ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Pilot Car Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

DRG

PILOT INSTRUCTOR

Columbus, OH · On-site

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to : · Provides KC-135 Pilot procedures instruction in aircraft, classroom, and simulator or other platform environments. · ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPilot Car JobsPilot Car Jobs in Ohio

Pilot Car information

See Ohio salary details

$47.1K

$124.5K

$191.1K

How much do pilot car jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot car in Ohio is $124,462.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,100.00 and $147,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

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.

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 $30,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the routes. Many drivers work flexible hours and may need special certifications or permits for oversize load escorting.

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 special permit or certification depending on local regulations. Experience in driving large vehicles and knowledge of safety protocols are important, and some employers may require completion of a training program or certification in escorting oversize loads.
More about Pilot Car jobs

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

The most popular types of Pilot Car jobs in Ohio are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Pilot Car jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Pilot Car job openings:

Pilot Car jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pilot Car job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 46% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,462 per year, or $59.8 per hour.

Class A CDL Company Driver - 6mo EXP Required - OTR - $1.5k - $2.1k per week

Anderson Trucking Service

Youngstown, OH

$1.5K - $2.1K/wk

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

Anderson Trucking Service rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Many OTR flatbed truck drivers want to grow their careers by hauling bigger and heavier freight, but they tell us their current carrier doesn't provide a path to get there.

You work too hard to get stuck in a rut of hauling freight that doesn't excite you. Let Anderson Trucking Service (ATS) help you reach your goals. Want to haul over-dimensional and heavy haul freight? Learn how to tie down the loads properly, how to work with pilot car and police escorts and all the other things it takes to become a heavy haul truck driver. Apply Now!

Pay:

  • $1,400/Week Minimum Guarantee for the first 12 Weeks
  • Top 50% earn gross $1,600+
  • Top 20% earn gross $2,100+
  • NEW! Increased Sign On Bonus: $2,500
  • $1,500 with first settlement, $1,000 paid after 30 days

What You Can Expect:

  • Guaranteed minimum backup pay of 60-65 CPM, make whichever is higher between % and CPM
  • ATS has specialized in flatbed freight for the last 70+ years
  • Majority is Direct Customer - very few load board/broker loads
  • Trucks can be taken home
  • Home Every 14-21 days
  • Per diem at no cost to the driver
  • Increased tarping pay
  • 50 percent over-dimensional pay
  • Consistent miles

Equipment:

  • Newer equipment
  • Options to grow your career by hauling bigger freight
  • ELDs in EVERY TRUCK since 2009
  • APUs and inverters in EVERY company driver truck
  • Refrigerators can be added upon request

Benefits:

  • Medical, dental and vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • 401(k)/profit-sharing plan
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Employee assistance program
  • PET POLICY: One cat or dog is allowed in the truck (ask driver consultant for details)
  • Flights, car rentals, single rooms and all meals at orientation covered (spouses are welcome!)

Company Driver Requirements:

  • Must be at least 21 years old
  • Valid Class A CDL driver’s license- Must have at least twelve months verifiable OTR experience
  • Must meet DOT requirements
  • Must have a stable, verifiable work history and acceptable driving record (No more than 5 jobs in the past 3 years and 3 in the past year)


What Anderson Trucking Service employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom