Lead Pilot Jobs
Lead Pilot jobs are open across commercial aviation, cargo operations, charter services, and regional carriers, covering specializations in fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and instrument flight instruction, at every level from first officer to chief pilot. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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Showing 5 of 24+ Lead Pilot jobs
Join our life-saving team in Sierra Vista, AZ and take advantage of:
Sign-On Bonus up to $100,000!
Are you an exceptional pilot looking to make a real impact from the cockpit? PHI Health is seeking skilled and dedicated pilots to join our elite team. You will be at the forefront of life-saving missions, delivering critical care to those in need with speed, precision, and unwavering commitment.
Our pilots are not just aviators; they are heroes in the sky, providing rapid medical response in challenging and diverse environments. In this role, you'll experience the thrill of aviation combined with the profound satisfaction of knowing that your expertise and quick thinking can change the course of a patient's future. If you thrive under pressure, have a passion for excellence, and are ready to elevate your career to new heights, PHI Health is the place for you.
Who We Are:
PHI Health is the leading air ambulance provider in the United States. With an unmatched safety record and the best aviation, medical and communication specialists in the field, we set the standard in the air medical industry. We transport more than 22,000 patients each year from our more than 80 bases across the country, all while offering services and outreach education to local communities and leading healthcare systems. Our mission is simple: move communities to health while maintaining the highest standard of safety, period.
Job Summary:
PHI Air Medical (operating under CAMTS guidelines)
AS350 VFR/NVG (Instrument rating required)
24-hour operations (day/night rotation)
If successful applicant requires aircraft transition - 1 year minimum service requirement per CBA
Relocation package is available - If relocation package is utilized - 2 year minimum service requirement per CBA
Lead Pilot Duties:
Under the supervision of Air Medical Base Supervisor/Business Operations Manager, Area Operations Manager and general direction of the Director of Operations, Chief Pilot, and the Manager of the Scheduling Department, insure a staff of pilots are maintained with the knowledge and skill required to operate the various types of aircraft at that base I.A.W. General Operations Manual (GOM) and FAA regulations.
Coordinates with Air Medical Base Supervisor/Business Operations Manager and Area Manager for business planning, marketing and efficient operation of EMS base.
Supervision of EMS base pilots to include, professional development, assessments, counseling and recommending disciplinary action as required.
Responsible to work with Air Medical Base Supervisor/Business Operations Manager for scheduling base pilots' occupational health compliance, safety training and assisting the Training Dept in the scheduling of recurrent training.
Per base scheduling duties to include monthly schedule, workover assignments and status, sick call,/vacation/open shift coverage, to include collaboration with other lead pilots, if necessary to cover open shifts.
If off duty and unavailable, the lead pilot will assure that open shifts are covered by a responsible party.
Timely distribution of monthly schedule to appropriate departments including timely updates regarding changes to Area Manager and appropriate offices/supervisors.
Responsible to work with Air Medical Base Supervisor/Business Operations Manager for base pilots' bonus /expense vouchers approvals for payment.
Audits routine base bills and processes for payment. Per other duties that may be assigned to them by the Air Medical Base Supervisor/Business Operations Manager and Area Operations Manager.
Insure that all paperwork and reports are neat, accurate and submitted in a timely manner.
Insure compliance with FAA Regulations and Company Policies and Procedures by all personnel under their supervision.
Keeps the Area and Maintenance Managers and Scheduling Department informed of the operational status of his/her aircraft.
Participate in safety meetings and assist the base safety representatives in insuring flight safety, maintain a safe workplace and safety audits.
Other:
External search may run concurrently with internal job posting.
Successful applicant will participate in community outreach programs and adhere to PHI Air Medical policies.
Some lifting will be required to assist in the loading and unloading of patients and equipment.
Perform line pilot duties IAW GOM.
Support Safety Management System, Destination Zero, and other company safety campaigns.
Work with both internal and external customers to provide safe, efficient, courteous, and reliable service.
Compensation and Benefits:
We offer a range of competitive pay and benefits package to keep our teams happy, healthy, and invested.
This package includes competitive pay, shift bonuses, shift incentives, Annual Safety Bonus, Annual Employee Bonus, and much more!
The Successful Candidate Will Have:
Commercial and Instrument Helicopter Ratings
First Class Medical
CAMTS Requirement // 2,000 Total Hours // 1,500 Hours Helicopter // 1,000 Hours PIC Helicopters // 500 Hours Turbine Helicopters // 100 Hours in Unaided Night Operations or 50 Hours Unaided and 100 Hours Night Vision Goggles (NVG)
Must meet and maintain the company’s flight personnel weight restriction policy, which limits individual weight to 235 lbs or less
Strong Communication, Internal and External Customer Service Skills
Interview and acceptance by customer/PHI management
Must be able to pass pre-placement physical exam including functional capacity exam (strength and flexibility assessment, lift 100 pounds to assist in the loading and unloading of patients and equipment.), drug screening and background screen.
Demonstrated Internal and External Customer Service skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Schedule/Location:
Schedule 7/7, Day of week the base changes schedules, and schedule change may be required
Must reside within 1-hour or less commute of the base
Our Core Competencies:
Safe. We are absolute in our belief in the tenets of Destination Zero and that Zero is not only achievable, but the only acceptable outcome.
Efficient. We are focused on outcomes that are smart and responsible by making the best use of our resources to maximize overall productivity and achieve sustainable profitability as a high performing organization.
Quality. We are committed to ensuring excellent organizational performance which produces sustainable and reliable outcomes.
Service. We are dedicated to the service of our customers, our communities and each other.
The PHI Health Advantage:
For more than 40 years, our company has been providing critical air medical transport services across the country. As an organization, we outfit each aircraft we fly with the most advanced technology, subject our crews to the most rigorous protocols and training and pioneer the most-forward thinking safety program in the country.
Everything that we do comes back to the safety of our crew and our patients. Our accident rate is well below the national average and we were the first to receive the Vision Zero Aviation Safety Award. This belief has guided us towards a number of industry firsts and has given us the highest safety rating in the industry.
Sign-On Bonus up to $100,000DISCLAIMER
The above Statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed, as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.
PHI, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws
Join our life-saving team in Sierra Vista, AZ and take advantage of:
Sign-On Bonus up to $100,000!
Are you an exceptional pilot looking to make a real impact from the cockpit? PHI Health is seeking skilled and dedicated pilots to join our elite team. You will be at the forefront of life-saving missions, delivering critical care to those in need with speed, precision, and unwavering commitment.
Our pilots are not just aviators; they are heroes in the sky, providing rapid medical response in challenging and diverse environments. In this role, you'll experience the thrill of aviation combined with the profound satisfaction of knowing that your expertise and quick thinking can change the course of a patient's future. If you thrive under pressure, have a passion for excellence, and are ready to elevate your career to new heights, PHI Health is the place for you.
Who We Are:
PHI Health is the leading air ambulance provider in the United States. With an unmatched safety record and the best aviation, medical and communication specialists in the field, we set the standard in the air medical industry. We transport more than 22,000 patients each year from our more than 80 bases across the country, all while offering services and outreach education to local communities and leading healthcare systems. Our mission is simple: move communities to health while maintaining the highest standard of safety, period.
Job Summary:
PHI Air Medical (operating under CAMTS guidelines)
AS350 VFR/NVG (Instrument rating required)
24-hour operations (day/night rotation)
If successful applicant requires aircraft transition - 1 year minimum service requirement per CBA
Relocation package is available - If relocation package is utilized - 2 year minimum service requirement per CBA
Lead Pilot Duties:
Under the supervision of Air Medical Base Supervisor/Business Operations Manager, Area Operations Manager and general direction of the Director of Operations, Chief Pilot, and the Manager of the Scheduling Department, insure a staff of pilots are maintained with the knowledge and skill required to operate the various types of aircraft at that base I.A.W. General Operations Manual (GOM) and FAA regulations.
Coordinates with Air Medical Base Supervisor/Business Operations Manager and Area Manager for business planning, marketing and efficient operation of EMS base.
Supervision of EMS base pilots to include, professional development, assessments, counseling and recommending disciplinary action as required.
Responsible to work with Air Medical Base Supervisor/Business Operations Manager for scheduling base pilots' occupational health compliance, safety training and assisting the Training Dept in the scheduling of recurrent training.
Per base scheduling duties to include monthly schedule, workover assignments and status, sick call,/vacation/open shift coverage, to include collaboration with other lead pilots, if necessary to cover open shifts.
If off duty and unavailable, the lead pilot will assure that open shifts are covered by a responsible party.
Timely distribution of monthly schedule to appropriate departments including timely updates regarding changes to Area Manager and appropriate offices/supervisors.
Responsible to work with Air Medical Base Supervisor/Business Operations Manager for base pilots' bonus /expense vouchers approvals for payment.
Audits routine base bills and processes for payment. Per other duties that may be assigned to them by the Air Medical Base Supervisor/Business Operations Manager and Area Operations Manager.
Insure that all paperwork and reports are neat, accurate and submitted in a timely manner.
Insure compliance with FAA Regulations and Company Policies and Procedures by all personnel under their supervision.
Keeps the Area and Maintenance Managers and Scheduling Department informed of the operational status of his/her aircraft.
Participate in safety meetings and assist the base safety representatives in insuring flight safety, maintain a safe workplace and safety audits.
Other:
External search may run concurrently with internal job posting.
Successful applicant will participate in community outreach programs and adhere to PHI Air Medical policies.
Some lifting will be required to assist in the loading and unloading of patients and equipment.
Perform line pilot duties IAW GOM.
Support Safety Management System, Destination Zero, and other company safety campaigns.
Work with both internal and external customers to provide safe, efficient, courteous, and reliable service.
Compensation and Benefits:
We offer a range of competitive pay and benefits package to keep our teams happy, healthy, and invested.
This package includes competitive pay, shift bonuses, shift incentives, Annual Safety Bonus, Annual Employee Bonus, and much more!
The Successful Candidate Will Have:
Commercial and Instrument Helicopter Ratings
First Class Medical
CAMTS Requirement // 2,000 Total Hours // 1,500 Hours Helicopter // 1,000 Hours PIC Helicopters // 500 Hours Turbine Helicopters // 100 Hours in Unaided Night Operations or 50 Hours Unaided and 100 Hours Night Vision Goggles (NVG)
Must meet and maintain the company’s flight personnel weight restriction policy, which limits individual weight to 235 lbs or less
Strong Communication, Internal and External Customer Service Skills
Interview and acceptance by customer/PHI management
Must be able to pass pre-placement physical exam including functional capacity exam (strength and flexibility assessment, lift 100 pounds to assist in the loading and unloading of patients and equipment.), drug screening and background screen.
Demonstrated Internal and External Customer Service skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Schedule/Location:
Schedule 7/7, Day of week the base changes schedules, and schedule change may be required
Must reside within 1-hour or less commute of the base
Our Core Competencies:
Safe. We are absolute in our belief in the tenets of Destination Zero and that Zero is not only achievable, but the only acceptable outcome.
Efficient. We are focused on outcomes that are smart and responsible by making the best use of our resources to maximize overall productivity and achieve sustainable profitability as a high performing organization.
Quality. We are committed to ensuring excellent organizational performance which produces sustainable and reliable outcomes.
Service. We are dedicated to the service of our customers, our communities and each other.
The PHI Health Advantage:
For more than 40 years, our company has been providing critical air medical transport services across the country. As an organization, we outfit each aircraft we fly with the most advanced technology, subject our crews to the most rigorous protocols and training and pioneer the most-forward thinking safety program in the country.
Everything that we do comes back to the safety of our crew and our patients. Our accident rate is well below the national average and we were the first to receive the Vision Zero Aviation Safety Award. This belief has guided us towards a number of industry firsts and has given us the highest safety rating in the industry.
Sign-On Bonus up to $100,000DISCLAIMER
The above Statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed, as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.
PHI, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws
Lead Pilot Jobs by Experience Level
See All 24 Lead Pilot Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Lead Pilot JobsLead Pilot Job Market
Who's Hiring
- Dollar General12
- Advanced Air2
- ACI Jet1
- Hermeus1
- Logic1
Top Industries Hiring
- Healthcare & Medical Services
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in lead pilot jobs.
- Current ATP certificate or eligibility with verified total flight hours
- Type rating on specific aircraft listed in the job posting
- Valid first-class FAA medical certificate with no limitations
- Minimum pilot-in-command hours in turbine or multi-engine aircraft
- Crew Resource Management training completed within required recency window
- Clean safety record with no accidents, incidents, or certificate actions on file
Tips for Your Lead Pilot Job Search
Tailor your logbook summary carefully
Hiring managers want total flight hours, pilot-in-command hours, and type ratings front and center on your resume. Break out turbine time separately from piston time, many lead pilot postings list minimum turbine hours as a hard cutoff before interviews are even scheduled.
Get your type ratings current before applying
Expired or lapsing type ratings on specific aircraft will disqualify you at the screening stage, not the interview. Check recency requirements for each aircraft category listed in the job posting and schedule simulator currency training before you submit applications.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists lead pilot openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Target postings by operation type
Part 135 charter, Part 121 airline, and Part 91 corporate roles each demand a different experience profile. Filter your search by operation type so your application matches what the operator actually needs, rather than submitting broadly and landing in the wrong screening pile.
Prepare for scenario-based technical interviews
Lead pilot interviews almost always include emergency procedure walk-throughs and CRM scenario questions. Practice verbalizing your decision-making process out loud, not just recalling the memory item, interviewers are evaluating how you think under pressure, not just what you know.
Negotiate schedule and benefits alongside base pay
Per-diem rates, hotel accommodations, deadhead policies, and guaranteed monthly minimums vary significantly between operators and directly affect your take-home. Review the full compensation structure before accepting, and ask HR to clarify any line items that are listed as 'negotiable' in the offer letter.
Lead Pilot Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most lead pilots?
Dollar General, Advanced Air, and ACI Jet are hiring the most lead pilots right now, with openings concentrated in North Carolina, Texas, and Oregon, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Demand tends to be highest at cargo carriers and regional airlines during fleet expansion periods.
How many lead pilot jobs are remote?
About 0% of lead pilot openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, largely limited to ground-based roles such as simulator instruction, standards and training, or flight operations management. Actual flight operations positions require on-site presence at a base, hub, or domicile by nature of the work.
How do you become a lead pilot?
Start by earning your private pilot certificate, then build hours through instrument, commercial, and multi-engine ratings. Log the pilot-in-command time required for an ATP certificate, complete an ATP Certification Training Program, and pass the ATP written and checkride. Most lead pilot roles also require a type rating on the aircraft you'll fly and several years of captain-in-command experience at the operator level.
Can you get hired as a lead pilot with limited experience?
Breaking into lead pilot roles with limited hours is difficult but possible through structured pathways. Regional carriers and Part 135 operators sometimes hire pilots at or near ATP minimums and promote internally to lead roles. Flight instructing builds hours quickly, and corporate flight departments occasionally promote co-pilots who demonstrate strong CRM skills and consistent performance on recurrent training events before they reach airline-level hour thresholds.
What does the lead pilot interview process look like?
Most operators begin with a logbook and records review, followed by a technical knowledge screen covering aircraft systems, emergency procedures, and regulatory requirements. A simulator evaluation or checkride in the type comes next for most aviation employers, assessing aircraft handling, abnormal procedures, and CRM. A final panel interview focused on situational judgment and leadership scenarios typically closes the process before an offer is extended.
Where can I find and apply to lead pilot jobs?
You can find and apply to lead pilot jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States in one place. Search for roles that match your certificates, ratings, and experience level, then apply directly to each listing that fits your background.
See All 24 Lead Pilot Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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