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Certified Flight Instructor Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Arlington, WI

... certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Waterloo, WI

... certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Middleton, WI

... certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Mazomanie, WI

... certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Monona, WI

... certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Poynette, WI

... certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Milton, WI

... certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Mcfarland, WI

... certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Marshall, WI

... certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Albany, WI

... certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Jefferson, WI

... certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Columbus, WI

... certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Portage, WI

... certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Cambridge, WI

... certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Madison, WI

... certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor's status, training, and current Navy policy. Pay, Benefits & Service Pay ...

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All JobsCertified Flight Instructor JobsCertified Flight Instructor Jobs in Madison, WI

Certified Flight Instructor information

See Madison, WI salary details

$25.2K

$95.3K

$146.6K

How much do certified flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for certified flight instructor in Madison, WI is $95,341.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $112,900.00 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 Madison, WI?

For Certified Flight Instructor jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Certified Flight Instructor jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Certified Flight Instructor job openings:

Certified Flight Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Certified Flight Instructor job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,341 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Flight Instructor CMH

Madison, WI • On-site

FlightSafety International
Aviation • 1 - 5K employees

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 223 rated education and training

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers

Learn more about FlightSafety Internationalexternal

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

About FlightSafety International

FlightSafety International is the world's premier professional aviation training company and supplier of flight simulators, visual systems and displays to commercial, government and military organizations. The company provides training for pilots, technicians and other aviation professionals from 167 countries and independent territories. FlightSafety operates the world's largest fleet of advanced full-flight simulators and award-winning maintenance training at Learning Centers and training locations in the United States, Canada, France and the United Kingdom.

Purpose of Position

The Flight Instructor delivers exceptional ground and simulator flight instruction in accordance with aviation regulations and FlightSafety Training principles.

Tasks and Responsibilities
  • Conduct pilot ground and simulator training for clients receiving core, specialty or enrichment training courses.
  • Develop and prepare training materials that support training delivery to meet the client needs in accordance with the applicable curriculum.
  • Evaluate and measure trainee progress and recommend for qualification, or additional training.
  • Complete accurate training records specific to each client, aiding their success in achieving the requested objective(s).
  • Identify client training issues and seek assistance prior to execution.
  • Maintain Instructor qualifications in accordance with regulatory requirements.
Minimum Education
  • No requirement.
Minimum Experience
  • Must be able and willing to participate in FlightSafety's DOT Drug and Alcohol testing program
  • An unrestricted ATP certificate, or an ICAO member state Airline Transport Pilot License
  • If no ATP, must meet the requirements of:
  • 14 CFR part 61.153
  • 14 CFR part 61.64 without a Supervised Operating Experience (SOE) limitation. 
  • A minimum of one unrestricted PIC type rating;
  • Preferred: FAR Part 135, FAR Part 121, or military training experience;
  • Preferred: 2,500 hours of total flight time
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities
  • Knowledge of aviation safety standards and practices
  • Knowledge of common aviation regulations
  • Ability to manage classes and teach effectively
  • First-level facilitation skills
  • First-level customer service skills
  • Ability to be coachable and receive feedback to support development
Physical Demands and Work Environment

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee may be required to stand; walk; sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and taste or smell.

Must possess physical range of body motion to perform the following: Reach, exert pressure and manipulate the rudder controls and/or anti-torque with both feet. Reach and manipulate numerous controls within the Simulator device from the Instructor's chair. Enter and exit from the Simulator device via the provided ramp. Move between the Instructor station, screen and podium while instructing in the classroom. Exit from malfunctioned Simulator while the device is in a severely pitched attitude. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, and frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently works near moving mechanical parts. The employee may work in high, precarious places and in outside weather conditions and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, extreme cold, extreme heat, risk of electrical shock, risk of radiation, and vibration.

FlightSafety is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Vet/Disabled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.

Any offer of employment is contingent upon successful completion of required compliance reviews, including verification that the candidate is not prohibited from employment under U.S. economic sanctions programs administered by the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

This position may require access to export-controlled technology or services subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Employment consideration and any offer of employment are contingent upon the applicant's ability to comply with these requirements, including qualifying as a "U.S. Person" under applicable regulations or otherwise eligible for export authorization within a timeframe consistent with business needs. A "U.S. Person" includes U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (holders of approved and unexpired green cards), and certain refugees or asylees with protected status under U.S. law.

This position may also require eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance for the duration of employment.

Cybersecurity Notice: All official recruiting communication from FlightSafety International will come from an @flightsafety.com email address.  FlightSafety International will never ask for personal or financial information through social media or third-party email providers.

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