1

Aviation Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

... instructor or administrative resources when needed • Active and professional presence on LinkedIn with an understanding of the value of early career networking in the aviation industry • ...

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic control ... Instructors) * Experience and certification in ATC Tower, TRACON or En Route simulation lab is ...

RTC-IL Remote Pilot Operator

Elgin, IL · On-site +1

$40K - $80K/yr

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic control ... Instructors) * Experience and certification in ATC Tower, TRACON or En Route simulation lab is ...

Showing results 41-52

Aviation Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$33

$59

How much do aviation instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for aviation instructor in Chicago, IL is $33.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.25 and $35.67 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.
Infographic showing various Aviation Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL 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 $69,718 per year, or $33.5 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 13 hours 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!

What Swissport International AG employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom