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Certified Flight Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AVIATORS INC

Chief Flight Instructor

Reseda, CA · On-site

FAA Certified Flight Instructor - Instrument (CFII) certification, with Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI) credentials preferred. * Proven leadership experience in a flight training environment. * Minimum ...

Spartan Education

FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR

Tulsa, OK

$19 - $26/hr

Summary Flight Instructors are certified flight instructors and as such, will maintain high standards of training, air discipline and personal conduct as they train student pilots in various courses ...

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Certified Flight Instructor information

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$25K

$94.6K

$145.5K

How much do certified flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for certified flight instructor in the United States is $94,620.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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, and why are they important?

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.
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What cities are hiring for Certified Flight Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Certified Flight Instructor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Certified Flight Instructor jobs? The most popular types of Certified Flight Instructor jobs are:
What states have the most Certified Flight Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Certified Flight Instructor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Certified Flight Instructor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Certified Flight Instructor jobs are:
Certified Flight Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Certified Flight Instructor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,620 per year, or $45.5 per hour.
Ideal Aviation Certified Flight Instructor

Ideal Aviation Certified Flight Instructor

Southwestern Illinois College

Belleville, IL • On-site

$38 - $45/hr

Part-time

Posted 27 days ago

Southwestern Illinois College rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

110th of 535 rated colleges and universities

Job description

ANNOUNCEMENT
Southwestern Illinois College is accepting applications for the part-time, non-union position of Ideal Aviation Certified Flight Instructor.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
In accordance with the Mission and Values of Southwestern Illinois College, this position provides flight, simulator, and ground instruction in accordance with Part 61 and 141, FAA regulations, Airmen's Information Manual, advisory circulars, airport operations, and company policies and procedures. Instructors will schedule students, maintain accurate records, and ensure that all course standards, training requirements, and objectives are met in each flight course.
QUALIFICATIONS
  1. FAA Certificated Flight Instructor, Airplane Single Engine Land or Rotorcraft is required; Preference given to Instrument Instructor, Multi-Engine Instructor.
  2. Must hold a current FAA Medical Certificate.
  3. Pass Ideal Aviation's initial and on-going drug and alcohol testing program and background check as required.

STARTING PAY AND HOURS
$38-$45 per hour for flight and ground instruction billed. Work hours vary with the availability of classes.
WORK LOCATION
5600 Vector Dr., Sauget, IL 62206 ( Ideal Aviation )
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Applicants will be reviewed as assignments become available.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Required application materials, such as resume, cover letter and references, should be attached to your application. Other required application materials i.e., transcripts, etc., should be attached after your application has been submitted. Go to your My Job Applications page from the careers home page of your account.
Southwestern Illinois College
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