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Pilot Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

ZLC Remote Pilot Operator

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Salt Lake ARTCC (ZLC) in Salt Lake City, UT, supporting air ...

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$14

$28

$78

How much do pilot operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for pilot operator in the United States is $28.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the common challenges faced by Pilot Operators during shifts, and how can they be managed effectively?

Pilot Operators often encounter challenges such as managing multiple radio communications, operating various types of simulators or equipment, and coordinating with air traffic controllers or training personnel. Staying organized and maintaining clear communication are key to handling these challenges effectively. Continuous learning and familiarity with standard operating procedures also help ensure smooth operations and safety. Working collaboratively with other team members and staying focused during high-pressure situations can greatly improve job performance.

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

To thrive as a Pilot Operator, you generally need a commercial pilot's license, strong aviation knowledge, and excellent situational awareness. Familiarity with aircraft navigation systems, flight management computers, and aviation communication tools is critical, along with relevant certifications such as an FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate. Strong decision-making, teamwork, and stress management skills help pilot operators handle dynamic situations safely. These competencies ensure safe, efficient flight operations and effective responses to in-flight challenges.

What are Pilot Operators?

Pilot Operators are professionals responsible for operating and controlling aircraft, such as airplanes and helicopters. They ensure the safe takeoff, flight, and landing of aircraft while adhering to aviation regulations and procedures. Pilot Operators often work for commercial airlines, cargo companies, private organizations, or the military. Their duties also include pre-flight inspections, communication with air traffic control, and monitoring instruments during flight. Extensive training, proper licensing, and strong decision-making skills are essential for this role.

What is the difference between Pilot Operator vs Drilling Supervisor?

AspectPilot OperatorDrilling Supervisor
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, specific equipment certificationsWell Control Certification, Safety Certifications
Work EnvironmentAircraft, offshore platforms, or industrial sitesDrilling rigs, offshore platforms
Industry UsageAviation, offshore oil & gasOil & gas drilling operations

While both roles operate in the offshore oil and gas industry, a Pilot Operator primarily manages aircraft or equipment for transportation and logistics, requiring aviation certifications. In contrast, a Drilling Supervisor oversees drilling operations on rigs, focusing on safety and efficiency. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations in the industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot Operator jobs? The most popular types of Pilot Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Pilot Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Pilot Operator jobs include:
Pilot Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pilot Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,395 per year, or $28.1 per hour.
S46 Remote Pilot Operator

S46 Remote Pilot Operator

Science Applications International Corporation

Burien, WA • On-site, Remote

Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 210 rated it services

Job description


  • PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position.

We are looking for Part-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Seattle TRACON (LS46) in Burien, WA, supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Job Description:
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 to simulate the actions and communication of pilots and remote ATC facilities during medium and high-fidelity training exercises. RPOs receive voice commands from students, input proper entries into the automated system to simulate pilot actions, translate displayed information into appropriate ATC terminology, and respond to the student via the VCS utilizing proper phraseology.
The candidate will be required to complete the following certifications: Classroom (pass test on airspace and procedures) and Lab (perform as a Remote Pilot Operator on all positions).
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic control specialists provide the flying public with a high level of safety and professionalism. A well-trained Air Traffic Control (ATC) workforce plays an essential role in fulfilling this responsibility. The FAA employs more than 14,000 air traffic controllers. They work in air traffic facilities of varying sizes, safely separating more than 50,000 aircraft in the National Airspace System (NAS) each day.
To provide such air traffic services, the FAA trains new air traffic control specialists and provides recurrent training to current air traffic control specialists. The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.S. and its Territories to ensure these training needs are met. The scope of the contractor-provided services includes all training and training program support to successfully train and prepare students to become fully certified air traffic controllers. SAIC must provide training and training related support services as required for all types and levels of ATC facilities.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • US Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance
  • Candidates for this position must have a minimum of a high school diploma (or equivalent) and demonstrate basic computer proficiency. Candidates must possess an ability to read and interpret materials such as diagrams and manuals and have the ability to speak clearly and be understood

Desired Skills and Experience:
  • Experience working in a multidisciplinary team (Multimedia Developers, Quality Assurance, Instructions System Designers, Subject Matter Experts, Instructors)
  • Experience and certification in ATC Tower, TRACON or En Route simulation lab is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective oral and written communications skills
  • Working knowledge of the FAAO JO 7110.65 is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective team building skills
  • MS Office Suite Proficiency (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization of current technologic tools (tablets, notebooks, applications, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization or experience with pilot/controller communications or phraseology

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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