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Pilot Year Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Air Methods

Chief Pilot

Greenwood Village, CO · On-site

$130.25K - $170K/yr

Overview The Chief Pilot is responsible for the overall leadership, operational readiness, and ... Bachelor's degree (BS/BA) from four-year college or university and five to eight years' related ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Westover, WV

$92.60K - $115.20K/yr

We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance, 7 days on/7 days off (12-hour ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Atlanta, GA

$82.90K/yr

We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Texarkana, AR · On-site

$82.90K/yr

We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Olney, IL · On-site

$82.90K/yr

We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Glasgow, KY

$82.90K/yr

We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure ...

Alpine Air

Floater Pilot - B1900

Provo, UT

$90K/yr

First year pilots can typically expect to earn $90,000 per year , utilizing compensation programs like rate per route, per diem, etc. Some Alpine Air pilots make substantially more than this figure.

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Effingham, IL · On-site

$82.90K/yr

We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Lake City, FL · On-site

$76.50K - $95.20K/yr

We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Daingerfield, TX · On-site

$82.90K/yr

We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Sidney, NY · On-site

$82.90K/yr

We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance, 7 days on/7 days off (12-hour ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Bedford, KY · On-site

$82.90K/yr

We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Bedford, KY · On-site

$82.90K/yr

We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure ...

Air Methods

Chief Pilot

Greenwood Village, CO

Overview The Chief Pilot is responsible for the overall leadership, operational readiness, and ... Bachelor's degree (BS/BA) from four-year college or university and five to eight years' related ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ

$85.30K - $106.20K/yr

We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Danville, VA · On-site

$83.60K - $104K/yr

We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Olney, IL · On-site

$82.90K/yr

We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Sparta, IL · On-site

$82.90K/yr

We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure ...

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Pilot Year information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do pilot year jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot year in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Pilot, you need a strong background in aeronautical knowledge, flight training, and typically hold at least a commercial pilot’s license and a medical certificate. Familiarity with flight management systems, navigation tools, and aviation weather software is essential. Excellent situational awareness, communication, and decision-making skills help pilots manage flights and respond to in-flight challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring passenger safety, regulatory compliance, and effective flight operations.

What are the typical challenges pilots face during their first year in the profession?

During their first year, pilots often encounter challenges such as adapting to irregular schedules, managing fatigue from long hours or overnight flights, and learning to operate a variety of aircraft under different weather conditions. They must also quickly build strong communication and teamwork skills to coordinate effectively with crew members and air traffic control. Additionally, new pilots may experience pressure to perform well during routine evaluations and must remain vigilant in maintaining safety and regulatory compliance.

What is a Pilot Year?

A Pilot Year refers to an initial trial period in which a new program, project, or curriculum is implemented to evaluate its effectiveness before a full-scale launch. During this year, organizations collect feedback, assess outcomes, and make necessary adjustments based on real-world performance and challenges encountered. The goal of a Pilot Year is to identify strengths and weaknesses, ensuring that improvements are made before broader adoption. This approach helps reduce risks and increases the likelihood of long-term success.

What is the difference between Pilot Year vs Flight Instructor?

AspectPilot YearFlight Instructor
Required CredentialsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), First Class MedicalCommercial Pilot License (CPL), Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
Work EnvironmentAirlines, charter companies, corporate flightsFlight schools, training aircraft, flight training environments
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, aviation companies, flight training programsFlight schools, aviation training institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level pilot roles and career progressionLearning to teach flying and gain flight hours

In summary, a Pilot Year typically refers to a program or period where aspiring pilots gain initial flight experience, often in a commercial or airline setting. A Flight Instructor, on the other hand, is a certified pilot who teaches students, helping them accumulate flight hours and meet licensing requirements. Both roles are essential in pilot career development but serve different purposes within the aviation industry.

More about Pilot Year jobs
What cities are hiring for Pilot Year jobs? Cities with the most Pilot Year job openings:
What states have the most Pilot Year jobs? States with the most job openings for Pilot Year jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Pilot Year jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Pilot Year jobs are:
Pilot Year jobs near you
Chief Pilot

Chief Pilot

Air Methods

Greenwood Village, CO • On-site

$130.25K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Air Methods rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

101st of 864 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Overview
The Chief Pilot is responsible for the overall leadership, operational readiness, and regulatory compliance of the pilot workforce. This includes oversight of pilot hiring, training, scheduling, performance management, and labor relations, including direct engagement with the pilot union. The role ensures adherence to all FAA regulations and company policies, while proactively identifying and resolving compliance risks.
The Chief Pilot establishes and enforces flight standards, maintains operational discipline across all bases, and ensures consistency in pilot performance and safety practices. This position owns the FAA-approved training program, ensuring it remains current, effective, and compliant, along with all required flight manuals and publications.
In addition to maintaining qualification as Pilot in Command (PIC) in at least one aircraft within the certificate holder's operation, the Chief Pilot represents the organization in industry groups and FAA safety forums, contributing to broader aviation safety initiatives and staying ahead of regulatory and operational changes.
At Air Methods, this role directly supports a mission-critical operation focused on saving lives through rapid, high-quality air medical transport. The Chief Pilot operates within one of the largest and most complex air medical programs in the country, with the ability to influence safety, standardization, and pilot development at scale. This position offers the opportunity to shape operations, drive meaningful impact, and lead within an organization where aviation performance directly affects patient outcomes.
This position will require relocation to Denver.
Responsibilities
  • Manage all Flight Operations staff and ensure safety of Flight Operations.
  • Ensure regulatory compliance with all flight operations and pilot training. Effective flight development and standardization of training.
  • Team development and mentorship.
  • Monitor work life balance with Pilot flight and duty times.
  • Meeting company objectives and creating a positive work environment.
  • Identify, select and train Company Instructors and Check Airman.
  • Responsible for ascertaining and assuring that pilots conduct all flights, in accordance with the provisions of the GOM and current CFRs.
  • Supervises scheduling of training and check ride process.
  • Administrative responsibilities for the pilot staff to include recruitment, training, reviews, scheduling, time off requests, and compensation adjustments.
  • Dissemination of all pertinent safety, flight, and company information in a timely manner.
  • Actively participates in the company's Safety Management System (SMS) and is familiar with the SMS policies, processes, and procedures.
  • Ensure aircraft procedures are standardized throughout the fleet.
  • Responsible for ensuring the maintenance of proficiency records, pilot files, duty time records, reports, and correspondence pertaining to flight operations activities in accordance with the CFRs.
  • Responsible for the development of policies for Air Methods flight instructors, ground instructors, and check pilots.

In the absence of the Director of Operations, the Chief Pilot shall assume the Director of Operations duties and authorities including but are not limited to:
  • Coordinate with the FAA concerning company training and flight operations.Communicate and work effectively with all company departments and managers.
  • Respond to pilot complaints, safety concerns, Pilot Supervisor issues, and work with all departments with regards to flight safety.
  • Conduct investigations and provide adequate oversight of the Part 135 air carrier certificate.

Supervisory Responsibilities
Directly supervises employees in the Flight Operations department. Carries out Supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, selecting, hiring, and training employees, planning, assigning and directing work; appraising performance, rewarding and disciplining employees, addressing complaints and resolving problems. For Exempt Managers: Managers that carry out these responsibilities for two or more employees will have significant input in hiring and termination decisions.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. In accordance with applicable laws, Air Methods will provide reasonable accommodations that do not create an undue burden so disabled employees may perform the essential functions of the position.
Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree (BS/BA) from four-year college or university and five to eight years' related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Minimum of 2,500 flight hours
  • Minimum of 3 years' experience, within the past 6 years, as pilot in command of an aircraft operated under part 121 or part 135 of the CFRs; or, In the case of a person with previous experience as a Chief Pilot, have at least 3 years' experience as pilot in command of an aircraft operated under part 121 or part 135.
  • All other applicable minimum requirements for the position as outlined in CFR Part 119.
  • Previous experience with maintaining and standardizing pilot training programs preferred
  • Proven successful leadership and employee development experience.

Skills
  • Professional demeanor and excellent interpersonal skills
  • Effective oral and written communication skills
  • Ability to manage and administer a broad range of tasks
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment and make decisions in manner consistent with the essential job functions
  • Ability to prepare written reports and correspondences, and presentations to senior leadership as required
  • Ability to build and maintain positive relationships internally and externally
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office, including hardware and software applications

Computer Skills
  • Proficient with Microsoft Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
  • Commercial Pilot Certificate required/ Airline Transport Pilot Certificate preferred (Airplane or Rotorcraft)
  • Certified Flight Instructor preferred
  • Certified Instrument Instructor preferred (Airplane or Rotorcraft)
  • FAA Second Class Medical required if performing check airman or flight instructor duties

Minimum pay
USD $130,250.00/Yr.
Maximum Pay
USD $170,000.00/Yr.
Benefits
For more information on our industry-leading benefits, please visit our benefits page here.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

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About Air Methods

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Air Methods is the most responsive and reliable provider of critical care transportation solutions. We partner with our EMS and hospital customers to solve the challenges of patient logistics and save lives. We deliver industry-leading performance in safety, clinical quality, and patient advocacy, committing to zero balance bills. In addition to caring for others, we care for our own teammates: building a high-performing culture where people are passionate about their work and always bring their best. We can't be the industry-leading air medical company without you.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Englewood, CO, US

Year founded

1980

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