OPT Pilot Jobs
Pilot jobs on OPT are rare but achievable. Most commercial aviation roles require FAA certifications and TSA security clearances that take years to build, so OPT students entering this field typically start with flight instruction, charter operations, or aviation support roles while accumulating hours toward an ATP certificate.
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Get Access To All JobsMercy Air
PC12 (IFR)
Salary Range: ($91,820 - $102,576) with 110% ACCRA
+ Experience Stipend: Up to $12,000
+ $30,000 Stipend
Off Duty Housing
$15,000 Sign-On Bonus
AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE!
As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our communities. We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high-performing culture, sparked by teammates who deliver on being the best!
Location
Las Vegas is a unique place because it combines world-class entertainment, dazzling nightlife, and iconic architecture in the middle of the Mojave Desert. Known as "The Entertainment Capital of the World," it offers everything from luxury resorts and casinos to themed hotels and spectacular live shows. Its 24/7 energy, neon lights, and the ability to go from a gondola ride at The Venetian to a replica Eiffel Tower in one night make it unlike any other city. Beyond the Strip, Vegas also boasts a growing arts scene, diverse cuisine, and easy access to stunning natural landscapes like Red Rock Canyon.
Benefits
Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package created with the diverse needs of our teammates in mind:
- Health, Dental and Vision
- Competitive 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Flexible Spending Account Benefit Plans
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Full Company-Paid Life Insurance
- AD&D Insurance
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
- Business Travel Accident Insurance
- Voluntary Legal
- Relocation Assistance
- Employee Assistance and Benefit Concierge Service Programs
Job Summary
Responsible to ensure aircraft and weather conditions are airworthy to transport medical crew and patient to receiving hospital within an assigned operational area. Responsible for compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR), Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), General Operations Manual guidelines (GOM), and thorough knowledge of Air Methods policies and procedures.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities include the following:
- Operates Air Methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner.
- Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by sign off of Daily Flight Log. Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight and upon completion of each flight.
- Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and equipment.
- Must be thoroughly familiar with all aircraft and medical systems of backup aircraft utilized at operational area and also ensures that the medical flight team is familiar and comfortable with the medical interior and systems.
- Responsible for completion of required documentation.
- Able to conduct detailed flight planning with little notice to exacting standards.
- Participates regularly in Air Methods meetings, activities, projects, committees and community outreach.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Additional Job Requirements
Regular scheduled attendance. (7/7 schedule - 12 hour shifts)
Subject to applicable laws and Air Method’s policies, regular attendance is an essential function of the position. All employees must follow Air Methods’ employment practices and policies.
Supervisory Responsibilities
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. In accordance with applicable laws, Air Methods will provide reasonable accommodations that do not create an undue burden so disabled employees may perform the essential functions of the position.
Pay Scale
Based upon flight and EMS experience:
- STEP A: $82,900
- STEP B: $86,216
- STEP C: $89,665
- STEP D: $93,251
Education & Experience
- Associate’s degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school and two to five years’ related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
- Bachelor’s degree preferred
Operation and Safety Requirements:
As a member of the Flight Crew, any person employed in this position shall maintain a weight not to exceed 250 pounds and shall be less than seventy (70) years old.
Skills
- Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment
- Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months
Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) Program:
- 2500 total flight hours with minimum of 2000 flight hours in category.
- 1000 hours PIC in category.
- 500 hours of cross-country flight time, at least 50 hours of which were at night.
- 500 hours of turbine
- 100 hours night flight time
- 100 hours of flight in actual instrument conditions in category
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
- Instrument rating (for category and class of aircraft) (ATP rating in category meets this requirement)
- Fixed wing multiengine rating is required for twin-engine aircraft
- Commercial single-engine land is required for single-engine aircraft
- First OR Second Class FAA Medical certificate required.
Internal Bidding Ends: 8/19/2026
Mercy Air
PC12 (IFR)
Salary Range: ($91,820 - $102,576) with 110% ACCRA
+ Experience Stipend: Up to $12,000
+ $30,000 Stipend
Off Duty Housing
$15,000 Sign-On Bonus
AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE!
As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our communities. We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high-performing culture, sparked by teammates who deliver on being the best!
Location
Las Vegas is a unique place because it combines world-class entertainment, dazzling nightlife, and iconic architecture in the middle of the Mojave Desert. Known as "The Entertainment Capital of the World," it offers everything from luxury resorts and casinos to themed hotels and spectacular live shows. Its 24/7 energy, neon lights, and the ability to go from a gondola ride at The Venetian to a replica Eiffel Tower in one night make it unlike any other city. Beyond the Strip, Vegas also boasts a growing arts scene, diverse cuisine, and easy access to stunning natural landscapes like Red Rock Canyon.
Benefits
Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package created with the diverse needs of our teammates in mind:
- Health, Dental and Vision
- Competitive 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Flexible Spending Account Benefit Plans
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Full Company-Paid Life Insurance
- AD&D Insurance
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
- Business Travel Accident Insurance
- Voluntary Legal
- Relocation Assistance
- Employee Assistance and Benefit Concierge Service Programs
Job Summary
Responsible to ensure aircraft and weather conditions are airworthy to transport medical crew and patient to receiving hospital within an assigned operational area. Responsible for compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR), Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), General Operations Manual guidelines (GOM), and thorough knowledge of Air Methods policies and procedures.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities include the following:
- Operates Air Methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner.
- Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by sign off of Daily Flight Log. Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight and upon completion of each flight.
- Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and equipment.
- Must be thoroughly familiar with all aircraft and medical systems of backup aircraft utilized at operational area and also ensures that the medical flight team is familiar and comfortable with the medical interior and systems.
- Responsible for completion of required documentation.
- Able to conduct detailed flight planning with little notice to exacting standards.
- Participates regularly in Air Methods meetings, activities, projects, committees and community outreach.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Additional Job Requirements
Regular scheduled attendance. (7/7 schedule - 12 hour shifts)
Subject to applicable laws and Air Method’s policies, regular attendance is an essential function of the position. All employees must follow Air Methods’ employment practices and policies.
Supervisory Responsibilities
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. In accordance with applicable laws, Air Methods will provide reasonable accommodations that do not create an undue burden so disabled employees may perform the essential functions of the position.
Pay Scale
Based upon flight and EMS experience:
- STEP A: $82,900
- STEP B: $86,216
- STEP C: $89,665
- STEP D: $93,251
Education & Experience
- Associate’s degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school and two to five years’ related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
- Bachelor’s degree preferred
Operation and Safety Requirements:
As a member of the Flight Crew, any person employed in this position shall maintain a weight not to exceed 250 pounds and shall be less than seventy (70) years old.
Skills
- Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment
- Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months
Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) Program:
- 2500 total flight hours with minimum of 2000 flight hours in category.
- 1000 hours PIC in category.
- 500 hours of cross-country flight time, at least 50 hours of which were at night.
- 500 hours of turbine
- 100 hours night flight time
- 100 hours of flight in actual instrument conditions in category
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
- Instrument rating (for category and class of aircraft) (ATP rating in category meets this requirement)
- Fixed wing multiengine rating is required for twin-engine aircraft
- Commercial single-engine land is required for single-engine aircraft
- First OR Second Class FAA Medical certificate required.
Internal Bidding Ends: 8/19/2026
See all OPT Pilot Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Pilot
Verify your OPT authorization covers aviation work
Your EAD must list aviation or a related field matching your degree. A degree in aerospace engineering or aviation science supports pilot roles, but a mismatch between your major and job duties can jeopardize your OPT authorization with USCIS.
Prioritize employers with existing visa sponsorship history
Regional airlines and charter operators with prior H-1B visa or TN visa sponsorship experience are more likely to understand OPT timelines. Employers who have never sponsored a foreign national will face a steep learning curve during your 12-month window.
Start STEM OPT extension paperwork early if eligible
If your aviation degree is from a STEM-designated program, apply for the 24-month STEM OPT extension at least 90 days before your OPT expires. This nearly triples your authorized work period and gives employers time to file H-1B sponsorship.
Secure all required FAA certifications before job searching
Having your Commercial Pilot License, instrument rating, and applicable medical certificate before applying removes a major employer hesitation. Hiring a pilot who still needs key certifications while on a time-limited work authorization creates compounding risk for operators.
Target flight instruction and Part 135 charter roles first
Flight instructor positions and Part 135 charter operators hire at lower hour minimums than major airlines. These roles let you build flight hours during OPT while making you a more competitive H-1B candidate for regional or major airline sponsorship later.
Document all flight hours and training records meticulously
Employers and immigration attorneys will scrutinize your logbooks during any visa sponsorship process. Accurate, complete records of your flight hours, ratings, and endorsements demonstrate professionalism and make the H-1B or O-1 visa petition process significantly smoother.
Pilot OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can F-1 OPT students legally work as pilots in the United States?
Yes, F-1 OPT students can work as pilots if their degree field relates to aviation or aerospace and their employer is willing to hire within the OPT authorization window. The work must be directly related to your field of study. TSA security threat assessments and FAA medical clearances are separate federal requirements you must also satisfy before flying commercially.
Do pilot jobs typically offer H-1B sponsorship for OPT students?
Major and regional airlines rarely sponsor H-1B visas for pilots because the occupation historically did not qualify as a specialty occupation requiring a specific bachelor's degree. However, some operators have successfully petitioned for pilots with aerospace engineering or aviation science degrees. The O-1A visa is an alternative for pilots with exceptional records, air show credentials, or significant competitive achievements.
What FAA certifications do I need to be employable as a pilot on OPT?
At minimum, you need a Commercial Pilot License with an instrument rating and a valid FAA Second Class Medical Certificate for most paid flying roles. Flight instructor positions require a Certified Flight Instructor certificate. Airline jobs at regional carriers typically require an Airline Transport Pilot certificate, which demands 1,500 flight hours. Building those hours during OPT is the core challenge for international students in aviation.
Where can I find pilot jobs that are open to OPT work authorization?
Migrate Mate lists aviation roles from employers familiar with OPT and international work authorization. Flight schools, Part 135 charter operators, and regional aviation companies are more likely to appear than major airlines, which typically require citizenship or permanent residency for captain positions. Browsing Migrate Mate by job category lets you filter for roles matched to your authorization status.
Does my aviation degree qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your specific program's CIP code. Aviation science programs are not automatically STEM-designated, but aerospace engineering, aeronautical engineering, and some aviation systems technology programs qualify. Check the Department of Homeland Security STEM Designated Degree Program List and confirm with your DSO before assuming you qualify. A STEM extension gives you 24 additional months, which is critical for accumulating the flight hours major carriers require.