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Chief Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Chief Instructor is responsible for leading a high-quality, compliant, and operationally excellent flight training program that supports the continued development of our aviation organization.

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Chief Instructor information

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$33K

$124.4K

$200.5K

How much do chief instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief instructor in the United States is $124,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,000.00 and $146,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chief instructor?

Chief Instructors are senior professionals responsible for overseeing the training and instruction within an organization, such as a flight school, martial arts academy, or educational institution. They develop curricula, mentor other instructors, and ensure that teaching standards and safety protocols are maintained. Chief Instructors often play a key leadership role, setting policies, evaluating performance, and sometimes teaching advanced courses themselves. Their expertise and guidance are crucial in maintaining high-quality instruction and student success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Instructor, you need deep subject matter expertise, strong teaching abilities, and relevant certifications or degrees in your field. Familiarity with curriculum development tools, learning management systems (LMS), and assessment software is typically required. Exceptional leadership, communication, and mentoring skills help you motivate instructors and guide students effectively. These skills are vital for maintaining high educational standards, fostering team cohesion, and ensuring successful learning outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by chief instructors, and how can they effectively address them?

Chief Instructors often encounter challenges such as balancing administrative duties with hands-on teaching, ensuring consistent training standards across instructors, and adapting to diverse learning styles among students. To address these, Chief Instructors can implement regular team meetings, provide ongoing professional development for their staff, and establish clear communication channels. Additionally, staying updated on industry best practices and fostering a collaborative work environment helps maintain high-quality instruction and supports team cohesion.

What is the difference between Chief Instructor vs Lead Instructor?

AspectChief InstructorLead Instructor
CredentialsCertifications in teaching, safety, and subject expertiseSimilar certifications, often with additional leadership training
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple classes or programs, administrative dutiesConducts classes directly, mentors other instructors
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, training centers, sports academiesFitness centers, martial arts schools, outdoor adventure programs

The main difference is that the Chief Instructor typically holds a higher leadership and administrative role, overseeing programs and other instructors, while the Lead Instructor primarily focuses on direct teaching and mentoring. Both roles require similar certifications, but the Chief Instructor has broader responsibilities.

More about Chief Instructor jobs

What states have the most Chief Instructor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Chief Instructor jobs include:

Infographic showing various Chief Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,409 per year, or $59.8 per hour.

Assistant Chief Flight Instructor

Cleveland, MS โ€ข On-site

Delta State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schoolsย โ€ขย 501 - 1,000 employees

$12/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Position Information
Job Title Assistant Chief Flight Instructor Working Title Assistant Chief Flight Instructor Position Type Staff Department Commercial Aviation Posting Number 201201634 Full or Part Time Full Time Benefit Eligible Yes If Other, Please Explain: Tenure/Non-Tenure Track Non-Tenure Track Salary Basis 12 month If Other, Please Explain:
Position Summary Information
Responsibilities
The Assistant Chief Instructor assists in development and evaluation of the flight training techniques used to meet the specific standards set forth in DSU's training syllabi. The Assistant Chief Instructor reports directly to the Chief Instructor and has all of the duties and responsibilities of the Chief Instructor when delegated. Per the regulations (FAR 141.85): An assistant chief must be available at the pilot school or, if away from the pilot school, be available by telephone, radio, or other electronic means during the time that training is given for an approved training course. The chief instructor may delegate authority for conducting stage checks, end-of-course tests, and flight instructor proficiency checks to the assistant chief instructor. Assistant Chief Flight Instructors help to ensure the day-to-day operations are maintained, students are progressing in their training, as well as assisting in ensuring part-time instructors are qualified and proficient for the courses they'll be instructing in.
Qualifications
Must have FAA Certified Flight Instructor Instrument; Certified Flight Instructor Multi-Engine, and meet FAA Part 141 Assistant Chief requirements.
Salary Commensurate with experience and qualifications Minimum Qualifications
Must have FAA Certified Flight Instructor Instrument; Certified Flight Instructor Multi-Engine,and meet FAA Part 141 Assistant Chief requirements.
Preferred Qualifications
ATP, Part 121 Experience
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please submit copies of FAA certificates/ratings and FAA medical.
Additional Information
Posting Detail Information
Open Date 07/23/2025 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes