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Flight Instructor Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CAE, Inc.

Instructor Pilot

Dothan, AL · On-site

Summary CAE is looking for rotary wing instructor pilots to train new student pilots enrolled in ... The employee will conduct contact flight training and instrument familiarization in support of the ...

Caeus

Helicopter Instructor Pilot

Dothan, AL

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 ...

Caeus

Instructor Pilot

Dothan, AL

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 ...

CAE, Inc.

Helicopter Instructor Pilot

Dothan, AL · On-site

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 ...

dynamicaviation

Instructor Pilot

Bridgewater, VA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Conduct advanced flight training in simulators for King Air 90 and 200 aircraft * Conduct advanced ... Minimum of 300 hours as flight instructor OR 5 years' experience as an Instructor Pilot * Multi ...

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Flight Instructor Pilot information

See salary details

$39.5K

$103K

$171.5K

How much do flight instructor pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 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.

Can you get a job as a flight instructor?

Yes, flight instructor pilots can find employment teaching aspiring pilots how to fly, often at flight schools or flying clubs. To qualify, they must hold a commercial pilot certificate, an instructor rating, and meet experience requirements set by aviation authorities. Job availability depends on location, experience, and certification levels.

How much do pilot instructors earn?

Flight instructor pilots typically earn between $25,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of flying they do. Entry-level instructors may start at lower wages, while experienced instructors or those working for airlines can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by flight hours and certifications.

What are Flight Instructor Pilots?

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.

Is there a demand for flight instructors?

The demand for flight instructors remains steady due to ongoing pilot training needs and pilot shortages in the aviation industry. Many flight schools and flight training organizations seek qualified instructors with certifications such as Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) to help students earn their pilot licenses and ratings.

How much can I make as a flight instructor?

Flight instructor pilots typically earn between $20,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of flight school. Entry-level instructors often start at the lower end, while experienced instructors or those working for larger organizations can earn higher wages, sometimes supplemented by flight hours and tips.

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, and why are they important?

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.
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Flight Instructor Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Instructor Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,038 per year, or $49.5 per hour.
IFT-R Instructor Pilot

IFT-R Instructor Pilot

Navigator Development Group Inc.

Dothan, AL • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

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.


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