Delivery Pilot Intern
Cirrus Aircraft - Knoxville, TN
Summer 2026 (May - August)
Cirrus Aircraft, a global leader in general aviation manufacturing, is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Delivery Pilot Intern for a full-time summer position. This internship offers invaluable experience within the Delivery Operations department, working directly with a world-class team and interacting with Cirrus customers.
Role Overview
The Delivery Pilot Intern will gain comprehensive experience across various facets of the Delivery Operations department. The primary focus will be on supporting the team's daily responsibilities, which include aircraft delivery event record-keeping, scheduling, setup, aircraft presentation, and conducting delivery flights. This role is highly customer-facing, requiring professional interaction and assistance for Cirrus clientele.
Key Responsibilities
- Adhere rigorously to all industry and Cirrus established safety procedures and policies.
- Provide exceptional and professional customer service during all interactions.
- Contribute effectively as a member of a dedicated professional team.
- Offer administrative support to the Delivery Operations department.
- Develop critical professional skills including analytical thinking, teamwork, goal setting, strategic planning, pressure management, listening, and organizational skills.
- Make prompt and accurate safety-of-flight decisions.
- Maintain meticulous records of all training event activities and outcomes.
- Act as Pilot in Command (PIC) for Cirrus aircraft during corporate flight missions, including demonstration, repositioning, and post-maintenance flights, as well as ferry and internal training flights.
- Conduct thorough pre-flight and post-flight inspections, including aircraft detailing, fueling, oil checks, de-icing fluid application, and chart subscription updates.
- Manage travel expenses in strict accordance with Cirrus company policies.
- Engage in continuous learning regarding the latest advancements in the Cirrus Aircraft product line.
- Provide constructive feedback for program and process improvements.
- Identify and escalate concerns appropriately to ensure operational efficiency and safety.
- Develop effective communication methods for safety, recordkeeping, ramp operations, and fleet management within flying club functions.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Required Education, Experience, and Licenses:
- Currently pursuing a college degree in Aviation or Professional Piloting.
- Possession of a current and active FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with an Instrument Rating.
- Current FAA 1st or 2nd Class Medical Certificate required.
- Minimum of 500 hours total flight time or 100 hours in Cirrus aircraft.
Preferred Education, Experience, and Licenses:
- Experience with Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) in congested airspace, mountain flying, extensive Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) flying, international flight, and night flying is highly preferred.
- Hold a current and active Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) with an Instrument Rating.
Essential Competencies:
- Demonstrated success in aviation activities commensurate with experience.
- Strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to maintain focus and attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.
- Effective presentation skills.
- Professional demeanor and appearance.
Additional Requirements:
- Must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
- Must be able to complete the entire duration of the internship program.
- Must be able to secure local housing for the internship period.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Cirrus Aircraft is committed to a drug-free work environment and promotes equal employment opportunity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, national origin, color, age, disability, religion, pregnancy, veteran status, marital and family status, sexual orientation, receipt of public assistance, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.