The systems and methods of the present invention provide a circuit for controlling the magnitude of the main and pilot arc current provided to an arc cutting or welding machine. In one embodiment, the circuit allows the user to set the pilot arc current such that it automatically tracks the main arc current setting. The pilot arc current is set to a value that is proportional to the main arc current, such that the pilot arc current value is tailored to the specific cutting operation to be performed and/or the specific nozzle and electrode being used. In an alternative embodiment, the circuit allows the user to select from different pilot arc current levels, such as low, medium, and high current levels. This allows the user to override the pilot arc control in instances where the plasma arc cutting or welding machine is operated under conditions not optimal for the selected nozzle and electrode.