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Remote Airline Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Memphis ARTCC (ZME), located in Memphis, TN, supporting air ...

S46 Remote Pilot Operator

Burien, WA · Remote

$40K - $80K/yr

We are looking for Part-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Seattle TRACON (LS46) in Burien, WA, supporting air traffic ...

We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the New York ARTCC (ZNY) in Ronkonkoma, NY, supporting air traffic ...

Public Trust Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE Description * PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS / UAV / RPV (aka 'Drone') Pilot / Operator position. We are looking for an experienced Controller ...

We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Philadelphia ATCT (PHL) in Philadelphia, PA , supporting air ...

We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Charlotte ATCT (CLT) in Charlotte, NC, supporting air traffic ...

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Remote Airline Pilot information

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$48K

$87.1K

$133K

How much do remote airline pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote airline pilot in the United States is $87,144.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $102,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a remote airline pilot?

A remote airline pilot is a professional who operates aircraft remotely, typically using advanced technology and control systems from a ground-based location rather than being physically on board the aircraft. This role is becoming more common with the rise of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) used for cargo transport, surveillance, or other specialized missions. Remote airline pilots must have extensive training, certifications, and a thorough understanding of aviation regulations, just like traditional pilots. Their responsibilities include monitoring flight systems, ensuring safety protocols, and communicating with air traffic control. This job offers the flexibility to work from remote locations while still performing critical piloting functions.

What pilots make $500,000 a year?

Experienced airline pilots, especially those flying international routes for major carriers, can earn annual salaries of $500,000 or more, often including bonuses and overtime. Such high earnings typically require seniority, extensive flight hours, and advanced certifications like an Airline Transport Pilot license. These salaries are more common among senior captains on large aircraft in the airline industry.

How do remote airline pilots typically collaborate with on-ground teams to ensure flight safety and efficiency?

Remote airline pilots work closely with on-ground teams such as dispatchers, air traffic controllers, and maintenance crews through secure communication channels and real-time data sharing platforms. Regular briefings, status updates, and coordinated decision-making are essential to maintain situational awareness and respond promptly to changing conditions. Building strong collaborative relationships and maintaining clear, timely communication are key to overcoming the unique challenges of remote operations and ensuring both flight safety and operational efficiency.

What is the difference between Remote Airline Pilot vs Remote Commercial Pilot?

AspectRemote Airline PilotRemote Commercial Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificateCommercial Pilot License (CPL), specific commercial certifications
Work EnvironmentPrimarily flying for airlines, often in scheduled routes, with some remote operations for training or monitoringFlying for various commercial operations like charter, cargo, or aerial work, with remote monitoring or planning roles
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, aviation companies, flight training organizationsCharter services, cargo companies, aerial survey firms

Remote Airline Pilots typically operate scheduled flights for airlines and hold specific airline certifications, while Remote Commercial Pilots work in diverse commercial aviation roles, often involving remote monitoring or planning. Both roles require a commercial pilot license but differ in work environment and employer types.

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

To thrive as a Remote Airline Pilot, you need an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), strong aviation knowledge, and extensive flight experience, often with specialized training in remote or unmanned aircraft systems. Familiarity with advanced avionics, flight simulation software, and remote piloting platforms is typically required. Exceptional situational awareness, communication, and decision-making skills help pilots respond effectively to dynamic situations from a distance. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable aircraft operations when piloting remotely.

Can I work remotely for an airline?

Remote airline pilot roles are extremely rare because piloting requires being physically present in the aircraft and at the airport for pre-flight checks, safety procedures, and in-flight operations. Most airline pilots work on-site at airports and operate aircraft in the air, with limited opportunities for remote work outside of administrative or training functions that can sometimes be done remotely. Certification, training, and adherence to safety regulations also necessitate in-person responsibilities.

How much do remotely piloted aircraft pilots make?

Remotely piloted aircraft pilots, also known as drone pilots, typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and certification level. Experienced pilots working in commercial sectors or for government agencies tend to earn higher salaries, often with additional benefits and specialized training in operating remote aircraft systems.

Can you be a pilot with bipolar?

Remote airline pilots must meet medical certification standards set by aviation authorities, which typically include mental health assessments. Having bipolar disorder may require treatment and stable management, but individuals should consult with an aviation medical examiner to determine eligibility, as each case is evaluated individually. Proper documentation and ongoing health management are essential for maintaining certification and employment eligibility in the aviation industry.
More about Remote Airline Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Remote Airline Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Remote Airline Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Airline Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Airline Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Remote Airline Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Remote Airline Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Remote Airline Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,144 per year, or $41.9 per hour.
ZME Remote Pilot Operator

ZME Remote Pilot Operator

SAIC

Memphis, TN • Remote

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 210 rated it services


Job description

Job ID: 2613785

Location: Memphis, TN, US

Date Posted: 2026-06-17

Category: Information Technology

Subcategory: Computer Operator

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: No

Minimum Clearance Required: None

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Public Trust

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

  • PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position.

We are looking for a Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Memphis ARTCC (ZME), located in Memphis, TN, supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Job Description:

The RPO plays the role of the pilot and other controllers in the Air Traffic Controller training simulator.  The RPO operates a combination of a simulated radar display and voice communication system to simulate the actions and communication of pilots and remote ATC facilities during medium and high-fidelity training exercises. RPOs receive voice commands from students, input proper entries into the automated system to simulate pilot actions, translate displayed information into appropriate ATC terminology, and respond to the student via the VCS utilizing proper phraseology.

The candidate will be required to complete the following certifications: Classroom (pass test on airspace and procedures) and Lab (perform as a Remote Pilot Operator on all positions).

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic control specialists provide the flying public with a high level of safety and professionalism. A well-trained Air Traffic Control (ATC) workforce plays an essential role in fulfilling this responsibility. The FAA employs more than 14,000 air traffic controllers. They work in air traffic facilities of varying sizes, safely separating more than 50,000 aircraft in the National Airspace System (NAS) each day.

To provide such air traffic services, the FAA trains new air traffic control specialists and provides recurrent training to current air traffic control specialists. The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.S. and its Territories to ensure these training needs are met. The scope of the contractor-provided services includes all training and training program support to successfully train and prepare students to become fully certified air traffic controllers. SAIC must provide training and training related support services as required for all types and levels of ATC facilities.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Candidates for this position must have a minimum of a high school diploma (or equivalent) and demonstrate basic computer proficiency. Candidates must possess an ability to read and interpret materials such as diagrams and manuals and have the ability to speak clearly and be understood
  • US Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance

Desired Skills and Experience:

  • Experience working in a multidisciplinary team (Multimedia Developers, Quality Assurance, Instructions System Designers, Subject Matter Experts, Instructors)
  • Experience and certification in ATC Tower, TRACON or En Route simulation lab is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective oral and written communications skills
  • Working knowledge of the FAAO JO 7110.65 is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective team building skills
  • MS Office Suite Proficiency (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization of current technologic tools (tablets, notebooks, applications, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization or experience with pilot/controller communications or phraseology


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