ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

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

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $28/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 ...

Spartan Education

FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$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 ...

Spartan Education

FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR

Grand Prairie, TX

$28/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 ...

Spartan Education

FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$20.43 - $26.43/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 ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsCertified Flight Instructor Jobs

Certified Flight Instructor information

See salary details

$25K

$94.6K

$145.5K

How much do certified flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 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 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.
More about Certified Flight Instructor jobs

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:

Who are the top companies hiring for Certified Flight Instructor jobs?

The top employers for 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,620 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

Chief Flight Instructor

AVIATORS INC

Reseda, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Chief Flight Instructor - Aviators Flight Academy, Van Nuys, CA
Lead and Innovate in Aviation Training at a Part 141 Flight School

Aviators Flight Academy, a leading Part 141 flight school located in Van Nuys, California, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Chief Flight Instructor. As the cornerstone of our training operations, the Chief Flight Instructor will oversee our team of dedicated instructors and manage our comprehensive flight programs, including our advanced avionics-equipped SportCruiser fleet.

What We Offer:

  • Leadership Role: Direct and shape the future of our flight training programs, influencing both instructors' development and students' success.
  • SkyWest Airlines Partnership: Leverage our partnership to facilitate seamless transitions for aspiring commercial pilots.
  • Competitive Salary: Attractive compensation package commensurate with experience and responsibilities, reflecting the senior nature of the role.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Oversee the flight training operations and ensure adherence to all FAA regulations and Part 141 requirements.
  • Mentor and lead a team of flight instructors, promoting continuous professional development and ensuring high standards of teaching and safety.
  • Develop and refine flight training curriculum, incorporating the latest in aviation technology and educational methodologies.
  • Manage instructor scheduling and aircraft availability to maximize training efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Represent the flight school in industry and regulatory forums, and liaise with partners and stakeholders.

Requirements:

  • FAA Certified Flight Instructor - Instrument (CFII) certification, with Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI) credentials preferred.
  • Proven leadership experience in a flight training environment.
  • Minimum of 1000 flight hours, with significant experience in instructing and curriculum development.
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills, with a proven track record of managing a team.
  • Weight under 200 lbs to accommodate our light sport aircraft (SportCruiser) specifications.

Join Us:

Step into a role where your leadership can directly impact the future of aviation. At Aviators Flight Academy, we value dedication, expertise, and a passion for flying. If you're ready to lead our team and help shape the next generation of pilots, please send your resume and a detailed cover letter to blake@aviatorsinc.com

Let’s Fly Together:

Embark on a leadership journey where you can truly make a mark in aviation education. Your career as a Chief Flight Instructor is cleared for takeoff at Aviators Flight Academy.

Powered by JazzHR

GxTkrkVnhK