1

Simulator Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

New

Test Pilot DER

Marina, CA

$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 ...

... simulator evaluations, technical and safety reviews, and flight briefings; drafting flight manual ... Pilot graduate of a full course test pilot school (SETP-recognized), or possess equivalent ...

Test Pilot DER

Marina, CA

$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 ...

New

ER-2 Research Pilot

Edwards, CA · On-site

$170K - $185K/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 ...

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 ...

Daily work blends flight operations, simulator events, mission planning, debriefs, and maintenance ... Pilot and Naval Flight Officer candidates complete aviation indoctrination in Pensacola, followed ...

Daily work blends flight operations, simulator events, mission planning, debriefs, and maintenance ... Pilot and Naval Flight Officer candidates complete aviation indoctrination in Pensacola, followed ...

Daily work blends flight operations, simulator events, mission planning, debriefs, and maintenance ... Pilot and Naval Flight Officer candidates complete aviation indoctrination in Pensacola, followed ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 21, 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.

Research Pilot (TOC)

$220K - $240K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

New


Job description

i3 is searching for a Research Pilot (TOC) to join our team! The NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) Research Pilot member performs duties in support of the operations of aircraft assigned to AFRC. Research Pilots will plan and fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe operations are provided as tasked. AFRC aircraft are operated to meet both Center and Agency platform, research, and support aircraft requirements. AFRC aircraft are located at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Deployed operations, both CONUS and OCONUS, are routine for these aircrew positions.

Pay Range $220,000-$240,000.

The pay range for this position is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, geographic location, and any applicable laws.


A successful candidate will conduct part-time / Temporary-On-Call (TOC) Pilot duties on the research aircraft. Relocation is not required.

Other Duties include:

  • Conducting flight operations in accordance with FAA, Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), and other applicable directives, regulations, and instructions.
  • Maintaining performance standards in accordance with directives, training plans and Flight Crew Branch policies to include: Knowledge of safety precautions, Knowledge of airfield operations, Demonstrating Emergency Bold Face procedures from memory, and Knowledge of aircraft systems, limitations and ATC regulations / procedures.
  • Participating in i3 and NASA-directed Continuation Training, meetings, and other forums mandated by the on-site management team.
  • Performing any and all on-site tasks necessary at operating locations for a safe, secure, and professional operation.
  • Direct support to any administrative or flight operations scheduling / record keeping as needed.

Candidate must also maintain proficiency, currency, and annual requirements in accordance with NPR 7900.3D, NPD 7900.4E, NPD 8700.1F and AFOP 7900.3-006 as applicable.

NASA will provide training and qualification checks for aircrew, including required periodic simulator training

NASA authorized flight surgeon will provide periodic flight physicals for aircrew


Required Skills

  • Bachelor’s degree, or higher, from an accredited university or college (Required), with major study in an appropriate field of engineering, physical science, life science, or mathematics (Desired).
  • Must be able to pass random drug screenings. (Required)
  • Possess a current US passport, valid through period of employment. (Required)
  • Formal military training in expected duties (with DD 214 annotating AFSC / MOS qualification) or applicable civilian experience. (Highly Desired)
  • Candidates must possess an FAA commercial pilot license with instrument, multi-engine land ratings or a pilot and instrument rating from the armed services (Required)
  • Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: a minimum of 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC), of which at least 500 hours are in transport category aircraft with a gross weight of at least 70,000 pounds (Required)
  • Must meet the security requirements of the position and pass a NASA Flight Medical Certification (Required).

Required Experience

  • Should possess knowledge and first-hand experience necessary to succeed as a government contractor providing direct support to NASA AFRC staff as required.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Must be able to create, maintain and update briefings and statistical reporting.
  • Must be able to obtain a DoD SECRET security clearance.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

  • Light to medium work. Ability to lift, carry, push, pull, see, hear, stoop, crouch, feel, handle; manual dexterity.
  • Outside work. Ability to tolerate conditions in a deployed environment to include inclement weather, rain, humidity, cold and extreme heat. May be exposed to dust, fumes, odors, chemicals, and confined spaces.
  • Close, distance, color and peripheral vision and depth perception.
  • Ability to read and comprehend technical manuals and instructions; procedures, safety instructions, memos, reports. Ability to write at a level to relay data, details and information. Ability to perform shop math. Ability to speak clearly and concisely to relay information.
  • Office conditions: Moderate noise level. May be required to sit at computer station and/or type on keyboard for extended periods of time. May be required to lift objects such as laptop and office copy paper. May be required to view and read computer monitor for extended periods of time. May be required to take verbal messages per phone and face-to-face contact. Will occasionally be required to stand and walk to deliver items within office or on the flight line.
  • Flight line working conditions: Will be required to work day or night. May be exposed to high noise levels. Will be required to fly long missions (up to 10 hours) at high altitude in a confined space. May be subject to the altitude or physiological risks normally associated with flying.

i3 is a technically diverse, 100% team member owned business, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services, electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis, UAS system integration and flight operations, full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training, simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services, Missile Defense Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.  

Perks of being a team member owner include:

  • Long-term financial security
  • Higher job satisfaction
  • Greater job security
  • Personal and professional growth
  • Great company culture

Other outstanding benefits:

  • Excellent insurance coverage
  • 401(k) match
  • Generous PTO
  • Health and wellness incentives
  • Tuition and certification reimbursement
  • Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares

 

We work hard. We compete hard. We play hard. Apply now to join us!