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Pilot Car Driver Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Anderson Trucking Service

$1.4K - $2.1K/wk

Learn how to tie down the loads properly, how to work with pilot car and police escorts and all the other things it takes to become a heavy haul truck driver. Apply Now! Pay: * $1,400/Week Minimum ...

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All JobsPilot Car Driver JobsPilot Car Driver Jobs in Kentucky

Pilot Car Driver information

See Kentucky salary details

$43K

$113.7K

$174.6K

How much do pilot car driver jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot car driver in Kentucky is $113,704.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,900.00 and $134,600.00 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, a clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic regulations, often supported by state certification or specialized training. Familiarity with two-way radios, GPS navigation systems, and safety equipment is essential for effective communication and route guidance. Strong situational awareness, attention to detail, and clear communication skills help drivers anticipate hazards and coordinate with transport teams. These competencies are crucial to ensure the safe and efficient movement of oversized loads, protecting both the cargo and the public.

What does a pilot car driver do?

As a pilot car driver, your responsibilities may differ depending on the field in which you work. Many pilot car drivers, also known as escort vehicle drivers, work in the transport or freight industry, and their duties are to escort oversized trucks or trucks carrying large loads while on the road. Your duties include communicating with the truck driver and surveying the roads before a trip to ensure they can handle oversized loads. In the aviation industry, pilot car drivers help guide aircraft around the tarmac.

What is a pilot car driver?

Pilot Car Drivers are professionals who operate vehicles that escort oversized loads or large trucks on public roads. Their primary role is to ensure the safety of the load, the transport crew, and the general public by guiding and warning other motorists of the presence of an oversized vehicle. They communicate with truck drivers, monitor road conditions, and help navigate challenging routes. Pilot Car Drivers must follow state regulations and often require special certifications or permits.

What are some common challenges faced by pilot car drivers and how can they be managed effectively?

Pilot Car Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating unfamiliar routes, maintaining constant communication with truck drivers and law enforcement, and adapting to changing traffic or weather conditions. Staying alert, utilizing GPS and route planning tools, and participating in regular safety training can help manage these challenges. Additionally, building strong teamwork and communication skills is essential, as the role requires frequent coordination with other drivers and transport coordinators to ensure oversized loads move safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between Pilot Car Driver vs Escort Vehicle Driver?

AspectPilot Car DriverEscort Vehicle Driver
CertificationsRequired licenses, such as CDL or special permitsSimilar licensing requirements, often including CDL
Work EnvironmentOn highways, escorting oversize loadsOn roads, assisting with large or heavy transports
Industry UsageTransporting oversize loads in construction, logisticsSimilar industries, often used interchangeably
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Both Pilot Car Drivers and Escort Vehicle Drivers are essential in transporting oversized loads, requiring similar certifications and working environments. They often serve the same industries and are frequently compared by those seeking employment or services in oversize load transportation.

More about Pilot Car Driver jobs

What are popular job titles related to Pilot Car Driver jobs in Kentucky?

For Pilot Car Driver jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pilot Car Driver jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Pilot Car Driver jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Pilot Car Driver jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Pilot Car Driver job openings:

Pilot Car Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pilot Car Driver job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $113,704 per year, or $54.7 per hour.

Specialized Transport Dispatcher

Guardian Fleet Services

Louisville, KY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Guardian Fleet Services rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Specialized Transport Dispatcher to coordinate and manage the safe, efficient, and compliant transportation of oversized, overweight, and specialized freight. The ideal candidate will have strong logistics experience, excellent communication skills, and a thorough understanding of transportation regulations, permitting requirements, and route planning.
This role is responsible for dispatching drivers, coordinating escorts and permits, and ensuring exceptional service for customers throughout the transportation process.
Responsibilities
  • Schedule and dispatch drivers, equipment, and support personnel for specialized and heavy-haul transport operations.
  • Coordinate oversize/overweight permits and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
  • Plan and optimize routes considering road restrictions, bridge clearances, weather conditions, and permit requirements.
  • Communicate with drivers, customers, permit agencies, pilot car providers, and internal teams to ensure timely delivery.
  • Monitor equipment in real time and proactively address delays, route changes, or operational issues.
  • Maintain accurate records of dispatch activities, permits, mileage, and transportation documentation.
  • Ensure compliance with DOT, FMCSA, and company safety regulations.
  • Provide exceptional customer service by keeping customers informed of shipment status and resolving concerns promptly.
  • Coordinate maintenance schedules and equipment availability with fleet personnel.
  • Analyze transportation costs and identify efficiencies to improve operational performance.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum 2 years of dispatch, transportation, logistics, or trucking experience.
  • Knowledge of DOT and FMCSA regulations.
  • Experience with transportation management systems (TMS), GPS tracking, and dispatch software.
  • Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and make quick decisions under pressure.

Preferred
  • Experience in heavy-haul, oversize/overweight, specialized transport, or project logistics.
  • Knowledge of state permitting processes and route surveys.
  • Familiarity with pilot car and escort coordination.

Benefits Offered:
  • Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
  • Medical, Dental, & Vision Plans
  • $15K Employer paid Life and AD&D
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Short Term Disability & Long-Term Disability
  • Hospital Indemnity
  • Cancer plan
  • Accident Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Referral Bonus

EEOC Policy Statement - We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable federal, state, or local laws.
We believe that diversity strengthens our organization and are dedicated to providing a workplace free of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

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