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Flight Instructor Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The employee will conduct contact flight training and instrument familiarization in support of the ... Graduate of a US DOD formal Rotary Wing Instructor Pilot training program (preferred). * Prior ...

The employee will conduct contact flight training and instrument familiarization in support of the ... Graduate of a US DOD formal Rotary Wing Instructor Pilot training program (preferred). * Prior ...

... Instructor Pilot supporting the Army National Guard (ARNG) Aviation Training Services and ... Leidos is hiring in-flight instruction of AATS assigned UH-60 A/L aircraft and instructor ...

... Instructor Pilot supporting the Army National Guard (ARNG) Aviation Training Services and ... Leidos is hiring in-flight instruction of AATS assigned UH-60 A/L aircraft and instructor ...

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Flight Instructor Pilot information

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$39.5K

$103K

$171.5K

How much do flight instructor pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight instructor pilot in the United States is $103,038.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges flight instructor pilots face when training new students, and how can they effectively manage them?

Flight Instructor Pilots often encounter challenges such as varying student learning styles, managing student anxiety, and ensuring clear communication during flight lessons. Effectively managing these challenges involves adapting instructional techniques to each student's needs, maintaining patience, and prioritizing safety at all times. Building trust with students and providing constructive feedback are also essential to fostering a positive and productive training environment.

What is a flight instructor pilot?

Flight Instructor Pilots are experienced aviators who are certified to teach student pilots how to fly airplanes or helicopters. They provide both ground instruction, covering topics like aviation theory and safety, and in-flight training to help students develop piloting skills. Flight instructors are responsible for preparing students for written exams, practical tests, and ensuring they understand aviation regulations. Their role is crucial in helping aspiring pilots gain the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to earn their pilot licenses.

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

AspectFlight Instructor PilotFlight Engineer
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot Certificate, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate, sometimes an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license
Work EnvironmentFlight schools, training aircraft, small to medium aircraftCommercial aircraft, airline operations, cockpit crew
Employer & Industry UsageFlight training academies, flight schoolsAirlines, cargo carriers, large commercial flights

Flight Instructor Pilots primarily train student pilots and work in flight schools, focusing on teaching flying skills. Flight Engineers, on the other hand, are part of the cockpit crew on larger aircraft, managing systems during flights. While both roles involve aviation expertise, they differ significantly in certifications, work environment, and industry usage.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flight instructor pilot?

To thrive as a Flight Instructor Pilot, you need advanced piloting skills, a commercial pilot license with instructor certification (such as CFI), and thorough knowledge of aviation regulations. Familiarity with flight simulators, avionics systems, and training management software is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and situational awareness are crucial soft skills for effective teaching and ensuring student safety. These competencies enable instructors to deliver high-quality training, maintain safety standards, and prepare future pilots for real-world flying challenges.
More about Flight Instructor Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Flight Instructor Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Flight Instructor Pilot job openings:

What states have the most Flight Instructor Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Flight Instructor Pilot jobs include:

Infographic showing various Flight Instructor Pilot 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 $103,038 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Job: IFT-R Instructor Pilot
Location: Dothan, AL
Position: Full time
Clearance: Secret

There is no active opening at this time. We do collect resumes to have on hand if a position comes open.

Navigator is accepting resumes for future openings for a rotary wing instructor pilot to train new student pilots enrolled in the United States Air Force Air Education and Training Commands, Introductory Flight Training - Rotary (IFT-R) program.

Qualifications and Education Requirements
•FAA Certificated Commercial pilot, Helicopter with and Instrument helicopter rating.
•FAA Certificated Flight instructor Helicopter, with Instrument Helicopter instructor rating (current) or be a Graduate of a US DOD formal Rotary Wing Instructor Pilot training program.
•Prior experience as a US Air Force Helicopter instructor pilot preferred,
•Total Flight Time - 1500 hrs. Flight time as pilot-in-command or second in command (per FAR 61.51); as Pilot in Command (PC) or Pilot (PI) (Per AR 95-1) in aircraft of any weight or category is creditable for this requirement, 500 hours of turbine helicopter time, 100 hours of hooded instrument, flight simulator instrument, or weather pilot time, and 75 hours of night flying time.
•Must have 500 hours of Flight Instructor time and have taught as a Helicopter Instructor Pilot with experience in primary flight training and in the FAA 14CFR Part 61 and / or Part 141 environments.
•Must have instructed students in instrument flight training.
•Must possess and maintain a FAA Class 2 medical certificate (current Class 2 Medical required).
•Must be able to work overtime as required
•Must be willing to work any shift or day of the week as required.
•Highly motivated and self-directed

Work Environment and Physical Demands
•Must be able to lift at least 40 pounds over head.
•Must be able to walk and/or climb stairs and ladder into a simulator or airplane cockpit.
•Must be able to stoop, bend, and crawl on top of or under the device.
•Must be able to detect odors or hear noises, bangs, etc., or other sounds to detect problems or flaws in the functioning of simulators and its surrounding environment.
•Must be able to distinguish colors.


Navigator is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.