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Weekend Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting skills, and the ability to analyze aerial data. Your key responsibilities will include flying drones ...

As a Drone Pilot, you should have a strong understanding of drone technology, excellent piloting skills, and the ability to analyze aerial data. Your key responsibilities will include flying drones ...

USV Pilot

Alameda, CA · On-site

$43.36 - $56.34/hr

Reporting directly to the Pilot Team Manager, you will play a critical role in safely navigating ... weekend and odd-hour shifts. THE QUALIFICATIONS * 5+ years of maritime command experience ...

The Corporate pilot will communicate regularly with the Assistant chief pilots, to ensure that all operational issues related to our aircraft are addressed in a timely manner. We are looking ...

HAA PILOT Full-Time Opportunity Pilot Incentives * Salary Range: $124,263-$136,689 including 40% Geographic Modifier * 15K Sign-On Bonus, subject to eligibility * Retention Bonus plans ($40,000 after ...

HAA PILOT Full-Time Opportunity Pilot Incentives * Salary Range: $124,263-$136,689 including 40% Geographic Modifier * 15K Sign-On Bonus, subject to eligibility * Retention Bonus plans ($40,000 after ...

The Corporate pilot will communicate regularly with the Assistant chief pilots, to ensure that all operational issues related to our aircraft are addressed in a timely manner. We are looking ...

HAA PILOT Full-Time Opportunity Pilot Incentives * Salary Range: $124,263-$136,689 including 40% Geographic Modifier * 15K Sign-On Bonus, subject to eligibility * Retention Bonus plans ($40,000 after ...

Rotor Wing Pilot

Ukiah, CA · On-site

$124K - $136K/yr

HAA PILOT Full-Time Opportunity Pilot Incentives * Salary Range: $124,263-$136,689 including 40% Geographic Modifier * 15K Sign-On Bonus, subject to eligibility * Retention Bonus plans ($40,000 after ...

HAA PILOT Full-Time Opportunity Pilot Incentives * Salary Range: $124,263-$136,689 including 40% Geographic Modifier * 15K Sign-On Bonus, subject to eligibility * Retention Bonus plans ($40,000 after ...

Research Pilots will plan and fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe operations are provided as tasked. AFRC aircraft are operated to meet both Center and ...

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Weekend Pilot information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$129.2K

$198.4K

How much do weekend pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 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 are Weekend Pilots?

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 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 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 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.

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 cities in California are hiring for Weekend Pilot jobs? Cities in California with the most Weekend Pilot job openings:
Infographic showing various Weekend Pilot job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,202 per year, or $62.1 per hour.
Research Pilot

$170 - $190/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Overview

NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) Aircrew member performs duties in support of the operations of all aircraft assigned to applicable base location. 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 aircraft requirements. AFRC aircraft are located at the main campus at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Deployed operations, both CONUS and OCONUS, are routine for these aircrew positions.

Pay Range $170,000-$190,000.

The pay range for this position is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, geographic location, and any applicable laws.

Responsibilities

A successful candidate will conduct full-time Pilot duties on a variety of NASA aircraft as assigned to include, but not limited to: C-20A, Gulfstream (III, IV, and V), Pilatus PC-12, T-34, RQ-4 Global Hawk, and TG-14.

Duties include:

  • Conducting flight operations in accordance with FAA, Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), and other applicable directives, regulations, and instructions.
  • Maintaining performance standards in accordance with directives, training plans and Flight Crew Branch policies to include: Knowledge of safety precautions, Knowledge of airfield operations, Demonstrating Emergency Bold Face procedures from memory, and Knowledge of aircraft systems, limitations and ATC regulations / procedures.
  • Participating in i3 and NASA-directed Continuation Training, meetings, and other forums mandated by the on-site management team.
  • Performing any and all on-site tasks necessary at operating locations for a safe, secure, and professional operation.
  • Direct support to any administrative or flight operations scheduling / record keeping as needed
  • Other duties as assigned

Candidate must also maintain proficiency, currency, and annual requirements in accordance with NPR 7900.3C, NPD 7900.4D, AFPD 8700.1 and AFOP 7900.3-006 as applicable.

NASA will provide training and qualification checks for aircrew, including required periodic simulator training.

NASA authorized flight surgeon will provide periodic flight physicals for aircrew.

Qualifications

Required Skills:

  • Bachelor’s degree, or higher, from an accredited university or college (Required), with major study in an appropriate field of engineering, physical science, life science, or mathematics (Desired).
  • Must be able to pass random drug screenings. (Required)
  • Possess a current US passport, valid through period of employment. (Required)
  • Formal military training in expected duties (with DD 214 annotating AFSC / MOS qualification) or applicable civilian experience. (Highly Desired)
  • Possess an FAA commercial pilot license with instrument, multiengine and single engine land ratings or possess a pilot and instrument rating from the armed services. (Required)
  • Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft with 500 hours of special missions’ experience (Highly Desired)
  • Must meet the security requirements of the position and pass a NASA Flight Medical Certification (Required).

Required Experience:

  • Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft with 500 hours of special missions’ experience (Highly Desired)
  • Should possess knowledge and first-hand experience necessary to succeed as a government contractor providing direct support to NASA AFRC staff as required.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Must be able to create, maintain and update briefings and statistical reporting.
  • Must be able to obtain a DoD SECRET security clearance.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

  • Light to medium work. Ability to lift, carry, push, pull, see, hear, stoop, crouch, feel, handle; manual dexterity.
  • Outside work. Ability to tolerate conditions in a deployed environment to include inclement weather, rain, humidity, cold and extreme heat. May be exposed to dust, fumes, odors, chemicals, and confined spaces.
  • Close, distance, color and peripheral vision and depth perception.
  • Ability to read and comprehend technical manuals and instructions; procedures, safety instructions, memos, reports. Ability to write at a level to relay data, details and information. Ability to perform shop math. Ability to speak clearly and concisely to relay information.
  • Office conditions: Moderate noise level. May be required to sit at computer station and/or type on keyboard for extended periods of time. May be required to lift objects such as laptop and office copy paper. May be required to view and read computer monitor for extended periods of time. May be required to take verbal messages per phone and face-to-face contact. Will occasionally be required to stand and walk to deliver items within office or on the flight line.
  • Flight line working conditions: Will be required to work day or night. May be exposed to high noise levels. Will be required to fly long missions (up to 12 hours) at high altitude in a confined space. May be subject to the altitude or physiological risks normally associated with flying.
Other Outstanding Benefits
  • Excellent insurance coverage
  • 401(k) match
  • Generous PTO
  • Health and wellness incentives
  • Tuition and certification reimbursement
  • Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares
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