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Flight Examiner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KBR

AH-64E Instructor Pilot

Killeen, TX

S. Army Instrument Flight Examiner Course Must have 2000 Mission Design Series (MDS) of which 500 hours must be in the series (AH-64E) Must have 500 flight hours as an Instructor Pilot in the AH-64 ...

AeroVironment

Flight Test Operator II

Moorpark, CA

$23 - $35/hr

Will be required to pass a semiannual proficiency examination and pass the semiannual unannounced written and field test examinations * Proficient with computerized work applications (including MS ...

AeroVironment

Flight Test Operator II

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$23 - $35/hr

Will be required to pass a semiannual proficiency examination and pass the semiannual unannounced written and field test examinations * Proficient with computerized work applications (including MS ...

AeroVironment, Inc.

Flight Test Operator II

Moorpark, CA · On-site

$23 - $35/hr

Will be required to pass a semiannual proficiency examination and pass the semiannual unannounced written and field test examinations * Proficient with computerized work applications (including MS ...

U.S. Air Force

Flight Surgeon

Chicago, IL

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: - Perform medical examinations and evaluations to determine aircrew members ... in flight safety programs, accident investigations, and risk management activities to enhance ...

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Flight Examiner information

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$33.5K

$61.4K

$99K

How much do flight examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight 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 is a flight examiner?

A Flight Examiner is a highly experienced pilot authorized to assess and evaluate the skills and knowledge of other pilots. They conduct practical flight tests, simulator checks, and oral examinations to ensure pilots meet regulatory and safety standards. Flight Examiners play a crucial role in pilot certification, recurrent training, and licensing renewals, working with both aspiring and current pilots. Their evaluations help maintain high standards of aviation safety and competency within the industry.

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

To thrive as a Flight Examiner, you need a comprehensive understanding of aviation regulations, flight procedures, and a valid commercial or airline transport pilot certificate with significant flight experience. Familiarity with flight simulation software, aircraft systems, and regulatory documentation—such as FAA or EASA standards—is typically required. Strong communication, keen observational skills, and impartial judgment are essential soft skills for accurately assessing pilot abilities and providing constructive feedback. These competencies ensure that flight standards are upheld, promoting safety and proficiency in aviation operations.

What are some common challenges faced by flight examiners during check rides, and how can they be managed?

Flight Examiners often encounter challenges such as varying skill levels among candidates, unpredictable weather conditions, and the need to balance objectivity with maintaining a supportive environment. Managing these challenges involves thorough pre-flight briefings, clear communication of expectations, and adaptability to changing conditions. Examiners must also stay current with regulatory updates and continually refine their assessment techniques to ensure fairness and safety during evaluations.

What is the difference between Flight Examiner vs Flight Instructor?

AspectFlight ExaminerFlight Instructor
Required CertificationsDesignated Pilot Examiner (DPE) certification, FAA or relevant authority approvalCertified Flight Instructor (CFI), often with additional endorsements
Work EnvironmentConducts official checkrides and evaluations, often in designated testing locationsProvides flight training, primarily in flight schools or training aircraft
Employer & Industry UsageFederal or state aviation authorities, flight schools, or private testing agenciesFlight training schools, airlines, or private flight training providers

While both roles involve aviation safety and pilot training, a Flight Examiner primarily conducts official pilot checkrides and assessments, whereas a Flight Instructor focuses on training pilots to achieve certification. The Flight Examiner holds specific certification to evaluate pilots, while Flight Instructors are responsible for teaching and mentoring students during their training process.

Do flight examiners make good money?

Flight examiners typically earn a competitive salary that reflects their specialized skills, certifications, and experience. Salaries can vary based on the employer, location, and level of responsibility, but they generally earn above average wages within the aviation industry. Many also receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

How long does it take to become a flight examiner?

Becoming a flight examiner typically requires several years of experience as a licensed pilot, including accumulating flight hours and gaining instructor or operational experience. Candidates must also complete specific training and certification programs, which can take several months to over a year depending on the regulatory authority and individual progress.
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Flight Examiner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Examiner job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,362 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Supervisory Helicopter Pilot

USDA APHIS | APHIS Careers

Versailles, KY • On-site

$89K/yr

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Supervisory Helicopter Pilot, provides supervision and guidance to pilots, working with the Aviation Program Manager, the Aviation Fleet Manager and Operations and Logistics Managers to collaboratively deliver aviation services to WS cooperators and stakeholders within the east, supervising up to 30 intermittent and part-time pilots.Qualifications:Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement, including specialized experience and/or education, as defined below.
Minimum eligibility requirements for positions in this occupation are based on possession of the appropriate Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pilot certificates and/or appropriate military ratings, meeting the applicable flight hour requirements, and possession of the knowledge and skills required for the positions.
Medical Requirements
At the time of initial appointment, candidates for all pilot positions must possess a current first or second-class medical certificate in accordance with FAA regulations; both meet the intent of the requirement. If an agency decides, for example, not to accept the second-class medical certificate, the rationale for the decision should be based upon the requirements of the position, and should be thoroughly described in agency operating material. Staff specialists not involved in the operation of aircraft need only have a medical examination indicating that they are able to perform the duties of the position to be filled. For flight test pilots, airspace system inspection pilots, and Customs pilots, all candidates must possess a current first class medical certificate at the time of appointment.
Certificates and Ratings:
For all grade levels and specializations, candidates must possess a current Commercial Pilot Certificate or the appropriate military rating; both meet the intent of the requirement. If an agency decides, for example, not to accept the military rating, the rationale for the decision should be based upon the requirements of the position and should be thoroughly described in agency operating material. The pilot certificate must include the rating(s) appropriate to the work of the position to be filled. For example, a position that involves flying light helicopters, such as Bell or MD helicopters, to various destinations under instrument flight rules would require the Commercial Pilot Certificate with helicopter and instrument ratings or appropriate U.S. military ratings.
Note:
Candidates establishing eligibility based on military flight experience must provide official orders, forms, or logbooks showing their status as a rated military pilot, flight instructor, or flight examiner, as appropriate. Other certificates that meet or exceed the requirements of the Commercial Pilot Certificate are also acceptable, e.g., an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate.
Minimum Flight Hour Requirements:
  1. Total Flight Time --1500 HRS- Flight time as pilot-in-command or copilot in aircraft of any weight or category is creditable for this requirement.
  2. Pilot-In-Command -- 250 HRS- Only flight hours acquired as pilot-in-command are creditable.
  3. Night Flying -- 75 HRS-- For in service placement actions at the GS-11 level and above, 25 hours may be waived if the candidate demonstrates the ability to perform the work.
  4. Flying Time, Last 12 Months --100 HRS-- Required only for positions that involve flying. The flight hours specified apply to competitive appointments.
In addition to the meeting the above criteria you must also show the specialized experience below:
FOR THE GS-12 LEVEL: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience (equivalent to the GS-11 level) that may have been obtained in the private or public (local, county, state, Federal) sectors which demonstrates:
  • Operating light helicopters at low altitudes (100 feet above ground level) in varying terrains and cover types.
  • Aerial predator or feral swine control operations in mountainous environments.
  • Low level flight experience with a Bell or MD helicopter or a make and model of helicopter or similar type (i.e. Single Engine Piston). Please ensure the aircraft type that meets this experience is listed in your resume along with total hours Pilot in Command (PIC), PIC time for the preceding 12 months, and total hours spent as PIC for wildlife damage or similar operations.
  • Experience in supervising other pilots or aerial crewmembers.

Note: There is no education substitution for this grade level.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:Please see above for education qualification requirement information.Employment Type: OTHER

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