1

Safety Pilot Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Helicopter Pilot

Danville, VA

$83K - $104K/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 ...

Pilot

Lebanon, VA

$88K - $97K/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 ...

Pilot

Lebanon, VA

$88K - $97K/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 ...

Pilot

Abingdon, VA · On-site

$88K - $97K/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 ...

Pilot

Fort Chiswell, VA · On-site

$88K - $97K/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 ...

Pilot

Cedar Bluff, VA · On-site

$88K - $97K/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 ...

Pilot

Glade Spring, VA · On-site

$88K - $97K/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 ...

Pilot

Abingdon, VA · On-site

$88K - $97K/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 ...

Pilot

Tazewell, VA · On-site

$88K - $97K/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 ...

Pilot

Glade Spring, VA

$88K - $97K/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 ...

Pilot

Abingdon, VA

$88K - $97K/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 ...

Pilot

Raven, VA · On-site

$88K - $97K/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 ...

Pilot

Abingdon, VA · On-site

$88K - $97K/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 ...

Pilot

Cedar Bluff, VA · On-site

$88K - $97K/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 ...

Pilot

Richlands, VA · On-site

$88K - $97K/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 ...

Pilot

Cedar Bluff, VA

$88K - $97K/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 ...

Pilot

Fort Chiswell, VA · On-site

$88K - $97K/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 ...

Pilot

Cedar Bluff, VA · On-site

$88K - $97K/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 ...

... 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 ...

$88K - $97K/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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Safety Pilot information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$146.7K

How much do safety pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for safety pilot in Virginia is $145,504.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $145,200.00 and $145,700.00 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 Virginia? For Safety Pilot jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Safety Pilot jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Safety Pilot jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Safety Pilot job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $145,504 per year, or $70 per hour.

$83K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Overview

Rotor Wing Pilot - HCA AirCare Eagle

Danville, VA

*** New Base ***EMS Air Medical Aircraft:  EC 135 VFR$10,000 Annual Stipend, Off-Duty Housing and $15,000 Sign-On Bonus Available

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!

Living and flying for Air Methods in Danville, VA puts you at the center of a dynamic Southern hub where mission impact meets lifestyle. Soar above the scenic Dan River and miles of Riverwalk trails that showcase the region's natural beauty.Enjoy easy access to vibrant metros like Raleigh, Durham, Greensboro, and Roanoke for big-city dining, sports, and travel.Unwind off-duty at local gems like the Danville Riverwalk Trail or recharge off-duty with mountain hikes in the stunning Shenandoah Mountains or on the water at Smith Mountain Lake and Lake Michael, both known for boating, fishing, and sweeping views.With a revitalized downtown, outdoor adventure in every direction, and a strong sense of community, Danville offers pilots the perfect balance of purpose, excitement, and quality of life.

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 SummaryResponsible 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 assignedAdditional Job Requirements Regular scheduled attendance - 7 days on/7 days off (12-hour shifts)

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

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position has no supervisory responsibilities. 

Qualifications

QualificationsTo perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. 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.Education & Experience Associate's degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school and two 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 Pilots must have flown in category for a commercial operator or in the military within the previous 24 months Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environmentVisual Flight Rules (VFR) Program - Minimum Required Flight Times:  2000 total flight hours with minimum of 1500 flight hours in category 1000 hours PIC in category 500 hours of rotor wing turbine time 200 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) 50 hours total actual or hood instrument time in flight and in category (simulator time does not count) (for a RW candidate who is FW rated, 100 hours or greater of FW actual or hood Instrument time can reduce the RW required instrument time to 25 hours). Certificates, Licenses, Registrations Commercial & Instrument Rating (for category and class of aircraft) ATP rating in category meets this requirement First OR Second Class FAA Medical certificate required.

Internal Bidding Ends: 5/19/2026

Minimum payMaximum PayBenefits

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

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)

Air Methods is an EEO/AA employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

This position is subject to drug and/or alcohol testing per the DOT/FAA requirements (pre-employment, random, reasonable cause/suspicion, post-accident).

Employment Type: FULL_TIME