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Pilot Car Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pilot Car Operator

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$750/day

Description The Pilot Car Pickup Operator is responsible for safely escorting oversized and ... Maintain clear, constant communication with CDL drivers regarding traffic patterns, hazards, low ...

Pilot Car Operator

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$750/day

The Pilot Car Pickup Operator is responsible for safely escorting oversized and overweight loads ... Maintain clear, constant communication with CDL drivers regarding traffic patterns, hazards, low ...

Lowboy Driver

Christiana, TN · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

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 ...

Lowboy Driver

Christiana, TN · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

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 ...

Lowboy Driver

Christiana, TN · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

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.

Lowboy Driver

Christiana, TN · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

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 ...

Escort

Ledgewood, NJ · On-site +1

Escort oversize/overweight loads to job sites safely, timely and with no damage, following all state and local pilot car escort regulations. * Communicate proactively with the superload driver via CB ...

Escort oversize/overweight loads to job sites safely, timely and with no damage, following all state and local pilot car escort regulations. * Communicate proactively with the superload driver via CB ...

Showing results 21-40

Pilot Car Driver information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do pilot car driver jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot car driver 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 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.

What cities are hiring for Pilot Car Driver jobs?

Cities with the most Pilot Car Driver job openings:

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

The most popular types of Pilot Car Driver jobs are:

What states have the most Pilot Car Driver jobs?

States with the most job openings for Pilot Car Driver jobs include:

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

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

Infographic showing various Pilot Car Driver job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Flaggers & Pilot Car Drivers

Traffic Safety Services

Gillette, WY • On-site

$21.68/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Traffic Safety Services (TSS) is seeking dedicated Flaggers and Pilot Car Drivers to join our team. The Flaggers and Pilot Car Drivers will be responsible for directing traffic in and around construction sites to ensure the safety of workers and the public. Must have a flagger certification. Pilot Car Drivers must have a valid driver’s license.

Hourly wage: $17.00/hr.; prevailing wage for on-site work: $21.68/hr. otherwise. This is a seasonal position.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Direct traffic in work zones and construction sites using signals, signs, and hand gestures.
  • Communicate effectively with equipment operators and other team members to maintain a safe work environment.
  • Adhere to all company policies and procedures.
  • Follow safety regulations and procedures to prevent accidents and injuries.
  • Other duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Requires one to stand for long periods of time.
  • Requires one to walk, stand, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and reach with hands and arms.
  • Regularly exposed to outside weather conditions, moving traffic, fumes, and airborne particles.

QUALIFICATIONS/PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:

  • Must be 18 years of age.
  • Must have a flagger certification.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record for Pilot Car Driving.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Must conduct yourself in a manner promoting a professional atmosphere by being a team player, self-motivated, organized and having a positive attitude.
  • Must have good oral and/or written English communication skills.
  • Work week varies - overtime is required when needed.

BENEFITS:

  • Employee assistance program
  • Referral program
  • 401K with employer match