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Sport Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Provides guidance on the medical certification processes, support for Basic Med, and Sport Pilot qualifications. Interprets relevant FAA medical regulations, and advice on FAA medical information ...

Provides guidance on the medical certification processes, support for Basic Med, and Sport Pilot qualifications. Interprets relevant FAA medical regulations, and advice on FAA medical information ...

Helicopter Pilot

Danville, VA

$83K - $104K/yr

... dining, sports, and travel.Unwind off-duty at local gems like the Danville Riverwalk Trail or ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Westover, WV

$92K - $115K/yr

The city boasts a lively arts, dining, and sports scene, keeping life vibrant year-round. Plus ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Known for its iconic Gateway Arch, passionate sports culture, and rich music and food scenes, St ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Somerset, PA

$75K - $93K/yr

Yet you're never far from the action-Pittsburgh is just 1.5 hours away, offering pro sports, dining ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Float Rotor Wing Pilot

Richland, WA · On-site

$112K - $131K/yr

Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy multiple opportunities for summer and winter sports alike! Life Flight ... The Float Rotor Wing Pilot is responsible for professionally and safely operating aircraft for LFN ...

Beyond sports, Green Bay offers a charming mix of waterfront beauty along the Fox River, thriving ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Danville, VA

$89K - $111K/yr

... dining, sports, and travel. Unwind off-duty at local gems like the Danville Riverwalk Trail or ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Danville, VA · On-site

$83K - $104K/yr

... dining, sports, and travel. Unwind off-duty at local gems like the Danville Riverwalk Trail or ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Known for its iconic Gateway Arch, passionate sports culture, and rich music and food scenes, St ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Danville, VA

$83K - $104K/yr

... dining, sports, and travel. Unwind off-duty at local gems like the Danville Riverwalk Trail or ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Known for its iconic Gateway Arch, passionate sports culture, and rich music and food scenes, St ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Westover, WV

$92K - $115K/yr

The city boasts a lively arts, dining, and sports scene, keeping life vibrant year-round. Plus ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Westover, WV · On-site

$92K - $115K/yr

The city boasts a lively arts, dining, and sports scene, keeping life vibrant year-round. Plus ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Helicopter Pilot

Philadelphia, PA

$90K - $113K/yr

Yet you're never far from the action--Pittsburgh is just 1.5 hours away, offering pro sports ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Sport pilot certificate or above. Knowledge of grammar. Familiarity with AP and/or Chicago style. PREFERRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS: Major in English or journalism. Experience living the general aviation ...

Helicopter Pilot

Westover, WV

$92K - $115K/yr

The city boasts a lively arts, dining, and sports scene, keeping life vibrant year-round. Plus ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

... sports, drawing in enthusiasts and adventure-seekers year-round. Bullhead City's stunning desert ... Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight ...

Sport pilot certificate or above. Knowledge of grammar. Familiarity with AP and/or Chicago style. PREFERRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS: Major in English or journalism. Experience living the general aviation ...

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Showing results 1-20

Sport Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do sport pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for sport 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.

Do pilots make $400 an hour?

Sport pilots typically earn significantly less than $400 an hour, with average hourly rates often ranging from $20 to $50 depending on experience, location, and flight hours. Higher rates are more common for experienced commercial pilots or specialized roles, but sport pilot certification generally involves lower pay due to the recreational nature of the job.

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

To thrive as a Sport Pilot, you need strong piloting skills, situational awareness, basic aeronautical knowledge, and a current FAA Sport Pilot Certificate. Familiarity with light-sport aircraft (LSA) systems, navigation tools, and adherence to airspace regulations are essential. Excellent decision-making, communication, and attention to detail help ensure safety and effective interaction with air traffic control, instructors, and peers. These skills are crucial for safe, enjoyable flight operations and professional growth in recreational aviation.

What are some common challenges a Sport Pilot might face on the job?

Sport Pilots often face challenges such as changing weather conditions, strict adherence to regulations governing light-sport aircraft, and staying up to date with evolving FAA policies. Maintaining proficiency and confidence during infrequent flights or navigating unfamiliar airspace can also be difficult. Additionally, many Sport Pilots operate independently, so strong self-motivation and situational awareness are important for staying safe and prepared. Over time, these challenges can be rewarding learning experiences, helping pilots build skills that support both personal satisfaction and career development in aviation.

What pilots make $500,000 a year?

Most sport pilots do not earn $500,000 annually, as this is a low-cost, recreational flying certification with limited income potential. Typically, high-earning pilots such as airline captains or corporate pilots with extensive experience and additional certifications can reach or exceed this income level, especially when working for major airlines or private companies. These roles often require advanced licenses, significant flight hours, and specialized skills.

Can sports pilots make money?

Sport pilots can earn income by providing flight instruction, conducting aerial photography, or offering sightseeing flights, but their earning potential is generally limited compared to professional pilots. Many sport pilots fly as a hobby or part-time activity rather than a primary source of income, and they must hold a valid sport pilot certificate and meet FAA regulations. Income opportunities depend on experience, location, and additional certifications or skills.

What can I fly as a sport pilot?

A sport pilot can fly light-sport aircraft that meet specific weight and performance limits, typically including fixed-wing airplanes and gliders. They are authorized to operate aircraft within certain altitude and distance restrictions and must hold a valid sport pilot certificate with the appropriate category and class ratings. The certification emphasizes simplicity and lower costs compared to traditional pilot licenses.

What is a Sport Pilot job?

A Sport Pilot is a certified pilot who operates light-sport aircraft (LSA) for personal or recreational purposes. Unlike commercial pilots, sport pilots have fewer training requirements and can fly smaller aircraft during daylight hours and in good weather conditions. They are restricted from flying in controlled airspace without additional endorsements. This certification is ideal for aviation enthusiasts who want to fly with fewer regulatory requirements compared to private or commercial pilots.

What cities are hiring for Sport Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Sport Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Sport Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Sport Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Sport Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Sport Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Sport Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 10% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Spec Medical Certification

Spec Medical Certification

AOPA

Frederick, MD

$28 - $31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY: 

The Medical Certification Specialist supports AOPA's mission by assisting pilots in navigating the federal regulatory airman medical certification process and advocates for pilots when they experience challenging medical conditions that can affect certification.  The Medical Specialists also provide in-depth counsel to members who have significantly complex medical histories and how those histories will affect their current or future medical certification status.  They are also expected to be familiar with other AOPA products, services, and benefits, and to provide efficient and satisfactory service to the Association and its members.  In addition to FAA Medical Certification issues, the Medical Certification Specialist provides Member support for Basic Med and Sport Pilot qualifications. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:  

Member Medical Certification Support (80%) 

Responds to member inquiries via email, phone, chat, mail, and in-person communication. Provides guidance on the medical certification processes, support for Basic Med, and Sport Pilot qualifications.  Interprets relevant FAA medical regulations, and advice on FAA medical information requests. 

Represents both the department and the association in public settings such as air shows and conventions, with related occasional travel as required. 

AOPA Internal Support (10%) 

Provide medical certification expertise to all AOPA departments in support of association goals and objectives.  Maintain awareness of operations and initiatives that impact pilots and AOPA members.   

Maintain open communication with those departments to provide feedback and insight into AOPA member perceptions. 

AOPA Online Resources Support (10%) 

Develop and provide medical related resources for the AOPA website, AOPA App, and AOPA Social Media platforms. 

**Although this job description aims to capture the majority of the position duties, other duties may be assigned based on business and departmental needs. 

REQUIRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS:  

Two years of work experience in a healthcare environment, such as a physician’s office, health care benefits office, or hospital setting such as ER, OR, or nursing floors. 

Basic knowledge of anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and commonly prescribed medications. 

Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and maintain a high level of customer satisfaction. 

Experience in internet research methodology and competence in the use of Microsoft Office programs. 

Excellent oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills. 

Flexibility, adaptability, and a team-oriented attitude necessary. 

PREFERRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS:  

Medical-related undergraduate degree or comparable experience. 

Call center environment and customer interface technology experience such as Salesforce, Five-9 and Zendesk. 

Familiarity with the aviation industry. 

Pilot certificate or flight experience a plus. 

WORKING CONDITIONS:  

This position works in an office setting. 

Typical working hours are 8:30 am – 5 pm (occasionally 9:30 am-6 pm), Monday through Friday, with a one-hour lunch break. 

Generally, a climate-controlled environment with occasional exposure to outdoor weather conditions when attending aviation related events, including exposure to higher altitudes and confined spaces if in a general aviation aircraft. 

This position requires some travel, up to 5% of the time, to various general aviation or industry-related events. Travel is by aircraft (general aviation and commercial) and by road or public transit.  

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: 
This position is located at AOPA’s Frederick, MD, office.    

The hourly rate for this position is: $28.00 - $31.00 depending on education and experience.  

BENEFIT INFORMATION:  

Flight Training (earn your Private Pilot License for free) & Annual Flight Proficiency Program (so you can keep flying and remain proficient)  

Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance is available for employees and their dependents the 1st of the month following their start date  

Flexible Spending Plans 

Health Savings Plan with employer contribution (for eligible participants)   

401(k) Retirement Plan with a company match, and annual discretionary supplemental employer contribution  

Company paid Short and Long-term Disability Insurance  

Company paid Life Insurance and AD&D insurance with the option to buy up   

Paid Time Off (PTO): 17 days accrued during first year (accruals increase based on tenure)  

Paid Holidays: 12 holidays  

Personal days: 3 (prorated based on hire date)  

Volunteer day: 1 (prorated based on hire date)   

Work From Home Fridays  

Paid Parental Leave   

AOPA Membership  

Employee Assistance Program  

Wellness Program (earn medical insurance premium discounts)  

Gym Reimbursement Program  

Supplemental insurance options (critical illness, accident, hospital indemnity)  

Tuition Reimbursement Program   

Discount on AOPA swag  

Business casual dress code  

Free coffee, tea, hot cocoa 


AOPA logo

About AOPA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Frederick, MD, US

Year founded

1939