Contract Pilot Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic world of aviation, the demand for contract pilots is soaring high.

As air travel evolves, the need for skilled pilots to navigate, manage, and ensure the safety of our airways escalifies.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a contract pilot?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker striving to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of aviation,

You’ve landed at the right destination.

Today, we introduce a customizable contract pilot job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Prepare for takeoff as we dive right into it.

Contract Pilot Duties and Responsibilities

Contract Pilots are hired on a temporary basis to operate aircraft for various organizations or individuals.

Their duties involve not only flying the aircraft, but also pre-flight preparations and post-flight assessments to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting thorough pre-flight inspections to assess the condition of the aircraft and check for any potential safety issues
• Operating the aircraft safely and efficiently, adhering to all rules and regulations
• Monitoring weather conditions, communicating with air traffic control, and making decisions about takeoffs and landings
• Ensuring passengers are informed about safety protocols and procedures, and making sure their needs are taken care of during the flight
• Navigating the aircraft according to flight plans and adjusting the route as necessary based on weather conditions or other factors
• Completing post-flight procedures, including evaluating the condition of the aircraft and reporting any mechanical issues
• Keeping detailed records of flight times, aircraft maintenance, and any incidents or unusual occurrences during the flight
• Staying up to date with changes in aviation regulations and maintaining necessary certifications and licenses

 

Contract Pilot Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a skilled Contract Pilot to join our team.

As a Contract Pilot, you will be responsible for conducting flights in accordance with company and FAA regulations, ensuring the safety of passengers and crew, and delivering exceptional customer service.

Our ideal candidate is an experienced pilot with strong technical knowledge, outstanding problem-solving abilities, and excellent interpersonal skills.

You must be able to handle stressful situations with professionalism and maintain calm in emergencies.

 

Responsibilities

• Operate aircraft in accordance with applicable regulations and company policies.
• Perform pre-flight and post-flight inspections, ensuring the aircraft is safe for operation.
• Communicate with air traffic control during flight.
• Manage fuel consumption and aircraft systems.
• Maintain accurate flight logs and report any incidents or irregularities.
• Ensure the safety and comfort of passengers and crew members.
• Attend briefings and training as required.
• Keep up-to-date with changes in aviation regulations and procedures.

 

Qualifications

• Valid commercial pilot’s license.
• Minimum flight hours as specified by the company.
• Excellent technical knowledge of aircraft systems and operations.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to handle stressful situations and maintain calm in emergencies.
• Physical fitness and good health.
• Ability to pass background checks and drug screenings.

 

Benefits

• Flexible schedule
• Travel opportunities
• Insurance coverage
• Professional development opportunities
• Competitive compensation

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Contract Pilot
• Work Environment: This position requires regular travel and time away from home. Work may include weekends, holidays, and nights.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief Pilot or Director of Operations.
• Salary: Salary is based upon flight hours, experience, and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Varies based on flight hours and experience
• Location: Varies by assignment
• Employment Type: Contract
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and copies of your licenses and certifications to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Contract Pilot Do?

Contract Pilots are professionals hired on a contractual basis to fly aircraft for various tasks.

They are typically employed by private companies, airlines, charter services, and sometimes individuals.

They are responsible for operating and navigating the aircraft in a safe and efficient manner, adhering to all flight regulations and procedures.

This includes tasks such as preparing flight plans, checking weather conditions, and performing pre-flight inspections to ensure the aircraft is in good working condition.

Contract Pilots often have flexible schedules and may be hired for specific tasks such as ferrying aircraft from one location to another, providing flight instruction, or flying for private charter flights.

They may also be responsible for handling emergency situations, performing in-flight repairs if necessary, and ensuring the safety and comfort of all passengers on board.

In addition to flying, Contract Pilots are often responsible for maintaining accurate flight logs, communicating with air traffic control, and coordinating with ground crew.

Since they are hired on a contract basis, they may work for different employers throughout the year and must adapt quickly to different aircraft types and flight operations.

 

Contract Pilot Qualifications and Skills

A contract pilot should possess the following qualifications and skills, in line with your job description:

• Extensive flight experience with a clean safety record to ensure safe and reliable transportation.
• Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), and a valid First Class Medical Certificate.
• Physical fitness and stamina to handle the demands of long flights, including irregular sleeping patterns and spending extended periods sitting in the cockpit.
• Strong understanding of weather patterns and aeronautical navigation, along with knowledge of international aviation regulations and rules.
• Exceptional attention to detail to monitor and control all the complex systems of an aircraft and to respond quickly and appropriately to any emergencies.
• Excellent communication skills to clearly relay information with air traffic control and to keep passengers informed about flight progress.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly identify and respond to issues that may arise during flights.
• Ability to work well under pressure and make crucial decisions quickly, often in stressful situations.
• Interpersonal skills to work effectively with co-pilots, flight attendants, and ground crew.

 

Contract Pilot Experience Requirements

Contract Pilots are typically required to have substantial flying experience, often accumulated over several years.

This usually involves a minimum of 500 to 1000 flight hours, although some employers may require more, depending on the complexity and type of aircraft to be flown.

Many contract pilots begin their careers by gaining experience in roles such as flight instructors, charter pilots, or regional airline pilots.

These roles provide valuable opportunities to log flight hours, develop operational knowledge and improve decision-making skills under various flight conditions.

Contract Pilots usually hold a Commercial Pilot License or an Airline Transport Pilot License, which require a significant amount of training and flight experience.

They may also have further qualifications such as an Instrument Rating or a Multi-Engine Rating, which also require additional flight experience.

For high-end corporate or VIP roles, employers may require pilots to have specific experience on certain types of aircraft, such as jets or turboprops.

Experience in international flying, long-haul flights, and operating in challenging weather conditions could be an additional requirement.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the aviation industry, especially in piloting roles, may have developed strong competencies in areas such as safety management, flight planning, and crew leadership.

They are often considered for more senior or complex contract pilot roles.

 

Contract Pilot Education and Training Requirements

Contract Pilots typically need to hold at least a high school diploma or its equivalent.

However, most airlines prefer pilots with a bachelor’s degree.

Degrees in aviation, physics, aerospace engineering, or related fields are typically favored.

All pilots who are paid to transport passengers or cargo must hold a commercial pilot’s license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

To qualify for a commercial pilot’s license, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have at least 250 hours of flight experience.

Additionally, pilots need an airline transport pilot (ATP) certificate.

ATP applicants must be 23 years old, have a minimum of 1,500 hours of flight experience, and pass written and practical flight exams.

Contract Pilots must also have an up-to-date first- or second-class medical certificate, which involves passing a physical examination.

Continuing education and training is critical in this field to maintain skills and stay abreast with the evolving aviation technology and regulations.

 

Contract Pilot Salary Expectations

A Contract Pilot can expect to earn an average salary of $102,520 (USD) per year.

However, this amount can fluctuate depending on factors such as the type of aircraft flown, the number of hours worked, the pilot’s level of experience, and the geographical location.

 

Contract Pilot Job Description FAQs

What skills does a contract pilot need?

Contract pilots should possess excellent flying skills and a deep understanding of aviation laws and regulations.

They should be detail-oriented, capable of planning and following complex flight plans.

Exceptional communication skills are also essential to interact with air traffic control, passengers, and crew members.

They should also be able to handle high-stress situations and make quick decisions in case of emergency.

 

Do contract pilots need a degree?

Contract pilots do not necessarily need a degree, but they must possess a commercial pilot’s license.

They should have undergone extensive flight training and passed written and practical flying tests.

However, a degree in aviation or a related field can be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a contract pilot resume?

When reviewing a contract pilot’s resume, the first thing to look for is their commercial pilot’s license.

It’s also important to take note of their total flight hours, especially in the specific type of aircraft they’ll be flying.

Any additional certifications, such as an instrument rating or a multi-engine rating, are also valuable.

Lastly, consider their experience in different flight conditions and environments.

 

What qualities make a good contract pilot?

A good contract pilot is one who demonstrates a high level of professionalism and commitment to safety.

They should be reliable, flexible, and able to adapt to changing schedules or conditions.

Good judgement and decision-making abilities are also vital, particularly when dealing with unexpected situations during flight.

A good contract pilot should also be patient, especially when dealing with passengers or other crew members.

 

Is it challenging to hire contract pilots?

Hiring contract pilots can be challenging due to the specific requirements and high level of skill needed for the job.

The pool of qualified candidates may be smaller than for other positions, and the process of verifying credentials and flight hours can be time-consuming.

However, the flexibility offered by contract pilots can make them a valuable addition to any aviation operation.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a glimpse into the exciting and dynamic world of contract pilots.

Guess what?

It’s not only about flying planes.

It’s about charting your course in the sky, one flight path at a time.

With our comprehensive contract pilot job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to take flight.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your wingman for creating pinpoint-accurate listings or refining your resume to impeccable standards.

Remember:

Each flight path is part of a larger journey.

Let’s navigate that journey. Together.

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