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Pilot In Command Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Integration Innovation, Inc.

Research Pilot

Edwards, CA · On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft ...

Stratolaunch

Sr. Test Pilot

Mojave, CA · On-site

Tasks include planning and flying test flights as Pilot in Command ( PIC ) and Second in Command ( SIC ); supporting ground tests as Test Conductor, Test Director, or Flight Test Engineer; preparing ...

Integration Innovation, Inc.

Research Pilot

Edwards, CA · On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft ...

Stratolaunch

Sr. Test Pilot

Mojave, CA · On-site

Tasks include planning and flying test flights as Pilot in Command (PIC) and Second in Command (SIC); supporting ground tests as Test Conductor, Test Director, or Flight Test Engineer; preparing ...

Textron

Fighter Pilot- Pt. Mugu - ATAC

Tomales, CA · On-site

$217K/yr

Previously DoD Tactically Trained Fighter Pilot Previously qualified 4-Ship/Division Flight Lead 700 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DOD-owned/operated fighter aircraft 100 hours PIC ...

Textron

Fighter Pilot- Pt. Mugu - ATAC

Lemoore, CA · On-site

$217K/yr

Previously DoD Tactically Trained Fighter Pilot Previously qualified 4-Ship/Division Flight Lead 700 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DOD-owned/operated fighter aircraft 100 hours PIC ...

STS Technical Services

VFR Helicopter Pilot

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

First Class FAA Medical Flight Experience Requirements * 2,000 Total Flight Hours * 1,500 Helicopter Flight Hours * 1,000 Hours Pilot in Command Helicopters * 500 Hours Turbine Helicopter Time * 100 ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA · On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

A minimum of 1,000 hours pilot in command flight time * Excellent interpersonal skills * Ability to work extended hours and travel as required * Read and speak English proficiently Desired * Both ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA

$187K - $250K/yr

A minimum of 1,000 hours pilot in command flight time * Excellent interpersonal skills * Ability to work extended hours and travel as required * Read and speak English proficiently * Both fixed wing ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA

$187K - $250K/yr

A minimum of 1,000 hours pilot in command flight time * Excellent interpersonal skills * Ability to work extended hours and travel as required * Read and speak English proficiently Desired * Both ...

General Atomics

Flight-Ground Instructor

Adelanto, CA · On-site

$140K - $252K/yr

For Launch and Recovery instruction: 500 hours as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) with UAV instructor or multiple UAV aircraft qualification; one thousand five hundred (1500) UAV hours, Multiple aircraft UAV ...

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All JobsPilot In Command JobsPilot In Command Jobs in California

Pilot In Command information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$129.2K

$198.4K

How much do pilot in command jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot in command in California is $129,202.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,700.00 and $153,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Pilot In Command vs Co-Pilot?

AspectPilot In CommandCo-Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificateCommercial Pilot License (CPL), often with additional type ratings
Work EnvironmentLeads flight operations, makes final decisions, responsible for safetyAssists Pilot In Command, manages navigation and communication tasks
Roles & ResponsibilitiesOverall flight responsibility, decision-making authoritySupports Pilot In Command, shares flying duties

The Pilot In Command holds the primary responsibility for flight safety and decision-making, while the Co-Pilot assists and shares flying duties. Both roles require similar certifications, but the Pilot In Command has ultimate authority and accountability during flights.

Is SIC pilot experience valuable?

SIC (Second in Command) pilot experience is valuable as it provides flight hours, operational experience, and familiarity with cockpit procedures, which are essential for advancing to captain roles. Many airlines and operators consider SIC experience a key step in building the qualifications required for a pilot in command position.

What does it mean to be a pilot in command?

A pilot in command is the primary responsible person for the operation and safety of an aircraft during flight. They hold the highest authority on board, make critical decisions, and ensure compliance with regulations, often requiring specific certifications such as an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license. The pilot in command oversees crew coordination, navigation, and communication with air traffic control.

What are Pilot In Command responsibilities?

A Pilot In Command (PIC) is the person legally responsible for the operation and safety of an aircraft during flight. The PIC has final authority over all decisions related to the flight, including navigation, communication, and emergency procedures. This role involves pre-flight planning, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations, and managing the crew and passengers. The PIC must also assess weather conditions, check the aircraft's mechanical status, and coordinate with air traffic control to ensure a safe and efficient flight.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pilot In Command, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pilot In Command, you need advanced aeronautical knowledge, an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license, and significant flight hours. Mastery of avionics systems, flight management computers, and navigation tools is standard, along with recurrent simulator training. Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills are essential for managing crew and ensuring passenger safety. These skills and qualifications are crucial for safe, efficient flight operations and effective handling of in-flight challenges.

What are some common challenges faced by a Pilot In Command during multi-crew operations?

As a Pilot In Command (PIC) in multi-crew operations, one of the main challenges is effective communication and decision-making under time pressure. The PIC must balance delegating tasks while maintaining overall responsibility for flight safety and compliance with regulations. Managing workload, especially during irregular operations or emergencies, requires strong leadership and trust within the crew. Additionally, adapting to varying personalities and experience levels among crew members is essential to ensure smooth collaboration and safe outcomes.

How much does a pilot in command make?

A pilot in command's salary varies based on experience, aircraft type, and employer, but typically ranges from $80,000 to over $200,000 annually. Airline captains with seniority and extensive flight hours tend to earn higher salaries, often supplemented by per diem and benefits.

What pilots make $500,000 a year?

Pilots in roles such as airline captains for major carriers, especially those with seniority, extensive experience, and flying large aircraft, can earn $500,000 or more annually. High earnings typically come from long-haul international flights, additional pay, and bonuses, often requiring advanced certifications like an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license and many years of experience.
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What cities in California are hiring for Pilot In Command jobs? Cities in California with the most Pilot In Command job openings:
Pilot In Command jobs near you
Research Pilot

Research Pilot

Integration Innovation, Inc.

Edwards, CA • On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Overview
NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) Aircrew member performs duties in support of the operations of all aircraft assigned to applicable base location. Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe operations are provided as tasked. Aircraft are operated to meet Agency platform, research, and support aircraft requirements. AFRC aircraft are located at the main campus at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Deployed operations, both CONUS and OCONUS, are routine for these aircrew positions.
Pay Range $170,000-$190,000.
The pay range for this position is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, geographic location, and any applicable laws.
Responsibilities
A successful candidate will conduct full-time Pilot duties on a variety of NASA aircraft as assigned to include, but not limited to: C-20A, Gulfstream (III, IV, and V), Pilatus PC-12, T-34, RQ-4 Global Hawk, and TG-14.
Duties include:
  • Conducting flight operations in accordance with FAA, Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), and other applicable directives, regulations, and instructions.
  • Maintaining performance standards in accordance with directives, training plans and Flight Crew Branch policies to include: Knowledge of safety precautions, Knowledge of airfield operations, Demonstrating Emergency Bold Face procedures from memory, and Knowledge of aircraft systems, limitations and ATC regulations / procedures.
  • Participating in i3 and NASA-directed Continuation Training, meetings, and other forums mandated by the on-site management team.
  • Performing any and all on-site tasks necessary at operating locations for a safe, secure, and professional operation.
  • Direct support to any administrative or flight operations scheduling / record keeping as needed
  • Other duties as assigned

Candidate must also maintain proficiency, currency, and annual requirements in accordance with NPR 7900.3C, NPD 7900.4D, AFPD 8700.1 and AFOP 7900.3-006 as applicable.
NASA will provide training and qualification checks for aircrew, including required periodic simulator training
NASA authorized flight surgeon will provide periodic flight physicals for aircrew
Qualifications
Required Skills:
  • Bachelor's degree, or higher, from an accredited university or college (Required), with major study in an appropriate field of engineering, physical science, life science, or mathematics (Desired).
  • Must be able to pass random drug screenings. (Required)
  • Possess a current US passport, valid through period of employment. (Required)
  • Formal military training in expected duties (with DD 214 annotating AFSC / MOS qualification) or applicable civilian experience. (Highly Desired)
  • Possess an FAA commercial pilot license with instrument, multiengine and single engine land ratings or possess a pilot and instrument rating from the armed services. (Required)
  • Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft with 500 hours of special missions' experience (Highly Desired)
  • Must meet the security requirements of the position and pass a NASA Flight Medical Certification (Required).

Required Experience:
  • Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft with 500 hours of special missions' experience (Highly Desired)
  • Should possess knowledge and first-hand experience necessary to succeed as a government contractor providing direct support to NASA AFRC staff as required.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Must be able to create, maintain and update briefings and statistical reporting.
  • Must be able to obtain a DoD SECRET security clearance.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:
  • Light to medium work. Ability to lift, carry, push, pull, see, hear, stoop, crouch, feel, handle; manual dexterity.
  • Outside work. Ability to tolerate conditions in a deployed environment to include inclement weather, rain, humidity, cold and extreme heat. May be exposed to dust, fumes, odors, chemicals, and confined spaces.
  • Close, distance, color and peripheral vision and depth perception.
  • Ability to read and comprehend technical manuals and instructions; procedures, safety instructions, memos, reports. Ability to write at a level to relay data, details and information. Ability to perform shop math. Ability to speak clearly and concisely to relay information.
  • Office conditions: Moderate noise level. May be required to sit at computer station and/or type on keyboard for extended periods of time. May be required to lift objects such as laptop and office copy paper. May be required to view and read computer monitor for extended periods of time. May be required to take verbal messages per phone and face-to-face contact. Will occasionally be required to stand and walk to deliver items within office or on the flight line.
  • Flight line working conditions: Will be required to work day or night. May be exposed to high noise levels. Will be required to fly long missions (up to 12 hours) at high altitude in a confined space. May be subject to the altitude or physiological risks normally associated with flying.

About i3
i3 is a technically diverse, 100% team member owned business, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services, electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis, UAS system integration and flight operations, full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training, simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services, Missile Defense Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.
Perks of being a team member owner include:
  • Long-term financial security
  • Higher job satisfaction
  • Greater job security
  • Personal and professional growth
  • Great company culture

Other outstanding benefits:
  • Excellent insurance coverage
  • 401(k) match
  • Generous PTO
  • Health and wellness incentives
  • Tuition and certification reimbursement
  • Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares

We work hard. We compete hard. We play hard. Apply now to join us!

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