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Chief Flight Instructor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

King Air 350 - Check Pilot

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$55K - $178K/yr

This position reports directly to the Chief Pilot and works closely with the Director of Training ... Operate as PIC and Flight Instructor till ready for Check Pilot Duties * Operate as PIC and Check ...

King Air 350 - Check Pilot

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$55K - $178K/yr

This position reports directly to the Chief Pilot and works closely with the Director of Training ... Operate as PIC and Flight Instructor till ready for Check Pilot Duties * Operate as PIC and Check ...

King Air 350 - Check Pilot

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$55K - $178K/yr

This position reports directly to the Chief Pilot and works closely with the Director of Training ... Operate as PIC and Flight Instructor till ready for Check Pilot Duties * Operate as PIC and Check ...

Showing results 21-31

Chief Flight Instructor information

See California salary details

$78K

$126.1K

$199.8K

How much do chief flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief flight instructor in California is $126,141.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,600.00 and $135,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chief flight instructor do?

A Chief Flight Instructor (CFI) is responsible for overseeing flight training programs, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations, and maintaining safety standards. They supervise and mentor flight instructors, develop training curricula, and evaluate student progress. CFIs also coordinate with aviation authorities to ensure adherence to certification requirements. Their role is crucial in maintaining high training standards and producing skilled pilots.

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

To thrive as a Chief Flight Instructor, you need extensive experience in flight instruction, advanced piloting skills, and typically hold a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), CFII, and often MEI rating, along with a strong safety record. Familiarity with flight training management software, aircraft scheduling systems, and regulatory compliance tools is crucial. Outstanding leadership, communication, and mentoring abilities set top candidates apart in guiding both instructors and students. These skills ensure a safe, efficient flight training operation and promote a high standard of learning within the team.

What are some common challenges faced by chief flight instructors, and how can they be addressed?

Chief Flight Instructors often face the challenges of maintaining consistent training standards across instructors, adapting to regulatory changes, and ensuring high safety standards for all flight operations. Balancing administrative duties with time spent in the air and supporting instructors can also be demanding. Addressing these challenges involves cultivating clear communication, implementing thorough oversight and training protocols, and staying updated on best practices and FAA regulations. Many Chief Flight Instructors find success by fostering a collaborative team environment and prioritizing ongoing professional development for themselves and their staff.

How do you become a chief flight instructor?

To become a chief flight instructor, an individual typically needs to hold an advanced flight instructor certificate, such as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) with additional endorsements or ratings, and accumulate significant flight experience. They must demonstrate leadership, teaching skills, and a thorough understanding of aviation regulations, often gaining experience as a flight instructor before advancing to a supervisory role.

How much do chief flight instructors make?

Chief flight instructors typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the flight school. They often hold advanced certifications and have extensive flight hours, which can influence their compensation. Salaries may also include benefits such as flight hours, training opportunities, and scheduling flexibility.

Where do chief flight instructors get paid the most?

Chief flight instructors tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a strong aviation industry, such as major metropolitan areas or countries with high demand for pilots. Factors like experience, certifications, and the type of flight school also influence compensation levels. Generally, locations with higher living costs and larger aviation markets offer the highest pay for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chief Flight Instructor jobs in California?

The most popular types of Chief Flight Instructor jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Chief Flight Instructor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Chief Flight Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Chief Flight Instructor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,141 per year, or $60.6 per hour.

Operations Training Specialist Lead

Goldbelt, Inc.

March Air Reserve Base, CA • On-site

$71.64/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Overview

Global in service but local in approach, Nisga'a Tek is committed to high-quality service to those who defend us. Nisga'a Tek ensures mission assurance and execution for customers and warfighters. Providing intelligence, IT, cyber security, training, logistics, administrative, acquisition, and background investigation services.

Summary

The Operations Training Specialist Lead will update data in Graduate Training Integration Management System (GTIMS) or future equivalent systems to GTIMS, and locally developed computer database systems as required.

ResponsibilitiesEssential Job Functions
  • Interface with Host Aviation Resource Management (HARM) and Squadron Aviation Resource Management (SARM) personnel to update the Aviation Resource Management System (ARMS) or future equivalent systems to ARMS as required.
  • Build, review, and update student/permanent party records, folders and grade books per the applicable Air Force Instructions (AFMAN 11-202V1 and AFMAN 11-2MDSV1), associated with MAJCOM Installation supplements, and locally developed guidance.
  • Coordinate schedule of classes and exams as required. Coordinate with scheduling and external agencies (SFS/CATM, CES/Emergency Management, OSS, etc.) to ensure crew members are scheduled for Crew Resource Management, Instructor Crew Resource Management, Instrument Refresher Course, and any other grounding or pre-deployment training requirements. Number of classes/exams will vary depending on unit manning/student throughput.
  • Perform individual gradebook checks of squadron personnel training and ancillary training requirements. Gradebook checks shall be completed daily, monthly, and quarterly.
  • In coordination with the Squadron Director of Training (DOT) Flight Chief, prepare and execute periodic training/testing plans for approval and scheduling.
  • In coordination with the Squadron DOT Flight Chief, schedule members for required ground training events IAW unit policies.
  • In coordination with the Squadron DOT Flight Chief, provide weekly updates to squadron leadership containing the flight and readiness status of personnel to facilitate tracking of duty status and performance report/decoration accomplishment.
  • In coordination with the Squadron DOT Flight Chief, coordinate with the scheduling office, enabling them to maximize training opportunities IAW unit leadership guidance. Scheduling and training shall be consistent with AFIs.
  • Provide daily tracking of upgrade and continuation training accomplishments for the unit’s Operations Supervisor (or equivalent) as well as weekly summaries for the Operations Officer.
  • Under the guidance and direction of the Squadron DOT Flight Chief, assist in the development of new curriculum and syllabi for aircrew and ground training.
  • Generate the following reports/forms as required.
  • Contract Performance Support:
    • Ensure high-quality contract performance
    • Monitor contract compliance with established standards
    • Provides daily task guidance to team members as needed
  • Customer Support and Relations:
    • Maintain strong relationships with squadron and group leadership
    • Address customer concerns with Program Manager
  • Onboarding Procedures:
    • Assist with welcoming and onboarding new team members
    • Ensure new hires receive the necessary training and resources
  • Guidance on PWS Requirements:
    • Provide guidance on Performance Work Statement (PWS) task requirements
    • Offer insight into mission considerations relevant to tasks
  • Time Off Considerations:
    • Manage time off requests (maternity, bereavement, PTO, military leaves).
    • Ensure adequate task coverage and support during team member absences
  • Monthly Status Reporting:
    • Prepare and deliver the contractor monthly status report to the PM and upon PM approval submit to the customer
    • Outline activities, accomplishments, and work performed for PWS tasks
  • Team Member Training and Utilization:
    • Support training and development (annual training and position tasks)
    • Provide general supervisory to include but not limited to, tasking of duties, timesheet review and approvals, mentoring and counseling as needed.
QualificationsNecessary Skills and Knowledge
  • Proficiency in scheduling software and systems with strong MS Office skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills to interact effectively with crew members and internal teams.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to multitask in a dynamic, high-pressure environment.
  • Ability to think critically and make decisions quickly, especially in time-sensitive situations.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Minimum 1 -2 years of related experience.
  • Must have at an interim Secret clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Possesses a Top-Secret clearance
  • Experience working in a Flying Squadron/Group/Wing Stan/Eval office is highly desirable.
Pay and Benefits

Hourly Rate: $25.18

At Goldbelt, we value and reward our team's dedication and hard work. We provide a competitive base salary commensurate with your qualifications and experience. As an employee, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with company matching, tax-deferred savings options, supplementary benefits, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

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