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Pilot Vehicle Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Driver Helper Delivery

Chester, VA

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Drives pilot vehicle for oversize loads, ensuring compliance with appropriate safety regulations. * Inspects and maintains delivery vehicles to ensure safety and compliance with regulatory ...

Driver Helper Delivery

Chester, VA · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Drives pilot vehicle for oversize loads, ensuring compliance with appropriate safety regulations. * Inspects and maintains delivery vehicles to ensure safety and compliance with regulatory ...

Driver Helper Delivery

Chester, VA · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Drives pilot vehicle for oversize loads, ensuring compliance with appropriate safety regulations. * Inspects and maintains delivery vehicles to ensure safety and compliance with regulatory ...

Chief UAS Pilot Company: Heven AeroTech Location: Sterling, Virginia FLSA: Exempt Reports To: U.S ... Become intimately familiar with all areas of the product portfolio to include Air Vehicles ...

Chief UAS Pilot

Sterling, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Chief UAS Pilot Company: Heven AeroTech Location: Sterling, Virginia FLSA: Exempt Reports To: U.S ... Become intimately familiar with all areas of the product portfolio to include Air Vehicles ...

Chief UAS Pilot

Sterling, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Chief UAS Pilot Company: Heven AeroTech Location: Sterling, Virginia FLSA: Exempt Reports To: U.S ... Become intimately familiar with all areas of the product portfolio to include Air Vehicles ...

Fighter Pilot- Pt. Mugu - ATAC

Newport News, VA · On-site

$81K - $101K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Fighter Pilot- Pt. Mugu - ATAC Textron Systems is part of Textron, a $14 billion, multi-industry ... We serve customers in industries spanning aerospace and defense, specialized vehicles, turf care ...

F-35 Operations Expert

Arlington, VA · On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You'll provide tactical understanding to inform system requirements, operational prioritization, pilot vehicle interface, and acquisition strategies. Evaluate system design and employment ...

Technology Portfolio Lead

Mclean, VA · On-site

$103K - $136K/yr

You will provide portfolio governance, senior systems engineering, integration planning, and transition decision support across pilots spanning capabilities such as vehicle identification and ...

Technology Portfolio Lead

Mclean, VA · On-site

$105K - $138K/yr

You will provide portfolio governance, senior systems engineering, integration planning, and transition decision support across pilots spanning capabilities such as vehicle identification and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Pilot Vehicle information

What are some typical challenges faced by pilot vehicle drivers, and how can they be managed on the job?

Pilot vehicle drivers often encounter challenges such as communicating effectively with oversized load drivers, navigating unfamiliar routes, and ensuring safety in changing traffic conditions. Staying alert, maintaining constant communication via radio, and thoroughly planning routes ahead of time are essential practices. It's also important to stay up-to-date with local regulations and maintain patience, as routes and schedules can change unexpectedly. Being proactive and adaptable helps pilot vehicle drivers manage these challenges successfully.

Are pilot vehicle drivers in demand?

Pilot vehicle drivers are in steady demand in industries such as transportation and construction, especially for escorting oversize loads. The job requires good driving skills, knowledge of safety regulations, and often a commercial driver's license (CDL). Employment opportunities depend on regional infrastructure projects and freight volume.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pilot vehicle operator?

To thrive as a Pilot Vehicle Operator, you generally need a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic laws and safety regulations. Familiarity with two-way radios, GPS navigation systems, and sometimes specialized pilot car certification is often required. Excellent communication, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure the safe and efficient escort of oversized loads, protecting both the transport crew and public road users.

How to get into being a pilot vehicle driver?

To become a pilot vehicle driver, you typically need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and sometimes a commercial driver's license (CDL) depending on the vehicle and load. Experience driving large or specialized vehicles and knowledge of safety protocols are important, and some employers may require specific training or certifications related to escorting oversize loads.

What is the difference between Pilot Vehicle vs Escort Vehicle?

AspectPilot VehicleEscort Vehicle
CertificationsMay require special permits and safety trainingOften requires similar permits and safety certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-road, accompanying oversized or heavy loadsOn-road, guiding and protecting transport of large loads
Industry UsageCommon in transportation, logistics, and heavy haul industriesUsed interchangeably with Pilot Vehicle in many regions

Both Pilot Vehicle and Escort Vehicle roles involve guiding and protecting oversized loads on the road, often requiring similar certifications and working environments. The terms are frequently used interchangeably, but 'Pilot Vehicle' is more common in certain regions and industries, especially in heavy haul transportation.

How much do you get paid to be a pilot vehicle?

Pilot vehicle operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the escort. Some positions may offer flat rates for specific projects or longer shifts, and a valid driver's license and safety training are usually required.

What is a pilot vehicle?

Pilot vehicles, also known as escort vehicles, are specially designated cars or trucks that guide oversized or heavy loads on public roads. Their main role is to warn other motorists of the approaching wide or long load, help the load navigate safely through traffic, and ensure compliance with road safety regulations. Pilot vehicle operators also communicate with the truck driver, monitor road conditions, and may assist with traffic control during difficult maneuvers. These vehicles typically display warning signs, flashing lights, and sometimes carry communication equipment. The use of pilot vehicles helps prevent accidents and protects both the cargo and other road users.
What job categories do people searching Pilot Vehicle jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Pilot Vehicle jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Pilot Vehicle job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Sr Principal Pilot Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Chantilly, VA • Hybrid

$156K - $234K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 362 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 538 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: Top SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 50% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems is seeking a Level 4 Senior Principal Pilot Unmanned Aerial Vehicle to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals. This position will be located in Chantilly, VA

The Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Pilot will pilot an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) during developmental test and operational flights. Remotely pilot vehicle to determine compliance with specification and operational suitability during engineering tests and flight test/demonstration support through specifically prescribed tests and maneuvers. Defines, plans, organizes, and executes complex

flight programs and flight test events. Conducts briefings and debriefings, and coordinates with maintenance personnel to analyze and correct vehicle discrepancies. May conduct demonstration flights with customers, government officials or other personnel to exhibit vehicle performance, flying qualities and system capabilities. Must have an existing FAA Commercial Pilots Certificate (ASEL and/or AMEL) with an instrument rating.

Pilot will work in greater Washington DC area and deploy to OCONUS field locations periodically/as scheduled as part of their job responsibilities. All initial position training will be conducted at our Chantilly, VA facility (4-6 months).

Basic Qualifications:

  • 12 years of experience OR a Bachelor's Degree and 8 years of experience OR a Master's Degree and 6 years of experience
  • Must demonstrate excellent interpersonal and organizational skills as well as oral and written communication skills.
  • Must be proficient using MS Office applications and have had experience using mission planning software such as Falcon View.
  • Must be willing to work a flexible work schedule that may include extended shifts, holidays, and weekends and support on call status for 24 hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week, 365 days a year.
  • Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a valid U.S. passport.
  • Must meet medical requirements and vaccinations for worldwide travel.
  • Must be willing to travel up to 50% of the time.
  • Must be willing to accept customer furnished quarters for a period up to 90 days away from primary work location and comply with mobility requirements.
  • Must have an FAA Commercial Pilots Certificate (ASEL and/or AMEL) and Instrument rating.
  • Must have a minimum of 1000 hours of total documented time (airplane, helicopter, powered lift)
  • Must be able to obtain a FAA 2nd Class Medical Certificate.
  • Must possess and be able to maintain a DoD Top Secret security clearance and be willing to undergo a polygraph.
  • Ability to obtain and retain Special Program access clearance within 365 days from submission.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Aviation Instructor/Evaluator experience.
  • Previous simulator instructor experience
  • Familiar with aviation technical data and training development.
  • A current SCI clearance and polygraph.
  • Previous military pilot training (including Unmanned Pilots) strongly preferred.

#MPR

Primary Level Salary Range: $156,400.00 - $234,600.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

What Northrop Grumman employees say

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939