Write a Pilot Resume That Gets Noticed

Aviation is a field where hiring managers are necessarily strict about qualifications. Pilots must meet medical guidelines before even being eligible to apply for a pilot license. They have to undergo several types of testing in order to prove their capability. Because they require such a sharp skillset, pilots are also expected to have a well-written resume in order to be considered for an available position.

This guide will show you everything you need to write a pilot resume that gets results in just minutes.

You will learn:

• Different jobs in the aviation field you can apply to
• Seven tips for creating a pilot or aviation resume
• What skills a recruiter may look for in a pilot resume
• Resume format examples for any job

During your job search, you may see different job titles for a pilot. Some may be jobs that require a specialized license or extra training. Many pilot jobs will offer to sponsor additional training if you already have your pilot license. Some aviation job titles you may see include:

• Commercial airline pilot
• Air traffic control
• Airline transport pilot
• Multi-engine pilot
• Private pilot
• Flight instructor

These seven tips will help you create the perfect resume for any pilot job.

1. Create your aviation resume with ATS in mind.

A potential employer will often use an applicant tracking system. An ATS scans and sorts applicants’ resumes based on factors such as:

• Keywords
• Format
• Font 
• Layout

You can use the ATS criteria to design your resume in a way that will ensure it gets through to the hiring manager and makes a great impression. For more details, see our ATS resume page

2. List your contact information in the header of your resume.

The header of your resume is the best place to put your contact information because it will stand out to the reader. It will be easy to locate after they read your resume and decide to call you for an interview. Your contact information should include:

• Full name
• Professional title
• Email address
• Phone number
• Physical address
• Professional portfolio website or link  such as LinkedIn

3. Emphasize your flight training and skills.

A pilot, air traffic controller, or even flight attendant will have a variety of skills that are unique from other jobs. Abilities that may benefit you in the aviation field include both hard skills and soft skills such as:

• Communication skills
• Air traffic control
• Single engine or multi-engine
• Commercial or private flights
• Teamwork
• Staying calm under pressure
• Spatial awareness
• Knowledge of flight plans

4. Keep your work experience section concise and easy to read.

When writing about your flight experience and former jobs, use bullet points to make the highlights of your pilot career stand out. If you don’t have many years of experience as a pilot, then you may include experience from a flight school or a related job, such as a flight attendant or flight crew. Turn your responsibilities into achievements by using numbers and percentages. Note exceptional flight times or flight hours logged.

5. Education can make you a more attractive candidate for the job.

Pilots can have a wide variety of flight training to prepare them for different types of aviation jobs. In the education section of your resume, make sure to include:

• Highest level of education completed
• Relevant coursework
• Any ongoing flight training or related courses you are taking

6. Achievements and awards can make you a more prestigious pilot.

Achievements and awards can add a special element to your resume. Awards you may list on your resume as a professional pilot include:

• Professional awards
• Scholarships and academic awards
• Awards for community service or volunteer work
• Air Force honors
• Security clearances   

7. Apply for certifications to bring your career to the next level.

There are some certifications that pilots require in order to operate an aircraft, like the FAA Pilot certificate. But, there are other certifications that can show you have additional abilities or flight training that will help you further your career. Some common certifications for pilots include:

• Commercial Pilot
• Sport Pilot
• Certified Flight Instructor
• FAA Medical Certificate

ResumeHelp’s resume builder can help you format your resume. There are three types of resume formats to choose from depending on where you are in your career. A correctly formatted resume can make a strong impression on the hiring manager or recruiter for a pilot position, and emphasize your best assets. The three resume formats to work with are:

1. Reverse-chronological resume format
2. Functional resume format
3. Combination resume format