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Flight Instructor Pilot Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Must hold CFI, CFI-I, and MEI and meet the pilot-in-command recent flight experience requirements ... Must be able to relate to instructors and students. Strong consideration will be given to ...

Check Instructor

Mankato, MN · On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

... meet the pilot-in-command recent flight experience requirements of FAR 61.57 • Must be able to ... instructors and students. • Strong consideration will be given to candidates with substantial ...

Actively shares flight knowledge with team members and serves as a resource to discuss transport ... Part 121/135 Instructor/Check Pilot * Commercially rating in Fixed/ Rotor Wing * ATP Certificate

Actively shares flight knowledge with team members and serves as a resource to discuss transport ... Part 121/135 Instructor/Check Pilot * Commercially rating in Fixed/ Rotor Wing * ATP Certificate

Actively shares flight knowledge with team members and serves as a resource to discuss transport ... Part 121/135 Instructor/Check Pilot * Commercially rating in Fixed/ Rotor Wing * ATP Certificate

Actively shares flight knowledge with team members and serves as a resource to discuss transport ... Part 121/135 Instructor/Check Pilot * Commercially rating in Fixed/ Rotor Wing * ATP Certificate

Flight Instructor Pilot information

See Minnesota salary details

$38.7K

$100.9K

$168K

How much do flight instructor pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight instructor pilot in Minnesota is $100,917.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,300.00 and $123,900.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Flight Instructor Pilot jobs in Minnesota? For Flight Instructor Pilot jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Flight Instructor Pilot job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,917 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

College Laboratory Asst 2- Certified Flight Instructor- Helicopter

Minnstate

Duluth, MN

$46K - $64K/yr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

All Job Postings will close at 12:01 a.m. CT on the specified Closing Date (if designated).

Working Title:

College Laboratory Asst 2- Certified Flight Instructor- Helicopter

Institution:

Lake Superior College

Classification Title:

College Laboratory Asst 2

Bargaining Unit / Union:

218: Non-Unit

City:

Duluth

FLSA:

Non Job Exempt

Full Time / Part Time:

Part time

Employment Condition:

Classified - Unlimited

Salary Range:

$22.27 - $31.99

Job Description:

This position provides the Center for Advanced Aviation (CAA), Professional Pilot Airplane and Helicopter programs, with tutoring, classroom assistance, student training, testing, record keeping, safety, security and technical support for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certified programs. The incumbent will serve as a Certified Flight Instructor, Chief and / or Assistant Chief Pilot (as required by FAA 141 Certification), and is responsible for direct, one to one flight instruction and leading students through: FAA required stage checks, preparation for end of course tests and proficiency checks. The CLA will be present and provide guidance to students during all pre-flight, in-flight and post-flight inspections and during all student flights. As required by the FAA, the CLA will be available by phone, radio, or other electronic means, when student flight training occurs.

Salary Range:

$22.27-$31.12 hourly, $46,500-$64,979 annually

*Salary placement is dependent on education and experience. Annual salary will be prorated based on actual hours work within year.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Post-Secondary or industry certificate/diploma/degree or relevant licensure as a FAA 141 Certified Flight Instructor, Assistant Chief Instructor or a Multi Engine Instructor.
  • One year of teaching and/or tutoring as a Certified Flight Instructor of initial Certified Flight Instructor Candidates or 4 years of work experience as a FAA 141 Certified Flight Instructor, Assist Chief Instructor, or a Multi Engine Instructor where no industry standard or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.

Preferred Qualification:

  • Demonstrated ability to work successfully with persons from diverse backgrounds, and commitment to diversity and inclusion initiatives.
  • Hold a commercial pilot or airline transport pilot certificate and a current flight instructor certificate. The certificates must contain the appropriate aircraft category, class, and instrument ratings if required for the category and class of aircraft used;
  • Flight training experience as a certified flight instructor, as a commercial or military pilot training program, or a combination thereof that must include: 1 year and a total of 250 flight hours; or 500 flight hours.
  • The flight instructor instrument rating or rating with instrument privileges must include: At least 50 hours of flight time under actual or simulated instrument conditions; At least 500 hours as pilot in command;
  • Instrument flight instructor experience, acquired as either a certificated flight instructor-instrument or an instructor in a military pilot flight training program, 1 year and a total of 125 flight hours; or 200 flight hours;
  • For a course of training other than one leading to the issuance of a recreational or private pilot certificate or rating, or an instrument rating or a rating with instrument privileges, an assistant chief instructor must have: (1) At least 1,000 hours as pilot in command; and (2) Flight training experience, acquired as either a certificated flight instructor or an instructor in a military pilot flight training program, or a combination thereof, consisting of at least 112years and a total of 500 flight hours; or 750 flight hours or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.

Other Requirements:

  • This position requires successful completion of the following;
  • In accordance with the Department of Transportation requirements, safety-sensitive workers shall complete pre-employment drug and alcohol tests and will be subject to random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, and return to duty drug and alcohol testing.

Work Shift:

Day Shift

Work Days:
Variable

Work Hours:

Variable

Work Area:

Academic and Student Affairs

Work Location:

Lake Superior College Center for Advanced Aviation (Hanger 103)

4960 Airport Rd.

Duluth, MN 52811

Telework (Yes/No):

No

About:

Lake Superior College is an Equal Opportunity employer and educator deeply committed to fostering the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We unequivocally prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or membership in a local commission as defined by law.

As an affirmative action employer, we proactively seek to cultivate a diverse and talented workforce. We sincerely encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including women, racial and ethnic historically underrepresented groups, persons with disabilities, and individuals with protected veteran status. Our commitment to affirmative action is integral to creating a workplace that values and leverages the unique perspectives and contributions of every employee. LSC actively seeks to attract and retain a diverse faculty and staff who represent the richness of our institution and the broader community we serve by fostering their development and recognizing their contributions. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive culture where all individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered.

Lake Superior College is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system.

We are an Equal Opportunity employer/educator committed to the principles of diversity. We actively seek and encourage applications from women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.


Benefits Information:

At Minnesota State, we take your well-being and work-life balance seriously. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that features low-cost medical and dental insurance with affordable deductibles, employer-paid life insurance, short- and long-term disability, and pre-tax healthcare and dependent care accounts with a roll-over option. To further support your holistic health, employees also have access to a confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health, legal, and financial counseling. Detailed plan details, rates, and coverage choices can be reviewed directly via the State Employee Group Insurance Program (SEGIP) website.

To support your life outside of work, our package includes 12 paid holidays, generous vacation and sick time, and six weeks of Paid Parental Leave. We also help you secure your financial future with a robust Pension Plan, 457(b) and 403(b) retirement accounts, and various investment options. Furthermore, we invest in your growth by providing dedicated professional development and tuition waivers for both you and your dependents. Please note that specific benefit eligibility and coverage levels may vary depending on the type of position, employee classification, and collective bargaining agreements.

Desired Start Date:

08-26-2026

Position End Date:

Open Date:

07-22-2026

Close Date:

07-31-2026

Posting Contact Name:

Hannah Marie Robarge

Posting Contact Email:

hannah.robarge@lsc.edu