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Student Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

DRG

F-35 CONTRACT INSTRUCTOR PILOT

Lemoore, CA · On-site

$75 - $90/hr

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 ...

Matternet

UAV Ground Support Crew Member

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$28 - $36/hr

Manned aviation background (student pilot, PPL, CPL, or military flight experience) Work Environment * This is an on-site, field-based role operating from Ground Control Stations and active delivery ...

Matternet

UAV Ground Support Crew Member

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$28 - $36/hr

Manned aviation background (student pilot, PPL, CPL, or military flight experience) Work Environment * This is an on-site, field-based role operating from Ground Control Stations and active delivery ...

MSCCN

Astro Sciences Technical Expert

Edwards, CA · On-site

$100K/yr

This person will be required to complete appropriate training (egress, ground and water survival, etc.) and will be required to instruct and evaluate student pilots, combat system operators, and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsStudent Pilot JobsStudent Pilot Jobs in California

Student Pilot information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$129.2K

$198.4K

How much do student pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for student 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 are some common challenges student pilots face during flight training, and how can they be addressed?

Student pilots often encounter challenges such as mastering complex flight maneuvers, managing cockpit workload, and overcoming initial nervousness or fear of flying. Balancing theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice can also be demanding, especially when adapting to new environments or unfamiliar aircraft. To address these challenges, it's helpful to communicate openly with instructors, consistently review flight procedures, and dedicate time to both simulator and real-world practice. Staying organized and seeking support from peers can also make the training process smoother and more enjoyable.

What is the difference between Student Pilot vs Private Pilot?

AspectStudent PilotPrivate Pilot
CertificationsStudent Pilot CertificatePrivate Pilot Certificate
Work EnvironmentTraining flights, flight schoolsPersonal, recreational flying
Employer/Industry UsageFlight training programs

The main difference between a Student Pilot and a Private Pilot is that a Student Pilot is in training and holds a student certificate, while a Private Pilot has completed certification requirements and can fly independently for personal purposes. Student Pilots are primarily focused on learning and practicing flying skills, whereas Private Pilots are authorized to carry passengers and fly for leisure without instructor supervision.

What is a student pilot?

A student pilot spends their time mastering the basics of piloting an aircraft. They learn the controls, scientific principles that enable flight, relevant laws, aircraft maintenance duties, and proper methods of communication such as a radio. As a student pilot, you need to be able to demonstrate each and every one of these skills before you can fly an aircraft solo. After becoming proficient in flying and operating a smaller aircraft, a student pilot can further train toward a job piloting larger aircraft and a fulfilling career in aviation.

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

To thrive as a Student Pilot, you need a strong understanding of aviation theory, basic aeronautical knowledge, and hold at least a valid medical certificate and student pilot license. Familiarity with flight simulators, navigation systems, and aviation communication tools is also crucial. Excellent situational awareness, discipline, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this field. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safety, effective learning, and progression toward becoming a licensed pilot.
More about Student Pilot jobs
What are popular job titles related to Student Pilot jobs in California? For Student Pilot jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Student Pilot jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Student Pilot jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Student Pilot jobs? Cities in California with the most Student Pilot job openings:
Student Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Student Pilot job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,202 per year, or $62.1 per hour.

Flight Operations and Aircraft Dispatcher

SFO

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$25.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Description

Pacific Aviation is a leading airport-handling provider dedicated to providing exceptional service for some of the world’s finest airlines. By developing and growing our people, we know that our team members are the reason for our 30-year plus success record. We currently support three west coast major airports (LAX, SFO, & SEA) and are looking to expand to more locations across the U.S.

At Pacific Aviation we don’t just accept differences — we celebrate them and believe that a diverse team is a strong team. We thrive on our varied backgrounds and perspectives for the benefit of our employees, our services, and our community. All candidates for hire, promotion and performance are evaluated on the basis of merit alone.

About the position:

Pacific Aviation is looking for Aircraft Dispatchers to joint our flight operations team.

Click here to apply with the Employer!!


Core Responsibilities:

Flight Operations

  • Responsible for the safety and execution of assigned flights.
  • Preparation and file computerized Flight and ATC plans for International; Trans-Pacific/ Atlantic Flights.
  • Provide full weather/ operational briefing to flight crews, analyze weather NOTAMS and ATC data to ensure safe operations and compliance with Airline SOP's

Teamwork

  • Collaborate and partner with fellow dispatchers to ensure uninterrupted service for flight operations and to foster a positive work environment where all team members feel appreciated.

Administration

  • Complete, submit, and deliver all assigned reports in a time manner to ensure flights take off in on schedule.
  • Ensure compliance with airport regulations and airline requirements

Requirements
  • FAA Flight Dispatch License
  • Student Pilot acceptable as long as you have the ability to read weather/METER/NOTAMS/TAFS with verifiable flying hours
  • Preparation/ filing of computer flight and ATC plans for International: Trans-Pacific/ Atlantic flights
  • Provide full weather /operational briefing to flight crews.
  • Analyze weather, NOTAMS and ATC data to ensure safe operations and compliance with Airline specific SOP's
  • Ability to handle heavy phone calls, emails providing all flight information /FLIFO to support vendors as well as liaise with Airport Authority for gates/ parking assignments
  • Must possess knowledge of flight planning software such as SITA/ARI NC/LIDO/JEPPESEN/SABER
  • Must be able to complete airline specific training
  • Must possess several years of experience conducting flight operations or utilizing flight operations systems in a similar capacity (such as, being a pilot)

Additional Qualifications:

  • Leadership and team management experience is a plus
  • Advanced education is a plus
Benefits

Hourly Pay $25.40

Approx. 32 - 40 hours/week
Medical , Dental, Vision benefits

401k

Paid Time Off

Apply