Low Time Pilot Jobs: Your 2025 Career Guide to Getting Hired With Less Than 500 Hours
If you’re a newly licensed commercial pilot looking for your first flying job, you’ve likely faced the “experience wall.” Most employers require 1,000 hours or more — but what about those of us with under 500 hours? The good news is that low time pilot jobs in Canada are available. This guide will help you discover where to look, how to stand out, and which career paths are open to new pilots in 2025.
Whether you have 250 hours or are approaching 500, this guide breaks down your best opportunities and how to get hired fast.
What Are Low Time Pilot Jobs?
Low time pilot jobs are aviation roles open to pilots with less than 500 total flight hours. These positions help new pilots build valuable experience while earning a paycheck. They’re often entry-level roles with charter companies, flight schools, small carriers, and even government contractors.
Low time pilot jobs are essential stepping stones to higher-paying airline and corporate roles.
Why Low Time Pilot Jobs Matter in Canada
Canada’s vast geography and regional transport needs create a strong demand for pilots — including low time pilots. Smaller operations often serve remote communities where experienced pilots are hard to find. That’s why low time pilot jobs in Canada remain one of the best ways to break into the industry.
With growing retirements and increased regional travel, the demand for skilled pilots (even with 250–500 hours) is set to increase in 2025 and beyond.
Where to Find Low Time Pilot Jobs in Canada
Here are the most common sectors hiring pilots with less than 500 hours in Canada:
1. Flight Instructor Jobs
- Most popular low time job.
- Requires Instructor Rating (Class 4).
- Pays decently and helps build hours fast.
2. Charter and Bush Flying
- Operate in northern or remote regions.
- Involves cargo, medevac, and passenger trips.
- Demands strong decision-making and solo flying skills.
3. Aerial Survey and Mapping
- Fly low-altitude routes to capture photos or data.
- Often seasonal work.
- Great hour-building opportunity with consistent flight time.
4. Pipeline/Powerline Patrol
- Involves monitoring utility lines.
- Requires visual flying (VFR) and good route planning.
- Offers stable hours and benefits.
5. Banner Towing or Skydiving Drops
- Great for getting PIC (Pilot in Command) time.
- Requires comfort with slow, low flying.
- Often available in spring/summer seasons.
6. Glider Towing
- Sometimes offered through clubs or flight schools.
- Helps sharpen stick-and-rudder skills.
- Counts toward valuable tailwheel and towing experience.
Companies That Hire Low Time Pilots in Canada
Here are a few types of employers and examples that regularly hire low time pilots:
Employer Type Example Company Requirements Flight Schools Harv’s Air, Moncton Flight College CPL + Instructor Rating (Class 4) Charter Operators Air Tindi, North Star Air 250–500 hours Aerial Survey Companies K2 Aviation, Xcalibur CPL, flexible schedule Glider Clubs Soaring Association of Canada Valid medical, tow endorsement Banner Towing Services Air Ads Canada Low hours, good training attitude Skydiving Operators Skydive Toronto, Parachute Ottawa 250 hours minimum Search company websites or Canadian aviation forums (like AvCanada) for hiring announcements.
Key Skills Needed for Low Time Pilot Jobs
Even if you don’t have thousands of hours, companies want pilots who are:
- Disciplined and professional: Show up prepared and alert.
- Adaptable: Be ready for schedule changes, weather delays, and new tasks.
- Confident in VFR flying: Most jobs won’t involve heavy automation.
- Strong communicators: Talk clearly with dispatch, ATC, and ground teams.
- Willing to relocate: Many entry jobs are in remote regions.
Best Provinces for Low Time Pilot Opportunities
1. Alberta
- Bush flying and oil industry support flights.
- Many pipeline patrol and charter operations.
2. Ontario
- Large number of flight schools and skydiving operators.
- Opportunities for aerial photography and instructing.
3. British Columbia
- Floatplane and charter jobs in coastal areas.
- Demands solid VFR skills and mountain flying awareness.
4. Manitoba and Saskatchewan
- Aerial survey and crop spraying (Ag flying).
- Glider towing and patrol opportunities.
5. Nunavut and Northern Quebec
- High demand for supply and medevac flights.
- Excellent hour-building potential but requires cold weather flying skills.
Tips for Getting Hired With Under 500 Hours
Here’s how to stand out from the crowd even with low time:
✅ Network in Person
Visit operators, shake hands, and leave a resume. Being persistent and polite goes a long way.
✅ Apply Early and Widely
Start applying before graduation. Send resumes to companies across provinces, not just where you live.
✅ Build Ratings Strategically
Getting a Multi-IFR or Instructor Rating can double your chances of getting hired.
✅ Volunteer or Assist at Airports
Even unpaid hangar or dispatch work shows dedication and helps build industry contacts.
✅ Stay Current and Sharp
Fly regularly and keep your logbook updated. Practice emergency procedures and radio calls.
Average Salary for Low Time Pilots in Canada (2025)
Low time pilot salaries vary depending on the type of work and location. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Job Type | Average Monthly Pay (CAD) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Flight Instructor | $3,000 – $5,000 | Steady hours; possible bonuses |
| Bush/Charter Pilot | $2,500 – $4,000 | Can include housing and per diems |
| Aerial Survey Pilot | $3,000 – $6,000 | Depends on season length |
| Skydiving/Banner Tow | $1,800 – $3,500 | Often seasonal, bonus per flight |
| Glider Tow Pilot | $1,200 – $2,500 | Great for weekend hour-building |
Many operators offer free accommodation or per diem for remote work.
Benefits of Starting With Low Time Pilot Jobs
- Fast Experience Growth: Log hundreds of hours in under a year.
- Learn Real-World Flying: Deal with weather, airspace, passengers, and maintenance firsthand.
- Build Confidence: Master PIC decision-making in varied environments.
- Earn Income While Training: Avoid further debt or downtime after licensing.
- Create Career Connections: Make contacts who can refer you to regional airlines or medevac companies.
Common Challenges New Pilots Face
- Remote Locations: You may be based far from home.
- Unpredictable Hours: Long days and weather delays are common.
- Modest Pay at First: You won’t get rich right away — but you will gain experience.
- Higher Risk Operations: Bush flying and patrol work require sharp situational awareness.
FAQ’s
1: How do I get a pilot job in Canada with under 500 hours?
Apply to flight schools, survey companies, skydiving outfits, and bush charter operators. Be persistent and willing to relocate.
2: What is the best rating to get for low time pilot jobs?
A Flight Instructor Rating (Class 4) or Multi-IFR rating opens up the most opportunities in Canada.
3: Can international pilots get low time jobs in Canada?
Yes, but you must hold a valid Canadian CPL and legal work permit.
4: How many hours can I expect to fly per month?
Between 40 and 100 hours, depending on the role and season.
5; Is bush flying safe for low time pilots?
Yes — if you’re trained properly, fly conservatively, and avoid pushing limits in bad weather.
Final Thoughts on Low Time Pilot Jobs in Canada
Starting your career with under 500 hours may feel intimidating, but it’s 100% possible to get hired — and even thrive. With the right attitude, some smart planning, and a willingness to work hard, low time pilot jobs in Canada can launch your aviation journey faster than you think.
Focus on building your skill set, gaining real-world experience, and creating strong aviation connections. By this time next year, you could be logging steady hours and taking the next big step toward a long-term aviation career.
