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Aviation Flight Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Aviation Flight Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$25.8K

$97.5K

$149.9K

How much do aviation flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for aviation flight instructor in Chicago, IL is $97,472.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,100.00 and $115,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by aviation flight instructors, and how can they be managed?

Aviation Flight Instructors often encounter challenges such as adapting to students' varying learning paces, maintaining strict safety standards during flight training, and staying updated on evolving aviation regulations. Managing these challenges involves strong communication skills, patience, and ongoing professional development. Instructors also collaborate closely with other instructors and flight school staff to share best practices and ensure a consistent learning environment for students.

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

To thrive as an Aviation Flight Instructor, you need expert piloting skills, a deep understanding of aeronautical concepts, and a valid Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) license. Familiarity with flight simulation software, aircraft systems, and FAA regulations is crucial for effective training delivery. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to adapt teaching styles to different learners are standout soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, effective instruction and help aspiring pilots build the confidence and proficiency needed for real-world flying.

What is an aviation flight instructor?

Aviation Flight Instructors are certified professionals who teach students how to fly aircraft. They provide both ground instruction, covering topics like flight theory and regulations, and in-flight training, guiding students through practical maneuvers and safety procedures. Flight instructors help aspiring pilots develop the skills and knowledge needed to obtain various pilot licenses and endorsements. Their role is crucial in ensuring new pilots are competent, confident, and operate safely in the airspace.

What is the difference between Aviation Flight Instructor vs Flight School Instructor?

AspectAviation Flight InstructorFlight School Instructor
Required CertificationsCertified Flight Instructor (CFI)Typically holds a CFI certification
Work EnvironmentFlight training environments, flight schools, airportsFlight training settings, flight schools, aviation academies
Employer & Industry UsagePart of aviation training industry, FAA regulatedEducational institutions, flight training organizations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Aviation Flight Instructor and a Flight School Instructor is that the former is specifically certified to teach flight training and often works within regulated aviation environments, while the latter may refer broadly to instructors working in flight schools or aviation academies. Both roles require similar certifications and focus on pilot training, but the term 'Aviation Flight Instructor' emphasizes the professional certification and regulatory aspect.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Aviation Flight Instructor jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Aviation Flight Instructor job openings:
Infographic showing various Aviation Flight Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,472 per year, or $46.9 per hour.

ORD Station Trainer - Ground Handling

Swissport International AG

Chicago, IL • On-site

$27 - $31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Swissport International AG rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 65 rated aviation services


Job description

Are you ready to take flight in a dynamic and fast-paced aviation industry? As a global leader in aviation services, Swissport provides Ground Handling, Cargo Handling, and Passenger Services to over 300 million passengers annually. Our mission is simple - "To provide the aviation industry with consistent and tailor-made solutions around the globe, for a better customer experience."
We believe that our people are what differentiates us from our competition. At Swissport, we are driven by our core values of Show You Care, Do the Right Things and Win as a Team, and we are currently seeking dedicated individuals, who align with these values, to join our team at various locations across the globe.
Job Summary
The Ground Handling - Classroom & OJT Trainer will be responsible for delivering classroom and on-the-job training (OJT), airline specific training, sign-offs and evaluating performance of employees at station within their designated area of expertise, as well as ensure company and customer services standards and policies are met, while maintaining a high level of proficiency and certification in required operational functions. This role will deliver airline practical and instructor led training and monitor Classroom & OJT/Coaching activities at their respective station(s) to ensure Swissport and local specific requirements are met. In addition, this role will also serve as an interim supervisor, providing direction for all new hires until formally released to work independently within the Ground Handling operations.
The expected pay rate is $27.00- $31.00/hour. Full-time employees are offered a range of health and wellness benefits as well as 401(k) with company match paid vacation time, sick time, and company paid holidays.
Job Responsibilities
  • Deliver detailed training in various formats such as instructor and virtual instructor led training, e-learning, self-directed training, on-the-job training, and relevant training materials
  • Deliver and oversee detailed practical Ground Handling Classroom & OJT including final assessment and sign off as required
  • Follow Swissport Corporate and NOAM Training Policy and Procedures and operate any equipment following Swissport Safe Systems of Work (SSOW) or Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)
  • Actively monitor and promote best practices across the station
  • Implement internal quality assurance activities including operational audits
  • Continuously assess training at the station to ensure that staff are competent and confident to carry out their specific duties
  • Maintain compliance levels across station
  • Maintain regular and effective communication and strong working relationships with subject matter experts (SMEs) to ensure training relevance
  • Act as a role model and display best practice behavior and procedures
  • Provide objective feedback and coaching to improve the performance and behavior of others
  • To report all training activity through recognized methods to ensure accurate tracking of training data
  • Support nearby stations as needed
  • Forecast & plan for new hire and recurrent training needs, which requires maintaining on-going communication and coordination with Regional Training Managers, local HR and Operations team(s)
  • Deliver and facilitate initial and recurrent training in accordance with global and local standards.
  • Administer required examinations and/or reports for training programs in accordance with global and local standards to maintain compliance
  • Assist with New Hire tracking process to ensure a smooth transition to the operations.
  • Assist with on-the-job coaching program for designated area / functions and serves as tier one support for local certified coaches
  • Maintain currency in the operation

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee might occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus.
Your profile
  • Minimum 1 years of industry experience in airline Ground Handling operations
  • Must have extensive Ramp Handling experience
  • High School Diploma or equivalent additional experience demonstrating ability to resolve complex problems, foster and maintain positive working relationships with multiple stakeholders and effectively balance multiple competing priorities
  • Ability to travel up to 10% with the ability to travel throughout the United States and Canada to support job responsibilities
  • Ability to pass security clearance and possess a valid driver's license
  • Strong communications skills and ability to influence without authority to achieve a common goal
  • Working knowledge of computer systems: Microsoft Office Suite highly recommended
  • Customer Service oriented
  • Flexibility to work various shifts to accommodate training demands during off peak hours
  • Ideal candidate will also have demonstrated knowledge of adult learning processes, instructional design techniques, and evaluation methodologies
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, challenging and changing environment
  • Ability to create and delivery dynamic presentations, slide decks and training materials

What we offer
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

At Swissport, we believe in diversity, equal opportunity, and the power of our values to drive our success. We are committed to providing a workplace that fosters inclusion and where all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
Visit our website at www.careers.swissport.com to learn more about Life at Swissport.
Join Swissport today and be part of a team that connects the world of aviation!

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