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Certified Flight Instructor Jobs in Altus, OK (NOW HIRING)

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Pilot Instructor (C-17 TS)

Altus, OK · On-site

... flight simulator pilot instructor experience is highly desired. * CATS MECOC certification is ... desired. * Must possess an active secret security clearance.

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Certified Flight Instructor information

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$22.2K

$83.9K

$128.9K

How much do certified flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for certified flight instructor in Altus, OK is $83,855.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,200.00 and $99,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a certified flight instructor?

A Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) is a pilot who has earned additional certification to teach others how to fly aircraft. CFIs provide instruction to student pilots, help them prepare for written and practical exams, and ensure they meet the required standards for obtaining pilot licenses. They may also provide advanced training to licensed pilots who want to improve their skills or add new ratings. Becoming a CFI requires holding at least a commercial pilot certificate, passing written knowledge tests, and demonstrating instructional proficiency through practical exams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a certified flight instructor?

To thrive as a Certified Flight Instructor, you need strong aeronautical knowledge, advanced piloting skills, and a current FAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate. Familiarity with flight training devices, aviation weather systems, and electronic logbook tools is essential. Exceptional communication, patience, and instructional ability help instructors effectively teach and motivate student pilots. These skills ensure safe, effective flight training and support student progress toward pilot certification.

What are some common challenges faced by certified flight instructors during flight training sessions?

Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs) often encounter challenges such as adapting their teaching style to different learning speeds and personalities, ensuring student safety while allowing hands-on experience, and managing varied weather conditions that can affect lesson plans. Additionally, CFIs must remain vigilant and patient, providing clear feedback while maintaining regulatory compliance and documentation. Balancing administrative responsibilities, flight scheduling, and continuous professional development are also part of the daily routine for many instructors.

What is the difference between Certified Flight Instructor vs Flight Instructor?

AspectCertified Flight InstructorFlight Instructor
CredentialsRequires FAA Certified Flight Instructor certificateMay refer to any instructor without specific certification
Work EnvironmentFlight schools, training aircraft, flight simulatorsFlight training environments, flight schools
Industry UsageOfficial certification for instructing studentsGeneral term for anyone teaching flying

Certified Flight Instructor is a specific credential required to legally instruct student pilots, whereas Flight Instructor is a broader term that may include uncertified or non-credentialed instructors. The Certified Flight Instructor designation ensures standardized training and certification recognized by the FAA, making it essential for professional flight training roles.

Are certified flight instructors in demand?

Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs) are generally in steady demand as they play a key role in training new pilots and maintaining safety standards. The demand can fluctuate based on the aviation industry’s growth, pilot certification requirements, and regional needs, but CFIs are essential for flight training programs and often find opportunities in flight schools and aviation academies.

How do you become a certified flight instructor?

To become a certified flight instructor, you must hold a commercial pilot certificate or airline transport pilot certificate, pass a certified flight instructor written exam, and complete a flight instructor training course approved by the FAA. Afterward, you must pass a practical test with an FAA-designated pilot examiner to earn the CFI certification, which allows you to teach student pilots and log instruction hours.

Is there a shortage of certified flight instructors?

There is currently a high demand for certified flight instructors due to a shortage of qualified instructors in the aviation industry. This shortage is driven by increased pilot training needs and retirements, making it a favorable time for those pursuing a career as a flight instructor with appropriate certifications and flight hours.

What are popular job titles related to Certified Flight Instructor jobs in Altus, OK?

For Certified Flight Instructor jobs in Altus, OK, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Altus, OK are hiring for Certified Flight Instructor jobs?

Cities near Altus, OK with the most Certified Flight Instructor job openings:

Certified Flight Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Certified Flight Instructor job openings in Altus, OK as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,855 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

Pilot Instructor (C-17 TS)

DELAWARE RESOURCE GROUP OF OKLAHOMA

Altus, OK • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

INCUMBENTS ONLY Locations: Altus AFB
The Pilot Instructor is responsible for providing ground-based training to C-17 pilots, including instructing and measuring training progress of crewmembers who train in the established C-17 Training System (TS) curriculum.
  • Conducts C-17 pilot training using the Weapon System Trainer (WST), C-17 aircraft, Computer-Based Trainers (CBT), and other ground training devices.
  • Provides instruction in air drop, aerial refueling, transport operating procedures, and related C-17 operations.
  • Evaluates student performance and provides appropriate diagnosis, feedback, and remediation.
  • Maintains a high level of C-17 subject matter knowledge, instructional capability, and expertise.
  • Conducts briefings, debriefings, and counseling to develop and maintain pilot proficiency.
  • Performs administrative duties related to training, including record keeping, monitoring student progress, counseling, training development, and maintaining training programs.
  • Provides input for courseware corrections and modifications and updates training policies and procedures.
  • Operates the WST, as required, to maintain instructional expertise.
  • Flies in the C-17 aircraft in an observer status, as required, to maintain currency on operational procedures and observe student progress.
  • Serves as a C-17 Pilot Subject Matter Expert (SME) for students, personnel, and test events as required.
  • Serves as Flight Check Airman (FCA) Lead when assigned.
  • Serves as Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) Evaluator when assigned.
  • Performs Simulator Certification (SIMCERT) and Simulator Evaluation (SIMVAL) duties when assigned.
  • Participates in Operations Group Standardization/Evaluation (Stan/Eval) Boards, Training Review Panels (TRP), and instructor meetings as required.
  • Supports curriculum reviews, Stan/Eval conferences, and Flight Manual Review Conferences (FMRC) as required.
  • Performs Learning Center monitor, safety representative, physical/cyber security representative, and HAZMAT duties as assigned.
  • Assists with project and development work as assigned.

Requirements
  • Candidate must currently be sitting in the position to be considered for this role.
  • Candidate must currently be performing the duties and responsibilities associated with the position.
  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • Minimum of 8 years of flying experience, including 5 years as a C-17 pilot with air drop and aerial refueling experience, or ability to obtain an applicable AMC/A3TK waiver.
  • Minimum of 2 years or 200 hours of flight instructor experience in air drop, aerial refueling, and tactics.
  • Recent C-17 flight simulator pilot instructor experience is highly desired.
  • CATS MECOC certification is desired.
  • Must possess an active secret security clearance.

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