Pilot Job Description (Responsibilities, Skills, Duties, and Sample Template)

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If you’ve Googled “pilot job description template,” you’ve probably come across a dozen cookie-cutter articles by now.

They all look the same.

Bullet points. Buzzwords. Maybe a list of qualifications and a vague mention of teamwork or safety. But none of them actually help you write a job post that attracts great pilots.

Here’s the truth:
Top pilots aren’t just looking for a job—they’re looking for a mission, a team, and a flight deck they can trust. If your job description doesn’t reflect that, you’ll lose them before they even click “apply.”

That’s why this guide is different.

We won’t just give you a template—we’ll teach you how to write a post that actually connects with high-performing pilots. Whether you’re hiring for a commercial airline, private charter service, or corporate fleet, this article will help you:

  • Define the pilot role in plain English

  • Write two high-converting job description templates (for experienced and junior pilots)

  • Avoid common mistakes that turn top candidates away

  • And build a job post that reflects your company’s values—not just your checklist

If you haven’t yet, we also recommend reading our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/  . It breaks down exactly why most job posts fail—and how to fix them.

Ready to write a pilot job description that actually gets responses from the right candidates?

Let’s start with what this role really looks like.

Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.

What A Pilot Actually Does - Their Roles

Plain-English Role Definition:

A pilot isn’t just someone who flies a plane.

They’re a trained decision-maker, a safety-first professional, and the person responsible for every life on board—from takeoff to touchdown. Their job is about more than just steering an aircraft. It’s about maintaining focus under pressure, communicating clearly with crew and air traffic control, and making smart calls when conditions change.

In most cases, pilots work in teams—typically as a Captain and First Officer—following strict procedures while also adapting to real-time scenarios. Whether they’re flying a commercial route, a private jet, or a cargo aircraft, great pilots blend technical expertise with calm judgment, teamwork, and responsibility.

If you’re hiring a pilot, you’re not just hiring a resume. You’re hiring someone you trust to lead in high-stakes environments.

Two Great Pilot Job Description Templates

✅ Option 1: Experienced Pilot Job Description Template

📌 Job Title: Captain – Mid-Range Jet (Commercial Charter)
💼 Job Type: Full-Time | Location: Dallas, TX
💰 Salary: $120,000–$150,000/year + Flight Hours Bonus
🕐 Schedule: 4 days on / 3 days off rotation

🎥 Meet Your Chief Pilot (Video)

Before we dive into the details, we’d love for you to hear directly from James—our Chief Pilot at AeroStream Aviation—about what it’s like to fly with us.
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link Here]

✈️ Who We Are

AeroStream Aviation is a Dallas-based charter flight operator with a reputation for precision, professionalism, and personal service. We operate a fleet of modern Embraer Phenom and Citation jets, serving mid-range routes across the U.S. and Mexico.

For over 12 years, we’ve served executives, medical teams, and private travelers who rely on us for safety, punctuality, and top-tier customer care. We’re proud to run a tight, well-trained operation where pilots are respected, trusted, and supported—not micromanaged. Our team includes former commercial captains, military-trained aviators, and top-talent FOs committed to excellence in the air and on the ground.

👨‍✈️ Key Responsibilities

  • Safely operate assigned aircraft in accordance with FAA regulations and company SOPs

  • Perform detailed pre-flight planning, weather assessment, and safety inspections

  • Coordinate with ATC and co-pilot throughout all phases of flight

  • Monitor flight systems and address in-flight contingencies

  • Ensure an outstanding experience for passengers

  • Maintain accurate flight logs and post-flight reports

  • Participate in simulator checks, training, and debriefs as scheduled

📋 Required Qualifications

  • FAA ATP Certificate with multi-engine rating

  • Minimum 3,000 total flight hours (including 1,000+ PIC hours on jets)

  • Current First Class Medical

  • Strong CRM and cockpit communication skills

  • Calm under pressure, checklist-driven, and meticulous in execution

  • Part 135 experience preferred but not required

🎯 Why This Role Is a Great Fit

At AeroStream, you’re not just a flight number—you’re a respected part of a high-performing team. We believe the best pilots don’t just follow procedures—they lead calmly under pressure, care about crew culture, and want to be part of something better than average.

You’ll fly well-maintained aircraft, work with a skilled operations team, and be supported by a leadership group that listens. We promote from within, celebrate sharp performance, and back it all up with solid pay, predictable scheduling, and trust.

If you’re looking for a charter company that runs like clockwork, values safety over shortcuts, and treats pilots like professionals—this role is for you.

💼 Perks and Benefits

  • Base salary of $120,000–$150,000

  • Bonus pay for logged hours above baseline

  • 401(k) with 4% employer match

  • Full medical, dental, and vision coverage

  • 20 PTO days per year + paid holidays

  • Annual recurrent training paid in full

  • Company-covered type ratings as needed

  • Relocation assistance available for pilots outside Texas

  • Company iPad, headset stipend, and uniform allowance

🤝 Our Hiring Process

We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not just buzzwords.
Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Complete a short WorkScreen evaluation

  2. Interview with our Flight Ops Manager and Chief Pilot

  3. Final conversation with our Director of Operations

Regardless of outcome, we respond to every applicant—because we believe professionalism goes both ways.

📥 How to Apply

Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link Here]

🌱 Option 2: Entry-Level Pilot Job Description Template (Willing to Train)

📌 Job Title: First Officer – Light Jet (Training Path Available)
💼 Job Type: Full-Time | Location: Denver, CO
💰 Salary: $65,000–$85,000/year (depending on experience)
🕐 Schedule: 5 days on / 3 days off rotation

🎥 Meet Your Future Team (Video)

Before we get into the details, meet Captain Elena from our team at SkyPath Air—she shares what it’s like to train, grow, and fly with us.
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link Here]

✈️ Who We Are

SkyPath Air is a Denver-based private air charter company serving clients throughout the western United States. We operate a fleet of Citation Mustangs and Phenom 100s, focusing on short-haul executive and medical response flights. Our team is known for running smooth, safe, and tightly coordinated operations where pilots are respected and supported—especially early-career aviators.

We built SkyPath to offer something different: a career path where entry-level pilots aren’t left behind. If you’re motivated, detail-oriented, and ready to learn, we’ll help you build flight hours, grow into leadership, and gain real-world experience from Day One.

🛫 What You’ll Be Doing

As a First Officer, you’ll be paired with an experienced Captain on scheduled flights across our coverage region. You’ll learn by doing—with hands-on flight time, mentorship from veteran crew, and direct involvement in flight prep, communication, and execution.

  • Assist with pre-flight planning, weather briefings, and aircraft checks

  • Support in-flight navigation, communication, and monitoring systems

  • Learn and follow FAA Part 135 protocols and emergency procedures

  • Participate in post-flight inspections and aircraft maintenance logs

  • Attend simulator sessions, training days, and operational briefings

  • Help deliver a safe, smooth, and professional experience for passengers

📋 Required Qualifications

  • FAA Commercial Pilot License with multi-engine rating

  • Minimum 500 total flight hours (we’re open to less for the right candidate)

  • Current Second Class Medical

  • Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and eagerness to learn

  • Positive crew attitude and strong communication skills

  • Must be willing to relocate to the Denver area (relocation assistance available)

Nice to Have (but not required):

  • CFI, CFII, or prior turbine experience

  • Familiarity with G1000 or Garmin avionics

If you’re passionate, coachable, and ready to grow—we want to hear from you.

🎯 Why This Role Is a Great Fit

We built this role for pilots who are ready to turn potential into performance. At SkyPath, we don’t expect you to be perfect—but we do expect you to be driven, safety-minded, and ready to work with a team that supports each other in and out of the cockpit.

This is your launch pad. You’ll log valuable hours, learn from skilled mentors, and fly routes that challenge and sharpen your skills. And when you’re ready, we promote from within—so you can grow into Captain, check airman, or even join our training program long-term.

If you’re a pilot with strong fundamentals and a hunger to grow, this isn’t just a job. It’s your first real step into a career.

💼 Perks and Benefits

  • Starting salary of $65,000–$85,000

  • 401(k) with company match after 6 months

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • 15 PTO days per year, with flexible time-off scheduling

  • Paid recurrent training and annual sim check

  • Clear upgrade path to Captain (typically within 18–24 months)

  • Hotel and per diem on overnight routes

  • Relocation support for out-of-state hires

  • Mentorship from senior pilots and instructors

🤝 Our Hiring Process

We don’t just skim resumes—we get to know you. Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a quick WorkScreen evaluation

  2. Remote interview with our Flight Training & Safety Team

  3. Final call with one of our Captains to ask and answer questions

We’ll update you at every step—and yes, we respond to every application.

📥 How to Apply

We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on your real potential, not just a PDF.

Click below to get started:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link Here]

Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.

Breakdown of Why These Pilot Job Posts Actually Work

Most job descriptions fail not because they miss a requirement—but because they miss the human. They sound like legal forms, not real opportunities.

Here’s a breakdown of what makes the AeroStream and SkyPath Air pilot job posts effective—and why they’ll attract better applicants than the generic ones you see on job boards:

✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Targeted

Instead of vague titles like “Pilot Needed” or “Aviation Role,” both job posts specify the rank (Captain or First Officer), the type of aircraft (Mid-Range Jet or Light Jet), and the mission (charter, commercial, etc.). This instantly signals the right audience—and filters out the wrong one.

✅ 2. The Intro Tells a Story, Not Just a Role

Rather than jumping straight into responsibilities, the posts start by giving candidates context. They show where they’ll be flying, what the team’s like, and what kind of operation they’re joining. That narrative makes the role feel real and relatable.

✅ 3. There’s a Real “About Us” Section

Instead of generic company blurbs, each post introduces a specific company with a track record, purpose, and team identity. It builds trust. You’re not just hiring “a pilot”—you’re inviting someone into a professional ecosystem.

✅ 4. They Include a Video From Leadership

This is a game-changer. Including a Loom or YouTube video from the Chief Pilot or a current team member adds humanity and makes your company feel approachable. In aviation especially, trust in leadership is a huge deciding factor.

✅ 5. The Responsibilities Are Framed as Outcomes

Instead of dumping a checklist of tasks, the job duties are tied to outcomes. For example:

“Ensure an outstanding experience for passengers”
“Support a smooth, safe, and professional flight operation”

This shows the why behind each responsibility—something high-performing candidates care about.

✅ 6. Qualifications Are Firm but Flexible

The experienced role sets clear expectations—like total hours and ATP certification—while the entry-level role explicitly states which traits are “nice to have.” That flexibility widens the applicant pool without sacrificing quality.

✅ 7. Perks and Benefits Are Broken Out Clearly

Most job posts hide perks in a wall of text or skip them entirely. These examples make them easy to scan—so applicants can see what’s in it for them. From relocation support to wellness benefits, it’s all laid out transparently.

✅ 8. They Sell the Role, Not Just the Company

In the Why This Role Is a Great Fit section, each post speaks directly to the applicant. It explains not only what they’ll be doing—but why it’s a smart move for their career. This is what turns passive browsers into actual applicants.

✅ 9. The Application Process Is Respectful and Transparent

Each post explains exactly what happens after someone applies—who they’ll talk to, what comes next, and when they’ll hear back. This small detail builds credibility and sets your company apart from the “we’ll contact shortlisted candidates” crowd.

✅ 10. They Use WorkScreen to Show They Value Fairness

Rather than relying on résumés alone, these posts use WorkScreen to evaluate real skills and potential. That signals modern, thoughtful hiring—and filters out low-effort or AI-generated applications from the start.

Bad Pilot Job Description Example (And Why It Fails)

Let’s look at what not to do.

This kind of job post is still extremely common—but it repels strong candidates, wastes time, and tells pilots nothing about what makes the opportunity worth considering.

❌ Bad Job Post Example

Job Title: Pilot
Company: Global Aviation Services
Location: USA
Job Type: Full-Time
Deadline: Rolling Applications

✈️ Job Summary

Global Aviation Services is hiring a professional pilot to operate company aircraft for various regional and international missions. The ideal candidate will be responsible for ensuring safe flight operations and maintaining compliance with all aviation regulations.

✈️ Responsibilities

  • Operate aircraft in compliance with aviation regulations

  • Coordinate with crew and air traffic control

  • Conduct pre-flight and post-flight inspections

  • Maintain flight logs and reports

📋 Requirements

  • FAA Commercial Pilot License

  • Minimum 1,500 hours flight time

  • Strong understanding of aviation protocols

  • Ability to work flexible hours and travel as needed

📥 How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a résumé and cover letter to hr@globalaviation.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

❌ Why This Job Post Falls Flat

Let’s break down what’s wrong:

🚫 1. The Job Title Is Too Vague

Just “Pilot”? For what type of aircraft? What kind of missions? What routes? This title doesn’t filter or attract the right candidates—it confuses everyone.

🚫 2. The Intro Is Cold and Empty

There’s no context, no mission, no company identity. It reads like a placeholder. Pilots scanning dozens of listings won’t give this a second thought.

🚫 3. The Company Sounds Like a Shell

“Global Aviation Services” tells us nothing about what they do, where they operate, or why they exist. There’s no About Us section, no credibility, no story—just a name.

🚫 4. The Responsibilities Are Generic and Uninspiring

These duties could apply to any pilot, in any country, flying any aircraft. There’s no detail, no sense of day-to-day impact, and no clarity about what the role actually entails.

🚫 5. No Mention of Culture, Growth, or Perks

There’s nothing here that shows the team dynamic, safety culture, or what a candidate might gain from joining. Not even a line about pay, benefits, or training support.

🚫 6. The Application Process Feels Dismissive

“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is a red flag. It makes the company sound cold, slow, and unorganized. No WorkScreen, no process transparency, no respect for the candidate’s time.

🚫 7. No Personality. No Pitch. No Purpose.

There’s zero emotion, zero leadership voice, and zero reason for anyone to click “Apply.” In a competitive industry where great pilots have options, this post is a guaranteed scroll-past.

Bonus Tips to Make Your Pilot Job Description Stand Out

Once you’ve nailed the structure, there are a few extra things you can do to make your pilot job post even stronger—and more trustworthy in the eyes of top candidates.

These details are often overlooked, but they signal that your company is modern, transparent, and genuinely respectful of applicants.

✅ Tip 1: Include a Privacy & Security Notice for Applicants

Scams in the aviation job market are real—and pilots know it. Including a short security disclaimer builds trust and shows you take candidate safety seriously.

Example:

IMPORTANT NOTICE: We never ask for payment, financial information, or personal documents during any stage of our hiring process. All communication will come from an official [CompanyName].com email address. If something feels off, please reach out to us directly.

✅ Tip 2: Mention Paid Time Off or Flex Days

Yes—pilots love to fly. But they also value rest and balance, especially in high-pressure roles. Highlighting leave shows you care about your team’s long-term performance.

Example:

Enjoy up to 20 paid days off per year, plus flexible scheduling to accommodate personal and family needs.

✅ Tip 3: Spotlight Training & Growth Opportunities

Even senior pilots want to know they won’t stagnate. For junior pilots, clear upgrade paths are a huge selling point. Be specific about what training and promotions look like inside your company.

Example:

We invest in our pilots with company-paid simulator training, type rating support, and a clear upgrade path from First Officer to Captain (typically within 18–24 months).

✅ Tip 4: Add a Video From a Real Leader or Team Member

We mentioned this earlier—but it’s worth repeating. Including a 1–2 minute Loom or YouTube video from your Chief Pilot, Director of Ops, or a current team member puts a face to your team. This creates instant connection and trust.

Pro tip: Keep it casual and real. Pilots don’t want polished scripts—they want to hear from real people.

Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4

✅ Tip 5: Make the Call to Action Human

Don’t just end with “Apply Now.” Reinforce the kind of person you’re looking for and what they’ll get out of it.

Example:

If you’re a focused, dependable pilot looking to join a team that values excellence, communication, and safety—click the link below and let’s start the conversation.

These bonus tips don’t just improve your job post—they help build your employer brand, earn candidate trust, and increase the quality of your applicant pool.

A Caution About Using AI for Job Descriptions

It’s tempting, isn’t it?

You open an AI tool and type:

“Write a job description for a pilot.”

And in seconds, you’ve got something that looks okay. Clean format. Professional tone. Responsibilities. Requirements. Done, right?

Not quite.

Here’s the problem: AI-generated job posts without context are almost always generic, vague, and forgettable. They miss what actually matters in hiring—clarity, tone, and emotional connection.

❌ The Wrong Way to Use AI:

“Write a job description for a First Officer.”

What you’ll get is a robotic list of tasks like:

  • Operate aircraft according to flight plans

  • Monitor weather conditions

  • Perform pre-flight checks

There’s no personality. No culture. No insight into your company, your team, or what the role actually feels like. And if that’s the first impression a pilot gets from you? They’ll move on.

✅ The Right Way to Use AI:

If you’re going to use AI, use it as a writing assistant—not a decision-maker.

Start with real inputs:

  • What your company does

  • Who this person will fly with

  • What routes they’ll cover

  • What values define your team

  • What perks and benefits you offer

  • What the application process looks like

  • Your company’s tone of voice (casual, professional, direct?)

Then give AI a smart prompt like this:

“Help me write a job post for our charter company, SkyPath Air. We’re hiring a First Officer to fly Citation Mustangs across the western US. Our team culture is tight-knit and supportive. We value safety, growth, and strong communication. We offer 15 PTO days, relocation support, and a clear path to Captain within 2 years. Here’s a rough outline I wrote [paste notes here]—can you help me refine it while keeping the tone human and respectful?”

This gives AI something to shape—not create blindly.

Bottom Line:

AI should support your hiring process—not replace your judgment.
It’s a tool, not a shortcut.

And once you’ve written a thoughtful, honest job post? Let WorkScreen.io take over the next step.

WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results

Copy-Paste Job Description Templates (Ready to Use)

✅ Option 1: Culture-First, Conversational Template (Use for Experienced or Mid-Level Roles)

Job Title: Captain – Citation Jet | [Job Type] | [Location]
Salary: [Insert Salary Range]
Schedule: [Insert Rotation or Weekly Schedule]

🎥 Hear From Our Flight Ops Leader

Before you apply, watch this quick video message from our Flight Operations Manager—it’ll give you a real sense of who we are and how we operate.
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link Here]

✈️ Who We Are

At [Company Name], we operate a fleet of [aircraft type] serving [region or mission type—e.g., charter, private, medevac]. We’re a values-driven team with a focus on safety, trust, and clear communication. Pilots on our team are treated as professionals—not just seat fillers.

👨‍✈️ What You’ll Be Doing

  • Fly [aircraft type] on short and mid-range routes under [e.g. Part 135]

  • Collaborate with co-pilot and ATC during all phases of flight

  • Complete all required pre-flight planning and safety procedures

  • Ensure every passenger has a smooth, professional experience

  • Keep detailed flight logs and post-flight reports

📋 What We’re Looking For

  • FAA ATP (or Commercial with PIC upgrade potential)

  • Minimum [X] flight hours (jet or turbine preferred)

  • First Class Medical

  • Team-first attitude and sharp situational awareness

  • Calm communicator with high safety standards

  • Willing to relocate to [Location]

💼 Perks and Benefits

  • [Insert Salary Range] base pay

  • [Number] days of paid time off + paid holidays

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Company-covered recurrent training

  • 401(k) with company match

  • Relocation support available

  • Uniform allowance or gear stipend

🎯 Why This Role Is a Great Fit

You’re not just flying hours—you’re joining a team that’s built for trust and performance.
At [Company Name], we move fast, communicate clearly, and back our pilots with leadership that listens. Whether you’re looking to grow into a leadership role or just want to be part of a no-nonsense flight operation, this role gives you room to thrive—and a team that’s got your back.

📥 How to Apply

We use WorkScreen to give every applicant a fair and skills-first experience.
Click the link below to complete your short evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link Here]

🧱 Option 2: Structured Format (Use for Entry-Level or Traditional Posts)

Job Title: First Officer – [Aircraft Type]
Company: [Company Name]
Location: [Location]
Type: [Job Type]
Salary: [Salary Range]

✈️ Job Brief

[Company Name] is hiring a First Officer to join our growing fleet of [aircraft type]. You’ll fly regional missions alongside experienced Captains and contribute to safe, well-run operations across [regions served].

👨‍✈️ Responsibilities

  • Support the Captain during all flight phases

  • Perform pre-flight and post-flight checklists

  • Monitor aircraft systems and report issues as needed

  • Communicate clearly with crew and air traffic control

  • Participate in simulator sessions and flight safety training

📋 Requirements

  • FAA Commercial Pilot License with multi-engine

  • [X]+ total flight hours

  • Second or First Class Medical

  • Team-oriented, calm under pressure, and checklist-focused

  • Willing to relocate to [Location] if required

💼 Perks and Benefits

  • Competitive base salary: [Insert Range]

  • Full health, dental, and vision insurance

  • 401(k) with company match

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Company-paid recurrent training and sim time

  • Relocation support (if applicable)

📥 How to Apply

We use WorkScreen to evaluate candidates based on performance, not just paperwork.
Start your application here:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link Here]

Let WorkScreen Handle the Rest of The Hiring Process

Writing a great job post is only the first step.
The real challenge? Figuring out who’s actually qualified—and who just looks good on paper.

That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.

Once you’ve crafted a job post that attracts serious candidates, WorkScreen helps you take the next step with confidence. It’s built to make your hiring process faster, fairer, and way more effective—especially for roles like pilots, where attention to detail and decision-making matter just as much as hours logged.

Here’s what WorkScreen helps you do:

✅ 1. Spot Top Candidates—Automatically

WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.

✅ 2. Test for Real-World Skills—With Just One Click

With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.

✅ 3. Filter Out Low-Effort Applicants (Including AI-Created Ones)

WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.

✅ 4. Deliver a Better Experience for Serious Pilots

When candidates apply through WorkScreen, they experience a structured, fair process—one that evaluates their skills, respects their time, and gives them clarity at every step.

That’s the kind of first impression that attracts top-tier professionals.

Start using WorkScreen.io to evaluate your pilot applicants the right way. Whether you're hiring your next Captain or building a full crew, WorkScreen helps you make confident decisions based on performance—not assumptions.

FAQ

While certifications and logged hours are important, the best pilots share a mix of technical and human-centered skills:

  • Situational awareness: The ability to remain alert and respond intelligently in changing environments

  • Calm decision-making: A strong pilot can make quick, high-stakes decisions under pressure without losing composure

  • Communication & CRM (Crew Resource Management): Great pilots communicate clearly with co-pilots, ATC, and crew

  • Discipline & checklist integrity: Following procedures consistently—even during routine operations—is essential

  • Emotional stability & leadership: Especially for captains, emotional maturity and steady leadership are crucial in high-stress moments

  • Focus & task prioritization: A pilot must manage multiple inputs at once—especially during takeoff, landing, or emergencies

Soft skills like professionalism, empathy, and integrity also matter—especially for charter, medevac, and corporate roles where passenger interaction is involved.

Pilot salaries vary widely depending on:

  • Type of operation (commercial airline vs. private charter vs. cargo)

  • Aircraft type (turboprop vs. jet)

  • Experience level (First Officer vs. Captain)

  • Geographic location

  • Company size and benefits package

But as a rough guide:

  • First Officer (entry-level charter/private): $50,000 – $85,000/year

  • Commercial airline First Officer: $70,000 – $120,000/year

  • Charter Captain (jet): $100,000 – $160,000/year

  • Major airline Captain: $150,000 – $300,000+/year (seniority-based)

Per diem pay, bonuses, and flight hour incentives often add significantly to the base salary—especially in charter and medevac roles.

Yes—if you’re hiring for an experienced role. Posting minimum required hours (e.g., “Minimum 3,000 total time”) helps filter out unqualified candidates.

However, if you’re open to training junior pilots, make that clear. For example:

“We welcome candidates with 500+ flight hours and a strong training mindset. If you’re coachable and safety-focused, we’ll support your growth.”

This expands your talent pool without lowering standards.

Ask about their approach to:

  • Handling crew disagreements

  • Prioritizing passenger experience

  • Following SOPs under pressure

  • Balancing autonomy with teamwork

And observe how they interact with your team. Great pilots don’t just perform technically—they show respect, maturity, and an ability to integrate with your operation’s style and values.

Make Your Next Great Hire With WorkScreen

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Author’s Details

Mike K.

Mike is an expert in hiring with a passion for building high-performing teams that deliver results. He specializes in streamlining recruitment processes, making it easy for businesses to identify and secure top talent. Dedicated to innovation and efficiency, Mike leverages his expertise to empower organizations to hire with confidence and drive sustainable growth.

Hire Easy. Hire Right. Hire Fast.

Stop wasting time on unqualified candidates. WorkScreen.io streamlines your hiring process, helping you identify top talent quickly and confidently. With automated evaluations , applicant rankings and 1-click skill tests, you’ll save time, avoid bad hires, and build a team that delivers results.

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