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Pilot Car Driving Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sunland Asphalt

Pilot Car Driver

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

SUNLAND ASPHALT Be the driving force of your success! Come join our Award Winning Team. Sunland ... Pilot Car Drivers lead motorists through complex work zones and work with flaggers and construction ...

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 ... Valid driver's license with a clean driving record * Class A or B CDL preferred * Strong work ethic ...

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 ... Valid driver's license with a clean driving record * Class A or B CDL preferred * Strong work ethic ...

S&L Industrial

TC Flagger - Jackson Hole, WY

Jackson, WY · On-site

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

Operate Pilot Car when needed * Operate and assist with maintenance of trucks and striping ... Valid driver's license with a clean driving record * Class A or B CDL preferred * Strong work ethic ...

S&L Industrial

TC Flagger - Cody, WY

Cody, WY · On-site

$22/hr

Operate Pilot Car when needed * Operate and assist with maintenance of trucks and striping ... Valid driver's license with a clean driving record * Class A or B CDL preferred * Strong work ethic ...

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 ... Valid driver's license with a clean driving record * Class A or B CDL preferred * Strong work ethic ...

S&L Industrial

TC Flagger - Gillette, WY

Gillette, WY · On-site

$22/hr

Operate Pilot Car when needed * Operate and assist with maintenance of trucks and striping ... Valid driver's license with a clean driving record * Class A or B CDL preferred * Strong work ethic ...

S&L Industrial

TC Flagger - Sheridan, WY

Sheridan, WY

$15 - $20/hr

Operate Pilot Car when needed * Operate and assist with maintenance of trucks and striping ... Valid driver's license with a clean driving record * Class A or B CDL preferred * Strong work ethic ...

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 ... Valid driver's license with a clean driving record * Class A or B CDL preferred * Strong work ethic ...

S&L Industrial

TC Flagger - Gillette, WY

Gillette, WY

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Operate Pilot Car when needed * Operate and assist with maintenance of trucks and striping ... Valid driver's license with a clean driving record * Class A or B CDL preferred * Strong work ethic ...

S&L Industrial

TC Flagger - Cody, WY

Cody, WY

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Operate Pilot Car when needed * Operate and assist with maintenance of trucks and striping ... Valid driver's license with a clean driving record * Class A or B CDL preferred * Strong work ethic ...

S&L Industrial

TC Flagger - Rawlins, WY

Rawlins, WY

$13.25 - $17.75/hr

Operate Pilot Car when needed * Operate and assist with maintenance of trucks and striping ... Valid driver's license with a clean driving record * Class A or B CDL preferred * Strong work ethic ...

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Pilot Car Driving information

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$103K

$171.5K

How much do pilot car driving jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot car driving in the United States is $103,038.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by pilot car drivers on the job?

Pilot car drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating difficult routes, maintaining constant communication with truck drivers and law enforcement, and adapting to changing traffic conditions. They must remain highly alert to ensure the safety of the oversized load, themselves, and other motorists. Weather, road construction, and unexpected delays can also complicate routes, requiring flexibility and problem-solving skills. Building experience and staying updated on regulations help pilot car drivers manage these challenges effectively.

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 a solid understanding of traffic laws and safety regulations. Familiarity with two-way radios, GPS devices, and flagging certification is often required to communicate and coordinate with oversized load transport teams. Excellent situational awareness, communication, and decision-making skills help ensure safe passage through varying road conditions. These abilities are crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of both the transport convoy and the general public.

How much do you get paid to be a pilot car?

Pilot car drivers typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with some earning higher rates for specialized or long-distance escort jobs. Pay can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the escort, and drivers often need a valid driver's license and sometimes a special certification or permit.

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 with oversized loads. Certification requirements can vary, so checking local transportation authorities is recommended.

How much do pilot car drivers charge?

Pilot car drivers typically charge between $25 and $75 per hour or $100 to $300 per day, depending on the region, job complexity, and whether they are licensed and certified. Rates may also vary based on the length and difficulty of the escort, as well as the type of vehicle and equipment used.

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

AspectPilot Car DrivingEscort Vehicle Driver
Required CertificationsSpecialized pilot car certifications, sometimes state-specificSimilar certifications, often overlapping with pilot car licenses
Work EnvironmentOn highways, escorting oversize loadsOn highways, assisting with large load transportation
Industry UsageHeavy haul, oversize load transportationHeavy haul, oversize load transportation
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Both Pilot Car Driving and Escort Vehicle Driving involve guiding oversized loads on roads, requiring similar certifications and working in the heavy haul industry. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Pilot Car Driving' is more common in North America, emphasizing the role of guiding and safety. Understanding these roles helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the transportation industry.

How do I get a job as a pilot car driver?

To become a pilot car driver, you typically need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and sometimes a commercial driver's license (CDL) depending on the vehicle and load. Training on safety protocols and obtaining any required permits or certifications are also important steps in qualifying for the role.

What is pilot car driving?

Pilot car driving involves operating a vehicle, known as a pilot or escort car, that leads or follows oversize loads on highways to ensure the safety of the load, other road users, and infrastructure. These drivers communicate with the truck driver and alert them to hazards, obstacles, and changes in road conditions. Pilot car drivers also help warn the public of the presence of a wide or long load and assist in navigating tight turns or difficult routes. The job requires a good understanding of traffic regulations, communication skills, and sometimes special certifications depending on the state or region.
More about Pilot Car Driving jobs
What cities are hiring for Pilot Car Driving jobs? Cities with the most Pilot Car Driving job openings:
What states have the most Pilot Car Driving jobs? States with the most job openings for Pilot Car Driving jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Pilot Car Driving jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Pilot Car Driving jobs are:
Pilot Car Driving jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pilot Car Driving job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,038 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Pilot Car Driver - Transportation Services

Takkion Ops Management LLC

Casper, WY • On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Description:

A pilot car driver, also known as an escort vehicle driver or a lead car driver, is responsible for escorting oversized or over-dimensional vehicles, such as trucks, trailers, and cranes, to ensure that they can safely and legally travel on public roads. The job of a pilot car driver is to guide the large vehicles through the streets, highways, and bridges and to alert other drivers of the approaching convoy. The primary responsibilities of a pilot car driver include:

  • Preparing and inspecting the pilot car: The driver must ensure that the escort vehicle is in good condition and is equipped with all the necessary safety equipment, such as warning signs, flags, and flashing lights.
  • Communicating with the driver of the oversized vehicle: The pilot car driver must maintain contact with the driver of the oversized vehicle to coordinate movements and ensure that the convoy stays on course.
  • Conducting route surveys: The pilot car driver must conduct a thorough survey of the route before the trip to identify any obstacles or hazards that could affect the convoy's movement.
  • Managing traffic: The pilot car driver must manage traffic along the convoy route, signaling to other drivers when it is safe to pass or when they need to slow down.
  • Reporting incidents and accidents: The pilot car driver must immediately report any incidents or accidents that occur during the journey.
  • Maintaining logs and records: The pilot car driver must maintain accurate logs and records of the trip, including time spent, distance traveled, and any incidents that occur.
Requirements:

Qualifications required for the job of a pilot car driver include:

  • Must have a current Pilot Car Certification
  • A valid driver's license and a clean driving record
  • 1-2 Years Pilot/Escort Car experience Required
  • Excellent communication and organizational skills
  • Good knowledge of traffic laws and regulations
  • Knowledge of safe driving practices
  • Experience in the transportation industry is an advantage
  • Ability to work flexible hours and travel long distances

Pre-Employment Requirements:

Candidates must successfully complete a background check and drug screening prior to hiring. This role is considered safety-sensitive and may be subject to ongoing drug and testing in compliance with company policy and regulatory requirements.

Overall, the job of a pilot car driver is to ensure the safe and efficient movement of oversized vehicles on public roads. The role requires a high level of responsibility and attention to detail, as well as excellent communication and driving skills.


TAKKION is an Equal Opportunity Employer
#TakkionTravel