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Aviation Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As an Aviation Maintenance Instructor, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping the minds and skills of our students. Your expertise in aircraft systems and components will be the guiding light that ...

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Aviation Instructor information

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$14

$32

$58

How much do aviation instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for aviation instructor in the United States is $32.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $34.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much can a flight instructor earn?

A flight instructor's earnings typically range from $25,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the number of flight hours taught. Many instructors supplement income through additional flying jobs or by working at flight schools with higher pay scales.

What are some common challenges faced by Aviation Instructors, and how can they be managed effectively?

Aviation Instructors often face challenges such as adapting teaching methods to different learning styles, ensuring student safety during practical training, and staying current with evolving aviation regulations and technology. To manage these challenges effectively, instructors frequently participate in ongoing professional development, utilize a variety of instructional techniques, and maintain clear communication with both students and regulatory bodies. Building strong rapport with students and fostering a safety-first culture also help create a supportive and effective learning environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aviation Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aviation Instructor, you need deep aeronautical knowledge, flight training experience, and relevant certifications such as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) license. Familiarity with flight simulators, aviation safety systems, and training management software is crucial. Excellent communication, patience, and the ability to motivate students are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure effective knowledge transfer, safe flight operations, and successful student outcomes in a highly regulated environment.

What qualifications do I need to be a flight instructor?

To become a flight instructor, you must hold a commercial pilot certificate with an instrument rating and typically have a minimum of 250 flight hours. Additionally, you need to obtain a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate from the relevant aviation authority, which involves passing written and practical exams, and demonstrating teaching ability and flight proficiency.

How to become an aviation instructor?

To become an aviation instructor, you must first obtain a private pilot license and then accumulate the required flight hours. Next, earn an instructor certificate by passing written and practical exams from the aviation authority, which typically involves demonstrating teaching ability and flight proficiency. Additional certifications or ratings may be required depending on the aircraft or environment you plan to teach in.

What is the difference between Aviation Instructor vs Flight Instructor?

AspectAviation InstructorFlight Instructor
CertificationsCertified Flight Instructor (CFI), sometimes additional ratingsCFI, often with instrument or multi-engine ratings
Work EnvironmentFlight schools, aviation academies, corporate trainingFlight training schools, flight academies, private instruction
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in flight training and aviation educationPrimarily in flight training, often for student pilots

Both Aviation Instructors and Flight Instructors hold similar certifications and work in flight training environments. However, an Aviation Instructor may also teach ground school or broader aviation topics, while a Flight Instructor focuses specifically on hands-on pilot training. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Aviation Instructor' can encompass a wider range of teaching roles within the aviation industry.

Is there a demand for flight instructors?

The demand for flight instructors remains steady due to ongoing pilot training needs and pilot shortages in the aviation industry. Flight instructors play a key role in training new pilots and often work for flight schools or airlines, requiring certifications such as the Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) license. Job opportunities can vary based on regional aviation activity and industry growth.

What does an aviation instructor do?

An aviation instructor is responsible for teaching students how to operate aircraft safely and effectively. They provide both ground and flight instruction, covering topics such as aerodynamics, navigation, weather, and federal aviation regulations. Aviation instructors assess students’ progress, ensure they understand theoretical concepts, and supervise actual flight training. They play a crucial role in preparing students for pilot certification exams and ensuring high standards of safety and professionalism in aviation.
More about Aviation Instructor jobs
What cities are hiring for Aviation Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Aviation Instructor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aviation Instructor jobs? The most popular types of Aviation Instructor jobs are:
What states have the most Aviation Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Aviation Instructor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Aviation Instructor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,678 per year, or $32.5 per hour.
Aviation Instructor

Aviation Instructor

Lincoln Land Community College

Springfield, IL • On-site

$32.50/hr

Part-time

PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Quick Link
https://llcc.peopleadmin.com/postings/2978
Position Title
Aviation Instructor
Position Description
Lincoln Land Community College is seeking qualified instructors to provide instructional support to students of the Aviation Program. Aviation Instructors are part-time (or as needed), non-benefited contractual employees. Starting pay will be $32.50 per hour.
Instructors will be responsible for the following:
  • Instruct students on course materials during class hours.
  • Assist students during lab and shop work.
  • Assign students projects for lab and shop work.
  • Supervise students during shop work to provide safe working conditions.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

The Paid Leave for All Workers Act allows part-time employees to earn 1 hour of PTO for every 40 hours worked. For more information on this benefit, please visit IL Department of Labor, PFLA Act.
Position Requirements
Instructor qualifications include the following:
  • Minimum two years' experience working in the field.
  • A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) license and ratings.
  • A or P (Airframe or Powerplant) license and ratings.
  • Specialty experience in Electricity, Hydraulics, Physics, Drawings, Mathematics or similar basic subjects within the Aviation Program curriculum.

LLCC strives to create an inclusive workplace and environment for our students, faculty and staff. We are seeking applicants from all backgrounds and experiences to ensure we create a diverse workforce and learning environment.
Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check.
Requisition Specific Details
Open Date
01/01/2023
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicant