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Pilot In Command Jobs in Los Angeles, CA (NOW HIRING)

Pilot in Command (PIC)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$225K - $325K/yr

PILOT IN COMMAND (PIC) SpaceX is seeking an experienced Pilot in Command (PIC) to join our Aviation team. You will have the opportunity to fly both domestically and internationally from local ...

Pilot in Command (PIC)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$225K - $325K/yr

PILOT IN COMMAND (PIC) SpaceX is seeking an experienced Pilot in Command (PIC) to join our Aviation team. You will have the opportunity to fly both domestically and internationally from local ...

PILOT IN COMMAND (PIC) SpaceX is seeking an experienced Pilot in Command (PIC) to join our Aviation team. You will have the opportunity to fly both domestically and internationally from local ...

King Air 350 - Check Pilot

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$55K - $178K/yr

Pilot in Command Responsibilities * Retain final authority for the safe operation of the aircraft per FAR 91.3 * Ensure aircraft airworthiness and completion of required inspections. * Maintain ...

King Air 350 - Check Pilot

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$55K - $178K/yr

Pilot in Command Responsibilities * Retain final authority for the safe operation of the aircraft per FAR 91.3 * Ensure aircraft airworthiness and completion of required inspections. * Maintain ...

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with commercial UAS operations * Strong understanding of airspace, safety, and operational procedures * Experience in BVLOS, logistics, delivery ...

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate * Experience with commercial UAS operations * Strong understanding of airspace, safety, and operational procedures * Experience in BVLOS, logistics, delivery ...

Fire Pilot

Buena Park, CA · On-site

$122K - $164K/yr

Incumbents serve as Pilot in Command (PlC) during a full range of helicopter missions including but not limited to missions related to fire suppression, are responsible for the safe overall operation ...

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Pilot In Command information

See Los Angeles, CA salary details

$51.6K

$136.5K

$209.5K

How much do pilot in command jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot in command in Los Angeles, CA is $136,461.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,200.00 and $161,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the responsibilities of a pilot in command?

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.

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.

What does a pilot in command do?

A pilot in command is responsible for the safety and operation of the aircraft during flight. They make decisions, navigate, communicate with air traffic control, and ensure compliance with regulations, often holding certifications such as an Airline Transport Pilot license. The pilot in command oversees crew and passenger safety throughout the flight.

What rank is a pilot in command?

A Pilot in Command (PIC) is typically a captain or the senior pilot responsible for the flight's safety and operation. The specific rank can vary depending on the airline or organization, but it generally signifies the highest level of pilot authority on a flight. Achieving PIC status requires extensive flight hours, certifications, and experience.

What are popular job titles related to Pilot In Command jobs in Los Angeles, CA?

For Pilot In Command jobs in Los Angeles, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pilot In Command jobs in Los Angeles, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Pilot In Command jobs in Los Angeles, CA are:

What cities near Los Angeles, CA are hiring for Pilot In Command jobs?

Cities near Los Angeles, CA with the most Pilot In Command job openings:

Infographic showing various Pilot In Command job openings in Los Angeles, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,064 per year, or $67.8 per hour.

Pilot in Command (PIC)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$225K - $325K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

PILOT IN COMMAND (PIC)

SpaceX is seeking an experienced Pilot in Command (PIC) to join our Aviation team. You will have the opportunity to fly both domestically and internationally from local airports while flying various aircraft.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Serve as Pilot in Command, conducting domestic and international flights in compliance with FAA regulations and company standards.
  • Perform pre-flight planning, including weather analysis, route optimization, and fuel management.
  • Ensure the safety and comfort of passengers, including SpaceX executives and team members.
  • Maintain aircraft logs, complete post-flight reports, and adhere to all maintenance and operational protocols.
  • Collaborate with crew, air traffic control, and ground support to execute flawless missions.
  • Participate in ongoing training and proficiency checks to stay current on aviation best practices.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate 
  • 4,000+ hours total flight time
  • First class medical certificate

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Strong knowledge of FAR Part 91 operations and corporate aviation standards.
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Boeing 737 Type Rating and/or Gulfstream G650 Type Rating.
  • 500+ hours in the Gulfstream GV series.
  • Experience in high-end corporate or executive transport operations.
  • Familiarity with advanced avionics and flight management systems.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Within 2-4 hour travel distance to LAX
  • Ability to work on an on-call basis
  • Current passport
  • Ability to pass Air Force background checks for Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Level 5: $225,000 - $325,000

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.


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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US