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Aviation Instructor Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

North Star Aviation

Check Instructor

Mankato, MN

$44K - $50K/yr

... instructors to overcome challenges in the learning process. Our Check Airmen work to ensure ... Aviation Regulations (FARs), and North Star Aviation policy in respect to training students and ...

North Star Aviation

Check Instructor

Mankato, MN · On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

... instructors to overcome challenges in the learning process. Our Check Airmen work to ensure ... Aviation Regulations (FARs), and North Star Aviation policy in respect to training students and ...

Academy College

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FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Instructor

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

This role is designed for an experienced aircraft dispatcher who wants to help prepare the next generation of aviation operations professionals. The instructor will teach within Academy College's FAA ...

Academy College

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FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Instructor

Mankato, MN · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

This role is designed for an experienced aircraft dispatcher who wants to help prepare the next generation of aviation operations professionals. The instructor will teach within Academy College's FAA ...

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All JobsAviation Instructor JobsAviation Instructor Jobs in Minnesota

Aviation Instructor information

See Minnesota salary details

$14

$31

$56

How much do aviation instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for aviation instructor in Minnesota is $31.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.95 and $33.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 relevant aviation authority, and gain experience in flight instruction to qualify for higher certifications or ratings.

Are aviation instructors in high demand?

Aviation instructors are in steady demand due to ongoing pilot training needs and a growing aviation industry. They typically require certifications such as Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and have opportunities in flight schools, airlines, and military training programs. Job availability can vary based on regional industry growth and pilot retirement rates.

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.

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.
Aviation Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aviation Instructor job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,284 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Adjunct Aviation Airplane Instructor

Lake Superior College

Duluth, MN

Part-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Classification Title Adjunct Aviation Airplane Instructor Working Title Adjunct Aviation Airplane Instructor Hire Types Adjunct/PT Faculty Division Branch Department Lake Superior College Unit Academic Affairs (including faculty) Location 2101 Trinity Rd Duluth, MN 55811 FLSA Exempt Full/Part Time Part Time FTE Employment Condition Adjunct Work Shift Work Schedule/Hours/Days Posting Details Salary Minimum Salary Maximum Salary Type Bargaining Unit/Plan Job Description
Reporting to the Dean of Business and Industry, the instructor is responsible for preparing and teaching core aviation courses that students complete as part of their required program.  Courses may be taught both in face-to-face and online setting.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor degree
  • Two full-time (or equivalent) years of verified related paid occupational experience as a pilot and/or flight instructor with a minimum of 200 hours dual instruction
  • One year of this work experience shall be within the five years immediately preceding the date of application for the credential field.  The recency requirement shall be waived if the individual has two years of successful full-time (or equivalent) postsecondary teaching experience in the credential field within the last five years.
  • Certified Flight Instructor - Airplane (CFI) and Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII)
Preferred Qualifications Other Requirements About
To learn more about us, visit our website at
http://www.lsc.edu
Employment for this position is covered by the collective bargaining agreement for the Minnesota State College Faculty which can be found at:
http://www.minnstate.edu/system/working/relations.html
For additional information regarding the Credentialing requirements, please refer to the College Faculty Credentialing website:
http://minnstate.edu/system/asa/academicaffairs/cfc/index.html 
Benefits Info
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number F113P Number of Vacancies Re-posting No Desired Start Date Position End Date (if temporary) Open Date 05/24/2023 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Accept Applications Special Instructions Summary
You must apply online, please click the apply tab at the top of this page. In addition to completing the online application, please attach the following to your application:
- Cover Letter addressing how you meet the responsibilities and qualifications
- Resume
- Certifications
Mailed applications will not be considered. Questions about the position may be directed to Human Resources (218-733-1068).
Posting Contact Judi Seifert, HR Specialist, 218-733-7692 Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Minnesota State Colleges and Universities is an Equal Opportunity employer/educator committed to the principles of diversity. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or membership in a local commission as defined by law. As an affirmative action employer, we actively seek and encourage applications from women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and individuals with protected veteran status.
It is the policy of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities to provide reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities when such accommodations are directly related to competing for a job on an equal basis.
Applicants having special needs which require accommodation should contact Jestina Vichorek, Executive Human Resources Officer 218-733-7677 (Voice). For TTY communications, contact the Minnesota Relay Service at 1.800.627.3529.  

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