ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Pilot Driver Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Aerones

Drone Pilot

Houston, TX · On-site

$60/day

As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Valid Driver's License with a clean driving record. * Ability to pass a background check, drug ...

Aerones

Drone Pilot

Houston, TX

$60/day

As a Field Drone Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting drone inspection missions ... Valid Driver's License with a clean driving record. * Ability to pass a background check, drug ...

genesis

Trip Pilot Marine Vessels Inland

Houston, TX · On-site

The Trip Pilot shall be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel and its tow ... Valid driver's license and TWIC card. * Must possess an U.S. Merchant Mariner's document and a STCW ...

genesis

Trip Pilot Marine Vessels Inland

Houston, TX · On-site

The Trip Pilot shall be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel and its tow ... Valid driver's license and TWIC card. * Must possess an U.S. Merchant Mariner's document and a STCW ...

genesis

Trip Pilot Marine Vessels Inland

Houston, TX · On-site

The Trip Pilot shall be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel and its tow ... Valid driver's license and TWIC card. * Must possess an U.S. Merchant Mariner's document and a STCW ...

Jet Linx Aviation

PIC - Gulfstream G200

Houston, TX · On-site

$160K - $245K/yr

Description Pilot in Command - Gulfstream G200 Full-Time Houston, TX Jet Linx is seeking qualified ... S. driver's license * Proof of eligibility to work in the US * Current passport * ATP (ability to ...

Jet Linx Aviation

PIC - Gulfstream G200

Houston, TX · On-site

$160K - $245K/yr

Pilot in Command - Gulfstream G200 Full-Time Houston, TX Jet Linx is seeking qualified Pilot in ... S. driver's license * Proof of eligibility to work in the US * Current passport * ATP (ability to ...

Jet Linx

PIC - Gulfstream G200

Houston, TX

$160K - $245K/yr

Pilot in Command - Gulfstream G200 Full-Time Houston, TX Jet Linx is seeking qualified Pilot in ... S. driver's license * Proof of eligibility to work in the US * Current passport * ATP (ability to ...

Jet Linx Aviation

PIC - Gulfstream G200

Houston, TX

Pilot in Command - Gulfstream G200 Full-Time Houston, TX Jet Linx is seeking qualified Pilot in ... S. driver's license * Proof of eligibility to work in the US * Current passport * ATP (ability to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPilot Driver JobsPilot Driver Jobs in Houston, TX

Pilot Driver information

See Houston, TX salary details

$47.3K

$125K

$191.9K

How much do pilot driver jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot driver in Houston, TX is $125,021.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,500.00 and $148,000.00 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.
More about Pilot Driver jobs

What are popular job titles related to Pilot Driver jobs in Houston, TX?

For Pilot Driver jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pilot Driver jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Pilot Driver jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Pilot Driver jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Pilot Driver job openings:

Pilot Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pilot Driver job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,021 per year, or $60.1 per hour.

Trip Pilot

ACBL Transportation Services LLC

Channelview, TX • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Title Trip Pilot Company American Commercial Barge Line Location Memphis, TN; St. Louis, MO; Cairo, IL; Convent, LA; Harahan, LA; Channelview, TX; Jeffersonville, IN Job Type Full-Time Overview Are you an experienced and dedicated Trip Pilot looking for an exciting opportunity in the maritime industry? American Commercial Barge Line (ACBL) is one of the largest and most diversified marine transportation companies in the U.S. Our legacy of providing the nation with economical, safe and green transportation dates back to 1915, when we began moving coal on the Kentucky River. We offer a wide range of career paths in operations and support services. Whether you are interested in working on the river or in an office, we are always searching for the best of the best to join our ACBL team. Responsibilities Ensure that work completed during your watch is done in accordance with ACBL safety policies and practices. Always navigate the vessel safely. Ensure all crew members on the vessel receive instruction on how to do jobs properly and monitor performance. Carry out all duties assigned under the Vessel Security Plan as the designated vessel security officer. Ensure that each crew member knows the cargo of each barge in tow and has an understanding of any hazards associated with said cargoes (CFR 35.05-15b). Enforce all Company policies and vessel-specific guidelines in support of the SMS and the Crew Endurance Management System onboard all vessels. Participate in crew management, general supervisory duties and management of the vessel's budget. Complete required log entries. Maintain radio watch as required. Report Certain Dangerous Cargoes (CDC) barges at pick-up, drop-off, and designated mile points to the Inland River Vessel Movement Center. Enforce all rules. Give assignments and direction to the mate and/or lead deckhand. Comply with all established vessel management policies and procedures. Maintain the vessel budget and help maximize cost efficiency as directed. Provide instructions and information to crew members, ACBL land-based personnel, USCG or lock personnel. Qualifications Master of Towing Vessels upon Western Rivers license required. Minimum 30+ loaded barges experience on the Lower Mississippi River. Must meet USCG physical examination requirements. Must be able to travel to and from vessel / training locations via air or car. Valid driver's license. Work 6-hour on, 6-hour off watch schedule. Experience pushing barges (tows of 20 or more preferred). Ability to ride in or pilot a crew boat or zodiac to get to/from towing vessel. Work in all weather conditions. Maintain valid USCG licensing. Active TWIC required. Preferred Qualifications Experience pushing 20+ barges. Benefits Competitive salary and benefits package. A collaborative and supportive team environment. Comprehensive training and career development opportunities. 401(k) retirement plan with employer match. Employee Assistance Program. Commitment to safety and employee well-being. Equal Opportunity Employer. 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply