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Professional Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Port City Air

Pilot

Portsmouth, NH

The ideal candidate is a highly motivated,professional pilot who is comfortable operating PIC in a Citation Mustang and meets all Part 135 PIC requirements, and has higher multi-engine time. Key ...

Port City Air

Pilot

Portsmouth, NH · On-site

The ideal candidate is a highly motivated, professional pilot who is comfortable operating PIC in a Citation Mustang and meets all Part 135 PIC requirements, and has higher multi-engine time. Key ...

Vectored Approach

Vision Jet Pilot, Captain

Austin, TX · On-site

About the role Vectored Approach is expanding into private jet charter and seeking a highly skilled and professional pilot to lead this new chapter. As Pilot-in-Command (PIC) on Vision Jet charter ...

Jet OUT

Base Chief Pilot

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

We are committed to professional standards, operational discipline, and a pilot-focused culture that values safety, accountability, consistency, and service. As we continue to grow, our base ...

Life Flight Network

Rotor Wing Pilot

Pendleton, OR · On-site

$101K - $120K/yr

We are a group of dedicated professionals who thrive in a high-octane, collaborative environment ... The Rotor Wing Pilot is responsible for professionally and safely operating aircraft for LFN to ...

Life Flight Network

Float Rotor Wing Pilot

Richland, WA · On-site

$112K - $131K/yr

We are a group of dedicated professionals who thrive in a high-octane, collaborative environment ... The Float Rotor Wing Pilot is responsible for professionally and safely operating aircraft for LFN ...

Life Flight Network

Rotor Wing Pilot - IFR

Hoquiam, WA · On-site

$112K - $132K/yr

We are a group of dedicated professionals who thrive in a high-octane, collaborative environment ... The Rotor Wing Pilot is responsible for professionally and safely operating aircraft for LFN to ...

Life Flight Network

Rotor Wing Pilot

Brewster, WA · On-site

$101K - $120K/yr

We are a group of dedicated professionals who thrive in a high-octane, collaborative environment ... The Rotor Wing Pilot is responsible for professionally and safely operating aircraft for LFN to ...

Life Flight Network

Rotor Wing Pilot - IFR

Kamuela, HI · On-site

$123K - $145K/yr

We are a group of dedicated professionals who thrive in a high-octane, collaborative environment ... The Rotor Wing Pilot is responsible for professionally and safely operating aircraft for LFN to ...

Life Flight Network

Float Fixed Wing Pilot

Boise, ID · On-site

$138K - $159K/yr

We are a group of dedicated professionals who thrive in a high-octane, collaborative environment ... The fixed wing pilot is responsible for safely operating Pilatus aircraft to facilitate the ...

Life Flight Network

Fixed Wing Pilot

Boise, ID · On-site

$120K - $141K/yr

We are a group of dedicated professionals who thrive in a high-octane, collaborative environment ... The fixed wing pilot is responsible for safely operating Pilatus aircraft to facilitate the ...

Life Flight Network

Fixed Wing Pilot

Reno, NV · On-site

$116K - $137K/yr

We are a group of dedicated professionals who thrive in a high-octane, collaborative environment ... The fixed wing pilot is responsible for safely operating Pilatus aircraft to facilitate the ...

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All JobsProfessional Pilot Jobs

Professional Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do professional pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional 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.

How much money do professional pilots make?

Professional pilots' salaries vary based on experience, aircraft type, and employer. Entry-level commercial pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, while experienced airline captains can make over $200,000 per year. Factors such as flight hours, certifications, and union agreements influence earnings.

How long does it take to make $200,000 as a pilot?

Professional pilots typically reach a $200,000 annual salary after several years of experience, often around 5 to 10 years, depending on the airline, aircraft type, and flight hours accumulated. Early career pilots may earn significantly less, with salaries increasing as they gain seniority, additional certifications, and flying hours. Factors such as union agreements and regional differences can also influence earning timelines.

What are some common challenges professional pilots face during multi-crew operations, and how can they be addressed?

Professional pilots working in multi-crew environments often encounter challenges related to communication, coordination, and workload management. Effective teamwork and clear communication are essential to maintaining safety and efficiency, especially during high-pressure situations like adverse weather or emergencies. Regular training, adherence to standard operating procedures, and fostering an open cockpit culture help pilots address these challenges and ensure smooth collaboration with co-pilots and cabin crew. Emphasizing Crew Resource Management (CRM) is key to building trust and minimizing errors during flights.

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

To thrive as a Professional Pilot, you need strong aeronautical knowledge, situational awareness, and a valid commercial pilot license (CPL) or airline transport pilot license (ATPL). Proficiency in using flight management systems, navigation instruments, and adhering to aviation regulations is essential, with certifications often required by aviation authorities. Exceptional decision-making, communication, and teamwork skills help pilots operate safely and efficiently in high-pressure environments. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure passenger safety, regulatory compliance, and effective flight operations.

What is the difference between Professional Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectProfessional PilotCommercial Pilot
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot Certificate, additional ratings depending on aircraftCommercial Pilot Certificate, specific ratings for aircraft types
Work EnvironmentVaries widely: airlines, cargo, charter, corporateAirlines, charter services, aerial work
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly across aviation sectorsPrimarily in commercial aviation operations

Both Professional Pilots and Commercial Pilots require similar certifications, but Professional Pilot is a broader term encompassing various roles in the aviation industry, while Commercial Pilot specifically refers to pilots authorized to be paid for flying. The main difference lies in scope and job responsibilities within the commercial aviation sector.

What can you do with a professional pilot degree?

A professional pilot degree prepares individuals to become licensed pilots, enabling them to operate aircraft for commercial or private purposes. Graduates can pursue careers as airline pilots, corporate pilots, flight instructors, or cargo pilots, often requiring additional certifications such as an Airline Transport Pilot license. The degree provides foundational knowledge of aeronautics, navigation, and safety procedures essential for the aviation industry.

What are professional pilots?

Professional pilots are licensed individuals who operate aircraft as their primary occupation. They may work for commercial airlines, charter companies, cargo carriers, or private employers, transporting passengers or goods. Professional pilots are responsible for safely navigating flights, conducting pre-flight checks, communicating with air traffic control, and ensuring compliance with aviation regulations. Their training includes extensive flight hours, simulator practice, and certification by aviation authorities. The role demands strong technical skills, situational awareness, and adherence to safety procedures.

What pilots make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced airline captains, especially those flying long-haul international routes for major carriers, can earn annual salaries exceeding $500,000, including base pay, bonuses, and overtime. Corporate pilots for private or executive jets with extensive flight hours and seniority may also reach this level, often requiring advanced certifications and significant flight hours. Such high earnings are typically associated with seniority, aircraft size, and the employer's scale.
More about Professional Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Professional Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Professional Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Pilot jobs include:
Professional Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Pilot

Pilot

Port City Air

Portsmouth, NH

Other

Medical, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Air New England is a dynamic and safety-focused Part 135 charter operator based inPortsmouth, New Hampshire, seeking a skilled and experienced full-time pilot to join ourgrowing team. This position involves flying both a Citation Mustang in a variety of charteroperations throughout the Northeast and beyond. The ideal candidate is a highly motivated,professional pilot who is comfortable operating PIC in a Citation Mustang and meets all Part 135
PIC requirements, and has higher multi-engine time.

Key Responsibilities:
- Serve as PIC in a Citation Mustang Dual Pilot
- Conduct pre-flight planning, aircraft inspections, and ensure compliance with all
regulations and company procedures
- Operate safely and efficiently in a single-pilot environment
- Deliver exceptional customer service to passengers and clients
- Maintain accurate flight logs and submit required reports in a timely manner
- Coordinate with maintenance and scheduling personnel to ensure flight readiness and
operational efficiency
- Represent the company with professionalism at all times

Minimum Requirements:
- 2,000 hours total time- No less
- 350 hours multi engine
- FAA Airline Transport Pilot Certificate with Airplane Multi-Engine Land and Instrument
Rating
- Must meet 135.243(c) PIC minimums
- Have a 135.293/297 or 61.56/instrument proficiency check within the last 6 months
- Current First-Class Medical Certificate
- Must hold a current U.S. Passport with unrestricted travel
- Strong knowledge of IFR operations in the Northeast and New England weather
- Excellent communication, decision-making, and CRM skills
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays as needed
- Must live within 1 hour driving distance of KPSM airport

Preferred Qualifications:
- 2,000 hours total time
- 500 hours multi engine time- strict requirement.
- Larger amounts of multi-engine turbine time are a plus!!
- Previous Part 135 PIC experience
- Time in type in Citation

Benefits:
- Competitive salary based on experience

-Medical and vision insurance, 401(k), paid time off, and company-provided training
- Opportunities for advancement and additional type ratings
- Supportive, tight-knit team atmosphere

Port City Air, and its subsidiaries, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran or any other characteristics protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations. For more information visit https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/EEOC_KnowYourRights_screen_reader_10_20.pdf

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