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Pilot Car 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 transport of oversized and heavy loads. Your primary responsibility will be to escort and guide the ...

Parish Transport LLC

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 transport of oversized and heavy loads. Your primary responsibility will be to escort and guide the ...

Parish Transport LLC

Pilot Car Escort

Ellisville, MS

$52K - $57K/yr

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 ...

Sunland Asphalt

Pilot Car Driver

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Pilot Car Drivers lead motorists through complex work zones and work with flaggers and construction equipment operators to keep traffic delays to a minimum. This position also performs labor on a ...

Benchmark Companies

Lowboy Driver

Christiana, TN · On-site

Coordinate with pilot car drivers when required * Perform minor field maintenance and report mechanical issues promptly * Maintain a clean, professional appearance of vehicle and equipment ...

Butler Machinery Company

Dispatcher - Internal

Fargo, ND · On-site

Occasionally assisting with transport routes, including driving a pilot car when needed What We're Looking For Required Qualifications * Experience in the trucking or transportation industry * Strong ...

New

S&L Industrial

TC Flagger - Rawlins, WY

Rawlins, WY · On-site

$22/hr

Operate Pilot Car when needed * Operate and assist with maintenance of trucks and striping equipment * Perform physical labor and work outdoors in varying weather conditions * Follow all safety ...

S&L Industrial

TC Flagger - Laramie, WY

Laramie, WY

$15 - $20.25/hr

Operate Pilot Car when needed * Operate and assist with maintenance of trucks and striping equipment * Perform physical labor and work outdoors in varying weather conditions * Follow all safety ...

S&L Industrial

TC Flagger - Sheridan, WY

Sheridan, WY · On-site

$22/hr

Operate Pilot Car when needed * Operate and assist with maintenance of trucks and striping equipment * Perform physical labor and work outdoors in varying weather conditions * Follow all safety ...

S&L Industrial

TC Flagger - Laramie, WY

Laramie, WY · On-site

$22/hr

Operate Pilot Car when needed * Operate and assist with maintenance of trucks and striping equipment * Perform physical labor and work outdoors in varying weather conditions * Follow all safety ...

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All JobsPilot Car Jobs

Pilot Car information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do pilot car jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot car 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 Pilot Car driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pilot Car driver, you need a valid driver's license, knowledge of traffic laws, and familiarity with oversized load transportation requirements. Experience with CB radios, GPS navigation, and route planning software is typically important, and some states require certification or special permits. Strong attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills for this role. These qualifications ensure the safe and efficient escort of oversized loads, protecting both the load and the public on the road.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Pilot car operators can earn up to $2,000 per day when working on large-scale transportation projects, especially if they have specialized skills, certifications, and work long hours or in remote areas. High earnings are typically associated with experienced drivers overseeing oversize loads, often requiring permits and safety training.

What is the difference between Pilot Car vs Escort Vehicle?

AspectPilot CarEscort Vehicle
CertificationsRequired in many states, includes safety and licensingSimilar certifications, often overlapping with pilot car requirements
Work EnvironmentOn-road, often rural or highway settingsOn-road, highway, and sometimes urban areas
Industry UsageTransporting oversize/overweight loads, constructionTransporting oversize/overweight loads, construction, logistics

Both Pilot Car and Escort Vehicle roles involve guiding oversized loads, requiring similar certifications and working environments. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Pilot Car' is more common in certain regions, while 'Escort Vehicle' may be used in others. Understanding these similarities helps clarify job expectations and requirements in the transportation industry.

What Is a Pilot Car?

In the construction or moving industries, a pilot car escorts oversized trucks or heavy-load trailers through traffic. Pilot cars, also known as escort vehicles, typically have brightly colored signage that indicates to traffic that they are approaching trailers carrying large loads. Pilot car drivers also communicate with the trailer drivers, informing them about obstacles, accidents, changes in traffic or speed, or other conditions on the road. In the airline industry, a pilot car is sometimes used to direct aircraft to and from the tarmac.

What are pilot cars and what do they do?

Pilot cars, also known as escort vehicles, are specially designated vehicles that accompany oversized or overweight loads on roadways to ensure safe transport. Their primary role is to warn other motorists of the approaching load, help navigate challenging road conditions, and communicate with the truck driver to prevent accidents or traffic disruptions. Pilot car drivers are trained to identify hazards, assist with routing, and comply with state or provincial regulations regarding the movement of large loads.

What are some common challenges faced by pilot car drivers when escorting oversize loads, and how can they be managed?

Pilot car drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating tight or congested roads, sudden weather changes, and coordinating with both the truck driver and law enforcement. Effective communication, thorough route planning, and staying updated on road conditions are crucial for managing these challenges. Building strong teamwork with the transport crew and remaining adaptable during unexpected events ensures safe and efficient transport of oversize loads.

Is a pilot car business profitable?

Pilot car operators can generate income through providing escort services for oversize loads, with earnings depending on factors like location, workload, and experience. Profitability varies widely and depends on the number of jobs completed, operational costs, and market demand. Successful pilot car drivers often need proper licensing, insurance, and good knowledge of safety regulations.

How to get certified to drive a pilot car?

To become certified as a pilot car driver, you typically need to complete a training course that covers safety protocols, load escort procedures, and traffic regulations. Many states or regions require a special permit or license, which may involve passing a written exam and demonstrating driving skills, especially when escorting oversize loads.

How much do you make as a pilot car?

Pilot car drivers typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from $30,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the routes. Overtime, permits, and specialized equipment can also affect earnings, and a valid driver's license and safety certifications are usually required.
More about Pilot Car jobs
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Pilot Car jobs near you

Pilot Car Escort

Parish Transport

Ellisville, MS • On-site

$52K - $57K/yr

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 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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