First Officer — Military Aviator Transition Program (Boeing 737)

Pilot Assessments; Dallas, Northern (TX, KY); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free travel on SW network

401(k) plan with company contributions

Stock purchase discount

Job summary

Southwest Airlines’ Military Aviator Program targets current U.S. military pilots transitioning to airline operations, offering mentorship and guidance for potential First Officer employment.

Eligible candidates must meet regulatory requirements, medical standards, and have a bachelor’s degree preferred. Participants gain exposure to Boeing 737 operations, culture, and customer service while preparing for post-program employment opportunities.

Qualifications

• Current U.S. military pilot with six months remaining until availability.
• Meets Southwest Airlines pilot hiring flight-experience requirements.
• Current military medical recommendation for flying.

Responsibilities

• Operate Southwest Boeing 737 aircraft safely and as First Officer.
• Comply with FAA manuals, regulations, directives, ADs, and company procedures.
• Coordinate with Captain, Flight Attendants, Dispatch, and ground teams for service excellence.
• Execute short aircraft turns while maintaining safety and efficiency.
• Report irregularities and notify leadership of safety or compliance issues.
• Direct the flight crew when assigned; act as Captain if needed.
• Manage abnormal and emergency procedures and monitor ATC environments.
• Communicate clearly over radio and assist passengers as needed.
• Take decisive action to resolve safety or compliance issues.

Skills

Communication

Safety awareness

Team coordination

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma or GED

Bachelor’s degree preferred

Job description

About the program

The Military Aviator Program is tailored for current U.S. military pilots with projected availability between April 1, 2027 and September 30, 2028. You’ll receive guidance and mentorship to help you navigate the transition to Southwest flight operations, culture, and customer service—positioning you for potential First Officer employment when eligible requirements are met.

What you’ll do

• Operate Southwest Boeing 737 aircraft safely and efficiently as First Officer.
• Comply with FAA-approved/accepted manuals, Ops Specs, federal regulations, directives, ADs, manufacturer guidance, and company procedures.
• Work in close coordination with the Captain, Flight Attendants, Dispatch, and ground teams to deliver Southwest’s signature customer service.
• Execute quick 15- to 20-minute aircraft turns under tight time constraints while maintaining safety and compliance.
• Report irregularities and incidents; immediately notify the Base Chief Pilot or Assistant Base Chief Pilot of any discrepancy affecting safety, compliance, or fiscal responsibility.
• When assigned, direct the flight crew; act as Captain in the event of Captain incapacitation.
• Manage abnormal and emergency procedures; monitor ramp and ATC environments to identify and mitigate hazards.
• Communicate clearly over radio and other operational systems; assist passengers when appropriate.
• Take decisive action to resolve safety or compliance issues.

What you’ll bring (minimum requirements)

• Current U.S. military pilot with more than six months remaining until your projected availability (within the stated program window).
• Meets applicable Southwest Airlines Pilot Hiring flight-experience requirements.
• Current military medical recommendation for flying.
• High school diploma or GED; bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Age 23+ and able to communicate effectively in English.
• Ability to meet physical and attendance standards; consent to Pilot Records Database (PRD) access.
• Willing and able to work rotating shifts, overtime, and frequent travel.

Preferred qualifications

• 500 hours in fixed‑wing turbine aircraft.
• Recent fixed‑wing turbine time within the last three years.
• Turbine PIC experience.
• Applicable 121 airline, military, or U.S.-based flight experience.
• Boeing 737 type rating.
• Leadership experience in a flight department of 10+ pilots.
• Demonstrated history of operational excellence.
• Note: This posting does not specify a required total-flight-time minimum.

Certificates, clearances, and documents (prior to final MAP validation or employment, as applicable)

• Unrestricted USA DOT/FAA Airline Transport Pilot Certificate (ATP).
• FAA First Class Medical Certificate.
• FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit.
• Valid U.S. driver’s license and unrestricted U.S. work authorization.
• Valid passport and eligibility for required CREW badge/clearances.

Pay and benefits

• Starting pay: $125.90 per Trip For Pay (TFP), with contractual wage increases and additional pay for specified flying.
• Retirement: 18% non‑elective B‑Fund contribution to your 401(k) plus ProfitSharing contributions.
• Travel: Free travel on open seats across Southwest’s network for employees and eligible dependents.
• Insurance: Competitive health coverage and company‑paid loss‑of‑license protection.
• Ownership: Opportunity to purchase Southwest common stock at a 10% discount.
• Quality of life: Flexible scheduling, competitive narrow‑body pay rates, substantial days off, favorable work rules, and access to Southwest’s renowned culture and employee programs.

Important notes

• Participation in the Military Aviator Program does not guarantee employment.
• All hiring is subject to eligibility verification, final validation, business needs, and successful completion of Southwest’s screening and hiring requirements.