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Types Of Pilot Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

ZMP Remote Pilot Operator

Farmington, MN · On-site +1

$40K - $80K/yr

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot ... for all types and levels of ATC facilities. Qualifications Required Qualifications: * US ...

SAIC

ZMP Remote Pilot Operator

Farmington, MN · Remote

$40K - $80K/yr

This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position. We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot ... for all types and levels of ATC facilities. Qualifications Required Qualifications: * US ...

Kurita America Inc

Pilot Technician

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Pilot Technician Job Locations US-MN-Minneapolis Job ID 2026-2406 Category Engineering & Equipment Type Full Time Exempt Overview Kurita America is part of the Kurita Group, one of the leading water ...

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Types Of Pilot information

What are the different types of pilots?

Pilots can be classified into several types based on their roles and certifications, including airline pilots who fly commercial passenger aircraft, cargo pilots who transport goods, private pilots who operate small aircraft for personal use, and military pilots serving in armed forces. Each type requires specific licenses, such as a private pilot license (PPL), commercial pilot license (CPL), or airline transport pilot license (ATPL), and involves different training, responsibilities, and work environments.

How long does it take to make $200,000 as a pilot?

The time it takes for a pilot to earn $200,000 depends on experience, type of flying, and employer. Typically, airline pilots with several years of experience and seniority can reach this income level within 5 to 10 years, especially with additional certifications and flying hours. Entry-level pilots usually earn less initially and need time to advance to higher-paying positions.

What are some common challenges pilots face when transitioning between different types of flying roles (e.g., commercial, cargo, or private aviation)?

Pilots moving between different flying roles often encounter challenges such as adapting to new aircraft systems, varying regulatory requirements, and different organizational cultures. For example, commercial airline pilots may need to adjust to strict schedules and standardized procedures, while cargo pilots often fly overnight with less predictable routes. Additionally, transitioning to private or corporate aviation might require greater flexibility and customer service skills. Continuous training and a willingness to learn are essential for a smooth transition between these pilot roles.

How to make $500,000 a year as a pilot?

Achieving a $500,000 annual salary as a pilot typically requires working for major airlines or private jet companies, gaining extensive experience, and holding advanced certifications such as an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license. High-paying roles often involve long hours, seniority, and specialized aircraft, with some pilots supplementing income through additional flying or teaching opportunities.

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

To thrive as a pilot, you need strong aeronautical knowledge, decision-making abilities, and a valid commercial or airline transport pilot license (CPL or ATPL) with required flight hours. Familiarity with aircraft navigation systems, flight management software, and simulators is essential, along with periodic certifications and medical clearances. Excellent communication, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, efficient flight operations and effective response to routine and emergency situations.

What is the highest paid pilot job?

The highest paid pilot jobs are typically those of airline captains for major international airlines, with salaries often exceeding $200,000 annually. These roles require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and often involve long hours and international routes.

What is the difference between Types Of Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectTypes Of PilotCommercial Pilot
CredentialsVaries by specialization (e.g., airline, cargo, private)Requires commercial pilot certificate, specific flight hours, and ratings
Work EnvironmentDifferent settings like airlines, cargo, private chartersFlying for compensation or hire, often in airlines or charter services
Industry UsageBroad category including many pilot rolesSpecific role focused on paid flying activities

Types Of Pilot encompass various pilot roles across different sectors, while Commercial Pilot specifically refers to pilots qualified to be paid for flying. The main difference lies in certification requirements and work scope, with commercial pilots operating in paid settings within the aviation industry.

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Types Of Pilot jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Types Of Pilot job openings:
Types Of Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Types Of Pilot job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Engineering Flight Test Pilot Principal

Cirrus Aircraft

Duluth, MN • On-site

$170K - $255K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Cirrus Aircraft rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 71 rated aerospace companies

Job description

The Flight Test Pilot, Principalis a senior technical role responsible for the strategic planning, execution,and analysis of flight test programs for complex aerospace vehicles andsystems. This position involves high-level coordination, ensuring regulatorycompliance, leading large-scale testing efforts, and contributing to thecontinuous improvement of testing methodologies. As a key technical authority,the Flight Test Pilot Principle plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success ofcritical flight test operations. This role requires expertise inexperimental flight testing to support aircraft development and regulatorycompliance.
  • Acts as the Platform Lead Flight Test Pilot and provides technical oversight of all platform flight test projects.
  • Maintain a high level of pilot proficiency in both jet and propeller aircraft models.
  • Safely conduct experimental flight tests for aircraft development and certification projects.
  • Leads the planning and execution of multi-faceted flight test programs, including defining objectives, testing requirements, success criteria, and timelines.
  • Collaborate with senior management, project teams, and regulatory bodies to ensure test activities align with corporate goals and safety standards.
  • Serve as the primary pilot authority during test operations, providing technical guidance, monitoring test data, and making in the-moment adjustments to ensure data accuracy and safety.
  • Act as a liaison between the Engineering Flight Test team, engineers, and other support teams to facilitate effective communication and decision-making during testing.
  • Address complex technical challenges in real time, utilizing advanced problem-solving skills to adapt and respond to dynamic testing conditions.
  • Participate in test safety review process to ensure tests are conducted safely and appropriate safety mitigations are in place before flight.
  • Generate detailed technical reports that highlight test results, identify variances, and offer actionable insights for design refinement or procedural adjustments.
  • Develop, implement, and continuously improve safety protocols and risk assessment procedures for all test activities.
  • Collaborate with safety officers and regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with industry standards and mitigate potential risks.
  • Foster a culture of safety and continuous improvement, conducting thorough reviews of test procedures and outcomes to minimize risks.
  • Provide training and development opportunities for team members, helping to advance their technical skills and industry knowledge.
  • Work with engineering, design, manufacturing, and regulatory teams to align testing requirements and ensure consistency with project objectives.
  • Act as a pilot subject matter expert, providing insights and recommendations to cross-functional teams and senior management.
  • Participate in strategic planning discussions to improve test efficiency, data accuracy, and test program success.
  • Perform other departmental duties as assigned.

  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
  • 10+ years experimental flight test experience.
  • 7 years flight test pilot experience.
  • Pilot Experience 1500 hours total, 500 hours turbine, 100 hours in the last 12 months.
  • Previous turbojet type rating preferred.
  • Experience with FAA/TCCA/EASA Certification programs preferred.
  • Graduate of an accredited test pilot school long course or equivalent flight test pilot experience.
  • FAA DER/UM/ODA Flight Test Pilot experience preferred.
  • Knowledgeable in flight dynamics, aerodynamics, propulsion systems, avionics, and aircraft systems.
  • Comprehensive understanding of industry regulations and standards (e.g., FAA, EASA, MIL-STD) and safety protocols.
  • Experience in risk management and mitigation strategies for flight test programs.
  • Proven leadership skills leading cross-functional test teams.
  • Excellent communication skills, including the ability to present complex technical findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Ability to maintain flexibility and a positive attitude and flexibility in dynamic test program environment.

Our Benefits: Cirrus provides a range of exciting benefits, including:

  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, vision, dental, with additional dependent coverage options
  • Employer-Paid Coverages: Group term life, short- and long-term disability insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts: FSA and HSA offerings with company contributions to HSA
  • Well-being: Calm Health, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness incentives through medical provider
  • 401(k) Plan: Dollar-for-dollar match up to 5% after 90 days, with 100% vesting at 1 year of service
  • PTO: Various PTO plans starting at 100 hours accrued within the first year
  • Additional Time off Benefits: Paid holidays, 2 weeks of Paid Parental leave, paid time for funeral leave and jury duty
  • Career Development: Tuition reimbursement program and professional growth opportunities
  • Exclusive Discounts: Cirrus Store, partner and marketplace discounts available
  • Community & Engagement: Company and employee clubs at various locations


These benefits are designed to support your well-being, growth, and enjoyment at Cirrus!


Salary Range: USD $170,145.26/Yr. - USD $255,217.88/Yr.

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