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Pilot Training Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

DSM Remote Pilot Operator

Des Moines, IA · Remote

We are looking for Casual, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Des Moines Intl ATCT/TRACON (DSM) in Des Moines, IA, supporting air ...

Wells Enterprise

Pilot - Senior Captain

Le Mars, IA · On-site

Ability to act as a mentor and trainer, supporting crew development and training requirements ... Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument Rating required * Type rating in Citation XLS ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

American Cruise Lines operates our own bridge simulator, enabling rigorous recurrent training and development focused on critical decision-making and advanced piloting skills. American Cruise Lines ...

Latham Pool Products, Inc

Pilot Driver

De Witt, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

Training programs, Tuition Reimbursement, and growth opportunities. Supportive Environment : A ... Pilot Driver Location: Dewitt, Iowa Employment Type: On-site and Off-site Status: Full-time Salary ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Clinton, IA

$3.0K/wk

... and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience * Bachelor's degree ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Instrument Flight Rules (IFR ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Davenport, IA

$82K - $93K/yr

... and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience * Bachelor's degree ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

SAIC

DSM Remote Pilot Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

We are looking for Casual, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Des Moines Intl ATCT/TRACON (DSM) in Des Moines, IA, supporting air ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

American Cruise Lines operates our own bridge simulator, enabling rigorous recurrent training and development focused on critical decision-making and advanced piloting skills. American Cruise Lines ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Fort Madison, IA · On-site

American Cruise Lines operates our own bridge simulator, enabling rigorous recurrent training and development focused on critical decision-making and advanced piloting skills. American Cruise Lines ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Fort Dodge, IA

$3.0K/wk

... and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience * Bachelor's degree ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Instrument Flight Rules (IFR ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Clinton, IA · On-site

$3.0K/wk

... and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience * Bachelor's degree ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Instrument Flight Rules (IFR ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Davenport, IA · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

... and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience * Bachelor's degree ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Davenport, IA

$82K - $93K/yr

... and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience * Bachelor's degree ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Clinton, IA · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

... and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience * Bachelor's degree ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Instrument Flight Rules (IFR ...

Air Methods

Helicopter Pilot

Davenport, IA · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

... and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience * Bachelor's degree ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

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All JobsPilot Training JobsPilot Training Jobs in Iowa

Pilot Training information

See Iowa salary details

$46.5K

$123K

$188.8K

How much do pilot training jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot training in Iowa is $122,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,900.00 and $145,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is pilot training and what does it involve?

Pilot training is the process of learning the skills and knowledge needed to operate aircraft safely and effectively. It typically involves both ground school, where students study subjects like aerodynamics, navigation, and weather, and flight training, where they practice flying with an instructor. The training prepares students to obtain various pilot licenses, starting with a Private Pilot License (PPL) and potentially advancing to Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). The process includes passing written exams, flight tests, and accumulating a minimum number of flight hours. Pilot training is rigorous and ensures that pilots are well-prepared to handle real-world flying situations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Pilot Training, and why are they important?

To thrive in Pilot Training, you need a solid understanding of aeronautical principles, mathematics, and physics, typically backed by at least a high school diploma and meeting regulatory medical and age requirements. Familiarity with flight simulators, aviation navigation systems, and knowledge of FAA or relevant aviation authority regulations are essential. Strong situational awareness, discipline, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help candidates excel in both solo and team environments. These competencies ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and reliable decision-making in the demanding context of aviation.

What are some common challenges faced during pilot training, and how can trainees effectively overcome them?

During pilot training, trainees often encounter challenges such as mastering complex flight maneuvers, managing workload under pressure, and adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions. Staying organized, maintaining open communication with instructors, and dedicating extra time to simulator practice can help build confidence and proficiency. Seeking feedback and actively participating in study groups also foster a supportive learning environment, making it easier to overcome obstacles and develop strong piloting skills.

What is the difference between Pilot Training vs Flight Instructor?

AspectPilot TrainingFlight Instructor
Required CertificationsPrivate Pilot License (PPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), Airline Transport Pilot (ATP)Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), often holds CPL or ATP
Work EnvironmentFlight schools, airlines, charter servicesFlight schools, training academies, individual students
Industry UsageInitial pilot qualification and career progressionTraining new pilots and providing instruction

While Pilot Training focuses on obtaining licenses and skills to become a pilot, Flight Instructors specialize in teaching and certifying new pilots. Both roles require similar certifications initially, but their work environments and career paths differ significantly.

Is 25 too late to become a pilot?

Pilot training can be pursued at age 25, and many individuals start their aviation careers later in life. While some airlines prefer candidates with more flying experience, age is not a strict barrier, and training programs often accept mature students who meet health and aptitude requirements.

Can you get paid to train to be a pilot?

Pilot training programs that are sponsored by airlines or flight schools often provide paid training or stipends while students complete their certifications. However, most individual training courses require students to pay for flight hours, ground school, and exams, and paid training opportunities are typically part of specific employment or sponsorship arrangements. It is important to verify the terms of any program to understand if compensation is provided during training.

What pilot jobs are best for beginners?

Entry-level pilot jobs suitable for beginners include flight instructor, banner tow pilot, and aerial survey pilot, which often require a commercial pilot certificate and some flight hours. These roles provide practical experience and help build flight hours necessary for more advanced positions like airline or corporate pilot roles.

Can you be a pilot with bipolar disorder?

Pilots must meet strict medical standards set by aviation authorities, which typically include stable mental health. A diagnosis of bipolar disorder may disqualify an individual from obtaining or maintaining a pilot's license unless they can demonstrate stable management and clearance from a medical examiner. Each case is evaluated individually, and ongoing treatment or stability may influence certification decisions.
What are popular job titles related to Pilot Training jobs in Iowa? For Pilot Training jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pilot Training jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Pilot Training jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Pilot Training jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Pilot Training job openings:
Pilot Training jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pilot Training job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, and 48% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,965 per year, or $59.1 per hour.
DSM Remote Pilot Operator

DSM Remote Pilot Operator

SAIC

Des Moines, IA • Remote

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 207 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2613062

Location: Des Moines, IA, US

Date Posted: 2026-05-28

Category: Information Technology

Subcategory: Computer Operator

Schedule: Casual (includes On-Call and Temporary)

Shift: Day Job

Travel: No

Minimum Clearance Required: None

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Public Trust

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

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

We are looking for Casual, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Des Moines Intl ATCT/TRACON (DSM) in Des Moines, IA, 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

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