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Aviation Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Lewis University

Adjunct Faculty, Physics

Romeoville, IL · On-site

$55.10 - $82.66/hr

The Physics program in the College of Aviation, Science, and Technology invites applications for adjunct instructors to work on an as needed basis. Instructors with the following areas of expertise ...

SAIC

ZAU - Remote Pilot Operator

Aurora, IL · Remote

$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 ...

Addition Management

Executive Chef

Park Ridge, IL

$75K - $85K/yr

Chicago, Illinois (Park Ridge) - Fully on-site Salary: $75K-$85K+ Bonus Growing Aviation ... Must be comfortable speaking to groups and training in public format as an internal instructor.

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All JobsAviation Instructor JobsAviation Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Aviation Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$33

$59

How much do aviation instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 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 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.

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 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 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.

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. The demand can vary based on regional pilot shortages and industry growth trends.

How do you become an aviation instructor?

To become an aviation instructor, you must first obtain a private pilot license and then a commercial pilot license, gaining sufficient flying experience. Next, you need to earn an Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate from the relevant aviation authority, which involves passing written and practical exams, and then accumulate teaching hours to qualify for advanced instructor roles.

How much money do aviation instructors get paid?

Aviation instructors typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of flying school. Many instructors also receive additional pay for flight hours and certifications, with some working part-time or on a freelance basis.
Aviation Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aviation Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,770 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Air Traffic Control Instructor, FAA Regional Training Site, Elgin, IL

SAIC

Elgin, IL • On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 226 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: T2507716

Location: Elgin, IL, US

Date Posted: 2026-03-05

Category: Training

Subcategory: Training Analyst

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: No

Minimum Clearance Required: None

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Public Trust

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description


  • ATTN FERS RETIREES: Earnings received as an ATC Instructor, ATC Training Instructional Supervisor, or Contractor Site Supervisor working on this program are EXEMPT from the Supplemental Annuity earnings limits for FERS retirees between the ages of 56 and 62.

We are looking for experienced, former FAA TRACON Air Traffic Controllers to join the SAIC team providing ATC, TSEW, TETRA and RTF training, and instructional services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) at the FAA Regional Training Site located in Elgin, IL.

Job Description:

SAIC is a leading provider of technical, engineering and enterprise information technology services to the U.S. government. Our 25,000+ employees deliver systems engineering and information technology offerings for large, complex government programs, as well as a broad range of higher-end, differentiated technology services. The company is headquartered in Reston, VA.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic control specialists provide the flying public with a high level of safety and professionalism. A well-trained Air Traffic Control (ATC) workforce plays an essential role in fulfilling this responsibility. The FAA employs more than 14,000 air traffic controllers. They work in air traffic facilities of varying sizes, safely separating more than 50,000 aircraft in the National Airspace System (NAS) each day.

To provide such air traffic services, the FAA trains new air traffic control specialists and provides recurrent training to current air traffic control specialists. The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.S. and its Territories to ensure these training needs are met. The scope of the contractor-provided services includes all training and training program support to successfully train and prepare students to become fully certified air traffic controllers. SAIC must provide training and training related support services as required for all types and levels of ATC facilities. 

Qualifications



Basic Requirements:

Candidates for these positions must have:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent and
  • A minimum of 3 years of CPC ATCS experience in a FAA TRACON
    • NOTE: This experience must have been at a TRACON equal to or exceeding an FAA ATC Level-10 facility
  • US Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance

Desired Skills:

  • Candidates with TSEW and/or Level 11-12 experience are also desired

Target salary range: $40,001 - $80,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

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