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Second In Pilot Jobs in California, MD (NOW HIRING)

MSP PILOT I-A

Saint Marys, MD · On-site

$101K - $142K/yr

Employees in this classification will act as the Second-in-Command (SIC) pilot of helicopters enumerated in the MSPAC Standard Operating Procedures, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Rules and ...

Second In Pilot information

See California, MD salary details

$47.4K

$125.5K

$192.6K

How much do second in pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for second in pilot in California, MD is $125,455.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,800.00 and $148,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a good second career for a second in pilot?

A second in pilot can transition to careers such as airline captain, flight instructor, or aviation safety inspector, leveraging their flying experience and knowledge of aircraft systems. Skills in navigation, communication, and safety procedures are valuable in these roles, which often require additional certifications like an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license. These careers typically involve similar schedules and environments as their pilot roles.

What are common challenges faced by a second in pilot, and how can they be addressed?

Second In Pilots often face challenges such as adapting to varying flight schedules, maintaining situational awareness under pressure, and efficiently communicating with the Captain and crew. It's essential to stay up-to-date with standard operating procedures and regularly participate in simulator training to sharpen decision-making skills. Building strong teamwork and clear communication habits with other crew members also helps address these challenges and supports safe, efficient flight operations.

What is the difference between Second In Pilot vs First Officer?

AspectSecond In PilotFirst Officer
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), Second In Pilot certificationCommercial Pilot License (CPL), First Officer certification
Work EnvironmentAssists the Captain, operates as part of the flight crewShares flying duties, supports the Captain
Role in FlightSupports the Captain, may handle specific flight segmentsPrimary pilot during flight, responsible for navigation and safety

The Second In Pilot and First Officer roles are both essential flight crew positions requiring similar certifications. The Second In Pilot typically assists the Captain and may operate specific flight segments, while the First Officer is the primary pilot during flight, sharing flying duties and decision-making responsibilities. Both roles work closely within the cockpit, but the First Officer often has more flying authority and experience.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a second in pilot?

To excel as a Second In Pilot (First Officer), you need a valid commercial pilot license, strong aeronautical knowledge, and experience with flight operations. Familiarity with flight management systems (FMS), aircraft-specific avionics, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required, along with certifications such as an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL). Excellent communication, teamwork, and decision-making skills help you coordinate effectively with the captain and crew, especially under pressure. These competencies are crucial for ensuring flight safety, regulatory adherence, and smooth operation of commercial flights.

What is a second in pilot?

A Second In Pilot, often referred to as a First Officer or Co-Pilot, is a licensed pilot who assists the Captain (Pilot in Command) in operating an aircraft. They share flying duties, help with navigation, communication, and monitoring aircraft systems. Second In Pilots are essential for ensuring flight safety, supporting the Captain, and stepping in to take control if necessary. They also play a significant role in pre-flight checks, emergency procedures, and communicating with air traffic control.
What cities near California, MD are hiring for Second In Pilot jobs? Cities near California, MD with the most Second In Pilot job openings:

MSP PILOT I-A

State of Maryland

Saint Marys, MD • On-site

$101K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


State Of Maryland rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 125 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 50 rated states


Job description

Introduction
It is important that all experience be fully documented. Failure to LIST ALL EXPERIENCE FULLY AND ACCURATELY may cause the candidate to be rejected.
PLEASE FILL OUT THE APPLICATION COMPLETELY.
  • The application is part of the examination process. Your answers will determine your eligibility to participate in the next phase of the selection process.
  • Clearly describe your qualifications in detail. Credit cannot be given for education, training, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities that you fail to indicate.
  • Do not leave any answer spaces blank; if a question does not apply, write "N/A".
  • Although you may attach a resume to further describe your qualification, it does not substitute for completing the application form. An incomplete application form may result in disqualification. Do NOT write "see resume" in your work history or responses to supplemental questions.
  • Failure to comply with these instructions may result in disqualification.
  • Read the Job Announcement carefully for specific filing instructions, supplemental questions, and final filing dates.

GRADE
PILT 001A
LOCATION OF POSITION
MSP, Trooper 7, Southern MD Section
44174 Airport Road, Suite 500
St. Mary's County Airport
California, MD 20619
Main Purpose of Job
An MSP Pilot I-A, Second-in-Command, is the intermediate level of civilian helicopter pilot work within MSP Aviation Command (MSPAC). Employees in this classification will act as the Second-in-Command (SIC) pilot of helicopters enumerated in the MSPAC Standard Operating Procedures, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Rules and Regulations and as mandated by the Director of Flight Operations or the MSPAC Commander. Employees conduct flight operations in accordance with FAA rules and regulations for search and rescue missions, medical evacuation operations, and other law enforcement related missions. Employees ensure all MSPAC and FAA Regulations concerning operation of Department aircraft are strictly followed. Ensures aircraft are in a constant state of readiness and shall notify the Maryland State Police Pilot II (Pilot-in Command) or appropriate supervisor of any discrepancy of a grounding nature. Employees ensure all records concerning the aircraft are maintained according to established protocol. Employees work in conjunction with the Pilot-in Command, flight paramedic and other passengers to form the crew.
POSITION DUTIES
Flies MSPAC aircraft as SIC for aero-medical missions, search and rescue missions, homeland security, disaster assessments, prisoner extradition, personnel transport and other law-enforcement related missions according to FAA rules and regulations;
Conducts pre-flight and post-flight inspections in accordance with MSPAC and FAA regulations and standards;
Performs maintenance functions that include cleaning aircraft interiors and exteriors, refueling and adding necessary fluids, and replacing light bulbs;
Performs routine maintenance of hangar and office facilities;
Operates specialized flight-related equipment, such as tow motors;
Recommends go/no-go flight risk management decisions related to weather conditions, maintenance, and other flight safety considerations;
Completes paperwork required by the MSPAC and Maryland State Police such as flight operation logs, aircraft logs, and other documents;
Completes required training courses and exercises in compliance with FAA and MSPAC regulations;
Performs other related duties.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate.
Experience: Twelve hundred (1200) helicopter or fixed wing flight hours as a FAA certificated pilot.
Notes:
1. Applicants may be able to substitute verified portions of U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a commissioned officer in the Piloting field of work for the required experience.
2. Applicants may be able to substitute verified portions of flight hours recorded via the International Civil Aviation Organization for the required experience.
3. Helicopter and fixed wing flight hours may not be combined to meet the experience requirement.
SELECTIVE QUALIFICATIONS
Must have twelve hundred (1200) helicopter flight hours as an FAA certified pilot.
DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Turbine Experience
2. Twin Turbine Experience
LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS
1. Employees in this classification must possess and maintain a FAA Commercial Helicopter or Commercial Airplane multi-engine certification.
2. Employees in this classification must possess and maintain FAA 2nd Class Medical certification.
3. Employees in this classification must possess and maintain an acceptable Instrument Helicopter or Instrument Fixed Wing Rating as determined by FAA regulations and as required by the MSPAC.
4. Employees in this classification may be assigned duties which require the operation of a motor vehicle. Employees assigned such duties will be required to possess a motor vehicle operator's license valid in the State of Maryland.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
1. Candidates for positions in this classification will be subject to an initial drug screening and a complete criminal background investigation, to include a polygraph examination, by the Maryland State Police before permanent appointment can be made. A criminal conviction record may be grounds for rejection of the applicant.
2. Employees in this classification are subject to call-in on a 24 hour basis, and therefore, will be required to provide the employer with a phone number where they can be reached.
3. Employees in this classification are subject to substance abuse testing, in accordance with Code of Maryland Regulation 17.04.09, Testing for Illegal Use of Drugs.
4. Employees in this classification are subject to other FAA applicable drug testing requirements.
5. Employees in this classification are required to sign an Obligation Service Agreement.
SELECTION PROCESS
The selection process for this recruitment will involve a review of each application. Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will be placed on an eligible list in the BEST, BETTER or QUALIFIED category. The list will be used by the hiring manager to select the individual to fill the vacancy. The list will be valid for one year.
EXAMINATION PROCESS
The examination will consist of a rating of your education, training and experience related to the requirements of the position. You may be required to complete a qualifications supplement, or the rating may be based on your application. Report all experience and education that is related to this position. Applicants may be given a physical examination and will be subject to an interview, background investigation, polygraph examination and substance abuse testing.
BENEFITS
STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS
FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS
NOTE: Currently, applicants are limited to uploading one file. As a result, it is strongly urged that those applying upload ALL required and additional documents (undergraduate and graduate transcripts, resumes, etc.) as one file.
If you are unable to apply online, you may submit an application via mail. The Maryland State Application Form can be found online.
Completed applications, required documentation and any required addendums may be mailed to:
Maryland State Police, Aviation Command
3023 Strawberry Point Road
Middle River, MD 21230
Attn: Christina Blake
Contact Information: christina.blake@maryland.gov or 410-238-5843
TTY Users: call via Maryland Relay
We thank our Veterans for their service to our country, and encourage them to apply.
As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining, and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity.
Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.
It is the policy of the Maryland State Police to comply with all applicable federal and state laws prohibiting employment discrimination and to provide equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, gender, identity and expression, genetic information, marital status, mental or physical disability, national origin, race, religious affiliation, belief or opinion, sex, sexual orientation or any other protected status.

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