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Weekend Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Fresno, CA · On-site

Must be available to work on any day, seven days a week, including nights, weekends and holidays ... Pilot applicants must meet the experience requirements of FAR 61.159 prior to employment. SkyWest ...

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

San Diego, CA

Must be available to work on any day, seven days a week, including nights, weekends and holidays ... Pilot applicants must meet the experience requirements of FAR 61.159 prior to employment. SkyWest ...

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Palm Springs, CA · On-site

Must be available to work on any day, seven days a week, including nights, weekends and holidays ... Pilot applicants must meet the experience requirements of FAR 61.159 prior to employment. SkyWest ...

SkyWest Airlines

First Officer Pilot

Los Angeles, CA

Must be available to work on any day, seven days a week, including nights, weekends and holidays ... Pilot applicants must meet the experience requirements of FAR 61.159 prior to employment. SkyWest ...

Poseidon Aerospace

Pilot

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

You'll lead both developmental and operational flight testing, acting as the remote pilot in command (RPIC) while coordinating test logistics, flight procedures, and safety operations. This role ...

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Pilot 2/3

San Diego, CA · On-site

$137K - $206K/yr

Pilots are home almost every night, off on weekends, have an advanced one month work schedule. Must possess airline transport license with multi-engine and instrument ratings, pass Class 1 physical ...

Northrop Grumman

Pilot 2/3

San Diego, CA · On-site

$137K - $206K/yr

Pilots are home almost every night, off on weekends, have an advanced one month work schedule. Must possess airline transport license with multi-engine and instrument ratings, pass Class 1 physical ...

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Pilot 2/3

San Diego, CA · On-site

$137K - $206K/yr

Pilots are home almost every night, off on weekends, have an advanced one month work schedule. Must possess airline transport license with multi-engine and instrument ratings, pass Class 1 physical ...

i3

Research Pilot

Edwards, CA

$170K - $190K/yr

Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe operations are provided as tasked. Aircraft are operated to meet Agency platform, research, and support ...

US Department of the Air Force

CA · On-site

$76K/yr

GS-2181-12 (Airplane Pilot/Helicopter Pilot): Applicant must possess a USAF Pilot rating, hold a valid aviation service aeronautical order and have a minimum of 750 total military flight time in the ...

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All JobsPilot JobsWeekend Pilot JobsWeekend Pilot Jobs in California

Weekend Pilot information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$129.2K

$198.4K

How much do weekend pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for weekend 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 is a weekend pilot?

Weekend Pilots are licensed aviators who typically fly aircraft on weekends, often working part-time or on a flexible schedule. They may fly for private individuals, charter companies, or recreational purposes, and sometimes assist with sightseeing tours, aerial photography, or transporting passengers and cargo. Weekend Pilots must meet the same licensing and training requirements as full-time pilots, but their flying hours are usually limited to Saturdays and Sundays. This role is ideal for experienced pilots seeking a part-time commitment or aviation enthusiasts looking to maintain their skills.

What does a weekend pilot do?

A weekend pilot has similar job duties as pilots who work during the week. The primary difference is they work over the weekend. Your specific job duties vary, depending on the kind of plane you fly and if you are a commercial or cargo pilot. General responsibilities for commercial pilots include studying weather reports and schedules, evaluating the fuel load requirements, preparing the flight plan, ensuring safety for passengers, and checking all hardware for plane safety and navigation equipment. Cargo pilots discuss the goods being transported with the shipping company and clarify where the load needs to be delivered. They ensure the shipment has been loaded completely and is adequately secured, and delivers it on time when possible. Weekend pilots work Saturdays and Sundays, but may also have shifts on Fridays or Mondays.

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

To thrive as a Weekend Pilot, you generally need a valid pilot’s license (such as a Private Pilot Certificate), strong knowledge of aviation regulations, and proficient flight skills. Familiarity with navigation systems, aircraft instrumentation, and weather assessment tools is crucial, and sometimes an FAA medical certificate or additional ratings may be required. Exceptional decision-making, communication, and situational awareness help pilots adapt to changing conditions and ensure passenger safety. These skills and qualifications are essential for safe, compliant, and effective operation of flights, especially when flying on tight schedules or in variable weekend conditions.

What are some common challenges weekend pilots face when balancing flying with other commitments?

Weekend pilots often juggle their flying schedules with full-time jobs or family responsibilities, which can make it difficult to log consistent flight hours and maintain proficiency. Weather delays, aircraft availability, and airspace congestion are typical challenges that can disrupt planned flights. To stay current and confident, many weekend pilots join flying clubs, coordinate with other pilots for shared rentals, and make use of online scheduling tools to maximize their time in the air while managing other commitments.

What is the difference between Weekend Pilot vs Part-Time Flight Attendant?

AspectWeekend PilotPart-Time Flight Attendant
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), FAA medical certificateFlight Attendant Certification, CPR/First Aid
Work EnvironmentAircraft cockpit, airports, flight operationsPassenger cabin, airports, in-flight service
Employer & IndustryAirlines, charter companiesAirlines, private jet services
Common Search & ComparisonWeekend Pilot vs Part-Time Flight Attendant

Weekend Pilots typically hold commercial pilot licenses and operate aircraft, focusing on flying duties during weekends. Part-Time Flight Attendants primarily provide passenger service and safety onboard, often working part-time hours. Both roles are essential in the aviation industry but differ in responsibilities, certifications, and work environment.

Do weekend pilots work on weekends?

Weekend pilots typically work on weekends as part of their scheduled shifts, which often include Saturday and Sunday flying hours. Their schedules depend on the employer, flight routes, and operational needs, and they may need to be flexible with their availability. Certification and safety regulations also influence their work hours and scheduling.
More about Weekend Pilot jobs

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

The most popular types of Pilot jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Weekend Pilot jobs in California?

For Weekend Pilot jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Weekend Pilot jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Weekend Pilot jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Weekend Pilot jobs?

Cities in California with the most Weekend Pilot job openings:

Weekend Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Weekend Pilot job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,202 per year, or $62.1 per hour.

First Officer Pilot

SkyWest Airlines

Fresno, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

SkyWest Airlines rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 26 rated airlines

Job description


Primary Job Duties

To be considered for a pilot position, you must: 

Be at least 21 years of age 
Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings
English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate
Hold a current FAA First Class Medical Certificate
Be a U.S. citizen or able to show proof of right to work in the U.S. 
Hold FCC Radiotelephone Operator's Permit.
Have a current Passport --or other travel documents enabling the bearer to freely exit and re-enter the U.S. (multiple reentry status) and be legally eligible to work in the U.S. (possess proper working documents).
Must be available to work on any day, seven days a week, including nights, weekends and holidays.
Be within three months of the minimum hour requirements detailed below

ATP Written Requirement: 

SkyWest will provide the means to complete a SkyWest-approved CTP course for those who complete an application and successfully pass the pilot interview. 
 

Pilot applicants must meet the experience requirements of FAR 61.159 prior to employment.  

SkyWest Minimum Requirements When Counting Helicopter or Glider Time
SkyWest Airlines recognizes the skills common to helicopter and glider flying. SkyWest will accept helo/glider time as part of an applicant's total time as long as they have a minimum of 250 PIC hours of fixed wing.

Domiciles

Arizona:  Phoenix, Tucson

California:  Fresno, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, San Diego, San Francisco

Colorado: Colorado Springs, Denver
Georgia: Atlanta

Idaho: Boise

Illinois: Chicago

Minnesota: Minneapolis/St. Paul

Michigan: Detroit

Oregon: Portland

Texas: Austin, Dallas, Houston

Utah: Salt Lake City

Washington: Seattle

Wisconsin: Milwaukee


Minimum Requirements
  • Assist the Pilot- in- Command (PIC) in conducting the flight safely and efficiently
  • Assist the PIC and/or passenger service personnel as needed to ensure a prompt departure
  • Assist or relieve the PIC in manipulation of the flight controls of an aircraft while underway, including taxiing, takeoff and landing of such aircraft

Physical and Other Requirements
  • Must have a First Class Medical
  • Must be willing to fly assigned schedule based on pilot bidding seniority; including days, nights, weekends, and holidays
  • To apply, please complete the on-line application (qualified applicants will be contacted)
Qualifications:

To be considered for a pilot position, you must: 

Be at least 21 years of age 
Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Multi-Engine and Instrument Ratings
English Proficiency Endorsement (EPE) on Airman Certificate
Hold a current FAA First Class Medical Certificate
Be a U.S. citizen or able to show proof of right to work in the U.S. 
Hold FCC Radiotelephone Operator's Permit.
Have a current Passport --or other travel documents enabling the bearer to freely exit and re-enter the U.S. (multiple reentry status) and be legally eligible to work in the U.S. (possess proper working documents).
Must be available to work on any day, seven days a week, including nights, weekends and holidays.
Be within three months of the minimum hour requirements detailed below

ATP Written Requirement: 

SkyWest will provide the means to complete a SkyWest-approved CTP course for those who complete an application and successfully pass the pilot interview. 
 

Pilot applicants must meet the experience requirements of FAR 61.159 prior to employment.  

SkyWest Minimum Requirements When Counting Helicopter or Glider Time
SkyWest Airlines recognizes the skills common to helicopter and glider flying. SkyWest will accept helo/glider time as part of an applicant's total time as long as they have a minimum of 250 PIC hours of fixed wing.

Domiciles

Arizona:  Phoenix, Tucson

California:  Fresno, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, San Diego, San Francisco

Colorado: Colorado Springs, Denver
Georgia: Atlanta

Idaho: Boise

Illinois: Chicago

Minnesota: Minneapolis/St. Paul

Michigan: Detroit

Oregon: Portland

Texas: Austin, Dallas, Houston

Utah: Salt Lake City

Washington: Seattle

Wisconsin: Milwaukee

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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