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Certified Flight Instructor Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

... flight and in category (for a RW candidate who is FW rated, 100 hours or greater of FW actual or hood Instrument time can reduce the RW required instrument time to 25 hours) Certificates, Licenses ...

Program Regional Relief Pilot

Reno, NV · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

... flight and in category (for a RW candidate who is FW rated, 100 hours or greater of FW actual or hood Instrument time can reduce the RW required instrument time to 25 hours) Certificates, Licenses ...

... flight and in category (for a RW candidate who is FW rated, 100 hours or greater of FW actual or hood Instrument time can reduce the RW required instrument time to 25 hours) Certificates, Licenses ...

Program Regional Relief Pilot

Reno, NV · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

... flight and in category (for a RW candidate who is FW rated, 100 hours or greater of FW actual or hood Instrument time can reduce the RW required instrument time to 25 hours) Certificates, Licenses ...

Program Regional Relief Pilot

Reno, NV · On-site

$99K - $111K/yr

... flight and in category (for a RW candidate who is FW rated, 100 hours or greater of FW actual or hood Instrument time can reduce the RW required instrument time to 25 hours) Certificates, Licenses ...

PILOT 3

Carson City, NV

$76K - $114K/yr

Pilots must maintain current certification to fly agency aircraft which may include jets, turboprop ... Flight experience must include 250 hours low-level flight; 250 hours conducting external load ...

Pet Training Instructor II

Carson City, NV · On-site

$55K - $73K/yr

See More See Less PetSmart is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin ...

Pet Training Instructor II

Reno, NV · On-site

$56K - $74K/yr

See More See Less PetSmart is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin ...

Pet Training Instructor II

Spanish Springs, NV · On-site

$58K - $76K/yr

See More See Less PetSmart is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin ...

Pet Training Instructor II

Reno, NV · On-site

$56K - $74K/yr

See More See Less PetSmart is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin ...

Certified Flight Instructor information

See Reno, NV salary details

$24.9K

$94.3K

$145.1K

How much do certified flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for certified flight instructor in Reno, NV is $94,342.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,800.00 and $111,700.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Certified Flight Instructor jobs in Reno, NV?

The most popular types of Certified Flight Instructor jobs in Reno, NV are:

What are popular job titles related to Certified Flight Instructor jobs in Reno, NV?

For Certified Flight Instructor jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Certified Flight Instructor jobs in Reno, NV look for?

The top searched job categories for Certified Flight Instructor jobs in Reno, NV are:

What cities near Reno, NV are hiring for Certified Flight Instructor jobs?

Cities near Reno, NV with the most Certified Flight Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Certified Flight Instructor job openings in Reno, NV as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,342 per year, or $45.4 per hour.

Part-time Instructor, Aviation

Western Nevada College

Carson City, NV • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 12 hours ago


Job description

Thank you for your interest in employment with our institution. We want your application process to go smoothly and quickly. We ask that you keep in mind the following when completing your application:
  • Once you start the application process, you cannot save your work. Please ensure you have all required attachment(s) available to complete your application before you begin the process.
  • Required attachments are listed below on the posting. Your application will not be considered without the required attachments.

If you need assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please contact:
Human Resources
humanresources@wnc.edu
(775) 445-4237
2201 West College Parkway
Carson City, NV 89703
Job Description
This is a part-time, temporary/seasonal position. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis to establish an applicant pool. As vacancies occur, they are filled from the pool.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in a related field and/or the appropriate certifications and experience.
  • Possess the appropriate FAA Flight Instructor and/or Ground Instructor Certificates and Ratings.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Provide instruction for the course and be available to students within the contract period.
  • Maintain accurate student records, including attendance and grades.
  • Participate in orientations, division and faculty meetings as requested.
  • Participate in student assessment and student retention activities as requested.
  • Maintain instructional materials, labs, inventories, etc.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Letter of Appointment Salary Schedule:
Exempt
Yes
Full-Time Equivalent
15.0%
Required Attachment(s)
  • Resume
  • Unofficial Transcripts

Posting Close Date
06/30/2030
Note to Applicant
Newly hired faculty must assure that their official transcript is sent by the degree granting institution(s) to Western Nevada College, Human Resources Office within 30 calendar days from the effective date of employment.
Academic degrees must have been awarded by regionally accredited institutions.
Employment is contingent on the completion of appropriate background verification, which may include criminal history, credit history, sex and violent offender registry, education verification, licensure, and employment history to be administered by the Western Nevada College Human Resources office.