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Designated Pilot Examiner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Blue Air Training

Pilot

North Las Vegas, NV · On-site

... designation, as well as T-38 ADAIR, T-38 IFF, and any international exchange fighter equivalent aircraft servicing as Pilot in Command, Instructor Pilot, or Stan/Eval Flight Examiner. Must have ...

Top Aces, Inc.

Pilot (Part-Time)

Avon Park, FL · On-site

... designation, as well as T-38 ADAIR, T-38 IFF, and any international exchange fighter equivalent aircraft servicing as Pilot in Command, Instructor Pilot, or Stan/Eval Flight Examiner. Must have ...

RAVN Group, Inc

Pilot

Houston, TX · On-site

$180 - $240/hr

... designation, including T-38 ADAIR, T-38 IFF, and international exchange fighter equivalent aircraft while serving as Pilot in Command, Instructor Pilot, or Stan/Eval Flight Examiner.FAA Class II ...

Blue Air Training

Pilot (Part-Time)

Avon Park, FL · On-site

... designation, as well as T-38 ADAIR, T-38 IFF, and any international exchange fighter equivalent aircraft servicing as Pilot in Command, Instructor Pilot, or Stan/Eval Flight Examiner. Must have ...

Blue Air Training

Pilot (Part-Time)

North Las Vegas, NV · On-site

... designation, as well as T-38 ADAIR, T-38 IFF, and any international exchange fighter equivalent aircraft servicing as Pilot in Command, Instructor Pilot, or Stan/Eval Flight Examiner. Must have ...

Blue Air Training

Pilot (Part-Time)

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

... designation, as well as T-38 ADAIR, T-38 IFF, and any international exchange fighter equivalent aircraft servicing as Pilot in Command, Instructor Pilot, or Stan/Eval Flight Examiner. Must have ...

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Designated Pilot Examiner information

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$33.5K

$61.4K

$99K

How much do designated pilot examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for designated pilot examiner in the United States is $61,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To excel as a Designated Pilot Examiner, you need extensive flight experience, in-depth knowledge of FAA regulations, and a current commercial or airline transport pilot certificate, often with instructor credentials. Familiarity with FAA testing standards, electronic record-keeping systems, and proficiency in using flight training devices are essential. Strong interpersonal communication, impartiality, and attention to detail are vital soft skills for effectively evaluating candidates. These competencies ensure thorough, fair assessments that uphold aviation safety and regulatory compliance.

How hard is it to become a DPE?

Becoming a designated pilot examiner (DPE) requires extensive flying experience, typically at least 1,000 flight hours, and a thorough understanding of FAA regulations and testing procedures. Candidates must also hold an active pilot certificate, have a clean safety record, and undergo a rigorous application and evaluation process, including interviews and demonstration of testing skills.

What is the difference between Designated Pilot Examiner vs Flight Instructor?

AspectDesignated Pilot ExaminerFlight Instructor
CredentialsFAA Designated Pilot Examiner certificationFAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certification
Work EnvironmentConducts checkrides at designated testing locationsProvides flight training and instruction to students
Employer & Industry UsageFAA, Part 135/121 operators, flight schoolsFlight schools, flying clubs, individual instructors

While both roles require FAA certifications, a Designated Pilot Examiner primarily conducts pilot checkrides to assess proficiency, whereas a Flight Instructor provides training and instruction to help students achieve pilot certifications. The roles are distinct but complementary within the aviation industry.

What are some common challenges faced by Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs) during checkrides, and how can they be managed?

Designated Pilot Examiners often face challenges such as managing applicant nerves, ensuring adherence to FAA standards, and balancing objectivity with clear communication. DPEs must conduct fair, standardized evaluations while also making applicants feel comfortable enough to perform their best. To manage these challenges, most DPEs establish a professional but approachable rapport, clearly outline expectations, and consistently reference FAA guidelines to ensure transparency and fairness throughout the checkride process.

What is the salary of designated examiner pilot?

The salary of a designated pilot examiner varies depending on location, experience, and whether they work independently or for a government agency. Typically, examiners earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, with some earning more based on flight hours and certifications. Many examiners also charge fees for conducting pilot tests, which can supplement their income.

Is there a DPE shortage?

The demand for Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs) can vary by region and industry needs, but overall, there is no widespread shortage reported. DPEs are experienced pilots authorized to conduct practical tests for pilot certification, and their availability depends on factors such as certification requirements and regional aviation activity.

What is a Designated Pilot Examiner?

A Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) is an experienced pilot authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct practical tests, or checkrides, for pilot applicants. DPEs evaluate a candidate’s flying skills and knowledge to determine if they meet the standards required for a pilot certificate or rating. While they are not FAA employees, they act on behalf of the FAA to ensure aviation safety and compliance with regulations. DPEs play a crucial role in the certification process, helping to maintain high standards in pilot training and qualifications.

How much money does a DPE make?

A Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) typically earns between $300 and $600 per exam, depending on the location and the complexity of the testing. Their income can vary based on the number of exams they conduct and whether they work independently or for a flight school or aviation authority.
More about Designated Pilot Examiner jobs
What cities are hiring for Designated Pilot Examiner jobs? Cities with the most Designated Pilot Examiner job openings:
What states have the most Designated Pilot Examiner jobs? States with the most job openings for Designated Pilot Examiner jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Designated Pilot Examiner jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Designated Pilot Examiner jobs are:
Designated Pilot Examiner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Designated Pilot Examiner job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,362 per year, or $29.5 per hour.
LIFT Academy - ODA Administrator - Airman Certification (Part 141)

LIFT Academy - ODA Administrator - Airman Certification (Part 141)

Republic Airways

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Republic Airways rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 26 rated airlines

Job description

Job Category:
Lift Academy PL
POSITION PURPOSE
LIFT Academy is seeking a highly qualified individual to serve as the ODA Administrator responsible for overseeing its Airman Certification Organizational Designation Authorization (AC ODA) program. This role ensures compliance with FAA Order 8100.15C, manages the performance of Unit Members (UMs) authorized to conduct practical tests and certification tasks, and serves as the primary liaison with the FAA's ODA Office and Certificate Management Team.
The ideal candidate is a strategic, detail-oriented leader with deep knowledge of 14 CFR Part 141, airman certification standards, and FAA delegation systems. This role will shape the future of LIFT's autonomy and excellence in certification.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Other duties may be assigned to this position as needed.
ODA Program Oversight
  • Serve as the ODA Administrator per FAA authorization, with full accountability for the structure, integrity, and compliance of the Airman Certification ODA Unit.
  • Ensure all delegated airman certification activities (e.g., practical tests) are conducted in accordance with FAA Order 8100.15C, FAA Order 8900.1, and applicable CFRs.

FAA Interface
  • Act as the primary liaison to the FAA ODA Office, Certificate Management Team, and relevant FSDO personnel.
  • Coordinate FAA audits, reviews, surveillance, and reporting requirements.
  • Submit all required manuals, data, and internal performance metrics to the FAA.

Unit Member (UM) Management
  • Interview, appoint, and supervise Unit Members who perform certification functions (e.g., practical tests).
  • Ensure all UMs meet FAA qualifications, training, and currency standards.
  • Oversee UM standardization, conduct internal evaluations, and implement corrective actions when necessary.

Compliance & Quality Assurance
  • Maintain a delegation procedures manual (DPM) and ensure ongoing adherence.
  • Develop and lead an internal audit program that supports a systems-based FAA oversight model.
  • Investigate any discrepancies in certification outcomes and lead root cause analysis and remediation.

Process Improvement
  • Lead initiatives to improve the efficiency, transparency, and scalability of delegated certification operations.
  • Leverage training performance data to drive continuous improvement.
  • Collaborate with instructional, scheduling, and safety teams to align delegated processes with LIFT's operational needs.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability necessary to perform this job.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE.
  • Must meet the general eligibility, references, qualifications, and disqualifiers outlined in FAA Order 8000.95, Volume 1, Chapter 2.
  • At least 5 years of experience working with the FAA on projects related to airmen training or certification programs under 14 CFR Parts 121, 135, 141, 142, 145, or 147.
  • Experience must include various levels of technical, airworthiness, or operational responsibilities, such as Director of Operations, Chief Pilot, Training Program Manager, Director of Training, Training Program Manager, Standards Manager, QA/Safety Manager, or Operations Inspector.
  • Must possess commensurate management experience appropriate to the scope of the ODA, specifically in operations or training program management.
  • Must have comprehensive knowledge of FAA regulations, policies, and procedures applicable to airman certification and ODA functions.
  • Must possess sufficient technical knowledge to understand and oversee all functions delegated under the ODA.
  • Must demonstrate integrity, sound judgment, and a strong commitment to safety culture, including proactive hazard reporting, continuous learning, and workforce safety advocacy.
  • Must submit to FAA an application with supplemental documentation demonstrating qualifications per FAA Order 8100.15C, Section 1, Chapter 3.
  • Must complete required ODA applicant training (Parts I and II for AC ODA) before appointment.
  • Must attend an FAA ODA seminar every two calendar years to maintain qualification.

PREFERRED EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
  • Commercial Pilot Certificate with CFI/CFII (ATP Preferred)
  • Prior experience as a Chief Instructor or Check Instructor at a Part 141 school, or as a designated pilot examiner (DPE)
  • Experience managing DPEs, TCEs, or internal examining processes
  • Familiarity with WebOPSS, IACRA, and FAA data systems
  • Experience implementing or operating under a Safety Management System (SMS) or internal Quality Management System
  • Strong technical writing and audit/inspection preparation skills

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER, DISABILITY, AND VETERAN ACCOMODATIONS
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Equal Opportunity Employer, Disability and Veteran Accommodations
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

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