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Flight Instructor Pilot Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

As an Instructor Pilot at CAE, your role soars beyond training. You build confidence and skill ... Ensure flight training programs comply with EASA, UKCAA, and QCAA Part-FCL and Part-ORA ...

As an Instructor Pilot at CAE, your role soars beyond training. You build confidence and skill ... Ensure flight training programs comply with EASA, UKCAA, and QCAA Part-FCL and Part-ORA ...

Instructor Pilots also perform Instructor Operator duties and deliver platform academic instruction ... Report Instructor Flight and Operations data for the Task Order Monthly Report. Basic ...

You will provide in-flight instruction on LUH-72A aircraft, lead instructor qualification courses ... Instructor Pilots also perform Instructor Operator duties and deliver platform academic instruction ...

Qualified as an Instructor Pilot in the respective aircraft simulator and as an Instrument Flight Examiner, or three years of documented experience as an Aviation Simulator I/O in the required device.

Qualified as an Instructor Pilot in the respective aircraft simulator and as an Instrument Flight Examiner, or three years of documented experience as an Aviation Simulator I/O in the required device.

LUH- 72A Lakota Simulator Instructor Operator

Marana, AZ · On-site

$24.25 - $30.50/hr

Conduct academic instruction for multiple courses, including Instructor Operator, Instrument Flight Examiner, Aviation Qualification, Instructor Pilot, and Functional Check Pilot programs. * Lead pre ...

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Flight Instructor Pilot information

See Arizona salary details

$36.8K

$96K

$159.8K

How much do flight instructor pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight instructor pilot in Arizona is $96,020.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,300.00 and $117,900.00 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.
Infographic showing various Flight Instructor Pilot job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,020 per year, or $46.2 per hour.
Deputy Chief Flight Instructor

Deputy Chief Flight Instructor

CAE, Inc.

Mesa, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


CAE rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 61 rated aerospace companies


Job description

As an Instructor Pilot at CAE, your role soars beyond training. You build confidence and skill, inspire mastery, and ensure pilots are prepared for the moments that matter. Whether leading simulator sessions or pre-flight briefings, you'll contribute to CAE's legacy of flight training excellence while keeping your own skills sharp. Supported by advanced training and cutting-edge technology, you'll grow as an educator and find purpose in helping pilots excel, no matter the challenges they face.
The position is responsible for supporting the delivery of pilot training programs in accordance with standards established by the ATO Standards Committee and applicable EASA, UKCAA, and QCAA regulations.
Key responsibilities include:
  • Ensure flight training programs comply with EASA, UKCAA, and QCAA Part-FCL and Part-ORA requirements.
  • Maintain and update Training Manuals and Operations Manuals to reflect regulatory changes.
  • Develop, maintain, and standardize training syllabi across all training courses.
  • Monitor and evaluate training effectiveness and student performance outcomes.
  • Supervise and assess flight instructors and examiners.
  • Ensure instructors maintain required qualifications and participate in ongoing professional development activities.
  • Implement and maintain quality assurance processes related to flight training operations.
  • Conduct internal audits and support inspections or audits conducted by aviation authorities.
  • Partner with Safety Management personnel to integrate safety principles into training activities.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance training quality, compliance, and operational effectiveness.
Minimum Qualifications
Education
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
Experience
  • 5-8 years of experience in flight training.
  • 2 or more years of experience in a supervisory or management capacity.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of EASA and UKCAA Part-FCL, Part-ORA, and associated AMC/GM requirements.
Licenses and Certifications
  • Valid EASA Flight Instructor Certificate with instructional experience across multiple license and rating levels (including CPL, Night, IR/SE, IR/ME, ME, MPLI, and FI).
  • Valid EASA Medical Certificate with First-Class privileges.
  • Valid FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate or Airline Transport Pilot Certificate with Airplane Single Engine Land, Airplane Multi Engine Land, and Instrument Airplane ratings.
  • Valid FAA Certified Flight Instructor Certificate with Airplane Single Engine, Airplane Multi Engine, and Instrument Airplane ratings.
  • Valid FAA Medical Certificate with at least Second-Class privileges.
Technical Skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
  • Experience working within Safety Management Systems (SMS) and compliance monitoring frameworks.
Professional Skills
  • Leadership and team management skills.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Organizational and planning abilities.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Ability to operate effectively within a structured and regulated environment.
  • English language proficiency (written and spoken) with a minimum ICAO English Level 5 rating.
Physical Requirements
The physical demands described below are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
  • Frequently ascends or descends ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, or similar structures.
  • Frequently moves through varying workspaces, including confined areas.
  • Occasionally remains stationary while standing or sitting.
  • Occasionally moves throughout the work environment to accomplish tasks.
  • Occasionally moves or adjusts objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
  • Frequently performs repetitive hand, wrist, and finger movements.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Aviation, Aeronautics, Aviation Management, or a related field.
  • Experience supporting regulatory audits, inspections, or aviation authority oversight activities.
  • Experience leading process improvement initiatives within a flight training environment.
  • Experience working with multiple aviation regulatory frameworks.

About CAE
At CAE, our mission is clear: to help make the world a safer place. For nearly 80 years, we've driven innovation in simulation, training, and mission readiness to support critical operations worldwide. By leveraging advanced technologies, we empower our customers to operate smarter, faster, and more sustainably. Join a purpose-driven organization where bold ideas are encouraged, collaboration drives progress, and your growth fuels our shared success.
Position Type
Regular
Equal Opportunity Employer
CAE is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. At CAE, everyone is welcome to contribute to our success. Applicants needing reasonable accommodations should contact their recruiter at any point in the recruitment process. If you need assistance to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at CAECarrieres-Careers@cae.com.
Data Privacy
Privacy Statement | CAE
As part of our process, we may use AI-supported tools to help review applications, with human decision-making at every step. CAE thanks all applicants for their interest. However, only those whose background and experience match the requirements of the role will be contacted.

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