1

Contract Flight Instructor Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Contract Flight Instructor information

See Colorado salary details

$26.3K

$99.5K

$153K

How much do contract flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract flight instructor in Colorado is $99,494.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,600.00 and $117,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract Flight Instructors, and how can they be managed?

Contract Flight Instructors often encounter challenges such as fluctuating student schedules, adapting to different aircraft types, and maintaining clear communication with both students and flight school management. Flexibility and strong organizational skills are key to managing these hurdles. Instructors should proactively coordinate with students to set reliable training sessions, keep their qualifications current for various aircraft, and foster an open line of communication with all parties to ensure smooth operations and effective learning.

What is the difference between Contract Flight Instructor vs Part-Time Flight Instructor?

AspectContract Flight InstructorPart-Time Flight Instructor
CredentialsCommercial Pilot Certificate, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)Commercial Pilot Certificate, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed or hired per contract, variable locationsPart-time employment at flight schools or flight training centers
Employer/Industry UsageHired directly by flight schools or as independent contractorsEmployed by flight schools on a part-time basis

Contract Flight Instructors typically work independently or on a contractual basis, often at multiple locations, while Part-Time Flight Instructors are employed by flight schools for limited hours. Both roles require similar certifications but differ mainly in employment structure and work arrangement.

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

To thrive as a Contract Flight Instructor, you need a valid commercial pilot's license with instructor ratings, in-depth knowledge of aviation regulations, and significant flight experience. Familiarity with flight simulators, electronic logbooks, and training management systems is typically required, along with up-to-date certifications such as CFI or CFII. Exceptional communication, patience, and adaptability are essential soft skills for effectively teaching and mentoring diverse student pilots. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, effective flight training and help students achieve proficiency while maintaining regulatory compliance.

What are Contract Flight Instructors?

Contract Flight Instructors are certified pilots who provide flight training services on a contractual basis, rather than as full-time employees of a flight school or organization. They may work independently or for multiple employers, offering instruction in various types of aircraft or simulators. Their responsibilities typically include teaching students how to fly, preparing them for pilot certification, and ensuring adherence to aviation safety standards. Contract Flight Instructors often have flexible schedules and may also assist with recurrent training or specialized courses.
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Instructor jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Flight Instructor jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Flight Instructor jobs in Colorado? For Contract Flight Instructor jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Flight Instructor jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Flight Instructor jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Contract Flight Instructor jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Contract Flight Instructor job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Flight Instructor job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 55% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,494 per year, or $47.8 per hour.

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Assistant Chief Instructor

Aims Community College

Windsor, CO • On-site

$76K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Aims Community College rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

152nd of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Are you a current Aims Employee, Temporary Worker? If so, to help avoid future access issues, please apply through your Workday account using "Browse Jobs" in the in the Workday search field located on the top center of the screen.
Are you a current Aims Student? If so, to help avoid future access issues, please apply through your Workday account using the Aims Jobs app on your Workday home page.
Are you both an Employee and a Student? If so, to help avoid future access issues, please apply through your Workday account using "Browse Jobs" in the in the Workday search field located on the top center of the screen.
For assistance, please contact the recruitment team at 970-378-3720.
Minimum Hiring Annual Salary:
$70,610.00
Maximum Hiring Annual Salary:
$76,259.00
To attain the maximum annual salary, employee must meet all minimum qualifications plus:
  • 5 (five) years of additional applicable work experience and/or degrees higher than minimum qualification degree. Degrees higher than the minimum qualification degree can be used in combination with additional work experience.
  • A combination of related education, on-the-job work experience, certifications and/or licenses that results in a candidate successfully meeting the minimum qualifications of the position, may be considered.

The stated salary amounts are not guaranteed in the event employment ends with Aims during any fiscal year.
Included with Aims Full-time Employment is a generous package of Benefits, most are listed below:
  • Benefits are effective immediately
  • 100% employer provided medical & dental coverage employees (employee only option)
  • 85% employer provided medical & dental coverage for employee's spouse and/or family
  • Voluntary vision insurance
  • Staff Annual Leave (minimum accrual of 15 days) & Sick (minimum accrual of 12 days)
  • 17 paid holidays and 3 personal days each year
  • Summer schedule: 4-day work week - Fridays Off
  • Employer paid long-term disability and life insurance premiums
  • Tuition waiver & reimbursement for employees
  • Tuition waiver for dependents
  • PERA employer (see www.copera.org for comprehensive benefits)
  • Additional supplemental benefits & retirement programs available
  • Access to the PERC (Aims gym) for employee & one guest
  • Free parking on all campuses

Job Description:
Aims Community College actively supports an environment that embraces the College's Mission, Vision, Values and a culture of innovation and care. The College embraces and seeks to hire individuals who want to be a part of this environment and have the skill sets necessary to be successful in this position.
The Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Assistant Chief Instructor will support the UAS Chief Instructor in leading and overseeing all aspects of UAS flight instruction and operations, and help develop the UAS program. This includes UAS applications, design, fabrication, testing, and establishing partnerships. The Assistant Chief Instructor is part of the Aims Aviation Department within the Public Safety, Education, and Transportation Division, located on the Windsor Campus.
The UAS Assistant Chief Instructor will conduct their responsibilities and participate in co-curricular college activities in alignment with the philosophy and objectives of Aims Community College, as outlined in the school catalog. This position plays a critical role in ensuring the viability of UAS flight training by providing an FAA-approved, certified UAS commercial pilot qualified to teach both basic and advanced students. Additionally, the Assistant Chief Instructor will assist with all UAS contracts and help manage the UAS operations group.
This role is essential for maintaining consistent, high-quality, and safe UAS flight operations in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations. The staff member will also engage in scholarly and creative activities (professional development) and contribute to the college's service initiatives.
This position will act in the absence of the UAS Chief Instructor for all UAS operations at Aims Community College.
Instructional Support & Delivery:
  • Coordinate UAS operations with fleet scheduling and local airport operations, ensuring that all activities are synchronized and comply with regulations.
  • Conduct classes, labs, and flight training sessions as per the program's syllabus and schedules.
  • Assist in the development and revision of course content, teaching materials, and assessment tools.
  • Provide hands-on instruction and supervision during flight training and simulation exercises.
  • Substitute for the UAS Chief Instructor when necessary, ensuring the continuity of education.
  • Facilitate student learning by organizing tutorials, study sessions, and review classes.

Student Engagement & Advisement:
  • Mentor and advise students on academic progress, career paths, and professional development opportunities.
  • Address student concerns and mediate issues that may arise between students and faculty.
  • Oversee student projects, internships, and facilitate opportunities for practical experience.
  • Develop and implement strategies to increase student retention and success within the program.

Program & Curriculum Development:
  • Collaborate with the UAS Chief Instructor in curriculum planning, development, and evaluation.
  • Stay up to date with industry trends to suggest relevant updates to the program.
  • Contribute to the accreditation process by compiling necessary documentation and evidence of program effectiveness.
  • Participate in faculty meetings and contribute to the academic governance of the UAS program.

Administrative & Operational Management:
  • Coordinate the scheduling of classes, flight operations, and maintenance of UAS equipment.
  • Assist in managing the program's budget by tracking expenses and helping identify areas for cost-saving.
  • Ensure compliance with all institutional, state, and federal regulations, particularly those related to UAS operations.
  • Oversee the maintenance of student records, including grades, attendance, and progress reports.
  • Manage inventory and procurement of supplies, equipment, and software for the UAS program.

Industry & Community Relations:
  • Assist in establishing partnerships with UAS industry entities for program support, research, and student employment opportunities.
  • Represent the UAS program at industry conferences, workshops, and community events to promote the program and build professional networks.
  • Engage with alumni to develop a professional network for current students and explore opportunities for program growth.
  • Participate in outreach efforts to schools and community organizations to raise awareness of the UAS field and the program.

Other Duties as Assigned
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Sciences, Aviation, Engineering, Education, or another related field; plus, one (1) year of UAS operational experience. OR Five (5) years of work experience in an aviation-related field or an equivalent combination of education and/or work experience.
  • Current FAA Part 107 - Remote Pilot Certificate.
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment post-offer urine analysis.
  • Shall hold or qualify for a full-time, post-secondary vocational credential in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) or an aviation-related field issued by Aims Community College CTE Office. Contact Landon Loyd for the application at landon.loyd@aims.edu. This will require at least two years (4,000 hours) of approved experience in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) or an aviation-related field. The preferred range is 8,000-10,000 hours of work experience, or a combination of work and teaching experience.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Experience in risk management and mitigation.
  • Experience in FAA compliance.
  • Experience in negotiation skills, public speaking, and people skills.
  • Experience in conflict management.
  • This position requires the use of a company vehicle for business travel. The selected candidate must successfully pass an MVR and be insurable under Aims insurance.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume
  • Current FAA Part 107 - Remote Pilot Certificate.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's Degree in Aviation, Engineering, Education, or another related field; plus, three (3) years of UAS operational experience.
  • FAA Private Pilot Certificate.
  • Professional Secondary or Post Secondary Teaching Experience.
  • Remote pilot in-command experience.

All Applicants:
  • Compare your previous work experience to the job duties listed on the job positing under job description. Enter the job duties you have performed under the "Work Experience" section on your job application. We evaluate your experience based on this information.
  • Please make sure you state whether work experience (aka work history) is part time or full time employment by listing the average number of hours worked per week. This information is used to determine your new annual salary.
  • Be sure to upload all the required documents listed at the above in "Additional Job Description" section. This can be uploaded as part of your application materials in the "My Experience" section. If there are missing documents, your incomplete application will not be considered. Per the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, you may redact information that identifies age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

For information on our hiring practices, please visit our resource page: https://www.aims.edu/departments/human-resources/hiring-process.
Aims Community College is an equal opportunity employer. Selection will be based solely on merit and will be without discrimination based on age, ancestry, color, creed, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, race, religion, or veteran's status. All application materials must be submitted by the closing date posted and become the property of Aims Community College. The screening committee will select finalists for interviews. The goal of Aims Community College is to enhance the diversity present in the district we serve. To comply with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, if hired, you will be required to provide documents within three (3) business days of hire date to show your identity and your authorization to work. This law applies to all persons hired.
Screening/Selection:
To be considered, please provide a thorough and complete application. Initial screening will be conducted by a committee based on completed application materials.
Employees in these positions may be asked to participate in temporary assignments lasting less than nine (9) months (such as curriculum development, short term projects, meetings and substitute duties) which could amount to additional temporary pay.
Upon hire, all positions at Aims Community College require a criminal background check and may require industry specific screenings such as an MVR, physical and/or drug screen. Keep in mind, a conviction does not automatically preclude candidates from being employed. The nature of a conviction will be considered relative to the duties of the position.

What Aims Community College employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom