About This Role
Metrea, a defense company that translates commercial innovation into national-security solutions, is recruiting current and qualified contract KC-135 Pilots-in-Command (PICs) and Second in Command (SICs) to fly high-tempo, precision air-to-air refueling missions aboard its KC/C-135 fleet. The role sits within Metrea's Air Mobility Group (AIRMOB), which develops and delivers the company's aerial refueling capability and is responsible for fleet management, maintenance, airworthiness and regulatory compliance so that the tanker fleet stays mission-ready. Flying supports U.S. and allied forces, with flexible short-term CONUS and OCONUS rotations lasting days to weeks and extended long-term rotations of 45-90 days or more in India, delivering critical refueling support in a high-demand regional environment. The position is administratively based in Temecula, California, but the work location is remote with 100% travel, and the work environment is inside the KC/C-135 aircraft. Applicants must be U.S. citizens able to hold and maintain a Secret (or higher) security clearance, and must be willing to deploy at short notice and adapt to varying mission lengths and locations.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Command the flight crew while responding to a variety of emergency and non-emergency scenarios.
- Conduct procedurally correct and expeditious pre-flight, in-flight and post-flight inspections, checklists and documentation.
- Maintain situational awareness (SA) and apply Crew Resource Management (CRM) throughout all phases of flight.
- Adhere to company Flight Operation Procedures (FOPs), Ground Operation Procedures (GOPs), FAA regulations and safety notices.
- Maintain all currencies, qualifications and advanced systems knowledge related to the KC/C-135 tanker fleet.
- Execute high-tempo, precision-driven air-to-air refueling missions in support of U.S. and allied forces, including extended overseas rotations.
- Perform all other duties as assigned.
What We Offer
Competitive daily rates and mission incentives.All travel, lodging and mission logistics are covered by the company.Flexible scheduling and rotation options, with both short-term (days to weeks, CONUS and OCONUS) and long-term (45-90 day) deployment choices.The opportunity to work alongside elite crews on high-impact missions that shape global readiness.
Requirements
- Education: Bachelor's degree required. Experience: 400 hours of flight time in KC-135 / C-135FR aircraft
- 1,000 total hours
- a US Air Force Instrument/Qualification and KC/C-135 Aircraft Commander check-ride within the last 12 months that cannot expire while deployed
- and the ability and availability to fly aboard KC/C-135FR aircraft in India. Aircraft MPRS (multi-point refueling system) experience is desired and KC/C-135R Instructor Pilot / Evaluator Pilot experience is preferred. Certificates: a minimum FAA Flying Class 2 medical, an FCC Radiotelegraph Operators Permit and a B-707 type rating are listed as certificate requirements
- a current ATP or Restricted ATP is preferred, as are a current MEI and a CFII certificate. A current US or French passport valid for at least one year at the start of the contract and a valid driver's licence are also required. Candidates need a good command of spoken and written English, basic Microsoft Office skills and familiarity with iOS devices including iPads/EFB. Work authorisation: the employee must be a US citizen and must be able to hold and maintain a Secret (or higher) clearance level, and must be willing to deploy on short notice.