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Pilot Car Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

WhiteWater Express Car Wash

Car Wash Attendant 714

Ionia, MI · On-site

$12 - $14.50/hr

Car Wash Attendant At WhiteWater Express, we are more than just a car wash; we are a company built on respect, communication, and a passion for people. Our dedicated team members are leaders within ...

Fast Eddies Car Wash / Oil Change

Be Seen First

Car Wash Cashier

Flint, MI · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Looking for responsible individuals that will bring a positive attitude to work as a member of our car wash team. Qualifications -Communication skill-communicates effectively with others -Time ...

Fast Eddies Car Wash / Oil Change

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Car Wash Cashier

Clio, MI · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

Looking for responsible individuals that will bring a positive attitude to work as a member of our car wash team. Qualifications -Communication skill-communicates effectively with others -Time ...

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All JobsPilot Car JobsPilot Car Jobs in Michigan

Pilot Car information

See Michigan salary details

$43.1K

$114.1K

$175.2K

How much do pilot car jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot car in Michigan is $114,106.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,200.00 and $135,100.00 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, knowledge of traffic laws, and familiarity with oversized load transportation requirements. Experience with CB radios, GPS navigation, and route planning software is typically important, and some states require certification or special permits. Strong attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills for this role. These qualifications ensure the safe and efficient escort of oversized loads, protecting both the load and the public on the road.

Are pilot car drivers in demand?

Pilot car drivers are in steady demand in industries such as construction and transportation that require escorting oversize loads. Employment opportunities depend on regional infrastructure projects and regulations, and drivers often need specific certifications and experience to work in this role.

What is the difference between Pilot Car vs Escort Vehicle?

AspectPilot CarEscort Vehicle
CertificationsRequired in many states, includes safety and licensingSimilar certifications, often overlapping with pilot car requirements
Work EnvironmentOn-road, often rural or highway settingsOn-road, highway, and sometimes urban areas
Industry UsageTransporting oversize/overweight loads, constructionTransporting oversize/overweight loads, construction, logistics

Both Pilot Car and Escort Vehicle roles involve guiding oversized loads, requiring similar certifications and working environments. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Pilot Car' is more common in certain regions, while 'Escort Vehicle' may be used in others. Understanding these similarities helps clarify job expectations and requirements in the transportation industry.

What is a pilot car?

In the construction or moving industries, a pilot car escorts oversized trucks or heavy-load trailers through traffic. Pilot cars, also known as escort vehicles, typically have brightly colored signage that indicates to traffic that they are approaching trailers carrying large loads. Pilot car drivers also communicate with the trailer drivers, informing them about obstacles, accidents, changes in traffic or speed, or other conditions on the road. In the airline industry, a pilot car is sometimes used to direct aircraft to and from the tarmac.

What does a pilot car do?

Pilot cars, also known as escort vehicles, are specially designated vehicles that accompany oversized or overweight loads on roadways to ensure safe transport. Their primary role is to warn other motorists of the approaching load, help navigate challenging road conditions, and communicate with the truck driver to prevent accidents or traffic disruptions. Pilot car drivers are trained to identify hazards, assist with routing, and comply with state or provincial regulations regarding the movement of large loads.

What are some common challenges faced by pilot car drivers when escorting oversize loads, and how can they be managed?

Pilot car drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating tight or congested roads, sudden weather changes, and coordinating with both the truck driver and law enforcement. Effective communication, thorough route planning, and staying updated on road conditions are crucial for managing these challenges. Building strong teamwork with the transport crew and remaining adaptable during unexpected events ensures safe and efficient transport of oversize loads.

How to 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. Experience in driving large vehicles and knowledge of safety protocols are important, and some employers require completion of safety training or certification programs. Gaining experience in transportation or logistics can improve job prospects in this field.

How much do you make being a pilot car?

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. Many drivers work part-time or on a contract basis, and having a commercial driver's license (CDL) can improve earning potential.
More about Pilot Car jobs
What are popular job titles related to Pilot Car jobs in Michigan? For Pilot Car jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pilot Car jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Pilot Car jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Pilot Car jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Pilot Car job openings:
Pilot Car jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pilot Car job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $114,106 per year, or $54.9 per hour.

Pilot-Flight Standards and Evaluation

Western Michigan University

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Western Michigan University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

485th of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Details
Posting Summary
College
College Of Aviation
Executive Area
Provost & VP Academic Affairs
Department
College of Aviation
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
S1674P
Job Type
Full Time, Regular
Pay Type
Exempt/Salaried
Pay Grade
G
Campus Location
WMU-Battle Creek - College of Aviation
Salary Range
Pay is commensurate with qualifications and experience, combined with an excellent benefits package.
Number of Vacancies
Multiple
General Summary
  • Ensures standardization of flight instructors through maintaining documents, training profiles, and evaluation checks.

Major Duties
  • Assists in the development of standardization of new-hire and recurrent training of flight instructors.
  • Develops and maintains standardization practices and publications.
  • Conducts and documents evaluations of flight instructors and certifies their qualifications to provide flight instruction.
  • Audits instructional practices for University standards compliance and federal aviation requirements.
  • Provides ground and in-flight progress evaluations and occasional specialty flight instruction.
  • Assists in executing safety related initiatives for flight operations.
  • Participates in post-incident debriefs. Provides training and policy change recommendations as applicable.
  • Trains and evaluates staff, student, and temporary employees.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in related field from an accredited institution, or a Bachelor's degree in a non-related field from an accredited institution combined with relevant experience.
  • Three year's relevant experience.
  • Supervisory or lead experience.
  • Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
  • Aviation industry experience.
  • Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pilot certification; Commercial Pilot, Airplane Single Engine Land (ASEL), Airplane Multi Engine Land (AMEL), Instrument Airplane.
  • FAA Instructor certification; Certified Flight Instructor, Airplane Single Engine (ASE), Instrument Airplane.
  • Pilot and instrumental ratings for relevant aircraft
  • Must meet FAA physical and medical standards for flight licensure.
  • Hold at least an FAA 2nd class medical; and have dexterity to fly WMU primary aircraft trainers (single engine and multi engine) from both pilot positions and accommodate weight and balance for at least 70% of the student population with standard fuel loads. As a reference, considering the average weight of our students and our current fleet, flight instructors could weigh up to approximately 260lbs.
  • Ability to work irregular shifts and extended hours, including evenings and weekends.

Desired Qualifications
Special Instructions to Applicants
  • External applicants should use the WMU - Application.
  • Internal applicants should use the WMU - Internal Application.

Additional Position Information
  • There are multiple openings for this position. By applying to this posting, applicants will be considered for each position. Applicants may receive multiple email communications.
  • A physical examination may be administered by the employer's designated physician.
  • Western Michigan University offers generous benefits to its employees including health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, retirement, and tuition discount for the employee and tuition remission for eligible dependents. To access information about the specific benefits available for this position, go to: https://www.wmich.edu/hr/enrollment-staff
  • Staff Compensation System pay grades and rates are available at: https://wmich.edu/hr/staffcompensation

Physical requirements and working conditions
  • Light work with some physical demands such as continuously lifting or moving materials less than 25 pounds, but rarely moving more than 25 to 50 pounds.
  • Work is performed with exposure to any number of elements which may occasionally require some precautions such as safety glasses, protective clothing, ear protection, etc.
  • Must be available to provide instruction or serve as pilot-in-command outside of normal business hours.

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