Pilot Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Getting visa sponsorship as a pilot in the U.S. is possible but significantly more complex than most aviation professionals expect. H-1B visa can work for pilot positions that require a bachelor's degree, though many airlines don't formally require one, which weakens the petition. L-1 intracompany transfers, O-1 visas for pilots with extraordinary credentials, and treaty-based visas like E-2 and TN visa are more common pathways. Regional airlines facing severe pilot shortages have shown increasing willingness to sponsor, but you'll need FAA certification since foreign licenses don't transfer directly. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Get Access To All JobsSign-On Bonus Details:
- $30,000 Sign-On Bonus available for a 3-year commitment
The UPMC Center for Emergency Medicine is looking to hire a Full-Time Pilot for MedEvac 9, located in Clearfield, PA.
Schedule:
- 7 days on and 7 days off
Purpose:
The Pilot in Command functions as a member of the critical care transport team. The Pilot in Command is responsible for, and is the final authority over, the safe operation of the assigned aircraft on all flights released and operated by the STAT MedEvac system. Responsibilities include ensuring aircraft airworthiness, currency of all FAA required qualifications and publications, safe conduct of flight operations in accordance with CEM policies and procedures and FAA regulations. The Pilot in Command is expected to execute independent judgment in order to provide the safest and most efficient air transportation of CEM patients in a highly challenging and rapidly changing operational environment. The Pilot in Command functions as a part of a team and shares responsibility for the team's conduct. The Pilot in Command fulfills training and safety requirements as established by the STAT MedEvac Director of Operations, Chief Pilot, Director of Safety, and Director of Training, and performs other duties as assigned. Supports and upholds the mission, goals, and objectives, of the STAT MedEvac system at all times.
Responsibilities:
- Reports for work well rested and fit for duty. Adheres to the drug and alcohol policy at all times, to include FAA requirements regarding the use of over the counter and prescription medications.
- Reports for duty in sufficient time to perform all duties required to accept a flight and receive a release number no later than the beginning of the scheduled shift.
- Coordinates with flight followers with regard to currency, duty time, aircraft, and weather status: confirms NOTAMS, updates weather status as necessary, ensures all regulatory requirements for duty day and crew rest are met; debriefs with flight followers as necessary.
- Responds promptly and efficiently to all requests for service, with highest consideration given to safety of flight.
- Support continuity of service through flexibility in scheduling and base assignment, and assists with coverage both at assigned base and system wide.
- Actively participates in development of the CEM safety culture; ensures the safety of all patients and personnel functioning in and around the aircraft. Utilizes appropriate safety channels to report safety concerns, and utilizes available tools to enhance a safe work environment.
- Completes all official documentation accurately and in a timely manner, including payroll, expense reports, training forms etc.
- Completes all postflight recordkeeping/paperwork accurately and in a timely fashion, including filing hazard or incident reports, ASAP reports, etc., as necessary and ensures familiarity with appropriate software/hardware for accomplishing required tasks.
- Possesses thorough knowledge of the STAT MedEvac policies and procedures and shall assist in meeting operational goals and objectives.
- Provides adequate notice of requested PTO, trade days, etc. to ensure schedule coverage; maintains ultimate responsibility for coverage of assigned shifts.
- Selects and uses personal protective equipment appropriate to the level of the anticipated hazard.
- Performs all assigned duties, including daily, weekly, monthly, or other duties assigned by the Base Site Manager-Aviation.
- Maintains fitness for duty by adhering to all employee health requirements, including maximum weight, hearing conservation program, and required medical certifications. Reports injuries and completes the appropriate documentation, no matter how seemingly minor the injury, to a supervisor in a timely manner.
- Conducts all flights in a manner that safe completion is never in doubt: ensures timely transmission of required flight manifest information to flight followers obtains appropriate flight releases; adheres to all CEM policies and procedures with regard to conduct of flight i.e., GOM, Op Specs, checklist utilization, etc.; operates without violation by regulatory authorities or exercises PIC emergency authority to deviate as required.
- Demonstrates and maintains competency, proficiency and knowledge required to perform as PIC in assigned CEM aircraft including operation of all installed radios and navigation equipment: successfully completes all checkrides to satisfactory standards without retraining to standard; successfully completes all recurrent CTS in a timely manner; performs a minimum of three practice instrument approaches per month (weather permitting) in addition to IIMC and other training department approaches.
- Conducts shift change briefs with assigned medical crewmembers to include assignment of inflight duties in normal and emergency situations, weather status, pre-assigned duties and abort policy; and ensuring currency of aircrew training/CTS, IIMC, NVG, emergency, and any other FAA required training; encourages and participates constructively in crew post flight debriefings.
- Maintains current flight kits, documentation, and training records in accordance with company policy and regulatory requirements: ensures all navigation publications onboard assigned aircraft are current and appropriate; ensures pilot qualifications are current and appropriately documented in base located pilot training record.
- Ensures assigned aircraft is in an airworthy condition: properly and accurately documents all maintenance events in the maintenance log in a timely manner, e.g., MEL deferrals, VOR checks, flight time recording, etc.; performs thorough preflight/postflight inspections as required; maximizes operational readiness by ensuring sufficient fuel/O2, etc., to accept flight assignment with minimal delay ensures aircraft exterior and cockpit interior are clean; ensures aircraft covers/tiedowns are utilized appropriately and that aircraft is hangared as necessary.
- Function as a professional development resource/mentor for newly hired pilots; assist as necessary in the IOE process.
- Protect the privacy of all patient information in accordance with the STAT MedEvac privacy policies, procedures, and practices, as required by federal and state laws.
- Reflects a positive attitude to customers at all times in a high stress environment, with a clear understanding of who the customer is.
- Adheres to uniform policy and personal appearance standards by utilizing the approved flight suit, jacket, vest, hat, boots, gloves and T-shirts.
- Demonstrates an ability to establish a rapport with customers; including the ability to create and sustain a positive relationship, regardless of circumstances or environment, including site visits, and other PR events.
Qualifications
- 2,000 total flight hours.
- 1,500 total helicopter flight hours.
- 1,000 total PIC helicopter flight hours.
- 200 night flight hours (at least 100 hours unaided).
- 100 instrument hours.
- 500 turbine hours.
Pilots with less than 2,000 hours may be given consideration on a case-by-case basis based upon prior experience and qualifications that exceed those found in the CAMTS PIC Evaluation Tool.
Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
- Commercial rotorcraft-helicopter certificate with instrument rating required.
- Current second-class medical license required.
- Valid and current state driver's license required.
- Experience in helicopter EMS transport system preferred.
- Four-year degree with aviation applications preferred.
- Airline Transport Pilot OR Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
- Act 34.
UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran
Sign-On Bonus Details:
- $30,000 Sign-On Bonus available for a 3-year commitment
The UPMC Center for Emergency Medicine is looking to hire a Full-Time Pilot for MedEvac 9, located in Clearfield, PA.
Schedule:
- 7 days on and 7 days off
Purpose:
The Pilot in Command functions as a member of the critical care transport team. The Pilot in Command is responsible for, and is the final authority over, the safe operation of the assigned aircraft on all flights released and operated by the STAT MedEvac system. Responsibilities include ensuring aircraft airworthiness, currency of all FAA required qualifications and publications, safe conduct of flight operations in accordance with CEM policies and procedures and FAA regulations. The Pilot in Command is expected to execute independent judgment in order to provide the safest and most efficient air transportation of CEM patients in a highly challenging and rapidly changing operational environment. The Pilot in Command functions as a part of a team and shares responsibility for the team's conduct. The Pilot in Command fulfills training and safety requirements as established by the STAT MedEvac Director of Operations, Chief Pilot, Director of Safety, and Director of Training, and performs other duties as assigned. Supports and upholds the mission, goals, and objectives, of the STAT MedEvac system at all times.
Responsibilities:
- Reports for work well rested and fit for duty. Adheres to the drug and alcohol policy at all times, to include FAA requirements regarding the use of over the counter and prescription medications.
- Reports for duty in sufficient time to perform all duties required to accept a flight and receive a release number no later than the beginning of the scheduled shift.
- Coordinates with flight followers with regard to currency, duty time, aircraft, and weather status: confirms NOTAMS, updates weather status as necessary, ensures all regulatory requirements for duty day and crew rest are met; debriefs with flight followers as necessary.
- Responds promptly and efficiently to all requests for service, with highest consideration given to safety of flight.
- Support continuity of service through flexibility in scheduling and base assignment, and assists with coverage both at assigned base and system wide.
- Actively participates in development of the CEM safety culture; ensures the safety of all patients and personnel functioning in and around the aircraft. Utilizes appropriate safety channels to report safety concerns, and utilizes available tools to enhance a safe work environment.
- Completes all official documentation accurately and in a timely manner, including payroll, expense reports, training forms etc.
- Completes all postflight recordkeeping/paperwork accurately and in a timely fashion, including filing hazard or incident reports, ASAP reports, etc., as necessary and ensures familiarity with appropriate software/hardware for accomplishing required tasks.
- Possesses thorough knowledge of the STAT MedEvac policies and procedures and shall assist in meeting operational goals and objectives.
- Provides adequate notice of requested PTO, trade days, etc. to ensure schedule coverage; maintains ultimate responsibility for coverage of assigned shifts.
- Selects and uses personal protective equipment appropriate to the level of the anticipated hazard.
- Performs all assigned duties, including daily, weekly, monthly, or other duties assigned by the Base Site Manager-Aviation.
- Maintains fitness for duty by adhering to all employee health requirements, including maximum weight, hearing conservation program, and required medical certifications. Reports injuries and completes the appropriate documentation, no matter how seemingly minor the injury, to a supervisor in a timely manner.
- Conducts all flights in a manner that safe completion is never in doubt: ensures timely transmission of required flight manifest information to flight followers obtains appropriate flight releases; adheres to all CEM policies and procedures with regard to conduct of flight i.e., GOM, Op Specs, checklist utilization, etc.; operates without violation by regulatory authorities or exercises PIC emergency authority to deviate as required.
- Demonstrates and maintains competency, proficiency and knowledge required to perform as PIC in assigned CEM aircraft including operation of all installed radios and navigation equipment: successfully completes all checkrides to satisfactory standards without retraining to standard; successfully completes all recurrent CTS in a timely manner; performs a minimum of three practice instrument approaches per month (weather permitting) in addition to IIMC and other training department approaches.
- Conducts shift change briefs with assigned medical crewmembers to include assignment of inflight duties in normal and emergency situations, weather status, pre-assigned duties and abort policy; and ensuring currency of aircrew training/CTS, IIMC, NVG, emergency, and any other FAA required training; encourages and participates constructively in crew post flight debriefings.
- Maintains current flight kits, documentation, and training records in accordance with company policy and regulatory requirements: ensures all navigation publications onboard assigned aircraft are current and appropriate; ensures pilot qualifications are current and appropriately documented in base located pilot training record.
- Ensures assigned aircraft is in an airworthy condition: properly and accurately documents all maintenance events in the maintenance log in a timely manner, e.g., MEL deferrals, VOR checks, flight time recording, etc.; performs thorough preflight/postflight inspections as required; maximizes operational readiness by ensuring sufficient fuel/O2, etc., to accept flight assignment with minimal delay ensures aircraft exterior and cockpit interior are clean; ensures aircraft covers/tiedowns are utilized appropriately and that aircraft is hangared as necessary.
- Function as a professional development resource/mentor for newly hired pilots; assist as necessary in the IOE process.
- Protect the privacy of all patient information in accordance with the STAT MedEvac privacy policies, procedures, and practices, as required by federal and state laws.
- Reflects a positive attitude to customers at all times in a high stress environment, with a clear understanding of who the customer is.
- Adheres to uniform policy and personal appearance standards by utilizing the approved flight suit, jacket, vest, hat, boots, gloves and T-shirts.
- Demonstrates an ability to establish a rapport with customers; including the ability to create and sustain a positive relationship, regardless of circumstances or environment, including site visits, and other PR events.
Qualifications
- 2,000 total flight hours.
- 1,500 total helicopter flight hours.
- 1,000 total PIC helicopter flight hours.
- 200 night flight hours (at least 100 hours unaided).
- 100 instrument hours.
- 500 turbine hours.
Pilots with less than 2,000 hours may be given consideration on a case-by-case basis based upon prior experience and qualifications that exceed those found in the CAMTS PIC Evaluation Tool.
Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
- Commercial rotorcraft-helicopter certificate with instrument rating required.
- Current second-class medical license required.
- Valid and current state driver's license required.
- Experience in helicopter EMS transport system preferred.
- Four-year degree with aviation applications preferred.
- Airline Transport Pilot OR Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
- Act 34.
UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Pilot Jobs
Convert your license to FAA certification before job hunting
U.S. employers expect you to hold or be actively working toward FAA certification. Start the license conversion process as early as possible since it involves written exams, practical check rides, and potentially additional flight hours. Some training programs in Florida, Texas, and Arizona specialize in foreign license conversions. Having your FAA certificate in hand makes you immediately employable and dramatically improves your chances of sponsorship.
Target regional airlines facing acute pilot shortages
Regional airlines are where the pilot shortage hits hardest, and they're the most open to international hiring. Republic Airways, SkyWest, Envoy Air, Piedmont Airlines, and Mesa Airlines have all struggled with pilot recruitment. Research which regionals are currently offering signing bonuses or relaxing requirements, as those are signals of desperation that work in your favor. Many regional airlines have flow-through agreements with major carriers, so it's also a pathway to bigger airlines.
Explore the flight instructor pathway at Part 141 schools
Getting hired as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) at an FAA Part 141 flight school is one of the most accessible entry points. Schools like ATP Flight School, CAE, and L3Harris Flight Academy hire instructors regularly. The H-1B case is often stronger for instructor roles since accredited schools can argue the position requires a degree in aviation. You'll build U.S. flight hours toward your ATP minimums while earning a paycheck and maintaining visa status.
Look into corporate aviation and charter operators
Corporate flight departments and charter companies like NetJets, Flexjet, and Wheels Up have different hiring dynamics than scheduled airlines. Some corporate aviation roles explicitly require degrees in aviation management or aeronautical science, which strengthens the H-1B case. These employers may also use L-1 or O-1 visas for experienced pilots with exceptional credentials. The pay can be competitive with regional airlines, and the lifestyle is often more predictable.
Use an aviation-specific immigration attorney
Pilot visa cases are unusual enough that a general immigration attorney may not know the best strategies. Look for attorneys who specifically handle aviation industry immigration cases and understand FAA certification, airline hiring practices, and the specialty occupation nuances for pilot positions. The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and Regional Airline Association (RAA) may be able to refer you to experienced attorneys. A knowledgeable attorney can make the difference between approval and denial.
Consider cargo airlines as an alternative to passenger carriers
Cargo operators like Atlas Air, Kalitta Air, and Western Global Airlines have different hiring pressures than passenger airlines. They often recruit more aggressively internationally because the lifestyle demands of cargo flying (irregular schedules, remote bases) reduce the domestic applicant pool. Some cargo airlines have established international recruitment pipelines. The pay is competitive, and the experience counts toward eventually transitioning to a major passenger carrier if that's your goal.
Pilot jobs are hiring across the US. Find yours.
Find Pilot JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Can pilots get H-1B visa sponsorship in the U.S.?
It's possible but tricky. The H-1B requires that the job normally demands at least a bachelor's degree in a specific field. Many airline pilot positions don't formally require a four-year degree, which makes the specialty occupation argument harder to win. Some corporate aviation and flight training positions do require degrees, making them stronger H-1B candidates. If you have a bachelor's degree in aviation, aeronautical science, or aerospace engineering, your case is stronger. But don't count on H-1B as your primary path.
Do I need to get FAA certification before applying to U.S. airlines?
Yes. Foreign pilot licenses, including ICAO-compliant ones, don't automatically transfer to the U.S. You'll need an FAA certificate, and for airline transport roles, you need an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate. The process involves verifying your foreign credentials, passing FAA written and practical exams, and meeting U.S. flight hour requirements. Some flight schools offer programs specifically designed to help foreign-trained pilots convert their licenses. Budget several months and significant expense for this process.
Which U.S. airlines are most likely to sponsor foreign pilots?
Regional airlines like Republic Airways, SkyWest, Envoy Air, and PSA Airlines are the most likely to consider sponsorship because they face the most acute pilot shortages. Major carriers like Delta, United, and American typically prefer hiring from their regional feeders or the military pipeline. Charter operators, corporate aviation departments, and cargo airlines like Atlas Air also sponsor occasionally. Flight schools with Part 141 certification sometimes sponsor instructors, which can be a stepping-stone pathway.
How to find Pilot jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find pilot jobs with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international pilots with sponsoring employers. Major airlines, cargo carriers, and charter companies frequently sponsor H-1B, O-1, and TN visas for qualified pilots. Focus on airlines experiencing pilot shortages, regional carriers expanding routes, and aviation companies seeking experienced commercial pilots with specific aircraft certifications.
Is the pilot shortage real enough to help with visa sponsorship?
The U.S. pilot shortage is well-documented and projected to worsen through the late 2020s as mandatory retirements increase and training pipelines can't keep up. Regional airlines are the hardest hit and the most motivated to look internationally for talent. That said, the shortage alone doesn't guarantee sponsorship. Airlines still need to justify the visa petition, navigate the immigration process, and cover the costs. The shortage makes employers more willing, but you still need the right qualifications and certifications.
Can I work as a flight instructor to get into the U.S. aviation industry?
Yes, and it's actually one of the more practical pathways. Flight schools with Part 141 or Part 61 certification hire instructors regularly, and some will sponsor visas. The advantage is that flight instructor positions at accredited schools may have a stronger case for H-1B since they can require a degree in aviation or aeronautical science. You'll build U.S. flight hours, earn FAA credentials, and make industry connections. Many U.S. airline pilots started as CFIs, so it's a recognized career ladder.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Pilot jobs?
When a U.S. employer sponsors a foreign worker for a work visa, they are legally required to pay at least the "prevailing wage" — the average wage paid to workers in the same occupation, in the same geographic area, with similar experience. This is set by the Department of Labor to prevent employers from hiring foreign workers at below-market rates. The prevailing wage varies significantly by role, location, and experience level — for example, a pilot in Texas will have a different prevailing wage than the same role in a smaller state. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search tool.
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