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Tanker Pilot Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Fisheries Program Analyst

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$102K - $120K/yr

Position is Subject to Contract AwardPosition SummaryThink Tank Inc. is seeking a Program Analyst ... O. 14276 (Restoring American Seafood Competitiveness), including pilot initiatives focused on U.S ...

Fisheries Program Analyst

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$102K - $120K/yr

Position is Subject to Contract Award Position Summary Think Tank Inc. is seeking a Program Analyst ... O. 14276 (Restoring American Seafood Competitiveness), including pilot initiatives focused on U.S ...

Fall Intern: FREE Initiative

Washington, DC · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

... FREE Framework, piloting lessons for high school students on youth agency, strengthening ... think tanks. Competitive candidates will generally have a GPA of 3.5 or higher from a top-ranking ...

Tanker Pilot information

See Washington salary details

$15

$29

$44

How much do tanker pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for tanker pilot in Washington is $29.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.21 and $31.59 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.

What are popular job titles related to Tanker Pilot jobs in Washington?

For Tanker Pilot jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Tanker Pilot job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,747 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Sr Specialist, Government Affairs

Pilot Company

Washington, DC

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Pilot Company rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 532 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

352nd of 737 rated retailers


Job description

Company Description

Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than 30,000 team members and over 750 retail and fueling locations in 44 states and six Canadian provinces. Our energy and logistics division serves as a top supplier of fuel, employing one of the largest tanker fleets and providing critical services to oil operations in our nation's busiest basins. Pilot Company supports a growing portfolio of brands with expertise in supply chain and retail operations, logistics and transportation, technology and digital innovation, construction, maintenance, human resources, finance, sales and marketing.

Founded in 1958 by Jim A. Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture and commitment to giving back remains true to us today. Whether we are serving guests, a fellow team member, or a trucking company, we are dedicated to fueling people and keeping North America moving.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Military encouraged to apply.

Job Description

Summary

The Sr. Specialist, Government Affairs will support Pilot Travel Centers ("PTC") by advancing the company's advocacy priorities and providing strategic legislative, regulatory, and political intelligence across federal, state, and local jurisdictions. This role will have a particular focus on transportation fuels, renewable fuels, energy, environmental, tax, and transportation policy issues impacting Pilot's retail, wholesale, logistics, and energy businesses.

Working closely with Government Affairs leadership, the Sr. Specialist will monitor and analyze legislative and regulatory developments, support advocacy initiatives, develop executive-ready materials, and coordinate cross-functional engagement across the organization. This position requires strong policy analysis skills, exceptional written and verbal communication abilities, and a demonstrated understanding of the federal and state legislative and regulatory process.

The ideal candidate will bring experience or demonstrated subject matter expertise in transportation fuels, energy policy, renewable fuels, environmental regulation, transportation policy, or related legislative and regulatory issues.

Individuals with experience in government affairs, energy policy, transportation policy, renewable fuels, environmental regulation, tax policy, or related fields are encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Monitor and manage legislative and regulatory activity by tracking federal, state, and local policy developments affecting transportation fuels, renewable fuels, energy, environmental, tax, and transportation issues relevant to PTC.                                   
  • Create and lead policy impact analysis by evaluating proposed legislation, regulations, and agency actions; synthesize findings and translate them into clear, actionable guidance for Government Affairs leadership and cross‑functional business partners.     
  • Create and maintain policy tracking systems by managing issue trackers, calendars, stakeholder maps, and monitoring tools to ensure timely visibility into emerging risks and opportunities.                                                                                            
  • Champion advocacy strategy by taking a lead role in developing and executing multi‑jurisdiction advocacy plans that advance PTC’s policy priorities; ensure alignment, momentum, and measurable impact across all initiatives.                        
  • Engage external stakeholders by building and maintaining relationships with policymakers, regulators, trade associations, and industry coalitions; represent PTC in meetings and working groups as directed.                                                                                      
  • Lead coordination with consultants and partners by working with external lobbyists, consultants, and association partners to gather intelligence and support advocacy initiatives.                                                                                        
  • Develop executive ready materials by drafting briefing memos, issue summaries, talking points, comment letters, presentations, and other materials for senior leaders and cross-functional partners.                                                                                          
  • Serve as a resource for colleagues with less experience, providing mentorship, context, and direction on policy issues.                                                                                             
  • Continue to develop an understanding of Pilot’s business, anticipate issues, and work with internal experts and executive leadership to devise policy strategies.
  • Provide cross-functional policy support by partnering with Legal, Operations, Fuel Supply, Retail, Tax, Finance, Sustainability, Communications, and other teams to assess policy impacts and support implementation.                                                    
  • Support strategic planning and special projects by conducting research, issue assessments, and stakeholder analysis to inform long-term policy strategy; assist Government Affairs leadership with special initiatives and executive requests.          
  • Complete additional duties as needed.
Qualifications

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in business, Economics, Political Science, Public Policy, or related field required
  • Minimum of 5 years’ related experience working in legislative affairs for state or federal legislature, corporate government affairs, or similar required
  • Experience working in government affairs either for a large U.S. corporate enterprise, trade association, or relevant federal agency required
  • Experience in a policy staff role for an elected Member of Congress as a legislative assistant or legislative director preferred

Specialized Skills:

  • Thorough understanding of federal and state government structures, legislative processes, and regulatory frameworks.
  • Strong interest in or knowledge of energy policy, transportation policy, renewable fuels, environmental regulation, and fuel markets.
  • Excellent analytical, research, writing, presentation, and communication skills.
  • Ability to synthesize complex information into concise, actionable insights for executive audiences.
  • Strong project management and organizational skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and collaboration platforms (Teams, WebEx, Zoom).
  • Self-starter with a high level of intellectual curiosity, professionalism, and attention to detail.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

  • This position is based in Washington, D.C.
  • Business travel of approximately 10-25%, depending on advocacy priorities, industry conferences, and government engagement opportunities.
  • Ability to attend meetings, events, and legislative activities outside traditional business hours as necessary.

Additional Information

Nation-wide Medical Plan/Dental/Vision

401(k) and Flexible Spending Accounts

Employee Fuel Discount

Adoption Assistance

Tuition Reimbursement

Onsite Gym and Cafeteria

Weekly Pay

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines


What Pilot Company employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About Pilot Company

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pilot Flying J is an American-based company situated in Knoxville, TN, USA. Founded in 1958, it falls under the travel-center industry, providing comprehensive services to professional drivers, recreational travelers, and road users. Pilot Flying J offers amenities such as refueling facilities, convenience stores, fast-food restaurants, and trucking supplies services, positioning itself as a crucial part of America's interstate highway system.

Industry

Gasoline stations, petroleum and petroleum products wholesalers and retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Knoxville, TN, US