What Does a Pilot Do?
A pilot operates aircraft to transport passengers, cargo, or perform specialized missions. Their primary responsibility is to ensure the safe takeoff, navigation, and landing of planes or helicopters while adhering to strict aviation regulations. Pilots monitor weather conditions, control systems, and fuel usage throughout flights to guarantee safety and efficiency. They may work in commercial airlines, cargo transport, corporate aviation, or specialized services such as firefighting, emergency medical flights, and agriculture.
In addition to flying, a pilot is responsible for thorough pre-flight planning and post-flight reporting. They coordinate with air traffic control, flight crews, and ground staff to manage flight schedules and ensure compliance with safety protocols. Many pilots pursue additional training and certifications to specialize in certain aircraft types or missions, making adaptability and ongoing education key aspects of this career.
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Pilot Core Responsibilities
- Operate aircraft safely and efficiently in various weather conditions
- Conduct pre-flight inspections and verify aircraft readiness
- Plan flight routes, fuel requirements, and weather considerations
- Communicate with air traffic control and ground operations
- Monitor instruments, navigation, and aircraft systems during flights
- Ensure compliance with aviation laws, regulations, and safety standards
- Complete flight logs and post-flight reports
- Provide leadership and direction to co-pilots and crew members
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in aircraft operation, navigation, and aviation technology
- Knowledge of FAA regulations, airspace rules, and flight planning
- Ability to conduct safety checks and emergency procedures
- Competence in weather analysis and decision-making under changing conditions
Soft skills
- Strong situational awareness and attention to detail
- Excellent problem-solving and quick decision-making abilities
- Leadership and teamwork skills with co-pilots and crew
- Clear communication with air traffic control and passengers
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in aviation, aeronautical science, or related field recommended
Certifications
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate required depending on role
- Instrument Rating and Multi-Engine Rating often required
- First-Class or Second-Class FAA Medical Certificate required
Preferred Qualifications
- 1,500+ flight hours for airline transport roles
- Experience with advanced navigation and autopilot systems
- Additional endorsements for specific aircraft types (type ratings)
National Average Salary
Pilot salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Pilot is:
$165,230
Sample Job Description Templates for Pilots
Student Pilot
Position Overview
We are seeking a motivated student pilot to begin training toward a professional aviation career. This role involves learning fundamental flight operations, navigation, and safety procedures under the supervision of a certified flight instructor (CFI).
Responsibilities
- Receive flight instruction and log training hours toward licensure
- Learn and practice takeoffs, landings, and basic maneuvers
- Study Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), airspace classifications, and aviation weather
- Perform pre-flight and post-flight inspections with guidance
- Maintain accurate flight logs and training records
- Demonstrate consistent progress in both ground school and flight performance
Requirements
Hard skills
- Foundational knowledge of aerodynamics and aviation terminology
- Basic proficiency with aircraft instruments and controls
- Ability to interpret weather briefings and charts
Soft skills
- Commitment to safety and detail-oriented practices
- Strong learning mindset and adaptability
- Good communication with instructors and peers
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Enrollment in a certified flight training program required
Certifications
- Student Pilot Certificate from the FAA required
- FAA Medical Certificate required
Preferred Qualifications
- Completion of introductory or discovery flight training
Private Pilot
Position Overview
We are hiring a private pilot to operate light aircraft for personal, recreational, or non-commercial purposes. This role requires proficiency in safe flight operations and independent navigation.
Responsibilities
- Conduct flights for personal use or private transportation
- Perform pre-flight inspections and ensure aircraft readiness
- Navigate aircraft using visual flight rules (VFR)
- Maintain communication with air traffic control
- Ensure compliance with FAA regulations and flight safety standards
- Maintain accurate flight logs and personal records
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in single-engine aircraft operation
- Ability to navigate using visual references and basic instruments
- Knowledge of flight planning and weather analysis
Soft skills
- Strong decision-making in dynamic conditions
- Attention to detail in safety and compliance
- Clear communication with ATC and passengers
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
Certifications
- FAA Private Pilot License (PPL) required
- Current FAA Medical Certificate required
Preferred Qualifications
- 40+ logged flight hours as required by FAA standards
- Additional endorsements such as night flying or cross-country
Commercial Pilot
Position Overview
We are seeking a commercial pilot to operate aircraft for hire, including charter flights, aerial tours, cargo transport, and other commercial services. This role requires advanced training and the ability to manage passenger and cargo safety in diverse environments.
Responsibilities
- Operate aircraft for commercial services such as charters, tours, and cargo transport
- Perform flight planning, including fuel calculations and route selection
- Ensure strict compliance with FAA regulations and company policies
- Communicate effectively with ATC, ground crew, and dispatchers
- Conduct thorough pre-flight and post-flight inspections
- Provide excellent customer service for passengers when applicable
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency with complex and multi-engine aircraft operations
- Strong navigation and flight planning expertise
- Knowledge of instrument flight rules (IFR)
Soft skills
- Excellent situational awareness and judgment
- Strong customer service skills for passenger-facing flights
- Ability to handle stress and adapt to unexpected conditions
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in aviation or related field recommended
Certifications
- FAA Commercial Pilot License (CPL) required
- Instrument Rating and Multi-Engine Rating required for many roles
- FAA Second-Class Medical Certificate required
Preferred Qualifications
- 250+ flight hours minimum (as per FAA standards)
- Experience with flight operations in varied weather conditions
First Officer (Airline)
Position Overview
We are hiring a first officer (co-pilot) to assist airline captains in operating commercial passenger aircraft. This role requires advanced flying skills, teamwork, and the ability to support safe and efficient airline operations.
Responsibilities
- Assist the captain in all phases of flight, from pre-flight to landing
- Monitor instruments, navigation systems, and fuel usage
- Communicate with ATC and follow operational procedures
- Perform takeoffs and landings under captain’s supervision as assigned
- Ensure compliance with FAA regulations and airline standards
- Support decision-making during abnormal or emergency situations
Requirements
Hard skills
- Strong knowledge of aircraft systems and flight management computers
- Proficiency in IFR operations and long-haul navigation
- Familiarity with airline-specific procedures and checklists
Soft skills
- Strong teamwork and communication with flight crew
- Calm and professional demeanor under pressure
- Strong decision-making and adherence to protocols
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in aviation or related field recommended
Certifications
- Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate or eligibility required
- FAA First-Class Medical Certificate required
Preferred Qualifications
- 1,500+ total flight hours for ATP eligibility
- Experience in simulator and multi-crew operations
Captain (Airline)
Position Overview
We are seeking an airline captain to lead flight operations, ensure passenger safety, and manage crew performance. This role requires mastery of aviation skills, leadership experience, and full accountability for flights.
Responsibilities
- Command aircraft operations from takeoff to landing
- Make final decisions regarding flight safety and navigation
- Lead and coordinate with first officers and cabin crew
- Communicate effectively with ATC and ground operations
- Ensure compliance with all FAA, airline, and international regulations
- Manage emergency situations and make critical decisions under pressure
- Represent the airline with professionalism to passengers and partners
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expert knowledge of advanced aircraft systems and avionics
- Proficiency in IFR and international flight operations
- Mastery of emergency procedures and crisis management
Soft skills
- Strong leadership and decision-making abilities
- Excellent communication and conflict resolution skills
- High degree of professionalism and responsibility
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in aviation or related field recommended
Certifications
- FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate required
- FAA First-Class Medical Certificate required
- Specific aircraft type rating required
Preferred Qualifications
- 3,000+ total flight hours, with significant PIC (pilot-in-command) time
- Previous experience as a first officer in commercial airlines
Chief Pilot
Position Overview
We are hiring a chief pilot to oversee all flight operations and provide leadership across the pilot workforce. This executive-level role involves operational oversight, regulatory compliance, and strategic planning for aviation services.
Responsibilities
- Manage and supervise all airline or company pilots
- Develop and enforce flight operations policies and procedures
- Ensure compliance with FAA and international aviation regulations
- Oversee pilot training, scheduling, and performance reviews
- Collaborate with senior management on operational strategy
- Act as liaison between flight crews, regulators, and executive leadership
- Lead investigations and reporting for flight incidents or irregularities
Requirements
Hard skills
- Mastery of aviation operations and regulatory frameworks
- Proficiency in managing pilot schedules, training, and compliance
- Advanced knowledge of airline operations and safety management systems
Soft skills
- Executive-level leadership and strategic planning abilities
- Strong communication and negotiation skills
- Ability to build trust and credibility with crews and regulators
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in aviation or related field required; master’s degree preferred
Certifications
- FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate required
- FAA First-Class Medical Certificate required
- Relevant type ratings for company aircraft required
Preferred Qualifications
- 5,000+ total flight hours with extensive command experience
- Prior leadership role in flight operations management