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Flight Follower Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flight Dynamicist

National City, CA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

Perform flight mechanics analyses including stability and control assessments, separation dynamics, staging events, atmospheric flight, reentry, and orbital mission operations as applicable.

Flight Dynamicist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

Perform flight mechanics analyses including stability and control assessments, separation dynamics, staging events, atmospheric flight, reentry, and orbital mission operations as applicable.

Flight Analyst

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$105K - $170K/yr

Flight Analyst DESCRIPTION As a Flight Analyst I, you will perform a mix of trajectory analysis and performance assessments, supporting mission design, pre-flight prediction, range safety integration ...

Flight Analyst

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$105K - $170K/yr

Flight Analyst DESCRIPTION As a Flight Analyst I, you will perform a mix of trajectory analysis and performance assessments, supporting mission design, pre-flight prediction, range safety integration ...

Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Flight Director to support the DHS Customs & Border Protection Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS) program. The TARS program leverages ...

The Opportunity As a Flight Operator on the Flight Team, you will be one of the people who make Skyways aircraft fly. You will plan and execute missions, run flight tests, troubleshoot in real time ...

JOB SUMMARY: The Marketing Flight Attendant for Flight Operations is responsible for preparing the aircraft for demonstration flights including inventory and stocking, prepare and serve meals ...

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Summary The Flight Student Mentor plays a vital role in the student experience at every stage of the training journey. This position is responsible for providing peer-level guidance, encouragement ...

Posted today

Summary The Flight Student Mentor plays a vital role in the student experience at every stage of the training journey. This position is responsible for providing peer-level guidance, encouragement ...

Posted today

Wing is looking for a sUAS Flight Operator to join our Flight Operations team for a 36-month fixed term contract. In this role, you'll help us operate multiple highly autonomous small uncrewed ...

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Flight Follower information

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How much do flight follower jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight follower in the United States is $28.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do flight followers make?

Flight followers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. The role often requires strong communication skills and knowledge of aviation operations, with some positions offering additional benefits or overtime pay.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Flight Follower position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flight Follower, you need strong knowledge of aviation regulations, flight planning, communication protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent; some employers may require FAA Aircraft Dispatcher certification. Proficiency with flight tracking systems, weather monitoring software, and airline operations platforms is commonly required. Attention to detail, quick decision-making, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe and efficient flight operations, prompt problem-solving, and seamless coordination with flight crews and other departments.

What are some common challenges faced by Flight Followers during a typical shift?

Flight Followers often encounter challenges such as monitoring multiple flights simultaneously, quickly responding to unexpected weather changes, and collaborating with pilots and ground teams to resolve issues in real time. Shifts can be fast-paced, especially during peak travel periods, requiring strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks under pressure. Close attention to regulatory compliance and safety protocols is essential, as even minor oversights can impact flight schedules and passenger safety. The role is integral to maintaining smooth day-to-day airline operations and supports both operational efficiency and safety.

What is a Flight Follower job?

A Flight Follower is responsible for monitoring and tracking aircraft movements, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. They often use flight tracking software and communicate with pilots and air traffic control to coordinate flight operations, typically working in aviation or airline environments.

How much do airport dispatchers get paid?

Airport dispatchers, also known as flight followers, typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $65,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. They coordinate flight operations, monitor aircraft, and communicate with pilots using radio and computer systems, often working in shifts. Salaries can vary based on airline size and regional demand.

Is there a demand for flight dispatchers?

Flight followers, similar to flight dispatchers, are in demand due to the need for coordination and safety in aviation operations. The industry requires qualified professionals with certifications such as an FAA dispatch license, and employment opportunities are expected to grow with the expansion of air travel and cargo services.

What is a Flight Follower job?

A Flight Follower is responsible for monitoring and tracking aircraft during flight operations to ensure safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. They communicate with pilots, dispatchers, and air traffic control to provide real-time updates on weather, routing, and any operational concerns. Flight Followers play a key role in adjusting flight plans as needed and ensuring company policies and procedures are followed. This role is crucial in commercial, cargo, and charter aviation to maintain smooth and safe flight operations.

More about Flight Follower jobs
What cities are hiring for Flight Follower jobs? Cities with the most Flight Follower job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Follower jobs? The most popular types of Flight Follower jobs are:
What states have the most Flight Follower jobs? States with the most job openings for Flight Follower jobs include:
Infographic showing various Flight Follower job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,871 per year, or $28.3 per hour.
Flight Ops Flight Instructor - HDQ

Flight Ops Flight Instructor - HDQ

Southwest Airlines

Dallas, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago


Southwest Airlines rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 247 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 26 rated airlines


Job description

Department:
Flight Operations
Our Company Promise
We are committed to provide our Employees a stable work environment with equal opportunity for learning and personal growth. Creativity and innovation are encouraged for improving the effectiveness of Southwest Airlines. Above all, Employees will be provided the same concern, respect, and caring attitude within the organization that they are expected to share externally with every Southwest Customer.
Job Description:
All of Southwest's People come together to deliver on our Purpose; Connecting People to what's important in their lives through friendly, reliable, and low-cost air travel. The Flight Operations Flight Instructor supports the Flight Operations Department by providing training to Pilots in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), Advanced Qualification Program Manual (AQPM), Flight Operations Training Manual (FOTM), and Company requirements/agreements. This role conducts training in the classroom and in simulators to ensure Pilots have the knowledge and hands-on experience to provide our Customers with a safe and reliable flight. The Flight Operations Flight Instructor has great interpersonal and communication skills which help them facilitate proper flight instructions.
Additional details
  • The culture of Southwest Airlines means we value the camaraderie, collaboration, and innovation that occurs when we come together and interact face-to-face at our vibrant Corporate Campus. Due to the nature of this role, you would be required to work from our Dallas, TX headquarters facility during business hours.
  • U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. required and no current or future work authorization sponsorship available.

We're committed to fair hiring practices and to making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, military or veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other legally protected characteristics.
Responsibilities
  • Prepare and conduct classroom and simulator training in accordance with FARs, Training Policies / Manuals, and Company requirements.
  • Facilitate pilot learning
  • Develop and create instructional and evaluation media/materials for support of training programs
  • Maintain course material and procedural integrity through self-study, skills practice, critique review, and instructor meetings
  • May perform other job duties as directed by Employee's Leaders

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge and experience in the operation of training equipment that includes computer based training workstations
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office programs
  • Knowledge of flight training instructional duties along with a good working knowledge of FAR training requirements
  • Must possess excellent English verbal communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to read technical aircraft documents, follow technical instructions, learn and understand new technical concepts and prepare written technical documents that will convey information or guidance to others in an understandable manner
  • Ability to accomplish accurate work under tight time constraints while maintaining a high degree of flexibility
  • Ability to work various assigned hours as necessary, which may include evenings, weekends, holidays, with a rotating assigned work schedule to cover the operational hours (which includes 365 day a year up to 24 hours a day)

Education
  • Required: High School Diploma or GED

Experience
  • Required: Flying experience operating an aircraft

Licensing/Certification
  • Required: USA DOT/FAA Unrestricted Airline Transport Pilot Certificate. The certificate must display the following:
    • "Airplane Multiengine Land" Category and Class Ratings
    • "English Proficient" limitation
  • Required: Paper or electronic logbook with at least the last 500 hours of flight time recorded
  • Required: Must possess a valid United States Driver's License
  • Required: Must meet all regulatory criteria to obtain and maintain Flight Deck Jumpseat Access; this position requires successful and continuous enrollment in Rap Back

Physical Abilities
  • Must have vision ability to view and read computer/video/flight deck displays on a frequent basis
  • Must be able to participate in the FAR directed Line Observation Program and be able to enter and exit the aircraft under normal and emergency conditions
  • Must be able to enter and exit the flight simulator, cabin simulator or mock-up, briefing rooms under normal and emergency conditions
  • Must be able to sit in the simulator uninterrupted for up to 4 hours
  • Ability to perform work duties from limited space work station/desk/office area for extended periods of time
  • Ability to communicate and interact with others in the English language to meet the demands of the job
  • Ability to use a computer and other office productivity tools with sufficient speed and accuracy to meet the demands of the job
  • Ability to move/transport 25 lbs on an occasional basis (under 50%)
  • Ability to work at elevated heights and operate a Flight Simulator
  • Ability to manipulate applicable flight controls at full deflection
  • Ability to pass annual flight evaluation
  • Ability to converse/present/facilitate for up to 8 hours
  • Ability to make/receive audible call outs in classroom and/or simulator settings

Other Qualifications
  • Must maintain a well-groomed appearance per Company appearance standards as described in established guidelines
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986
  • Must be able to comply with Company attendance standards as described in established guidelines
  • Must be at least 23 years of age
  • Must have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986, without requiring sponsorship now or in the future
  • Must have a professional behavior on and after Company hours and at Company events
  • Must be able to work rotating shifts, holidays, and overtime
  • Must meet confidentiality expectations as to confidential, proprietary and sensitive Company information
  • Air travel with overnight stays required
  • Ability to work extended hours as needed

Pay & Benefits
Pay of $78.94 per hour*, with the opportunity for future increase per applicable collective bargaining agreement wage scale based on time in position. Opportunities for overtime and shift premiums.
Benefits you'll love:
  • Fly for free, as a privilege, on any open seat on all Southwest flights (your eligible dependents too)
  • Southwest will help fund your Retirement Savings Plan, which includes a dollar for-dollar 401(k) Company match contribution up to 10% of your eligible earnings**
  • Potential for annual profit-sharing contribution in the Southwest Retirement Savings Plan-when Southwest profits, you profit***
  • Competitive health insurance for you and your eligible dependents
  • Southwest offers health plan coverage options that start from the first day of employment. You'll have 30 days to select and enroll in your health plan, and coverage will be retroactively available to your first day of employment.
  • Explore more benefits you'll love: https://careers.southwestair.com/benefits

*The pay amount doesn't guarantee employment for any particular period.
**401(k) Company match contributions are subject to the plan's vesting schedule. Match contributions may vary based on the position.
***Profit-sharing contributions are subject to the Retirement Savings Plan vesting schedule and are made at the discretion of the Company.
Southwest Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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