1

Pilot Driver Jobs in Bellingham, WA (NOW HIRING)

Pilot Driver information

See Bellingham, WA salary details

$51.5K

$136.1K

$208.9K

How much do pilot driver jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot driver in Bellingham, WA is $136,074.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,900.00 and $161,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pilot driver?

Pilot drivers are professionals who operate pilot vehicles, also known as escort vehicles, to guide oversized or heavy-load trucks on public roads. Their main responsibility is to ensure the safe transport of large loads by alerting other road users, managing traffic, and helping the truck driver navigate difficult or narrow areas. Pilot drivers typically travel ahead of or behind the oversized vehicle, communicate via radio, and may use warning signs and lights to increase visibility. They must be knowledgeable about state and local regulations regarding oversized loads and often need specific certifications or permits to perform their job.

What does a pilot driver do?

A pilot driver operates a car that escorts oversized trucks and other large vehicles. Your duties include driving an automobile in front of or behind the oversized vehicle. As you drive, your responsibilities include communicating with the truck driver to ensure that they are aware of any upcoming situations such as traffic jams, stop lights, or other obstacles. If you drive behind the truck, you ensure that the load remains secure during the trip. An escort vehicle sometimes has a siren or lights that warn other drivers of the presence of an oversized vehicle on the roadway.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pilot driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pilot Driver, you need a valid driver's license, excellent driving skills, and a good understanding of road safety regulations. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, CB radios, and sometimes specialized pilot car certification are typically required tools and qualifications. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills. These skills are crucial for safely escorting oversized loads, ensuring compliance with transport regulations, and coordinating effectively with truck drivers and law enforcement.

What are some typical challenges a pilot driver might face during an escort job, and how can they be addressed?

Pilot Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating unfamiliar routes, communicating effectively with oversized load drivers, and ensuring public safety on the road. Weather conditions, traffic congestion, and sudden route changes can add complexity to the job. To address these challenges, Pilot Drivers should thoroughly review routes in advance, maintain clear communication with the transport team via radios, and stay updated on local traffic regulations. Staying vigilant, adaptable, and well-prepared helps ensure a smooth and safe escort for all parties involved.

What is the difference between Pilot Driver vs Truck Driver?

AspectPilot DriverTruck Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), specialized training for pilot vehiclesCDL, general driving experience
Work EnvironmentEscort vehicles for oversize loads, often on highways or construction sitesLong-haul or local roads, freight transportation
Employer & IndustryConstruction, transportation, logistics companiesFreight carriers, logistics companies

In summary, Pilot Drivers primarily escort oversized loads, requiring specialized training and certifications, while Truck Drivers focus on transporting goods over various distances. Both roles are essential in the transportation industry but differ in work environment and specific credentials.

Is a pilot driver a good job?

A pilot driver is a logistics role that involves operating vehicles to transport goods or passengers, often requiring a valid driver's license and safety certifications. The job can offer steady employment and flexible hours but may involve physical demands and adherence to strict safety regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Pilot Driver jobs in Bellingham, WA?

For Pilot Driver jobs in Bellingham, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pilot Driver jobs in Bellingham, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Pilot Driver jobs in Bellingham, WA are:

What cities near Bellingham, WA are hiring for Pilot Driver jobs?

Cities near Bellingham, WA with the most Pilot Driver job openings:

Infographic showing various Pilot Driver job openings in Bellingham, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $136,074 per year, or $65.4 per hour.

CDL Class A Driver/ Forklift Operator

Janicki Industries

Sedro Woolley, WA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

CDL Class A Driver/Forklift Operator

Janicki Industries is an innovative, family-owned aerospace company located at the foot of the Cascades. We focus on engineering and manufacturing complex projects for companies in the aerospace, defense, and space industries. We are looking for a CDL Class A Driver/Forklift Operator to join our growing team.

This position is located on-site in Sedro-Woolley, Washington State.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Janicki Industries is looking to add to their transportation team. New grads are welcome to apply! In this role, you will have a consistent daily schedule with most driving being local and being able to be home at the end of your shift. Every day is different in that you could drive a truck, operate a forklift or drive a pilot car.

The following essential job functions are performed as a CDL Driver/Forklift Operator:

  • Safely transporting large patterns/tools between facilities as required
  • Performance of daily safety inspections on each piece of equipment driven and reporting any issues or concerns to supervisor
  • Carrying hazardous materials between facilities
  • Transporting various types of machinery and equipment between facilities
  • Hauling both over size and super load parts between facilities as well as to customers
  • Operating a forklift to move, locate, and relocate large scale patterns/tools. Sometimes requiring multiple forklifts on the same move
  • Load, unload, move, stack, and stage product and materials
  • Operate all equipment in a safe and efficient manner following prescribed work methods
  • Unload inbound shipments safely and move product to storage locations
  • Ensure outbound shipments are accurate and free of damage
  • Efficiently move product from staging and/or storage areas into or on trailers
  • Pilots oversized loads – some of which happen on off-shifts / as required by DOT
  • The list of essential job functions is not intended to be all inclusive and the incumbent will be expected to perform other duties as assigned. The incumbent must work well under pressure, meeting and completing multiple deadlines. The incumbent shall, at all times, demonstrate cooperative behavior with colleagues and supervisors
  • Being at work on time and maintaining good attendance is a condition of employment and is an essential function of the job. Must be flexible with work hours

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Due to our ITAR and EAR regulations, applicants must be a US Citizen or of Legal Permanent Resident Status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b (a) (3)

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

  • High school diploma or GED required
  • One or more years operating a forklift required
  • Class A CDL driver's license required, Tanker and Hazmat endorsements preferred, but willing to hire without provided the candidate starts them within 90 days of hire
  • Candidate must be safety oriented, mechanically inclined, & computer literate
  • Must have effective verbal and written communication skills in the English language
  • Basic personal computer skills with the ability to learn and use new software systems

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

  • Wage range for this role is between $25 - $37 an hour plus a discretionary bonus, 401(k) matching, vacation, and health benefits. Employees can also receive additional pay for off-shifts, off-site work, and access pay. The range provided is Janicki's estimate of the base compensation for this role. Actual amount offered will be based on job-related and non-discriminatory factors such as experience, location, education, training, skills, and abilities.
  • By applying for this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified, you may be contacted for this and future openings.

BENEFITS

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance with employer contribution
  • Disability insurance as well as Life/AD&D insurance
  • HSA (Health Savings Account) with employer contribution and FSA (Flexible Savings Account)
  • 401k with employer matching
  • Paid time off and paid holidays (including two floating holidays)
  • Education reimbursement program
  • Several shift options
  • Premium pay for off-shifts
  • Premium pay for security clearance if applicable

Not sure that you'll be the perfect fit for this role? You should still apply! We'll review your application for other opportunities. We are always on the lookout for talented people!

Janicki Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Janicki Industries does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, marital or familial status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, age, retaliation, veteran/military service status, or any other legally protected status. Janicki is proud to be a military friendly employer.

Applicants or employees wishing to view a copy of Janicki Industries' Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should notify the Human Resources Department at (360) 404-1997.

As a federal government contractor and a recipient of federal funding, Janicki is required to abide by federal drug testing requirements (including preemployment drug testing for cannabis). Additionally, because of Janicki's work on aerospace products and the high volume of safety sensitive positions, Janicki takes the safety of its employees very seriously and requires that employees pass a preemployment drug test prior to starting employment.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.