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Private Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Platform Aerospace

UAV Pilot/Instructor

Blackstone, VA · On-site

$30 - $70/hr

Private Pilot License   PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: * Must be able to obtain a DOT physical. * Must be able to perform the physical requirements of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation ...

Corewell Health

Fixed Wing Pilot

Traverse City, MI · On-site

Private pilot's quarters with bed, desk and computer * Well maintained base facility with modern fitness room, full kitchen * Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS ...

Corewell Health

Helicopter Pilot Aero Med

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$86K - $107K/yr

Private pilot's quarters with bed, desk and computer * Well maintained base facility with modern fitness room, full kitchen * Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS ...

Corewell Health

Fixed Wing Pilot

Traverse City, MI · On-site

Private pilot's quarters with bed, desk and computer * Well maintained base facility with modern fitness room, full kitchen * Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS ...

Corewell Health

Helicopter Pilot Aero Med

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$86K - $107K/yr

Private pilot's quarters with bed, desk and computer * Well maintained base facility with modern fitness room, full kitchen * Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS ...

Corewell Health

Helicopter Pilot Aero Med

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$83K - $104K/yr

Private pilot's quarters with bed, desk and computer * Well maintained base facility with modern fitness room, full kitchen * Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS ...

Corewell Health

Helicopter Pilot Aero Med

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$86K - $107K/yr

Private pilot's quarters with bed, desk and computer * Well maintained base facility with modern fitness room, full kitchen * Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS ...

ClearanceJobs

UAV Pilot/Instructor Jobs

Blackstone, MA · On-site

$30 - $70/hr

Private Pilot License Physical requirements: * Must be able to perform physical requirements of the job, with or without a reasonable accommodation, including, but not limited to, perceiving ...

Corewell Health

Fixed Wing Pilot

Traverse City, MI · On-site

Private pilot's quarters with bed, desk and computer * Well maintained base facility with modern fitness room, full kitchen * Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS ...

Corewell Health

Helicopter Pilot Aero Med

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$83K - $104K/yr

Private pilot's quarters with bed, desk and computer * Well maintained base facility with modern fitness room, full kitchen * Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS ...

Spectrum Health

Fixed Wing Pilot

Traverse City, MI · On-site

Private pilot's quarters with bed, desk and computer * Well maintained base facility with modern fitness room, full kitchen * Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS ...

Corewell Health

Fixed Wing Pilot

Traverse City, MI · On-site

Private pilot's quarters with bed, desk and computer * Well maintained base facility with modern fitness room, full kitchen * Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS ...

Corewell Health

Fixed Wing Pilot

Traverse City, MI · On-site

Private pilot's quarters with bed, desk and computer * Well maintained base facility with modern fitness room, full kitchen * Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS ...

Corewell Health

Fixed Wing Pilot

Traverse City, MI · On-site

Private pilot's quarters with bed, desk and computer * Well maintained base facility with modern fitness room, full kitchen * Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS ...

Spectrum Health

Fixed Wing Pilot

Traverse City, MI · On-site

Private pilot's quarters with bed, desk and computer * Well maintained base facility with modern fitness room, full kitchen * Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS ...

Corewell Health

Fixed Wing Pilot

Traverse City, MI · On-site

Private pilot's quarters with bed, desk and computer * Well maintained base facility with modern fitness room, full kitchen * Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Senior Remote Pilot

Yuma, AZ · Remote

$111K - $191K/yr

Part 61 Private Pilot certificate with Instrument rating * Part 107 Remote Pilot certificate * Current Class 3 medical * Experience operating Group 3 + UAS * Experience with manual (non-GPS) and/or ...

GPD Group

UAV Pilot / LiDAR Photogrammetrist

Akron, OH · Remote

OSHA 10/30, CPR/First Aid, railroad/utility safety training, Private Pilot Certificate, or aviation safety training. GPD believes passionately that everyone on our team knows that they are a valued ...

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do private pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for private pilot 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 private pilots?

Private pilots are individuals who hold a Private Pilot License (PPL), which allows them to fly aircraft for personal or recreational purposes but not for commercial compensation or hire. They are trained to operate small airplanes, follow aviation regulations, and ensure the safety of their flights. Private pilots can carry passengers, fly cross-country, and access a wide range of airports, but they must adhere to certain limitations such as not being paid for their flying services. The PPL is often seen as the first major step for those interested in aviation, either as a hobby or as a foundation for further advanced pilot certifications.

What are some common challenges faced by private pilots during cross-country flights?

Private pilots often encounter challenges such as varying weather conditions, complex airspace navigation, and maintaining situational awareness during cross-country flights. Managing fuel planning, coordinating with air traffic control, and ensuring compliance with flight regulations require careful preparation and decision-making. Building experience through regular flying and thorough pre-flight planning helps mitigate these challenges and ensures safe, efficient journeys.

What Does a Private Pilot Do?

As a private pilot, you can use a private pilot license (PPL) to operate a non-commercial aircraft and fly yourself or passengers around. This is essentially the recreational level of flying, and private pilots often support community events through volunteer activities like taking children on short flights to help them experience the joy of flying. Private pilots are not allowed to charge passengers, transport freight for money, or perform any other tasks that could qualify as a job. To get paid for flying an aircraft, you need at least a commercial pilot's license, and many trainees obtain a private pilot license while working toward professional licensure.

What is the difference between Private Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectPrivate PilotCommercial Pilot
CertificationsFederal Aviation Administration (FAA) Private Pilot CertificateFAA Commercial Pilot Certificate
Work EnvironmentPersonal flying, recreational, non-commercial activitiesPaid flying, charter services, aerial work
Employer & Industry UsageIndividuals, flight schools, private ownersAirlines, charter companies, aerial survey

The main difference between a Private Pilot and a Commercial Pilot lies in their certifications and permitted activities. Private Pilots can fly for personal or recreational purposes but cannot be paid for their flights. Commercial Pilots, on the other hand, hold additional certifications allowing them to be compensated for their flying services. Both roles require FAA certifications, but the scope of work and employment opportunities differ significantly.

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

To thrive as a Private Pilot, you need a strong understanding of aeronautical principles, flight regulations, and navigation, backed by a Private Pilot Certificate from the FAA. Familiarity with flight planning software, aircraft control systems, and radio communication tools is essential. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making skills, and calmness under pressure set outstanding pilots apart. These abilities ensure safe, efficient flight operations and effective handling of unexpected situations in the air.
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Private Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Private Pilot job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Part Time, and 50% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
UAV Pilot/Instructor

UAV Pilot/Instructor

Platform Aerospace

Blackstone, VA • On-site

$30 - $70/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

JOB TITLE: UAV PILOT/INSTRUCTOR I-III

DEPARTMENT: FLIGHT OPERATIONS

REPORTS TO: FLIGHT OPERATIONS TRAINING MANAGER

CLASSIFICATION: NON-EXEMPT
CLEARANCE: SECRET

LOCATION: BLACKSTONE, VA


This position may be filled at different levels depending on the selected candidate's qualifications and experience.


JOB SUMMARY:

The UAV Pilot/instructor will support the operation and training of Vanilla UAS. This role will oversee ground and flight operations during stateside training and overseas missions while providing technical support. The Senior UAV Pilot /Instructor will play a key role in mission success and program development through technical expertise and operational excellence.

Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Perform flight operation planning in support of customer-driven requirements
  • Perform pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight safety checks
  • Remote pilot a UAS, following a specific flight plan or modifying flight plans to meet mission objectives
  • Deliver training programs to new UAV pilots, ensuring adherence to operational protocols and safety standards.
  • Support flight operations outside the continental United States for up to four (4) months at a time if needed
  • Conduct flight demonstrations for customers at remote locations
  • Troubleshoot equipment issues to maximize mission readiness
  • Ensure compliance with all FAA regulations as applicable

BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A LEVEL I:

  • High school Diploma or GED and 2-5 years of manned/UAS flight experience or a combination of education and experience equivalent to a minimum of 6 years.
  • Must have the ability and maintain a DoD Secret level security clearance.
  • Able to obtain FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Up to 75% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required
  • Comfortable operating a UAS in various weather and light conditions.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A LEVEL II:

  • High school Diploma or GED and 5-7 years of manned/UAS flight experience or a combination of education and experience equivalent to a minimum of 6 years.
  • 2+ Year of flight Instruction or customer facing technical training experience.
  • Must have the ability and maintain a DoD Secret level security clearance.
  • Able to obtain FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Up to 75% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required
  • Comfortable operating a UAS in various weather and light conditions.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A LEVEL III:

  • High school Diploma or GED and 7-10 years of relevant experience or a combination of education and experience equivalent to 10 years.
  • 5+ Year of flight Instruction or customer facing technical training experience.
  • Minimum of 500 hours of flight experience as a Pilot in Command.
  • Must have the ability and maintain a DoD Secret level security clearance.
  • Able to obtain FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Up to 75% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required
  • Comfortable operating a UAS in various weather and light conditions.


PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must have ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Top Secret level security clearance.

  • Completion of training or a degree in aviation, engineering, or a related field preferred
  • Experience in deployed UAS ISR operations 
  • Vigilant Spirit experience  
  • Quattro FMS experience  
  • Research and development experience  
  • Publication writing experience  
  • Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA  
  • Private Pilot License  

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be able to obtain a DOT physical.
  • Must be able to perform the physical requirements of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation, including:
    • Prolonged standing, walking, bending, and kneeling
    • Perceiving differences in wire and indicator light colors
    • Operating hand and power tools
    • Lifting, carrying, and/or moving tools, equipment, and components weighing up to 50 pounds
    • Working in confined spaces and around aircraft
    • Ascending and descending ladders or stairs as required


The hourly range for this position is $30.00 to $70.00. Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s relevant experience, education and training, job-related knowledge and skills, the scope and level of responsibility of the position, internal equity, and market/business considerations. The listed range is a general guideline and may vary based on the selected candidate’s qualifications and work location, where applicable.