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Flight Instructor Pilot Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

$76K/yr

GS-2181-12 (Airplane Pilot/Helicopter Pilot): Applicant must possess a USAF Pilot rating, hold a ... GS-2181-13 (Flight Instructor): Applicant must possess two years of progressively responsible ...

$76K/yr

GS-2181-12 (Airplane Pilot/Helicopter Pilot): Applicant must possess a USAF Pilot rating, hold a ... GS-2181-13 (Flight Instructor): Applicant must possess two years of progressively responsible ...

We are seeking a highly motivated Certified Flight Instructor willing to take that extra step. The ... pilot) * If instrumental time is less than 200hrs, please indicate the hours flown after your own ...

We are seeking a highly motivated Certified Flight Instructor willing to take that extra step. The ... pilot) * If instrumental time is less than 200hrs, please indicate the hours flown after your own ...

... pilots worldwide. At our training centers, experienced instructors deliver world-class ground ... Minimum 1,000 total flight hours. * Basic computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft ...

... pilots worldwide. At our training centers, experienced instructors deliver world-class ground ... Minimum 1,000 total flight hours. * Basic computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft ...

Participate in all phases of flight to include planning/briefing, execution, debrief and crew ... Current or previously qualified MQ-9A instructor pilot. Compensation Details: $78.11 The ...

Participate in all phases of flight to include planning/briefing, execution, debrief and crew ... Current or previously qualified MQ-9A instructor pilot. Compensation Details: $78.11 The ...

Showing results 21-40

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 26, 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 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. 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.
LUH- 72A Lakota Simulator Instructor Operator

LUH- 72A Lakota Simulator Instructor Operator

Leidos

Marana, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 149 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 487 rated business services


Job description

LUH72A Lakota Simulator Instructor Operator

Marana, AZ | Army National Guard (ARNG) ATSOS Program

The Intelligence and Operations Solutions Division within the Airborne & Mission Solutions Business Area of Leidos is seeking a LUH72A Lakota Simulator Instructor Operator to support the Army National Guard (ARNG) Aviation Training Services and Operational Support (ATSOS) program in Marana, AZ. This is an exceptional opportunity to bring your aviation expertise to the Western Army Aviation Training Site (WAATS) - one of the premier aviation training environments in the world.

As the prime contractor for ATSOS, Leidos delivers comprehensive flight and simulation training, classroom instruction, and schoolhouse support, including One Army School System (OASS) integration and Aviation Life Support Equipment (ALSE) maintenance. In this role, you will directly shape the skills, readiness, and confidence of Army National Guard aviators preparing for the complex operational challenges they face.

You will serve as a key technical expert, conducting simulation training, supporting advanced Programs of Instruction (POIs), and ensuring aviators receive the highestquality instruction in accordance with AR 951, TRADOC POIs, LUH72A dATM, and AATS SOPs. All Instructor Pilots and Simulator Instructor Operators operate under DCMA INST 82101D requirements. This is a missionfocused role where your expertise directly enhances the capability and preparedness of Army aviation forces.

Primary Responsibilities
  • Deliver highfidelity simulated flight training with emphasis on aircraft systems, emergency procedures, and instrument flight operations.

  • Develop and maintain missionfocused training scenarios for regional users.

  • Provide instruction and evaluation to student pilots in accordance with approved Training Support Packages.

  • Conduct Aircrew Coordination TrainingEnhanced (ACTE) instruction.

  • Maintain accurate training records for formal course students and readinesslevel progression trainees.

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

  • Lead premission planning and afteraction reviews for all simulation events.

  • Complete all Aircrew Training Program (ATP) requirements in accordance with DCMA INST 82101D, AR 951, and applicable dATMs.

  • Develop, update, and publish schedules using electronic systems; lead annual simulation scheduling conferences.

  • Track schedule changes and prepare monthly simulator utilization and maintenance reports.

  • Coordinate daily with WFFC/ATMP simulator maintenance teams to track system status and service requests.

  • Work with course managers to allocate simulation time for formal training.

  • Coordinate with regional users, NGB, and PEOSTRI to ensure proper utilization of allocated hours and devices.

  • Verify and correct contractor device performance reports and submit to the COTR.

  • Maintain and review a comprehensive publication library for all simulators.

  • Serve as an RFMSS Fire Desk Operator, scheduling and closing out simulator periods within required timelines.

Basic Qualifications
  • High School Diploma with 8+ years of relevant experience, or Bachelor's Degree with 4+ years of experience.

  • 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.

  • Prior Army Aviation (or military equivalent) training or operational experience.

  • USAACE/AATSqualified Instructor Pilot in the applicable airframe or minimum 3 years of I/O experience in the assigned device.

  • Instructor Training Course (ITC) or ABIC qualified, or ability to complete AATSprovided ABIC within 12 months.

  • Must meet instructor qualification requirements per TR 35010 and TR 35070.

  • Qualified as a unit trainer, instructor pilot, or maintenance test flight examiner with simulator operations experience.

  • USAACEqualified Instrument Flight Examiner.

  • Ability to complete unit aircrew training program within 3 months if not already an Instructor Pilot.

  • Favorable background investigation or appropriate security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:April 3, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $65,650.00 - $118,675.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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