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Pilot In Command Jobs in Walnut Creek, CA (NOW HIRING)

USV Pilot

Alameda, CA ยท On-site

$43.36 - $56.34/hr

Reporting directly to the Pilot Team Manager, you will play a critical role in safely navigating ... THE QUALIFICATIONS * 5+ years of maritime command experience, including advanced proficiency in ...

Aviation Maintenance Technician 135

Byron, CA ยท On-site

$33.72 - $42.15/hr

... Pilot in Command (PIC) of any maintenance issues that would take an aircraft out of service โ€ข Responsible for validating or confirming the data in the Status Report concerning the aircraft he or ...

Aviation Maintenance Technician 135

Byron, CA ยท On-site

$33.72 - $42.15/hr

... Pilot in Command (PIC) of any maintenance issues that would take an aircraft out of service โ€ข Responsible for validating or confirming the data in the Status Report concerning the aircraft he or ...

... Pilot in Command (PIC) of any maintenance issues that would take an aircraft out of service โ€ข Responsible for validating or confirming the data in the Status Report concerning the aircraft he or ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition. * Follow all FAA ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting ... Conduct pre-flight checks and ensure drones are in optimal working condition. * Follow all FAA ...

ZOA Remote Pilot Operator

Fremont, CA ยท On-site +1

$40K - $80K/yr

The RPO plays the role of the pilot and other controllers in the Air Traffic Controller training simulator. The RPO operates a combination of a simulated radar display and voice communication system ...

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Pilot In Command information

See Walnut Creek, CA salary details

$54.8K

$145K

$222.6K

How much do pilot in command jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot in command in Walnut Creek, CA is $144,979.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,700.00 and $171,600.00 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 job categories do people searching Pilot In Command jobs in Walnut Creek, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Pilot In Command jobs in Walnut Creek, CA are:

What cities near Walnut Creek, CA are hiring for Pilot In Command jobs?

Cities near Walnut Creek, CA with the most Pilot In Command job openings:

Infographic showing various Pilot In Command job openings in Walnut Creek, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,979 per year, or $69.7 per hour.

USV Pilot

Saildrone

Alameda, CA โ€ข On-site

$43.36 - $56.34/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform remote piloting and monitoring of Saildrone USVs to ensure mission execution and safety.

  • Plan passages and routes, including navigating shipping lanes and maintaining safe distances from other vessels.

  • Monitor vehicle status, detect anomalies, and take corrective actions or escalate issues as needed.


Job description

THE COMPANY
Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV manufacturer or operator, Saildrone maintains active, combat-deployed systems supporting national security and force projection around the world, 24/7/365.
Saildrone's manufacturing and R&D headquarters are located in Alameda, CA, with business development and sales operations in Washington, DC, and deployment hubs in Europe and the Middle East. By combining proven autonomous operations, edge computing, advanced sensing, renewable power, and the most advanced and robust unmanned surface technology on the planet, Saildrone is shaping how the Navy of the future operates. Join a fast-moving, mission-driven team at the forefront of maritime security and autonomous innovation.
THE POSITION
Saildrone is seeking a USV Pilot to join our Mission Control team. Reporting directly to the Pilot Team Manager, you will play a critical role in safely navigating and monitoring Saildrone's autonomous surface vehicles (USVs) around the globe. This is a Part-Time, Non-Exempt role designed for experienced mariners who can maintain situational awareness under dynamic conditions and ensure mission success.
THE TEAM
The Mission Control team is responsible for operating and overseeing Saildrone's fleet 24/7/365. We focus on real-time vehicle monitoring, safe navigation, and mission execution to deliver high-quality data for ocean science, environmental monitoring, and defense applications. Your work ensures vehicles operate safely, efficiently, and predictably in the world's oceans.
THE RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Perform remote piloting and monitoring of Saildrone USVs to achieve 24/7 mission execution while meeting strict navigational safety and vehicle health standards.
  • Be accountable for passage planning and route efficiency, including the safe navigation of shipping lanes and ship traffic while maintaining reasonable Closest Point of Approach (CPA).
  • Work closely with Technical Operations and Fleet Service teams to align on vehicle status and ensure successful delivery of high-quality data for ocean science and defense applications.
  • Carry out day-to-day work using the Saildrone Mission Portal and internal communication lines in accordance with maritime weather systems and current assessment standards.
  • Monitor for vehicle navigational anomalies or payload status issues, take action to resolve or mitigate via remote systems, and escalate when system health thresholds are exceeded.
  • Adhere to established mission logs and passdown procedures, documenting all milestones and issues during your watch to ensure seamless 24/7/365 operational continuity.
  • Provide timely updates and real-time communication to the Mission Control Lead and forward-deployed teams to support successful vehicle deployments and recoveries.
  • Meet watch commitments within a rotating 4-day-on/4-day-off cycle, managing assigned priorities across weekend and odd-hour shifts.
THE QUALIFICATIONS
  • 5+ years of maritime command experience, including advanced proficiency in sailing theory and a proven background in ocean crossings.
  • Sailing-specific resume (required in addition to a professional resume) detailing relevant sea time and vessel command.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in digital monitoring tools and computer systems required to manage complex autonomous vehicle fleets remotely.
  • Proven ability to analyze maritime weather forecasts and interpret ocean currents to make critical navigational decisions under time pressure.
  • Ability to clearly communicate real-time operational status and technical anomalies to both internal stakeholders and external customers.
  • Ability to work in a hybrid/remote environment, specifically adhering to a 4-day-on/4-day-off rotation including 8-hour shifts, weekends, and core hours (07:00 to 16:00 EST).
  • Working knowledge of International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and standard maritime safety protocols.
  • Willingness to travel to represent Saildrone at conferences and engage with customers or data specialists as required.

The base salary range for this position is shown below. Actual compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and qualifications. This range reflects the base salary for candidates in states requiring pay transparency disclosure.
Salary Range
$43.36-$56.34 USD
To view Saildrone's candidate privacy policy, please visit: https://www.saildrone.com/privacy-policy.
BENEFITS
At Saildrone, we're building operational capability that matters-and that requires people who can do their best work over the long term. We invest in our team's well-being, financial security, and professional growth so you can focus on delivering real-world impact with confidence and stability. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you and your family while you contribute to a mission with lasting significance.
  • Generous Time Off: Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual plus a robust annual holiday schedule and paid sick leave ensure you can rest, reset, and sustain performance over time.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Premium, multi-tier Medical, Dental, and Vision plans with significant company contributions for employees and dependents-providing security and peace of mind.
  • Shared Ownership in the Mission: Equity grants are a core part of our compensation, allowing you to participate in the long-term value you help create through meaningful, operational work.
  • Retirement Savings: Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with flexible pre-tax and Roth payroll contribution options supports long-term financial planning.
  • Investment in Your Growth: We support your continuous learning through an annual professional development reimbursement program, empowering you to sharpen your skills and stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving field.
  • Relocation Support: For eligible roles, we offer relocation assistance to help bring the world's best talent to our mission-critical locations.

Saildrone is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.