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Pilot Car Driver Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Adams Construction Company

Flagger

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

May at times drive pilot car when necessary and ONLY if driving record is acceptable * Availability ... Valid Driver's License and acceptable driving record * Eligible to work in designated school zones ...

Metromont LLC

Dispatcher

Winchester, VA · On-site

$23.50 - $28.50/hr

Capture pilot car services and cost in CV per load. Approve payments for shuttle in VP * Record service disruptions, time, and action taken. * Review orders in CV and strategically plan drivers to be ...

All JobsPilot Car Driver JobsPilot Car Driver Jobs in Virginia

Pilot Car Driver information

See Virginia salary details

$49.1K

$129.8K

$199.3K

How much do pilot car driver jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot car driver in Virginia is $129,793.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,100.00 and $153,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

How much can you make being a pilot car driver?

Pilot car drivers typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the routes. Overtime, specialized equipment, and certifications can increase earning potential, especially for long-distance or hazardous route escorting.

How much do pilot car drivers make?

Pilot car drivers typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the escort jobs. They often need to hold specific certifications and operate specialized vehicles for highway escorting and oversize load transportation.

How much does it cost to become a pilot car driver?

Becoming a pilot car driver typically involves costs for obtaining a special license or certification, which can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on the state or region. Additional expenses may include training, insurance, and acquiring a suitable vehicle equipped for escorting oversize loads.
More about Pilot Car Driver jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot Car Driver jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Pilot Car Driver jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pilot Car Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pilot Car Driver job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,793 per year, or $62.4 per hour.

Flagger

Roanoke, VA • On-site

Adams Construction Company
Construction • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Adams Construction Companyexternal

$12.75 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Under general supervision of a superintendent,  a Flagger will perform flagging operations on a construction project and assists in traffic control to enhance and promote a safe work zone.

RESPONSIBILITES:

  • Loads/unloads work zone equipment to/from the company vehicle.
  • Assists with setting out signs and cones around work areas to divert traffic.
  • Alerts work crews to approaching traffic and potential hazards
  • Flags motorists to make them aware of obstacles or repair work ahead.
  • Safely directs traffic through active work zones while standing, grasping a stop/slow paddle and utilizing radio communication.
  • Assists at times with directing dump trucks into the work zone
  • May assist in setting out signs and cones around work areas to divert traffic.
  • May at times drive pilot car when necessary and ONLY if driving record is acceptable
  • Availability to work overtime and possible weekends when necessary for project.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Ability to lift and carry heavy loads of 40 to 50 pounds or more on a day-to-day basis
  • The ability to exert maximum muscle force to life, push, pull, or carry objects
  • Capacity to stand, walk, bend, and kneel for extended periods, often ranging from 8 to 14 hours. 
  • Ability to quickly make coordinated movements with hands, arms, and legs
  • Comfort working in extreme temperatures (heat and cold, humidity, and dusty environments
  • Ability to understand and carry out verbal and or written directions paying attention to detail 
  • Ability to understand and carry out verbal and or written directions
  • Ability to communicate effectively through signaling with clear, firm, and courteous communication skills
  • Ability to make clear decisions related to traffic movement, practice continuous situational awareness and react quickly to potential emergencies

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High School diploma/GED
  • Prior construction or paving experience preferred but not required
  • Flagger or Work Zone Traffic Control Certification
  • Valid Driver's License and acceptable driving record
  • Eligible to work in designated school zones being in the presence of minors
  • Ability to pass required drug test for position due to traffic safety needs.  
  • Ability to work in a team environment providing cooperation and respect to all individuals as well as the general public. 
  • Reliable transportation is required. 

BENEFITS:

Medical Health Savings Account Dental Employer paid life/AD&D insurance Vision Employer paid short term disability 401K Employee Assistance Program Paid Time Off and Holidays Employee Wellness Program

This job description should not be construed to imply that this is exclusive standards of the position.  Employees are directed to follow additional instructions and perform related duties, as may be required by their supervisor.  

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