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Air Force Flight Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flight Instructor

Bend, OR · On-site

$80K - $115K/yr

WHAT YOU'LL DO As a member of the Flight Department, the Flight Instructor will instruct in and ... Detailed knowledge of Federal Aviation Regulations, air traffic control procedures, and aircraft ...

Flight Instructor

Austin, TX · On-site

$46 - $55/hr

Position Overview As a Flight Instructor at Vectored Approach, you will play a pivotal role in ... At Vectored Approach, we're committed to excellence on the ground, in the air, and within our team.

Flight Instructor

Bend, OR · On-site

$80K - $115K/yr

WHAT YOU'LL DO As a member of the Flight Department, the Flight Instructor will instruct in and ... Detailed knowledge of Federal Aviation Regulations, air traffic control procedures, and aircraft ...

AIRPLANE PILOT

IL · On-site +1

$131K - $171K/yr

The qualifications of Airplane/Helicopter Pilots or Airplane/Helicopter Flight Instructors in an Air Force active duty and Reserve force are directly related to the completion of prerequisite ...

$76K/yr

The qualifications of Flight Engineer (Instructor) in the Air Force are directly related to the completion of prerequisite training rather than years of experience. Applicants for all positions must ...

$76K/yr

The qualifications of Flight Engineer (Instructor) in the Air Force are directly related to the completion of prerequisite training rather than years of experience. Applicants for all positions must ...

Showing results 41-60

Air Force Flight Instructor information

See salary details

$25K

$94.6K

$145.5K

How much do air force flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for air force flight instructor in the United States is $94,620.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Air Force flight instructor?

Air Force Flight Instructors are highly trained pilots responsible for teaching and evaluating student pilots in the United States Air Force. They provide instruction on aircraft systems, flight maneuvers, emergency procedures, and mission planning, both in simulators and during actual flights. Their primary goal is to ensure that student pilots develop the skills and knowledge necessary to safely and effectively operate military aircraft. Instructors also assess student progress and ensure adherence to Air Force standards and procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Air Force flight instructor?

To succeed as an Air Force Flight Instructor, you need extensive piloting experience, a strong understanding of aviation regulations, and completion of relevant military flight training programs. Familiarity with advanced flight simulators, aircraft-specific systems, and instructor certifications such as the Military Instructor Pilot designation are typically required. Leadership, effective communication, and the ability to adapt teaching methods to diverse learning styles are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure that flight instructors can safely and effectively train new pilots, uphold rigorous standards, and contribute to mission readiness.

What are some common challenges faced by Air Force flight instructors and how can they be effectively addressed?

Air Force Flight Instructors often face the challenge of adapting their teaching methods to meet the diverse learning styles and experience levels of trainee pilots. Managing training schedules and maintaining safety under varying weather and operational conditions can also be demanding. Strong communication skills, thorough preparation, and staying current with evolving protocols help instructors effectively address these challenges. Additionally, collaborating closely with other instructors and support personnel ensures comprehensive training and reinforces safety standards.

What is the difference between Air Force Flight Instructor vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectAir Force Flight InstructorCommercial Pilot
Required CertificationsMilitary pilot certification, instructor certificationCommercial Pilot Certificate, specific aircraft ratings
Work EnvironmentMilitary training bases, Air Force facilitiesPrivate or commercial airlines, charter services
Employer & IndustryU.S. Air Force, military aviationCommercial airlines, charter companies, cargo carriers

Both roles involve flight instruction but differ mainly in certification, work environment, and employer. An Air Force Flight Instructor trains military pilots within the Air Force, focusing on military procedures and aircraft. A Commercial Pilot provides flight instruction in civilian settings, often for private or commercial purposes. While both require pilot certifications, the context and industry focus set them apart.

Are Air Force Flight Instructors in high demand?

Air Force Flight Instructors are generally in steady demand due to the need for qualified pilots and training personnel in the military. Their role requires specialized certifications and experience, and demand can fluctuate based on military staffing needs and budget allocations.

How much do Air Force flight instructors make?

Air Force flight instructors, also known as instructor pilots, typically earn a salary based on their rank and years of service, with annual pay ranging from approximately $40,000 to over $100,000. Instructors with specialized certifications and experience may receive additional allowances and bonuses, and their pay increases with promotion and time in service.

How to become an Air Force flight instructor?

To become an Air Force flight instructor, candidates must first complete officer training and obtain a pilot or rated officer qualification. They then gain experience as a qualified pilot, meet specific flight hour requirements, and complete specialized instructor training such as the Instructor Pilot Course. Certification and approval are required before they can serve as flight instructors within the Air Force.

What are popular job titles related to Air Force Flight Instructor jobs?

For Air Force Flight Instructor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Air Force Flight Instructor job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,620 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

Flight Instructor

Bend, OR • On-site

Epic Aircraft
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees

$80K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Key responsibilities

  • Providing standardized Initial and Recurrent ground and flight instruction to E1000 pilots

  • Acting as pilot in command of Epic aircraft during corporate flight missions and related flights

  • Performing all required preflight preparation, making safety decisions, and completing necessary documentation


Epic Aircraft rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

WHO WE ARE

Join the Team Building World-Class Aircraft. Epic Aircraft is a leading manufacturer of high-performance, all-carbon-fiber, single-engine turboprop aircraft. Driven by innovation, safety, and craftsmanship, we have earned a reputation as a premier aerospace manufacturer. Located in beautiful Bend, Oregon, Epic offers an exciting work environment surrounded by mountains, rivers, and year-round outdoor recreation. If you're looking for a career with growth opportunities, we'd love to meet you.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

As a member of the Flight Department, the Flight Instructor will instruct in and operate the fastest single-engine turboprop in the world, the Epic E1000, providing safe aircraft operation and outstanding customer service to customers and passengers. Your main tasks will consist of flight training, corporate missions, post-maintenance flights, and other assignments as needed. Initial Epic Factory Training will be provided at no cost.

Responsibilities

  • Providing standardized Initial and Recurrent ground and flight instruction to E1000 pilots
  • Acting as pilot in command of Epic aircraft while performing corporate flight missions, including repositioning, ferry, internal training, post maintenance flights and delivery acceptance flights
  • Maintaining communication with clients before and after training events
  • Escalating client and internal issues as appropriate to promote an amazing customer experience and collegial workplace
  • Facilitating the resolution of discrepancies on newly delivered and corporate aircraft
  • Operating Epic aircraft in accordance with applicable regulations and Epic company policies
  • Performing all required preflight preparation (including weather assessments)
  • Making and communicating timely and accurate decisions regarding the safety of flight
  • Completing all necessary paperwork and documentation for flights and travel expenses
  • Maintaining a deep level of aircraft knowledge and being a model aviator, flight instructor, and Epic representative

Additional duties may include:

  • Providing airshow sales support
  • Presentations to internal & external customers
  • Special projects and assignments as requested

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TEAM

  • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent education and work experience
  • Current and active FAA Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI and CFII)
    • Commercial Pilot ASEL, Instrument Airplane
    • Flight Instructor ASE, Instrument Airplane
    • Current 1st or 2nd Class Medical
  • 1500 hours Total
  • 750 hours Authorized Instructor
  • IFR Current
  • No Violations
  • Detailed knowledge of Federal Aviation Regulations, air traffic control procedures, and aircraft systems
  • Confidentiality and Discretion
  • A Current Valid U.S. Passport is Required
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship

Desirable

  • Experience operating turbine aircraft in IFR, congested airspace, mountain flying, extensive IMC, and night
  • Recent instructing experience in military, part 142, part 141, or General Aviation
  • Recent instructing experience in turboprop or turbofan aircraft
  • Recent instructing experience in advanced avionics (e.g., G1000 NXi)
  • Experience providing instruction in simulators or training devices
  • Previous corporate flight experience
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace
  • Previous experience in training course development

COMPENSATION AND SCHEDULE

Monday – Friday
7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. occasional weekends and/or event support as needed

Salary Range: $80-$115k Annually DOE

BENEFITS AND CAREER GROWTH

At Epic Aircraft, we're committed to investing in our employees and providing opportunities for long-term success

  • 100% paid Health, Vision, and Dental benefits for employees & 50% for dependents
  • 401k retirement plan with a 3% matching program
  • Company provided paid time off accrued each year
  • Seven paid holidays each year
  • Paid company shutdown between Christmas and New Year's Day
  • Discretionary year-end bonus program
  • Performance-based pay increases
  • Access to the Epic Aircraft Flying Club
  • Ongoing training and advancement opportunities
  • Supportive team environment and company-sponsored events

Additional Information

  • This position is located at Epic Headquarters in Bend, Oregon
  • Relocation Assistance is not provided

Epic Aircraft does not accept 3rd party agency solicitation requests


What Epic Aircraft employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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