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Southwest Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Helicopter Pilot

Artesia, NM

$84K - $105K/yr

... best of the Southwest. Benefits Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Fort Mohave, AZ · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

... Southwest--peaceful, scenic, and full of character. Benefits Air Methods is proud to offer a ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Fort Mohave, AZ · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

... Southwest-peaceful, scenic, and full of character. Benefits Air Methods is proud to offer a ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Fort Mohave, AZ · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

... Southwest--peaceful, scenic, and full of character. Benefits Air Methods is proud to offer a ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Fort Mohave, AZ · On-site

$82.90 - $93.25/hr

... Southwest--peaceful, scenic, and full of character. Benefits Air Methods is proud to offer a ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Artesia, NM · On-site

$84K - $105K/yr

... best of the Southwest. Benefits Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

... Southwest-peaceful, scenic, and full of character. Benefits Air Methods is proud to offer a ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Barstow, CA · On-site

$91K - $102K/yr

... Southwest. Job Summary Responsible to ensure aircraft and weather conditions are airworthy to ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Artesia, NM · On-site

$84K - $105K/yr

... best of the Southwest. Benefits Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Artesia, NM · On-site

$84K - $105K/yr

... best of the Southwest. Benefits Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Barstow, CA · On-site

$91K - $102K/yr

... Southwest. Job Summary Responsible to ensure aircraft and weather conditions are airworthy to ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

... the desert Southwest. Benefits Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Bullhead City, AZ · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

... the desert Southwest. Benefits Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Bullhead City, AZ · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

... the desert Southwest. Benefits Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

... the desert Southwest. Benefits Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Showing results 41-60

Southwest Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do southwest pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for southwest pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Southwest pilot?

Southwest Pilots are professional aviators employed by Southwest Airlines to operate passenger flights within the airline’s extensive domestic and limited international network. They are responsible for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and comfort of passengers and crew while adhering to aviation regulations and company policies. Southwest Pilots undergo rigorous training, maintain high standards of professionalism, and often work as part of a team with co-pilots and flight attendants. They play a crucial role in upholding the airline's reputation for safety and customer service.

How does a Southwest pilot typically collaborate with flight attendants and ground crew to ensure a safe and efficient flight?

Southwest Pilots work closely with flight attendants and ground crew to ensure each flight runs smoothly and safely. Before departure, pilots participate in pre-flight briefings with flight attendants to discuss any special considerations, weather updates, and safety protocols. They also communicate regularly with ground crew regarding aircraft readiness, fueling, and baggage loading. Throughout the flight, pilots and cabin crew maintain open lines of communication to address passenger needs and respond to any unexpected situations. This teamwork is essential for maintaining Southwest's reputation for safety and customer service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Southwest pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Southwest Pilot, you need an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, substantial flight hours, and a strong grasp of aviation regulations and procedures. Proficiency with advanced avionics systems, flight management computers, and company-specific operational software is essential. Excellent decision-making, communication, and teamwork skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient flight operations and uphold the high standards of customer service and safety expected by Southwest Airlines.

What is the difference between Southwest Pilot vs American Airlines Pilot?

AspectSouthwest PilotAmerican Airlines Pilot
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificateCommercial Pilot License (CPL), Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate
Work EnvironmentFlying regional and national routes, primarily within the USFlying domestic and international routes, often longer flights
Employer & Industry UsageSouthwest Airlines, US airline industryAmerican Airlines, US airline industry

Both Southwest Pilot and American Airlines Pilot require similar certifications and work in the US airline industry. The main differences lie in their typical routes and flight operations, with Southwest pilots often flying shorter, domestic routes, while American pilots handle longer, international flights. Both roles demand extensive training, experience, and adherence to airline safety standards.

What is the easiest airline to get hired as a Southwest Pilot?

Southwest Airlines typically hires pilots with strong flight experience, good communication skills, and relevant certifications such as an ATP license. Candidates with regional airline experience or military backgrounds often have an advantage, but hiring standards are consistent across the industry and depend on current staffing needs.
More about Southwest Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Southwest Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Southwest Pilot job openings:

What states have the most Southwest Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Southwest Pilot jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Southwest Pilot jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Southwest Pilot jobs are:

Infographic showing various Southwest Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

$84K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago


Air Methods rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview

Native Air

 EC130 (VFR)

+ Experience Stipend: Up to $12,000$40,000 Stipend

Off-Duty Housing

$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, 7 days on/7 days off (12-hour shifts). 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 working in Artesia, NM means embracing the warm sunshine, friendly community spirit, and the rugged beauty of southeastern New Mexico's Pecos Valley. Nestled between Roswell (45 min) and Carlsbad (36 min south with world-famous Carlsbad Caverns National Park and Brantley Lake State Park for boating and fishing) you're never far from adventure. The area pulses with annual festivals, local art, and small-town charm, balanced by access to larger hubs like Lubbock, Midland/Odessa, El Paso, and Albuquerque within a few hours' drive. Outdoor lovers enjoy boating, hiking, fishing, and scenic drives against wide desert skies, while community events and distinctive local culture make every day here unique. Whether you're drawn by outdoor recreation or a close-knit lifestyle, Artesia is a gateway to the best of the Southwest.

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 attendanceSubject 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 preferredOperation 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: 2/20/2026

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)

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

This position will be open and posted until filled, with a minimum posting period of three days.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Air Methods

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Air Methods is the most responsive and reliable provider of critical care transportation solutions. We partner with our EMS and hospital customers to solve the challenges of patient logistics and save lives. We deliver industry-leading performance in safety, clinical quality, and patient advocacy, committing to zero balance bills. In addition to caring for others, we care for our own teammates: building a high-performing culture where people are passionate about their work and always bring their best. We can't be the industry-leading air medical company without you.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Englewood, CO, US

Year founded

1980