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Simulator Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

DRG

F-35 CONTRACT INSTRUCTOR PILOT

Lemoore, CA · On-site

$75 - $90/hr

Supports pilot training in the F-35 simulator and academic classroom. Acts as a subject matter expert by applying advanced technical concepts in the area of aviation and provides assistance in ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

East Garrison, CA · On-site

$187.40 - $250/hr

Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt ... Perform simulator testing, development, Failure Modes and Effects Testing, and other purposes

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA · On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt ... Perform simulator testing, development, Failure Modes and Effects Testing, and other purposes

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA · On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt ... Perform simulator testing, development, Failure Modes and Effects Testing, and other purposes

i3

Research Pilot

Edwards, CA

$170K - $190K/yr

Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe ... simulator training NASA authorized flight surgeon will provide periodic flight physicals for ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA

$187K - $250K/yr

Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt ... Perform simulator testing, development, Failure Modes and Effects Testing, and other purposes

Driscoll's, Inc.

Corporate Pilot

Watsonville, CA · On-site

The Corporate pilot will communicate regularly with the Assistant chief pilots, to ensure that all ... simulator training, maintaining flight proficiency and knowledge of all flight operations ...

Integration Innovation, Inc.

Research Pilot

Edwards, CA · On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe ... simulator training NASA authorized flight surgeon will provide periodic flight physicals for ...

Driscoll's, Inc.

Corporate Pilot

Watsonville, CA · On-site

The Corporate pilot will communicate regularly with the Assistant chief pilots, to ensure that all ... simulator training, maintaining flight proficiency and knowledge of all flight operations ...

i3

Research Pilot (TOC)

Edwards, CA · On-site

$220K - $240K/yr

Research Pilots will plan and fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality ... simulator training NASA authorized flight surgeon will provide periodic flight physicals for ...

Stratolaunch

Sr. Test Pilot

Mojave, CA

As a Senior Test Pilot for Stratolaunch's carrier aircraft, you will have the opportunity to ... simulator evaluations, technical and safety reviews, and flight briefings; drafting flight manual ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot DER

Marina, CA · On-site

$222K - $286K/yr

Perform simulator testing, development, Failure Modes and Effects Testing, and other purposes ... FAA Flight Test Pilot DER-T * Excellent interpersonal skills * Ability to work extended hours and ...

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All JobsSimulator Pilot JobsSimulator Pilot Jobs in California

Simulator Pilot information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$129.2K

$198.4K

How much do simulator pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for simulator pilot in California is $129,202.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,700.00 and $153,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What pilots make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced airline pilots, especially captains flying long-haul international routes for major carriers, can earn annual salaries of $500,000 or more, including base pay, bonuses, and overtime. Corporate and private jet pilots with extensive flight hours and specialized certifications may also reach this level, particularly in senior or executive roles. These positions typically require advanced training, significant flight hours, and seniority within the airline or organization.

What is a Simulator Pilot job?

A Simulator Pilot operates flight simulators to support pilot training, aircraft testing, or research. They simulate real-world flight scenarios to help pilots practice procedures, emergency situations, and new aircraft systems. This role is commonly found in aviation training centers, military programs, or aerospace companies. Simulator Pilots must have strong aviation knowledge, and many are experienced pilots or instructors.

Can you get a pilot's license with a simulator?

A simulator pilot role typically involves operating flight simulation equipment for training or testing purposes and does not lead to an official pilot's license. To obtain a pilot's license, actual flight training and flight hours with certified aircraft are required, although simulators are often used as supplementary training tools. Certification from aviation authorities depends on real flight experience, not solely on simulator use.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Simulator Pilot?

Simulator Pilots spend their workdays operating sophisticated flight simulators to replicate various flight scenarios for trainee pilots or crews, ensuring each session accurately mirrors real-world conditions. They often collaborate with instructors to develop training scenarios, monitor performance, and provide real-time feedback and debriefs following simulation sessions. Additional responsibilities may include updating simulator software, troubleshooting technical issues, and maintaining detailed training records. This role is dynamic and interactive, requiring teamwork, technical expertise, and a strong commitment to training excellence.

How much do Simcom instructors get paid?

Simcom instructors, who train pilots using flight simulators, typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually depending on experience, location, and certification level. Salaries can vary based on the employer, hours worked, and additional benefits such as bonuses or per diem for travel. Experienced instructors with advanced certifications may earn higher wages.

How much do flight simulator instructors make?

Flight simulator instructors typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Salaries can increase with additional certifications, hours of instruction, and specialized training tools used in the job.

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

To thrive as a Simulator Pilot, you need in-depth knowledge of aviation principles, strong situational awareness, and typically a commercial pilot’s license or equivalent flight training. Familiarity with advanced flight simulators, simulator control systems, and scenario scripting software is crucial for accurately replicating real-world conditions. Exceptional communication, adaptability, and attention to detail help Simulator Pilots effectively debrief trainees and coordinate with training teams. These skills and qualities ensure realistic training environments, safety, and high-quality learning experiences for pilot trainees.

What are popular job titles related to Simulator Pilot jobs in California? For Simulator Pilot jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Simulator Pilot jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Simulator Pilot jobs in California are:
Simulator Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Simulator Pilot job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,202 per year, or $62.1 per hour.

F-35 CONTRACT INSTRUCTOR PILOT

DELAWARE RESOURCE GROUP OF OKLAHOMA

Lemoore, CA • On-site

$75 - $90/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Supports pilot training in the F-35 simulator and academic classroom. Acts as a subject matter expert by applying advanced technical concepts in the area of aviation and provides assistance in creation of training material. This position is typically represented by an experienced military USAF/USN/USMC Weapons Systems Officer in Strike Fighter aircraft (F-15E, F-18E/F/G). Supports military pilot training in the F-35 Full Mission Simulator and academic classroom environment. Contract Instructor will facilitate pilot training in the F-35 Full Mission Simulator using the Instructor Operating Station (IOS) and will be a subject matter expert (SME) on various aircraft systems in support of academic classroom training.
Requirements
Required Qualifications/Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college with 6-years of professional experience.
  • Final Transferable Secret Security Clearance
  • Current Security Clearance investigation within 6 years from the investigation close date and ability to attain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) access
  • A Minimum of 750 hours Flight Time in USAF/USN/USMC Strike Fighter aircraft (e.g., F-15E, F-18/D/F/G)
  • In-depth knowledge of military publications and an understanding of fourth and / or fifth generation aircraft systems
  • Worked in an environment which required interaction with multiple functional area and personnel of a diverse nature
  • Use of Microsoft Office products (Word, PowerPoint and Excel)
  • Outstanding interpersonal skills, excellent leadership traits and strong oral & written communication abilities.
  • Be willing to support flexible work hours to align with customer operational schedule
  • Ability to possibly participate in deployed operations to support customer requirements
  • The wage range for Contract Instructor Pilot is $75.00 - $90.00 Per Hour.

Preferred Qualifications/Experience:
  • Military simulator instructor experience
  • 1000 hours Flight time in USAF/USN/USMC Strike Fighter aircraft (e.g., F-15E, F-18/D/F/G)
  • Weapons school graduate
  • Proven successful experience with instructional products and services, evaluating pilot training and leading pilot students
  • Considered an expert, authority in discipline
  • Experience with F-35 program highly desired

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status or disability.

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