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Flight Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Amazing employee flight privileges within the American Airlines global network * Training and ... Instructor must be proficient in all work locations performed by fleet service clerks. * Must be ...

Amazing employee flight privileges within the American Airlines global network * Training and ... Instructor must be proficient in all work locations performed by fleet service clerks. * Must be ...

Showing results 41-60

Flight Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$25.8K

$97.5K

$149.9K

How much do flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight instructor in Chicago, IL is $97,472.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,100.00 and $115,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a flight instructor?

A Flight Instructor teaches students to fly an aircraft utilizing in-class instruction, a flight simulator, and through test airplane flights. Flight Instructors train students on the physics of aerodynamics, how to manage the navigation and emergency systems, and provide pre- and post-flight checklists. The training process also covers radio procedures and includes practice flights. Flight Instructors are certified pilots themselves, often with hundreds or thousands of hours of flight time, and must remain current on all training and requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flight instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flight Instructor, you need comprehensive aeronautical knowledge, flight proficiency, and a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate. Familiarity with flight simulators, aviation weather systems, and logbook management software is commonly required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to adapt teaching methods to different learning styles are crucial soft skills. These capabilities ensure effective and safe pilot training, fostering student confidence and aviation safety standards.

What are some common challenges flight instructors face when working with student pilots, and how can they address them?

Flight Instructors often encounter students with varying learning styles and confidence levels, which can make it challenging to tailor lessons effectively. Weather conditions and scheduling constraints can also disrupt training plans, requiring flexibility and adaptability. To address these challenges, instructors regularly assess each student's progress, adapt their teaching techniques, and maintain clear communication to ensure safety and comprehension. Building rapport and fostering a supportive learning environment helps students overcome anxiety and develop their skills more effectively.

What is the difference between Flight Instructor vs Pilot?

AspectFlight InstructorPilot
Required CertificationsCertified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificateCommercial Pilot License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license
Work EnvironmentFlight schools, training aircraft, instructional settingsAirlines, charter companies, cargo, private flights
Employer & Industry UsageFlight training academies, flight schoolsAirlines, charter services, corporate aviation

While both Flight Instructors and Pilots operate aircraft, Flight Instructors focus on training and certifying new pilots, requiring specific instructional certifications. Pilots typically operate aircraft for transportation or commercial purposes, holding higher-level licenses. The roles often overlap in aircraft operation but differ mainly in purpose and certification requirements.

Are flight instructors in high demand?

Flight instructors are generally in steady demand as they are essential for training new pilots and maintaining safety standards in the aviation industry. The demand can fluctuate based on factors such as pilot retirements, industry growth, and regional needs, but overall, the role remains a critical part of aviation training programs.

How much money can you make as a flight instructor?

Flight instructors typically earn between $25,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the number of flight hours they teach. Entry-level instructors often start at the lower end, while experienced instructors or those working for larger flight schools can earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What qualifications do you need to be a flight instructor?

To become a flight instructor, you must hold a commercial pilot certificate with an instrument rating, have a minimum of 250 flight hours, and obtain a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate from the FAA or relevant authority. Additional requirements often include passing written and practical exams, demonstrating teaching ability, and meeting age and language proficiency standards.

What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Flight Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Flight Instructor jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Flight Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Flight Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% As Needed, 57% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,472 per year, or $46.9 per hour.

Traveling Glassblowing Instructor and Demonstrator

Palatine, IL • On-site

$25/hr

Part-time

PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • Paid time off
  • Free uniforms
  • Help or transport service
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Training & development

Traveling Glassblowing Instructor - Ikonic Glass
WHO WE ARE
Ikonic Glass is a traveling glassblowing company that brings live, hands-on lampworking workshops to festivals, markets, and events across the country. We teach beginner-level borosilicate glassblowing to the public — real workshops, real fire, real people experiencing glass for the first time.
We are a small but growing team of artists, teachers, performers, and operators building meaningful public experiences through live events. We are not a pipe company. We are not a bro crew. We care deeply about safety, professionalism, showmanship, and the 20-minute experience we create for every student who steps up to the torch — or stops to watch.
ABOUT THIS ROLE
As a Traveling Glassblowing Instructor with Ikonic Glass, you will lead live torch-based workshops for small groups at fairs and events across the country. You will guide students through their first experience with glass in a fast-paced, highly public environment that combines teaching, performance, hospitality, and operational teamwork.
This role is repetitive by design. You will teach the same beginner-level class up to 24 times per day while maintaining strong energy, professionalism, and guest focus from the first class to the last.
You should expect:
  •  Long days on your feet in outdoor environments 
  •  Frequent interaction with the public 
  •  Repetitive teaching using a structured curriculum 
  •  Travel ranging from single weekends to multi-week runs 
  •  Physical setup and teardown work, including lifting 40+ lbs 
  •  A team-oriented environment where reliability and consistency matter 
If that sounds like your kind of work, keep reading.
WHAT YOU’LL DO
  •  Teach beginner-level borosilicate glassblowing using our structured curriculum 
  •  Lead safety orientations before each class 
  •  Create a safe, encouraging, and memorable experience for every student 
  •  Perform public demonstrations and engage with crowds throughout the event 
  •  Set up and break down the mobile workshop booth and equipment 
  •  Assemble, inspect, and safely operate propane/oxygen systems and torch equipment 
  •  Maintain a clean, organized, and professional workspace 
  •  Coordinate class flow and readiness with front-end staff 
  •  Package and organize completed student pieces for pickup 
  •  Assist with check-in, checkout, POS responsibilities, and guest support throughout the event 
  •  Track tools, equipment, and consumables using our inventory system 
  •  Travel to events across the U.S. as scheduled 
WHAT MAKES SOMEONE GREAT HERE
Desired Experience
  •  Minimum 2 years of borosilicate flameworking experience 
  •  Comfortable working with torch systems, propane/oxygen equipment, and PPE 
  •  Prior teaching, instructional, hospitality, or public-facing experience preferred 
  •  Event, festival, restaurant, or high-volume service experience is a strong plus 
The Traits That Matter Most
  •  Reliable — you show up on time and follow through 
  •  Coachable — you can follow systems and take direction well 
  •  Guest-focused — you bring patience, warmth, and professionalism to every interaction 
  •  Emotionally steady — you stay composed under pressure and high volume 
  •  Team-oriented — you contribute to the group, not just your own performance 
  •  Engaging and high-energy — you communicate clearly and connect with people quickly 
  •  Adaptable — you handle changing conditions and unexpected problems calmly 
  •  Safety-serious — you do not cut corners with fire, tanks, or safety procedures 
Restaurant and line-cook experience translates well to this role. If you have thrived in loud, fast-paced, repetitive, team-based environments, you may already have many of the skills this job requires.
THIS ROLE IS PROBABLY NOT FOR YOU IF
  •  You are looking for a quiet studio environment or significant creative autonomy 
  •  You dislike repetitive teaching or structured curriculum 
  •  You are uncomfortable speaking and performing in front of crowds 
  •  You are not open to extended travel or time away from home 
  •  You prefer highly flexible schedules or working independently 
  •  You struggle in physically demanding, fast-paced environments 
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
  •  $25/hour for instruction during events 
  •  Reduced rate for training, onboarding, setup, and teardown 
  •  Lodging provided during travel (hotel, Airbnb, or camping, depending on the event) 
  •  Flight stipend offered when needed 
  •  All required tools, safety equipment, and teaching materials provided 
  •  OSHA and safety training included during onboarding 
  •  Advancement opportunities as the company grows 
EMPLOYMENT DETAILS
  •  Seasonal W2 position with potential for continued or expanded work based on performance 
  •  Onboarding begins: (Date) 
  •  Background check required 
  •  OSHA training required during onboarding 
  •  Must be able to regularly lift and carry 40+ lbs 
  •  Role involves sustained outdoor physical activity in varying weather conditions 
Tell us about your torch experience, teaching or public-facing background, availability, and what draws you to this opportunity.
We read every application carefully and respond to every candidate we move forward with.
We are not just hiring workers. We are building a team.