential annual earnings $105,073โ€“$130,391.
  • Signโ€‘on bonus up to $75,000 (California candidates eligible for up to $37,500).
  • Location bonus up to 25%.
  • Shift bonuses, incentives, annual safety bonus, employee bonus, and additional benefits.
Qualifications
  • Commercial and Instrument helicopter ratings (First Class Medical CAMTS requirement).
  • Minimum 2,000 total flight hours: 1,500 helicopter, 1,000 PIC in helicopter, 500 turbine, 100 unaided night operations or 50 unaided + 100 NVG.
  • Weight restriction: 235lb or less.
  • Strong communication and customerโ€‘service skills.
  • Pass preโ€‘placement physical exam (including functional capacity and ability to lift 100lb), drug screening, and background check.
  • Acceptable by customer/PHI management during interview.
Schedule / Location

Schedule 7&7; the week of the base changes, and schedule changes may be required. Must live within a 1โ€‘hour commute of the base.

Core Competencies

Safe, Efficient, Quality, Service โ€“ our guiding principles.

Disclaimer and Equal Opportunity

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work. PHI, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

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