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Professional Pilot Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Helicopter Pilot

Clinton, IA ยท On-site

$3.0K/wk

Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment * Pilots must ...

Helicopter Pilot

Davenport, IA ยท On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment * Pilots must ...

As a UAS Pilot, you will: Join our team of operators in the United States as we scale to conquer ... professionalism, and a nonstop commitment to safe UAS operations. You will be deployed across the ...

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Our Nav Mates are meticulous professionals, in service to our guests and as examples to our crews.

As a UAS Pilot, you will: Join our team of operators in the United States as we scale to conquer ... professionalism, and a nonstop commitment to safe UAS operations. You will be deployed across the ...

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Our Nav Mates are meticulous professionals, in service to our guests and as examples to our crews.

Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment * Pilots must ...

Helicopter Pilot

Clinton, IA ยท On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment * Pilots must ...

Helicopter Pilot

Davenport, IA ยท On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment * Pilots must ...

Helicopter Pilot

Clinton, IA ยท On-site

$3.0K/wk

Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment * Pilots must ...

Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment * Pilots must ...

Helicopter Pilot

Davenport, IA ยท On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment * Pilots must ...

Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment * Pilots must ...

Helicopter Pilot

Clinton, IA ยท On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment * Pilots must ...

... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... Pilots and Naval Flight Officers. Strong academic performance, especially in technical or ...

... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... Pilots and Naval Flight Officers. Strong academic performance, especially in technical or ...

... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... Pilots and Naval Flight Officers. Strong academic performance, especially in technical or ...

... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... Pilots and Naval Flight Officers. Strong academic performance, especially in technical or ...

... professional degree for officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in ... Pilots and Naval Flight Officers. Strong academic performance, especially in technical or ...

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Showing results 1-20

Professional Pilot information

See Iowa salary details

$46.5K

$123K

$188.8K

How much do professional pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional pilot 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.

How much 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. Pilots often require specific certifications and flight hours to advance in their careers.

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?

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 is a professional pilot?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Pilot jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Pilot jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Professional Pilot jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Professional Pilot job openings:
Infographic showing various Professional Pilot job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,965 per year, or $59.1 per hour.

Helicopter Pilot

Air Methods Pilots

Clinton, IA โ€ข On-site

$3.0K/wk

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Overview

MercyOne Air Medย 

B429(IFR)

Salary Range: ($82,900 - $93,251)

+ $40,000 Stipend

+ $3,000 IFR Stipend

+ Experience Stipend: Up to $12,000

Off-Duty Housing Available

$15,000 Sign On Bonus

AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE!

As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our communities. 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 safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high-performing culture, sparked by teammates who deliver on being the best!

Locationย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย 

Clinton, Iowa is known for its deep connection to the Mississippi River and its proud industrial and cultural heritage. Nestled along the river's bluffs, the city grew as a major lumber and manufacturing center, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and resilience that still defines the community today. Scenic river views, historic neighborhoods, and attractions like the Clinton Riverfront and Eagle Point Park give the city a strong sense of place, while its close-knit, welcoming atmosphere reflects the enduring spirit of eastern Iowa.

Benefits

Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package created with the diverse needs of our teammates in mind:

  • Health, Dental and Vision
  • Competitive 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Flexible Spending Account Benefit Plans
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Full Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • AD&D Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Business Travel Accident Insurance
  • Voluntary Legal
  • Relocation Assistance
  • Employee Assistance and Benefit Concierge Service Programs

Job Summary

Responsible to ensure aircraft and weather conditions are airworthy to transport medical crew and patient to receiving hospital within an assigned operational area. Responsible for compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR), Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), General Operations Manual guidelines (GOM), and thorough knowledge of Air Methods policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

Essential Functions and Responsibilities include the following:

  • Operates Air Methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner.
  • Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by sign off of Daily Flight Log. Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight and upon completion of each flight.
  • Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and equipment.
  • Must be thoroughly familiar with all aircraft and medical systems of backup aircraft utilized at operational area and also ensures that the medical flight team is familiar and comfortable with the medical interior and systems.
  • Responsible for completion of required documentation.
  • Able to conduct detailed flight planning with little notice to exacting standards.
  • Participates regularly in Air Methods meetings, activities, projects, committees and community outreach.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Additional Job Requirements

  • Regular scheduled attendance (7/7 schedule - 12 hour shifts)

Subject to applicable laws and Air Method's policies, regular attendance is an essential function of the position.ย  All employees must follow Air Methods' employment practices and policies.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.ย 

Qualifications

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.ย  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.ย  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.

Pay Scale

Based upon flight and EMS experience.

Education & Experience

  • Associate's degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school and twoย  to five years' related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Bachelor's degree preferred

Operation and Safety Requirements:

  • As a member of the Flight Crew, any person employed in this position shall maintain a weight not to exceed 250 pounds and shall be less than seventy (70) years old.

Skills

  • Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment
  • Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months

Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) Program:

  • 2500 total flight hours with minimum of 2000 flight hours in category
  • 1000 hours PIC in category
  • 500 hours of rotor wing turbine time
  • 500 hours of cross-country flight time, at least 50 hours of which were at night
  • 100 hours unaided night as PIC (50 hours of unaided can be substituted for by 100 hours of NVG time, but cannot be reduced below 50 hours of unaided time)
  • 75 hours of actual or simulated instrument time at least 50 hours which were in flight in an aircraft including 20 hours in actual instrument conditions in category

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

  • Instrument rating (for category and class of aircraft)(ATP rating in category meets this requirement)
  • Fixed wing multiengine rating is required for twin-engine aircraft
  • Commercial single-engine land is required for single-engine aircraft
  • First OR Second Class FAA Medical certificate required.

Internal Bidding Ends: 1/13/2026

Minimum payUSD $82,900.00/Yr.Maximum PayUSD $93,251.00/Yr.Benefits

For more information on our industry-leading benefits, please visit our benefits page here.ย 

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)

This position will be open and posted until filled, with a minimum posting period of three days.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME