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Pilot Escort Driver Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Pilot Escort Driver information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$56.3K

$149K

$228.7K

How much do pilot escort driver jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot escort driver in Seattle, WA is $148,986.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $113,800.00 and $176,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pilot escort driver?

Pilot escort drivers, also known as escort vehicle drivers or flag car drivers, are responsible for accompanying oversized or wide-load vehicles on public roads to ensure their safe and compliant transport. They help warn other motorists, navigate the load through challenging routes, and communicate with the truck driver about road hazards or obstacles. Their role is essential for preventing accidents, protecting infrastructure, and ensuring that oversized loads reach their destination safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pilot escort driver?

To thrive as a Pilot Escort Driver, you need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and knowledge of state and federal transportation regulations. Familiarity with CB radios, GPS navigation systems, and flagging certifications are typically required to communicate with truck drivers and authorities. Attention to detail, strong situational awareness, and effective communication skills help manage safety and coordinate movements on the road. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring the safe and efficient transport of oversized loads while adhering to legal requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by pilot escort drivers during oversize load transportation?

Pilot Escort Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating unfamiliar routes, managing communication with truck drivers and law enforcement, and adapting to changing road and weather conditions. Maintaining constant vigilance is essential to ensure the safety of the load and the general public. Coordination and quick problem-solving skills are crucial, as unexpected obstacles like traffic congestion or construction zones may require immediate adjustments to the planned route.

What is the difference between Pilot Escort Driver vs Pilot Escort Driver?

AspectPilot Escort Driver

Since the comparison is with itself, the main differences often relate to specific job roles or industries. Typically, Pilot Escort Drivers are responsible for guiding oversize or heavy loads, ensuring safety and compliance on roads. They often hold specialized certifications like CDL licenses and have experience with escorting permits. The work environment involves traveling on highways, working outdoors, and coordinating with law enforcement. Employers include transportation companies, logistics firms, and construction projects. Overall, Pilot Escort Drivers are essential for safe transportation of oversized loads, and their skills are highly specialized within the transportation industry.

How much money can you make as a pilot escort driver?

Pilot escort 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 escort jobs. Some drivers may earn more with specialized certifications or by working for larger companies handling oversize or hazardous loads.

How to become a pilot escort driver?

To become a pilot escort driver, you typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), experience driving large or oversize vehicles, and knowledge of safety regulations. Some employers may require specialized training or certifications related to escorting oversized loads and route planning. Maintaining a clean driving record and understanding local laws are also important for this role.

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

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

Infographic showing various Pilot Escort Driver job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $148,986 per year, or $71.6 per hour.

Captain - Inland & Offshore

Centerline Logistics Corporation

Seattle, WA • On-site

$1.0K/day

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Centerline Logistics rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview
Responsible for the efficient and safe execution of vessel assignments and the safety of the assigned vessel(s), cargo, and crew. Required to perform administrative and supervisory functions. Responsible for maintenance and cleanliness of tug and barge.
Responsibilities
The job responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
  • Ensure safe and efficient navigation of the vessel, including maneuvering of the vessel during voyages, arrivals, and departures.
  • Become familiar with, and ensure compliance with Federal and State regulations, and Company policies, procedures, and safety practices.
  • Maintain an understanding of oil barge operations, terminal requirements and Federal and State regulations related to oil barges.
  • Ensure crew members are instructed and provided with the information necessary to meet safety, compliance, and environmental protection obligations.
  • Conduct inspections and ensure compliance with safety and maintenance requirements for tug and barge and arrange for maintenance and repair to correct deficiencies.
  • Must be able to understand and utilize information in cargo information cards and material safety data sheets.
  • Direct crew in performance and recordkeeping of regular safety meetings and drills.
  • Prepare, monitor, and update vessel work lists and maintenance schedules.
  • Prepare written reports per company and regulatory agency directives.
  • Manage inventory and prepare material requisitions for purchasing of necessary parts and supplies for the vessel. Review all requisitions and work orders created by crewmembers prior to submission. Ensure supplies are used in an efficient manner.
  • Coordinate assist tugs and pilots, and for adherence to port/terminal requirements as applicable.
  • Direct and supervise crewmembers in the performance of their duties and assigned work projects,
  • Ensure the cleanliness and working order of the vessel and barge at all times.
  • Able to direct, fairly evaluate, and correct performance of crewmembers.
  • Ensure crewmembers have current and valid documents for the voyage, and are compliant with regulatory and company training requirements.
  • Adhere to vessel operating budget and maximize cost efficiency.
  • Must be able to work and think independently including during stressful situations.
  • Must have a basic mechanical understanding of propulsion, auxiliary, and deck machinery.
  • Ability to respond quickly and provide effective leadership during emergency situations.
  • Use of emergency equipment such as lifesaving, damage control, and safety equipment.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Five (5) years of experience towing barges as Master, coastwise on the US West Coast.
  • Valid Coast Guard license, minimum 200 GRT Near Coastal, with a Master of Towing endorsement.
  • Valid radio operator's license.
  • Must possess valid STCW endorsements for OICNW, Basic Training, GMDSS, and Vessel Security.
  • Coastwise towing on US West Coast - Southeast, Central, and/or Western Alaska experience preferred.
  • Possess a valid driver's license, TWIC Card, and Passport.
  • Valid First Aid and CPR Certificate.
  • Must have a valid 24 hr HAZWOPER.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Able to effectively utilize a computer.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Basic math skills (add, subtract, multiply, and divide).

Job Condition and Environment
  • Able to climb onto barges and up and down ladders and must not be afraid of heights.
  • Able to get along with crew members in confined quarters for prolonged periods of time.
  • Able to handle exposure to all weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, heat, wind, heavy seas, etc.).
  • Able to adapt to a variety of vessel schedules and work hours.
  • May be required to work different equipment/vessels and in different regions.

Travel
  • Employee is responsible for paying travel fees to and from Seattle, WA when crewing up for Olympic Tug and Barge.

Company Overview
Centerline Logistics is a leading provider of marine transportation services in the United States. Centerline Logistics operates on the United States West Coast (including Alaska and Hawaii), United States East Coast (including Puerto Rico), the United States Gulf Coast and the Mississippi River System. Services provided include the transportation and storage of petroleum products, tanker escort, ship assist, the transportation of general cargo and rescue towing. Centerline Logistics is the parent company of eight businesses specializing in marine services and a bulk liquids terminal business. Centerline Logistics provides accounting, administrative, human resources, safety and environmental services, and other support to the subsidiary companies.
The Company offers Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and AD&D options to our employees and their eligible dependents after meeting Company requirements. 401(k) options, Disability Insurance, sick pay, vacation pay, 10 paid holidays per calendar year (subject to work schedule) and Healthcare and/or Dependent Care FSAs are also available to our employees after meeting Company requirements. All benefits information may be subject to change based on any current or updated benefit plan year changes and/or Collective Bargaining Agreements.
We are an Equal Employment Opportunity and Drug Free Work place. Pre-employment drug testing is required.

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