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Pilot Car Drivers 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 · 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 ...

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 ...

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Pilot Car Drivers information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do pilot car drivers jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot car drivers 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 the difference between Pilot Car Drivers vs Truck Drivers?

AspectPilot Car DriversTruck Drivers
CredentialsDriver's license, possibly special permits for oversized loadsCommercial driver's license (CDL)
Work EnvironmentEscort vehicles on highways, often in construction or oversize load transportTransporting goods across long distances on highways and roads
Industry UsageConstruction, oversize load transport, logisticsFreight, logistics, supply chain
Search IntentEscort driving, oversize load safetyLong haul, freight delivery

While both Pilot Car Drivers and Truck Drivers operate on roads, Pilot Car Drivers primarily escort oversized loads, ensuring safety and compliance, whereas Truck Drivers transport goods over long distances. The key differences lie in their credentials, work environment, and industry roles, though both are essential in freight and logistics sectors.

Can you be a pilot with bipolar disorder?

Pilot car drivers typically need to pass medical examinations that assess overall health and mental stability. Having bipolar disorder may affect eligibility, as some medical standards require stable mental health without recent episodes, and individuals may need to provide medical documentation or clearance from a healthcare professional. Each employer and licensing authority may have specific policies regarding mental health conditions.

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, strong knowledge of traffic laws, and often a state-issued certification or permit. Familiarity with communication equipment like CB radios, GPS, and flagging tools is typically required. Excellent situational awareness, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are essential to stand out in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient transport of oversized loads and protecting both the load and the public on the road.

Can I be a pilot if I'm 5'1"?

Pilot car drivers typically do not have height restrictions, but being able to comfortably access and operate the vehicle and equipment is important. Most employers focus on driving skills, safety knowledge, and proper licensing rather than height. If you can meet the physical requirements for driving and safety, height is generally not a barrier to becoming a pilot car driver.

What is a pilot's salary?

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 loads they escort. Many drivers work full-time and may need special certifications or training to operate escort vehicles safely on highways and construction sites.

What is the definition of a pilot?

A pilot car driver is a professional who escorts oversize or heavy loads on the road to ensure safety and compliance with transportation regulations. They typically use communication tools and follow specific routes, often requiring special certifications or training. Their role involves guiding large vehicles through challenging or restricted areas to prevent accidents and damage.

What are some common challenges Pilot Car Drivers face when escorting oversized loads, and how can they be managed?

Pilot Car Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating through heavy traffic, adverse weather, and unfamiliar routes while ensuring the safety of the oversized load and the public. Effective communication with the truck driver and other escort vehicles is essential to anticipate route changes or hazards. Staying alert, having strong knowledge of state regulations, and maintaining up-to-date safety equipment can help manage these challenges and ensure smooth transport operations.

What are pilot car drivers?

Pilot car drivers, also known as escort vehicle drivers, are professionals who lead or follow oversized or heavy loads on public roads to ensure safety and compliance with transportation regulations. Their main role is to warn other drivers of the presence of large loads, help navigate challenging routes, and communicate with the truck driver carrying the oversized load. They are trained to handle emergency situations and are responsible for checking clearances, road conditions, and traffic patterns to prevent accidents. Pilot car drivers often work closely with law enforcement, permitting agencies, and transportation companies.
More about Pilot Car Drivers jobs
What cities are hiring for Pilot Car Drivers jobs? Cities with the most Pilot Car Drivers job openings:
What states have the most Pilot Car Drivers jobs? States with the most job openings for Pilot Car Drivers jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Pilot Car Drivers jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Pilot Car Drivers jobs are:
Pilot Car Drivers jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pilot Car Drivers job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Pilot Car Escort

Parish Transport

Ellisville, MS • On-site

$52K - $57K/yr

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 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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