PILOT

State of Arkansas; Malvern (AR); On-site; USD 3,500 - 57,000; Full time

Job summary

The State of Arkansas, Department of Agriculture, seeks a Pilot to oversee safe and compliant aviation operations across charter, cargo, and private flights. The role requires strong decision-making under pressure and adherence to aviation safety protocols.

Responsibilities include pre-flight inspections, flight planning, navigation using GPS/autopilot, and careful log-keeping to meet regulatory standards. A CPL and 2,000 flight hours are expected, with potential additional ratings as needed.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Valid CPL issued by FAA or equivalent authority.
• Instrument Rating, Multi-Engine Rating, or ATPL may be required depending on scope.
• Minimum of 2,000 flight hours and a history of safe operations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough pre-flight inspections to verify safety and regulatory standards.
• Develop and review flight plans based on weather, routes, and fuel requirements.
• Utilize GPS and autopilot to chart safe routes and monitor flight performance.
• Safely operate the aircraft through all flight phases: takeoff, cruise, approach and landing.
• Log flight hours, prepare detailed flight reports, and ensure regulatory compliance.

Skills

Cockpit instrumentation

Flight planning

Calm under pressure

Communication

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

Instrument Rating

Multi‑Engine Rating

Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)

Tools

Global Positioning Systems (GPS)

Autopilot systems

Aircraft systems knowledge

Job description

Select how often (in days) to receive an alert:

Position Number: 22112964
County: Malvern
Posting End Date: N/A
Anticipated Starting Salary: $57,351
Department of Agriculture

As the largest industry in Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is organized into five Divisions: Forestry Division, Livestock and Poultry Division, Natural Resources Division, Plant Industries Division, and Shared Services Division.

Position Information

Job Series: Program Operations – Aviation

The Pilot is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of aircraft across various sectors—ranging from charter flights to cargo transport and private operations. This role demands a well-rounded combination of technical proficiencies, sound decision‑making under pressure, and strict adherence to pre‑determined aviation safety protocols. Pilots conduct pre‑flight inspections, develop flight plans, navigate through variable conditions, and maintain clear communication with air traffic controllers and ground personnel. They serve as the cornerstone of aviation safety, ensuring that each takeoff, flight, and landing is executed with precision and care.

Primary Responsibilities

Conduct thorough pre‑flight inspections to verify that the aircraft meets all safety, mechanical, and regulatory standards. Complete post‑flight evaluations and report any discrepancies or maintenance issues identified during the flight. Develop and review flight plans based on weather reports, route regulations, and fuel requirements. Utilize advanced navigation instruments and technology (e.g., global positioning systems, autopilot systems) to chart the safest and most efficient routes. Safely operate the aircraft during all phases of the flight, including takeoff, cruising, approach, and landing. Monitor flight instruments, aircraft systems, and controls throughout the flight to ensure optimal performance. Maintain constant communication with air traffic control, co‑pilots, and crew members to coordinate flight operations. Respond effectively and calmly to any in‑flight emergencies or adverse weather conditions, making swift and informed decisions. Accurately log flight hours, prepare detailed flight reports, and ensure that all records comply with pre‑determined regulatory and agency standards.

Knowledge and Skills

Expertise in operating and troubleshooting advanced cockpit instruments and navigational equipment. Extensive knowledge of aircraft systems, performance standards, and maintenance procedures. Commitment to adhering to the highest safety standards and operational practices. Excellent verbal and written communication skills to coordinate efficiently with crew, air traffic control, and ground personnel. Decisive and calm under pressure, with the ability to quickly assess situations and execute sound decisions. Ability to adapt to rapidly changing conditions and troubleshoot technical issues mid‑flight. Strong analytical skills to evaluate flight data and implement solutions to ensure safe operations.

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED.

Must hold a valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL) issued by the appropriate regulatory authority (e.g., Federal Aviation Administration in the United States).

Possession of additional ratings such as an Instrument Rating, Multi‑Engine Rating, or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) may be required depending on operational scope or aircraft type.

Specialized Roles: Minimum of 2,000 flight hours and a demonstrated history of safely handling various flight operations in different weather and operational conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Instrument Rated
• A&P Aircraft Mechanic Certification

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure/Certifications

N/AOTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.