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Chief Instructor Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

F-16 Instructor Pilot (IP) and Subject Matter Expert (SME) will provide academic, simulator, and ... Adhere to direction provided by the Chief Pilot, Program Manager, and Site Lead; * Perform related ...

F-16 Instructor Pilot (IP) and Subject Matter Expert (SME) will provide academic, simulator, and ... Adhere to direction provided by the Chief Pilot, Program Manager, and Site Lead; * Perform related ...

The Chief Pilot serves as a key member of the Flight Operations leadership team and is responsible ... Serve as Pilot-in-Command (PIC), check Airman, and/or Instructor Pilot when designated and as ...

The Chief Pilot serves as a key member of the Flight Operations leadership team and is responsible ... Serve as Pilot-in-Command (PIC), check Airman, and/or Instructor Pilot when designated and as ...

The Chief Pilot serves as a key member of the Flight Operations leadership team and is responsible ... Serve as Pilot-in-Command (PIC), check Airman, and/or Instructor Pilot when designated and as ...

Position Summary F-16 Instructor/Subject Matter Expert (I/SME) - Instructs in all F-16 pilot ... Chief Instructor - Be available during duty hours to answer student training questions - Conduct ...

... F-16 pilot training devices used at Morris ANGB, Tucson, AZ, and instructs in the classroom in ... Chief Instructor - Be available during duty hours to answer student training questions - Conduct ...

Check Airman

Watkins, CO

$89.65K - $134.48K/yr

Air Methods is seeking an experienced Instructor Pilot / Check Airman to support training ... Partner with Chief Pilots, Assistant Chief Pilots, and Regional Leadership to maintain training ...

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Chief Instructor Pilot information

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$33K

$163.2K

$234.5K

How much do chief instructor pilot jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief instructor pilot in the United States is $163,193.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,000.00 and $207,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chief Instructor Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Instructor Pilot, you need advanced piloting skills, extensive flight hours, instructor certifications, and in-depth knowledge of aviation regulations. Familiarity with flight simulators, training management systems, and current aircraft technologies is typically required. Strong leadership, effective communication, and the ability to mentor and evaluate other pilots are critical soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure rigorous safety standards, high-quality training, and operational excellence within a flight training organization.

What are some common challenges faced by a Chief Instructor Pilot, and how can they be addressed?

As a Chief Instructor Pilot, one of the main challenges is balancing administrative responsibilities with hands-on instruction and flight oversight. Managing a team of instructors, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and maintaining high training quality can be demanding. Effective delegation, clear communication, and staying updated with industry regulations are key strategies to address these challenges. Additionally, fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement helps ensure both instructor and student success.

What are Chief Instructor Pilots?

Chief Instructor Pilots are highly experienced pilots responsible for overseeing the training programs and standards for other pilots within an organization, such as a flight school, airline, or military unit. They develop and implement training curricula, ensure compliance with aviation regulations, and evaluate the performance of instructors and students. Chief Instructor Pilots also serve as the primary point of contact for regulatory authorities and are responsible for maintaining the highest levels of safety and proficiency among flight crews. Their leadership is critical in fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement.

What is the difference between Chief Instructor Pilot vs Flight Instructor?

AspectChief Instructor PilotFlight Instructor
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and often additional instructor ratingsCommercial Pilot License and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
Work EnvironmentLeads flight training programs, oversees other instructors, and ensures training standards at flight schools or airlinesProvides individual flight training to students, conducts lessons, and evaluates student progress
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, flight schools, and aviation academiesFlight schools, aviation training centers, and private flight training

The main difference between a Chief Instructor Pilot and a Flight Instructor lies in their responsibilities and leadership roles. The Chief Instructor Pilot oversees training programs and manages other instructors, while the Flight Instructor focuses on delivering flight training to students. Both roles require similar certifications, but the Chief Instructor Pilot holds additional leadership duties within the training organization.

More about Chief Instructor Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Chief Instructor Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Chief Instructor Pilot job openings:
What states have the most Chief Instructor Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Chief Instructor Pilot jobs include:

F-16 Instructor Pilot (Argentina)

Top Aces Corp

Mesa, AZ โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

F-16 Instructor Pilot (IP) and Subject Matter Expert (SME) will provide academic, simulator, and flying instruction to conduct Basic-Course (B-Course), Mission Qualification Training (MQT), Flight Lead Upgrade (FLUG), and Instructor Pilot Upgrade (IPUG) training to Argentine F-16 pilots. The IP will provide instructional support through complex procedures, reinforce standardization, and ensure learning objectives are achieved. Furthermore, the IPโ€™s role is critical to flight safety, pilot proficiency, and operational readiness. The information below is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required for this position.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Instruct Argentine pilots in the safe and effective employment of the F-16;
  • Work with the host nation and other partners to ensure effective and efficient instructional content and adherence to the program schedule;
  • Provide updates to leadership on the progress of instruction;
  • Collect and disseminate lessons learned;
  • Deploy as required to support mission requirements;
  • Adhere to direction provided by the Chief Pilot, Program Manager, and Site Lead;
  • Perform related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

  • Previously qualified F-16 IP, current within the past eight (8) years;
  • Minimum of two (2) years of experience as a fighter aircraft IP;
  • 1,000 hours Pilot-In-Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DoD (or Allied) fighter aircraft;
  • Maintain appropriate FAA and Argentine pilot certifications;
  • Obtain and maintain a US Secret and appropriate host nation clearances;
  • FAA Class II Medical;
  • Must be able to work under pressure and meet deadlines while fostering a positive attitude;
  • Must have strong problem-solving abilities;
  • Proficient in the English language with excellent verbal and written communication skills;
  • Must be proficient in the Microsoft Office Suite;
  • Must be able to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed;
  • Must be able to travel within the US and internationally;
  • Must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of an Instructor Pilot in daily work performance;
  • Must be able to work in various weather environments and conditions.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Previous F-16 Formal Training Unit (FTU) IP;
  • 1,000 hours PIC in F-16;
  • 500 hours IP in multiple blocks of the F-16;
  • Previous IP for foreign partner F-16 training;
  • Active Secret clearance;
  • Previous Foreign Military Sales (FMS) experience.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS and/or WORK CONDITIONS

  • This position requires overseas deployment during which the IP must reside and perform duties at the Companyโ€™s international location.
  • Must demonstrate the ability to operate effectively and self-sufficiently in a foreign environment, including communication, local navigation, and personal sustainability.
  • This role may be performed around loud noises and hazardous chemicals with exposure to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals.

SPECIAL WORK CONDITIONS

  • Must be able obtain and maintain a US Secret and appropriate host nation clearances. Ongoing eligibility is subject to periodic review. Strict adherence to all security protocols, procedures, and training is required.
  • Must possess a valid U.S. passport with no travel restrictions, limitations, or disqualifications, with a validity extending a minimum 6 months beyond the projected assignment completion date.
  • Must be able to secure all required work authorizations, including a valid work visa for the host country. Any prior immigration violations, criminal offenses, or adverse travel history that may prevent entry or work authorization will not be considered.
  • Adherence to the legal, regulatory, safety, and operational requirements of the host nation is mandatory throughout the duration of assignment.

CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT

  • Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of all pre-employment requirements, which may include background checks, employment verification, security clearance, reference checks, and other conditions determined by the company.
  • This position is contingent upon contract award. An offer of employment may be extended prior to award; however, employment will be contingent upon the Company's award and subsequent contract funding.

COMPENSATION PACKAGE

  • Competitive base salary;
  • Per Diem;
  • Employee premiums for healthcare, dental, and vision options covered by Top Aces Corp;
  • Corporate lodging;
  • Transportation.