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Safety Pilot Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

SpektreWorks, Inc.

Be Seen First

UAS Operator / Pilot

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$75K - $135K/yr

Our pilots can serve as both Air Vehicle Operators and External/Safety Pilots, operating fixed-wing, VTOL, and multirotor aircraft in developmental, operational, and customer-facing environments. In ...

PHI Health

VFR Lead Pilot

Sierra Vista, AZ

Our pilots are not just aviators; they are heroes in the sky, providing rapid medical response in ... With an unmatched safety record and the best aviation, medical and communication specialists in the ...

PHI Health

VFR Lead Pilot

Sierra Vista, AZ · On-site

Our pilots are not just aviators; they are heroes in the sky, providing rapid medical response in ... With an unmatched safety record and the best aviation, medical and communication specialists in the ...

Med-Trans Corporation

Pilot

Saint David, AZ · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

... Pilot to provide medical air transportation services to Med-Trans customers ... Safety is a key pillar of our services! This posting is for multiple Visual Flight Rules (VFR ...

Med-Trans Corporation

Pilot

Saint David, AZ · On-site

$87K - $95K/yr

... Pilot to provide medical air transportation services to Med-Trans customers ... Safety is a key pillar of our services! This posting is for multiple Visual Flight Rules (VFR ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Willcox, AZ

$85K - $106K/yr

Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

STS Technical Services

VFR Helicopter Pilot

Oracle, AZ · On-site

$50K/yr

For pilots who value purpose driven flying and a strong safety culture, this position offers the opportunity to perform meaningful work while operating advanced aircraft in demanding real world ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ

$85K - $106K/yr

Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ

$85K - $106K/yr

Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Fort Mohave, AZ

$10K/mo

Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Rio Rico, AZ

$82K - $93K/yr

Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Quartzsite, AZ

$82K - $93K/yr

Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Yuma, AZ

$82K - $93K/yr

Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Air Methods Pilots

Helicopter Pilot

Parker, AZ

$25K/mo

Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

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All JobsSafety Pilot JobsSafety Pilot Jobs in Arizona

Safety Pilot information

See Arizona salary details

$10.3K

$137.9K

How much do safety pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for safety pilot in Arizona is $136,766.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,500.00 and $137,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a safety pilot?

A Safety Pilot is a licensed pilot who assists the flying pilot during specific operations, typically when the flying pilot is practicing under simulated instrument conditions. The Safety Pilot ensures that the aircraft remains clear of traffic and obstacles while the flying pilot focuses on instrument procedures. This role is commonly required when a pilot is logging instrument flight time without actual instrument conditions. The Safety Pilot must hold at least a private pilot certificate with the appropriate category and class ratings for the aircraft being flown.

What are the typical responsibilities of a safety pilot during a flight?

As a Safety Pilot, your main responsibility is to monitor the aircraft’s environment and flight path when the primary pilot is 'under the hood' or practicing instrument maneuvers, ensuring safety during simulated instrument conditions. You must maintain visual separation from other air traffic, communicate clearly with both the pilot and air traffic control, and be ready to assume control of the aircraft if necessary. This role often involves working collaboratively with flight instructors, students, or other professional pilots, providing an extra layer of safety and compliance. The Safety Pilot position offers valuable experience in flight deck teamwork and can serve as a stepping stone for more advanced pilot roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the safety pilot position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Safety Pilot, you need a valid commercial or airline transport pilot certificate with current medical clearance, strong situational awareness, and excellent aviation knowledge. Proficiency with flight control systems, navigation instruments, and aviation communication tools is important, along with adherence to FAA regulations. Dependability, quick decision-making, and clear communication are essential soft skills, as Safety Pilots often collaborate closely with other flight crew members. These abilities ensure safe and compliant flight operations, especially during training, check rides, or when primary pilots are occupied with instrument practice.

What do I need to be a safety pilot?

To be a safety pilot, you typically need a valid pilot certificate with appropriate ratings, such as a private or commercial pilot license, and recent flight experience. You must also meet specific health requirements and be familiar with the aircraft and safety procedures, often including a review of relevant regulations and communication skills. Some roles may require additional training or certification depending on the operation.

Can you get paid to be a safety pilot?

Yes, safety pilots are typically paid for their role in assisting with flight operations, especially during training or when acting as a qualified observer. Compensation varies depending on the employer, location, and specific duties, and safety pilots often need relevant certifications such as a private pilot license or higher. They may work on a schedule that includes flight hours, and safety is a key focus in their responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Safety Pilot jobs in Arizona?

For Safety Pilot jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Safety Pilot jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Safety Pilot jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Safety Pilot jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Safety Pilot job openings:

Safety Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Safety Pilot job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $136,766 per year, or $65.8 per hour.

UAS Operator / Pilot

SpektreWorks, Inc.

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$75K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

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After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.

Job description

SpektreWorks is seeking experienced UAS Pilots to support the testing, demonstration, training, and operational deployment of advanced unmanned aircraft systems. This position is based in Phoenix, Arizona, with frequent domestic and some international travel supporting customer demonstrations, flight testing, military exercises, training events, and operational missions.


Our pilots can serve as both Air Vehicle Operators and External/Safety Pilots, operating fixed-wing, VTOL, and multirotor aircraft in developmental, operational, and customer-facing environments. In addition to flight operations, pilots work closely with engineering teams, support aircraft integration and testing, and deliver customer training on aircraft, mission planning software, payloads, and ground support equipment.


We're looking for professionals who are technically capable, safety-focused, adaptable, and comfortable working independently in fast-paced, high-consequence environments.


Key Responsibilities


Flight Operations

  • Conduct safe and professional UAS flight operations in accordance with company procedures and applicable regulations.
  • Potential to operate as both an Air Vehicle Operator and External/Safety Pilot.
  • Perform developmental flight testing, functional check flights, customer demonstrations, training missions, and operational deployments.
  • Execute autonomous and manually controlled flight operations using multiple UAS platforms.
  • Conduct mission planning, risk assessments, weather analysis, and flight briefings.
  • Configure mission plans, geofences, and aircraft failsafe settings.
  • Complete post-flight inspections, flight logs, mission debriefs, and data analysis.


Aircraft Operations & Maintenance

  • Perform aircraft preflight and post-flight inspections.
  • Conduct basic maintenance, troubleshooting, and field repairs.
  • Support aircraft assembly, modifications, payload integration, and configuration changes.
  • Assist engineering with prototype development and system validation.
  • Maintain aircraft and support equipment in mission-ready condition.


Flight Test & Engineering Support

  • Support developmental flight testing and aircraft performance evaluations.
  • Collect, document, and analyze flight test data.
  • Assist engineers with avionics, payload, autonomy, and software validation.
  • Identify opportunities to improve aircraft reliability and mission performance.
  • Support customer demonstrations and operational evaluations.


Customer Operations, Training & Instruction

  • Conduct classroom and hands-on instruction for UAS operators, external pilots, and maintainers.
  • Deliver customer training on aircraft operation, mission planning software, payloads, and ground support equipment.
  • Develop and update lesson plans, practical exercises, checklists, and training materials.
  • Evaluate student performance and provide coaching to ensure safe and effective system operation.
  • Support customer qualification events, new equipment training, and fielding activities.
  • Represent SpektreWorks professionally during customer interactions and technical demonstrations.


Operational Support

  • Coordinate logistics for personnel, aircraft, batteries, support equipment, and payloads.
  • Prepare flight documentation, NOTAMs, airspace authorizations, and range coordination packages.
  • Maintain accurate operational records and mission documentation.
  • Assist with proposal support, technical documentation, and standard operating procedure development.
  • Perform additional operational and engineering duties as assigned.


Required Qualifications

  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
  • Minimum 500 hours of UAS Pilot-in-Command experience (AVO and/or EP).
  • Experience operating fixed-wing and multirotor UAS.
  • Experience with ArduPilot, Mission Planner, or similar Ground Control Station software.
  • Strong understanding of autonomous mission planning and flight operations.
  • Ability to perform field troubleshooting and basic aircraft maintenance.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Passport.
  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally on short notice.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance.
  • Excellent communication and organizational skills.
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced engineering and flight-test environment.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Active Secret or Top Secret Security Clearance.
  • FAA Issued Manned Pilot License.
  • 1,500+ hours of UAS Pilot-in-Command experience.
  • Previous experience as a UAS instructor, military instructor, or flight instructor.
  • Experience developing and delivering technical training for UAS operators and maintainers.
  • Experience instructing customers on mission planning software, ground control stations, payloads, and ground support equipment.
  • Experience supporting Department of Defense UAS programs.
  • Experience operating Group 1, 2 or Group 3 UAS platforms.
  • Experience with VTOL aircraft and ISR payloads.
  • Flight test or developmental test experience.
  • Familiarity with autonomous flight systems and mission planning software.
  • Composite aircraft repair or fabrication experience.
  • Previous overseas deployment experience.
  • Bachelor's degree in Aeronautics, Aerospace Engineering, Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Aviation, or a related technical discipline.


Work Environment

  • Work is performed in office, laboratory, production, hangar, and outdoor flight-test environments.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Frequent domestic and international travel.
  • Ability to work flexible schedules, including evenings and weekends, to support flight operations and customer requirements.