1

Spirit Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UAV Pilot/Instructor

Blackstone, VA · On-site

$30 - $70/hr

Vigilant Spirit experience   * Quattro FMS experience   * Research and development experience   * Publication writing experience   * Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the ...

Helicopter Pilot

Visalia, CA · On-site

$25K/mo

... and vibrant community spirit. Situated in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley, Visalia is ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Moundsville, WV

$77K - $96K/yr

Moundsville, WV, is a town rich in history and community spirit. Nestled along the Ohio River, its ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

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

With its blend of scenic beauty, abundant recreational options, and a warm community spirit ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

... spirit. Renowned for its picturesque scenery, outdoor enthusiasts flock to Truckee year-round for ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Stillwater, OK · On-site

$72K - $90K/yr

Stillwater, Oklahoma delivers the perfect mix of high-energy college-town spirit and wide-open ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Martinsville, VA

$84K - $105K/yr

Martinsville is where community spirit and Southern charm meet opportunity and adventure! Benefits ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Stillwater, OK · On-site

$72K - $90K/yr

Stillwater, Oklahoma delivers the perfect mix of high-energy college-town spirit and wide-open ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Martinsville, VA

$84K - $105K/yr

Martinsville is where community spirit and Southern charm meet opportunity and adventure! Benefits ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Martinsville, VA · On-site

$84K - $105K/yr

Martinsville is where community spirit and Southern charm meet opportunity and adventure! Benefits ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Stillwater, OK · On-site

$72K - $90K/yr

Stillwater, Oklahoma delivers the perfect mix of high-energy college-town spirit and wide-open ... 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

Living and working in Artesia, NM means embracing the warm sunshine, friendly community spirit, and ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Martinsville, VA · On-site

$84K - $105K/yr

Martinsville is where community spirit and Southern charm meet opportunity and adventure! Benefits ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Moundsville, WV

$77K - $96K/yr

Moundsville, WV, is a town rich in history and community spirit. Nestled along the Ohio River, its ... 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

Living and working in Artesia, NM means embracing the warm sunshine, friendly community spirit, and ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Moundsville, WV

$77K - $96K/yr

Moundsville, WV, is a town rich in history and community spirit. Nestled along the Ohio River, its ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Showing results 41-60

Spirit Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do spirit pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for spirit 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 Spirit Pilot?

Spirit Pilots are commercial airline pilots who operate aircraft for Spirit Airlines, a major ultra-low-cost carrier based in the United States. They are responsible for safely flying passengers and cargo to various destinations according to strict safety and regulatory standards. In addition to flying the aircraft, Spirit Pilots must conduct pre-flight checks, communicate with air traffic control, and manage any in-flight issues that arise. Becoming a Spirit Pilot typically requires an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, significant flight experience, and meeting specific hiring requirements set by the airline. Spirit Pilots play a crucial role in ensuring the overall safety and efficiency of Spirit Airlines' operations.

What are some of the unique challenges Spirit pilots face when operating in a high-utilization, low-cost carrier environment?

Spirit Pilots often navigate a fast-paced schedule with frequent turnarounds and high passenger volumes, which can present unique operational and time-management challenges. Working in a low-cost carrier environment means maximizing efficiency and adhering to tight schedules, while still prioritizing safety and customer service. Pilots also collaborate closely with ground crews and flight attendants to ensure quick, safe departures and arrivals. Adaptability and strong communication skills are essential for handling irregular operations or unexpected delays.

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

To thrive as a Spirit Pilot, you need an FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, thousands of flight hours, and strong proficiency in aviation safety and operational procedures. Familiarity with advanced avionics, flight management systems, and specific aircraft types like the Airbus A320 family is crucial, often supported by type ratings and recurrent simulator training. Excellent decision-making, communication, and teamwork skills set pilots apart in high-pressure and dynamic environments. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient, and reliable flight operations, which are essential for passenger safety and regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Spirit Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectSpirit PilotCommercial Pilot
Required CertificationsPrivate Pilot License (PPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), specific airline certificationsPrivate Pilot License (PPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), additional ratings for specific aircraft or operations
Work EnvironmentAirlines, charter services, regional carriersCharter flights, aerial work, cargo, passenger transport
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, regional carriers, flight training schoolsPrivate companies, cargo carriers, aerial survey companies

Spirit Pilots typically operate within airline and regional carrier environments, requiring specific certifications and working under airline regulations. Commercial Pilots have broader roles, including aerial work and cargo, often with similar licensing but different operational scopes. Both roles demand strong flying skills and certifications, but their work settings and responsibilities differ.

More about Spirit Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Spirit Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Spirit Pilot job openings:

What states have the most Spirit Pilot jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Spirit Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

UAV Pilot/Instructor

Platform Aerospace

Blackstone, VA • On-site

$30 - $70/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

JOB TITLE: UAV PILOT/INSTRUCTOR I-III

DEPARTMENT: FLIGHT OPERATIONS

REPORTS TO: FLIGHT OPERATIONS TRAINING MANAGER

CLASSIFICATION: NON-EXEMPT
CLEARANCE: SECRET

LOCATION: BLACKSTONE, VA


This position may be filled at different levels depending on the selected candidate's qualifications and experience.


JOB SUMMARY:

The UAV Pilot/instructor will support the operation and training of Vanilla UAS. This role will oversee ground and flight operations during stateside training and overseas missions while providing technical support. The Senior UAV Pilot /Instructor will play a key role in mission success and program development through technical expertise and operational excellence.

Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Perform flight operation planning in support of customer-driven requirements
  • Perform pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight safety checks
  • Remote pilot a UAS, following a specific flight plan or modifying flight plans to meet mission objectives
  • Deliver training programs to new UAV pilots, ensuring adherence to operational protocols and safety standards.
  • Support flight operations outside the continental United States for up to four (4) months at a time if needed
  • Conduct flight demonstrations for customers at remote locations
  • Troubleshoot equipment issues to maximize mission readiness
  • Ensure compliance with all FAA regulations as applicable

BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A LEVEL I:

  • High school Diploma or GED and 2-5 years of manned/UAS flight experience or a combination of education and experience equivalent to a minimum of 6 years.
  • Must have the ability and maintain a DoD Secret level security clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required)
  • Able to obtain FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Up to 75% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required
  • Comfortable operating a UAS in various weather and light conditions.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A LEVEL II:

  • High school Diploma or GED and 5-7 years of manned/UAS flight experience or a combination of education and experience equivalent to a minimum of 6 years.
  • 2+ Year of flight Instruction or customer facing technical training experience.
  • Must have the ability and maintain a DoD Secret level security clearance.
  • Able to obtain FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Up to 75% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required
  • Comfortable operating a UAS in various weather and light conditions.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR A LEVEL III:

  • High school Diploma or GED and 7-10 years of relevant experience or a combination of education and experience equivalent to 10 years.
  • 5+ Year of flight Instruction or customer facing technical training experience.
  • Minimum of 500 hours of flight experience as a Pilot in Command.
  • Must have the ability and maintain a DoD Secret level security clearance.
  • Able to obtain FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Up to 75% CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required
  • Comfortable operating a UAS in various weather and light conditions.


PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must have ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Top Secret level security clearance.

  • Completion of training or a degree in aviation, engineering, or a related field preferred
  • Experience in deployed UAS ISR operations 
  • Vigilant Spirit experience  
  • Quattro FMS experience  
  • Research and development experience  
  • Publication writing experience  
  • Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA  
  • Private Pilot License  

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be able to obtain a DOT physical.
  • Must be able to perform the physical requirements of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation, including:
    • Prolonged standing, walking, bending, and kneeling
    • Perceiving differences in wire and indicator light colors
    • Operating hand and power tools
    • Lifting, carrying, and/or moving tools, equipment, and components weighing up to 50 pounds
    • Working in confined spaces and around aircraft
    • Ascending and descending ladders or stairs as required


The hourly range for this position is $30.00 to $70.00. Actual compensation will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s relevant experience, education and training, job-related knowledge and skills, the scope and level of responsibility of the position, internal equity, and market/business considerations. The listed range is a general guideline and may vary based on the selected candidate’s qualifications and work location, where applicable.