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Tanker Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Orange County Fire Authority

Fire Pilot

Irvine, CA

$122K - $164K/yr

... tank, hydraulic snorkel, external water bucket, sling loads, and rescue hoist Reviewing and ... FIRE PILOT CHECK FLIGHT EXAMINATION Candidates who successfully complete the oral interview will be ...

Frasca International

PILOT INSTRUCTOR

Riverside, CA · On-site

Pilot Instructor The Pilot Instructor is responsible for the accomplishment of ground-based ... Conduct other ground-based training, as required, for Aircrew Members in tanker and receiver ...

Orange County Fire Authority, CA

Fire Pilot

Buena Park, CA · On-site

$122K - $164K/yr

Operating special helicopter accessory equipment, including fixed water tank, hydraulic snorkel ... The Fire Pilot Check Flight is a pass/fail event. CHIEF'S INTERVIEW Candidates who successfully ...

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Tanker Pilot information

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How much do tanker pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for tanker pilot in the United States is $26.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tanker pilot?

Tanker pilots are specialized aviators responsible for operating aircraft designed to carry and transfer fuel to other aircraft mid-flight, a process known as aerial refueling. They play a critical role in extending the range and endurance of military and sometimes civilian aircraft by delivering fuel while airborne. Tanker pilots must undergo rigorous training to safely manage complex in-flight refueling operations, often working in challenging conditions and coordinating closely with receiving aircraft. Their expertise ensures that missions can continue without the need for frequent landings to refuel, making them vital to air operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tanker pilot?

To thrive as a Tanker Pilot, you need a commercial or military pilot license, extensive flight training, and strong knowledge of aeronautical procedures and safety protocols. Familiarity with advanced avionics, navigation systems, and aerial refueling equipment is typically required, along with certifications such as an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate. Exceptional situational awareness, decision-making, and teamwork skills distinguish outstanding tanker pilots, especially during complex refueling missions. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, precise operations and effective collaboration with crew and other aircraft in demanding environments.

What are some common challenges faced by tanker pilots during aerial refueling missions?

Tanker pilots often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise formation flying, adapting to varying weather conditions, and managing communication with multiple aircraft during aerial refueling missions. These operations require a high level of situational awareness and coordination, as even minor deviations can impact safety and mission success. Additionally, tanker pilots must frequently adjust to changing mission parameters and work closely with both their own crew and receiving aircraft teams to ensure smooth and efficient refueling operations.

What is the difference between Tanker Pilot vs Cargo Pilot?

AspectTanker PilotCargo Pilot
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), Second-Class Medical, Tanker-specific endorsementsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), Second-Class Medical, Cargo aircraft endorsements
Work EnvironmentOverseas and coastal tanker flights, often over open waterDomestic and international cargo flights, often in freight hubs
Industry UsageOil, chemical, and liquid cargo transportationGeneral freight, mail, and package delivery

Both Tanker Pilots and Cargo Pilots require similar certifications and often operate in commercial aviation. The key difference lies in the cargo type and work environment: Tanker Pilots focus on transporting liquids like oil or chemicals over water routes, while Cargo Pilots handle various freight shipments primarily within land-based routes. Understanding these distinctions helps aspiring pilots choose the right career path in the aviation industry.

How to become a tanker pilot?

To become a tanker pilot, candidates typically need a commercial pilot license with an airline transport pilot (ATP) certification, along with specific training in flying large aircraft and tanker operations. Experience in multi-engine aircraft, a clean flight record, and passing physical and background checks are also required. Additional training on aerial refueling procedures and adherence to safety regulations are essential for this specialized role.
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Tanker Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tanker Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,518 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Air Operations Squadron - Augmentee Senior Controller

BLUEFORCE INC

Hampton, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

BlueForce Inc. is seeking for Augmentee Senior Controllers in support of the USAF Air Combat Command (HQ ACC)'s Air Operations Squadron at Langley AFB, VA. 
Are you open to rotating shifts and working a few hours a month? Would you enjoy working up to 12 shifts over a three-month period? Are you a retired military pilot, fighter/tanker pilot, WSO, or navigator? If you have the technical expertise to ensure that military aircrew safely execute worldwide aircraft movement/air refueling missions, then this position is for you.
Duties and Responsibilities

  • Ensure that military aircrew safely executes worldwide aircraft movement/air refueling missions.
  • Ensure mission execution requirements have been identified, coordinated, and finalized.
  • Ensure the Go/No Go mission checklist is completed, and timely and correct mission decisions are made prior to execution.
  • Oversee scheduling, preparing, tracking, and maintaining records on scheduled missions.
  • Develop a comprehensive training program that encompasses all aspects of government provided training objectives.
  • Complete the AOS closing checklist as required.
  • To cover MCC mission requirements in case of scheduled or unscheduled Senior Controller absences and/or during contingency operations.
  • Previous or current DoD Secret clearance
  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Minimum 10 years of qualified experience as a military Pilot or Navigator or at least 10 years of qualified experience as a Technical Controller in the Mission Control Center.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
  • Prior CORONET experience either as a delivery control officer or have participated in an overwater aircraft delivery as either a fighter or tanker crew member is highly desirable

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