ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Test Pilot Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Ergon, Inc

Fuel Boat Pilot

East Alton, IL · On-site

Fuel Boat Pilot Responsibilities include the following:Ensure that company policy, rules and ... Position: Fuel Boat PilotEmployment offer contingent upon pre-employment drug test, background ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Alton, IL · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Pre-employment drug test and continual participation in random testing. * Ability to perform the ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Alton, IL · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Pre-employment drug test and continual participation in random testing. * Ability to perform the ...

SAIC

RTC-IL Remote Pilot Operator

Elgin, IL · On-site +1

$40K - $80K/yr

Classroom (pass test on airspace and procedures) and Lab (perform as a Remote Pilot Operator on all positions). The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Ladd, IL

Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ... Pilots and Naval Flight Officers. Strong academic performance, especially in technical or ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Seneca, IL

Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ... Pilots and Naval Flight Officers. Strong academic performance, especially in technical or ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Marengo, IL

Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ... Pilots and Naval Flight Officers. Strong academic performance, especially in technical or ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Walnut, IL

Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ... Pilots and Naval Flight Officers. Strong academic performance, especially in technical or ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Roselle, IL

Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ... Pilots and Naval Flight Officers. Strong academic performance, especially in technical or ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Joliet, IL

Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ... Pilots and Naval Flight Officers. Strong academic performance, especially in technical or ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTest Pilot JobsTest Pilot Jobs in Illinois

Test Pilot information

See Illinois salary details

$79K

$101.9K

$170.5K

How much do test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for test pilot in Illinois is $101,854.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $104,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a test pilot?

A test pilot flies new and modified aircraft to evaluate performance and safety features. Job duties include gathering observational data during test flights, documenting whether an aircraft is operating properly, and making recommendations for improvements. You can find test pilot jobs in the commercial transportation industry and with the government, through the military or the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). You must be a fully qualified pilot with some additional training for this career.

What are some common challenges faced by test pilots during flight testing, and how are they managed?

Test pilots often encounter unpredictable aircraft behavior, rapidly changing flight conditions, and the need to make quick decisions under pressure. Managing these challenges involves extensive pre-flight planning, thorough risk assessments, and collaborating closely with engineers and ground crews. Test pilots are trained to follow strict protocols, document every anomaly, and communicate findings clearly to ensure safety and continuous improvement. Adaptability and a strong attention to detail are essential for successfully overcoming these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Test Pilot, you need advanced piloting skills, a strong background in aeronautical engineering or a related technical field, and typically a military or commercial pilot’s license with significant flight hours. Familiarity with flight test instrumentation, data analysis systems, and certification from organizations like the FAA or military test pilot schools are often required. Exceptional situational awareness, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication skills are crucial for managing complex and high-risk scenarios. These skills ensure safety, accurate evaluation of new or modified aircraft, and effective collaboration with engineering teams during critical testing processes.

What is the difference between Test Pilot vs Test Engineer?

AspectTest PilotTest Engineer
Required CredentialsPilot license, aviation certificationsEngineering degree, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentAircraft, flight testing facilitiesLaboratories, testing sites, design offices
Industry UsageAerospace, aviation companiesAerospace, automotive, electronics industries
Primary FocusFlying aircraft to evaluate performance and safetyDesigning, developing, and executing tests on products or systems

Test Pilots primarily focus on flying aircraft to assess performance and safety, requiring pilot licenses and aviation certifications. Test Engineers, on the other hand, develop and conduct tests on various systems or products, often with engineering degrees. While both roles are vital in aerospace, Test Pilots are flight-focused, whereas Test Engineers work in labs and design testing procedures.

How much money do test pilots make?

Test pilots typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, with experienced pilots or those working for government agencies and aerospace companies earning higher salaries. Compensation can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the aircraft tested.
More about Test Pilot jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Test Pilot jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Test Pilot jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Test Pilot jobs in Illinois?

For Test Pilot jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Test Pilot jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Test Pilot jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Test Pilot jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Test Pilot job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Test Pilot jobs in IL?

For Test Pilot jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Test Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Test Pilot job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 88% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,854 per year, or $49 per hour.

Fuel Boat Pilot

Ergon, Inc

East Alton, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Ergon Inc. rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 86 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Fuel Boat Pilot

Ergon Marine & Industrial Supply, Inc., has an opening for a  Fuel Boat Pilot at its Wood River, IL,  location.

If you are a hard-working person who enjoys helping others and taking pride in your physical accomplishments, this job might be a good fit for you. EMIS services vessels and tows, and this job allows you to be a part of that support of the river crews.

Ergon is a family-owned oil and gas company based in the Jackson, MS area with facilities across the US. EMIS is a subsidiary with facilities that support marine traffic up and down the Mississippi River. Our facilities are located in Vicksburg, MS, Wood River, IL,  and Memphis, TN.

Ergon offers a competitive benefits package: 401(k) Matching, Health, Life, Dental, Holidays, Vacation, Sick Leave, Tuition Assistance, and Profit Sharing

The Fuel Boat Pilot ensures the safe and efficient operation and performance of his crew, vessel, and tow in a manner that complies with company policy, U. S. Coast Guard rules and regulations, and federal, state, and local laws. 

Fuel Boat Pilot Responsibilities include the following:

  • Ensure that company policy, rules and regulations are followed.

  • Report violations of EMIS company policy or violations of federal, state or local laws.

  • Ensure deck crew are performing their duties.

  • Inspect all areas of the vessel and tow to ensure safety, proper maintenance, and a clean vessel is ready for voyage.

  • Provide customer service according to the EMIS Mission Statement.

  • Captain has the right to reject of any tow configuration or barge.

  • Ensure all crewmembers on EMIS vessels and docks are using Proper PPE.

  • Assist other operations as required by management.

  • Maintain EMIS fleets and equipment, documenting fleet checks every six hours or as per MARSEC levels.

  • Inspect all barges according to the Dry Cargo/Chemical Barge Inspection Report, notify a supervisor immediately of any damage, and take appropriate measures to ensure safety.

  • Responsible for reviewing the tow orders and determining whether the boat is of sufficient horsepower.

  • Report incidents immediately to appropriate supervisor and enter in vessel logs.

  • Order supplies as needed.

  • Ensure fire extinguishers are recharged or refilled as required for each type of extinguisher.

  • Ensure fire hose with nozzle is at each fire station.

  • Ensure dewatering pumps are on board the vessel and ready for use.

  • Ensure adequate number of approved life preservers are on board.

  • Ensure adequate quantity of first aid supplies onboard the vessel.

  • Ensure crewmembers are properly trained in emergency procedures including fire drills.

  • Chip, Buff, Prime and paint vessel and equipment as needed.

  • Complete Towing Vessel Record each shift which includes the following:

    • Engine Room Log
    • Fuel Operations Log
    • Pre-Sail Check List

    When a Fuel Boat Pilot is assigned the task of training an upcoming pilot the current pilot is considered the "Master of the Vessel" and is responsible for and will be held accountable for the actions of the trainee in the performance of their duties.

    Captain is required to have a safety briefing with crew prior to engaging in any barge tow work, barge movement activity or fuel transfers. This briefing must be documented in the towing vessel record.

Fuel Boat Pilot Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED

  • Must have a U.S. Coast Guard license as Master of Towing Vessels/Limited Master of Towing

  • Must have sufficient time with EMIS to prove competence and leadership skills as determined by the Vice President, for promotion from within the company

  • Must be able to swim

  • Valid TWIC Card (Transportation Workers Identification Credential)

  • Must have a valid driver's license

We are an EEO/AAP employer.

Position: Fuel Boat Pilot


Employment offer contingent upon pre-employment drug test, background check, and MVR.

What Ergon Inc. employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply