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Pilot Driver Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Kalitta Charters

Learjet 35/Falcon 20 PIC

Ypsilanti, MI · On-site

A valid unrestricted driver's license * A valid unrestricted US passport * First Class Medical * FAA Commercial Pilot License with an Instrument Rating * FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit ...

Qualus

Sr. Relay Field Technician

Walled Lake, MI · On-site +1

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

... carrier, pilot wire, transfer, transfer trip, fiber optic, CVT's, line tuners, line traps, etc ... Valid Driver's license and good driving record * Prefer an Associate's degree from an accredited 2 ...

Qualus

Sr. Relay Field Technician

Walled Lake, MI · On-site +1

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

... carrier, pilot wire, transfer, transfer trip, fiber optic, CVT's, line tuners, line traps, etc ... Valid Driver's license and good driving record * Prefer an Associate's degree from an accredited 2 ...

OLHSA, A Community Action Agency

Be Seen First

Program Coordinator II - GRG

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$21.70/hr

... Valid driver's license, valid automobile insurance, and reliable automobile to be used for job ... pilot mini-respite projects. 2. Regularly interface with participants, volunteers, and program ...

fng

Engineering Intern

Troy, MI · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

Building and packaging of pilot builds * Assist in the preparation of assembly build instructions ... Must have a valid drivers license. This role requires to travel within 50-mile radius.

fng

Engineering Intern

Troy, MI · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

Building and packaging of pilot builds * Assist in the preparation of assembly build instructions ... Must have a valid drivers license. This role requires to travel within 50-mile radius.

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPilot Driver JobsPilot Driver Jobs in Detroit, MI

Pilot Driver information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$45.3K

$119.8K

$183.9K

How much do pilot driver jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot driver in Detroit, MI is $119,787.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,500.00 and $141,800.00 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.
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Pilot Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pilot Driver job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,787 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Learjet 35/Falcon 20 PIC

Kalitta Charters

Ypsilanti, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Description:

Since 2001 Kalitta Charters has provided top-quality service to the aviation industry and we are currently looking for qualified individuals to join our team. With a competitive salary, established pay scale with yearly increases, excellent insurance including medical, dental and vision, Kalitta Charters is hard to beat. Kalitta Charters work schedule is two weeks on two weeks off based in Ypsilanti, MI.

Requirements:

Education Requirements:

  • Candidates must have a High School Diploma or GED
  • Aviation Related College Degree preferred

Qualifications, Certificates, Licenses & Document Requirements:

  • A valid unrestricted driver’s license
  • A valid unrestricted US passport
  • First Class Medical
  • FAA Commercial Pilot License with an Instrument Rating
  • FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit

Experience & Skills:

  • 2,000+ hours total time
  • 1,000+ Multi-engine time
  • PIC Typed in LR-JET, LR-45 and/or DA-20 (Preferred)

Work Environment & Culture Skills:

  • Basic MS Office knowledge, computer software & internet proficiency
  • Candidate must pass DOT/FAA pre-employment drug screen and a DOT/FAA compliant background check
  • Candidate should be motivated, resourceful, energetic, organized, and able to manage and be managed
  • Candidate must be reliable, punctual and flexible
  • Candidate must be able to multi-task, respect and maintain confidentiality
  • Candidate must be ethical, trustworthy with sensitive information
  • Candidate must be service oriented and able to work at a fast pace and handle stress and problematic issues well with a good attitude
  • Candidate must be able to communicate effectively and work within a team-focused environment
  • Candidate must be respectful of diverse populations and cultures
  • Candidate must have an outgoing personality with expertise at developing relationships
  • Candidates will be evaluated on attitude and safe, professional operation of aircraft and must exhibit strong interpersonal service skills.

Physical Requirements:

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
  • Employees are regularly required to, stand, sit, talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard
  • Must be able to lift up to 75 lbs. and willing to help load and unload aircraft as necessary

Location Requirements:

  • Operation based in Ypsilanti, MI at Willow Run Airport (YIP) - 2 weeks on 2 weeks off rotation
  • There is no ability to work from home
  • There will be no relocation package for this position 

Shift Requirements:

  • Two weeks on, two weeks off with a rotating yearly schedule
  • Must be available to work weekends and holidays
  • Must be available full-time and for assigned shifts; including nights, weekends and holidays

Benefits:

Employer Provided:

  • Short Term Disability
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Basic Life Insurance with Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
  • Travel Assistance Program
  • Cancer Expert Now
  • Fidelity 401K with match 

Employee Elective:

  • BCBS – Medical 500 PPO and 1000 PPO options, Dental PPO, Prescription, Telehealth
  • Eye Med - Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account – Medical and Dependent Care
  • Long Term Disability
  • Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Child
  • Accident and Critical Illness Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Child
  • Hospital Indemnity for Employee, Spouse, and Child
  • Met Law Coverage
  • Nationwide Voluntary Pet Insurance

Pay:

  • Competitive Salary established pay scale including yearly increases

Position Specific Benefits:

  • CASS (Cockpit Access Security System) - jump seat privileges and cockpit access for work and personal travel
  • KCM (Known Crewmember)