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Flight Instructor Jobs in Chicopee, MA (NOW HIRING)

About WFS Join our Worldwide Flight Services family and contribute to the timely delivery of cargo ... WFS or Carrier Instructor Certification. * Current qualification and experience on training subject ...

... flight lines, harbor security boats, and in patrol vehicles, kennels, armories, and security ... Instructor, Crew-Served Weapons Instructor, Protective Service Specialist, and Criminal ...

Military Security Officer

Enfield, CT

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

... flight lines, harbor security boats, and in patrol vehicles, kennels, armories, and security ... Instructor, Crew-Served Weapons Instructor, Protective Service Specialist, and Criminal ...

Military Security Officer

Simsbury, CT · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

... flight lines, harbor security boats, and in patrol vehicles, kennels, armories, and security ... Instructor, Crew-Served Weapons Instructor, Protective Service Specialist, and Criminal ...

Military Security Officer

Tariffville, CT · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

... flight lines, harbor security boats, and in patrol vehicles, kennels, armories, and security ... Instructor, Crew-Served Weapons Instructor, Protective Service Specialist, and Criminal ...

Military Security Officer

Chicopee, MA

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

... flight lines, harbor security boats, and in patrol vehicles, kennels, armories, and security ... Instructor, Crew-Served Weapons Instructor, Protective Service Specialist, and Criminal ...

Military Security Officer

Monson, MA

$18 - $23/hr

... flight lines, harbor security boats, and in patrol vehicles, kennels, armories, and security ... Instructor, Crew-Served Weapons Instructor, Protective Service Specialist, and Criminal ...

Military Security Officer

Westfield, MA · On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

... flight lines, harbor security boats, and in patrol vehicles, kennels, armories, and security ... Instructor, Crew-Served Weapons Instructor, Protective Service Specialist, and Criminal ...

Military Security Officer

Northampton, MA

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

... flight lines, harbor security boats, and in patrol vehicles, kennels, armories, and security ... Instructor, Crew-Served Weapons Instructor, Protective Service Specialist, and Criminal ...

Military Security Officer

Bloomfield, CT

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

... flight lines, harbor security boats, and in patrol vehicles, kennels, armories, and security ... Instructor, Crew-Served Weapons Instructor, Protective Service Specialist, and Criminal ...

Military Security Officer

South Windsor, CT

$17 - $21.50/hr

... flight lines, harbor security boats, and in patrol vehicles, kennels, armories, and security ... Instructor, Crew-Served Weapons Instructor, Protective Service Specialist, and Criminal ...

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Flight Instructor information

See Chicopee, MA salary details

$24.9K

$94.2K

$144.9K

How much do flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight instructor in Chicopee, MA is $94,227.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,700.00 and $111,500.00 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 job categories do people searching Flight Instructor jobs in Chicopee, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Flight Instructor jobs in Chicopee, MA are:

What cities near Chicopee, MA are hiring for Flight Instructor jobs?

Cities near Chicopee, MA with the most Flight Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Flight Instructor job openings in Chicopee, MA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,227 per year, or $45.3 per hour.

FLIGHT ENGINEER (INSTRUCTOR) with Security Clearance

Department of Defense

Chicopee, MA • On-site

$62K - $70K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 540 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 50 rated military and defense


Job description

Duties The primary purpose of this position is: as an Air Reserve Technician (ART), to perform aircrew duties as an instructor flight engineer in the C-5 aircraft; to administer, schedule and conduct flight and ground training for flight engineers; and to perform staff support duties. DUTIES: DUTY 1: Critical Develops and provides technical flight engineer upgrade and proficiency training and instruction to Reserve aircrew members and ART personnel. Training provided includes the full cycle of theory, formal classroom instruction, and actual on-the-job practice. Establishes, validates, and maintains unit flight engineer training program using the instructional systems development (ISD) process. Develops instructional standards, training, lesson plans, tests, and other training material. DUTY 2: Critical Performs flight engineering duties. Performs preflight inspection of the interior and exterior of the aircraft, to include engines, fuselage, and control surfaces for mechanical and structural soundness; inspects and regulates environmental, hydraulic, fuel, electrical, pressurization, radar, and other systems as required by the applicable flight manual. Functionally checks all aircraft systems, flight instruments, and onboard computers. DUTY 3: Serves as a flight examiner as required and performs staff duties. Administers no-notice and annual evaluations to evaluate aircrew members' performance during all phases of mission execution. Conducts performance critiques. Ensures aircrew members meet or exceed qualification standards for assigned crew position. Reviews aircraft incidents, operational hazards, and accident reports, bulletins, and directives pertinent to flying safety. Requirements Conditions of employment * U.S. Citizenship is required * Must be a current member of the AF Reserve or willing/qualified to join * PCS cost will not be paid by gaining unit. * Males must be registered for Selective Service, see www.sss.gov * Total salary varies depending on location of position * This position is subject to provisions of the DoD Priority Placement Program * Employee may be required to work other than normal duty hours, to include evenings, weekends and/or holidays * Shift work and emergency overtime may be required * Employee must maintain current certifications * Disclosure of Political Appointments * Advance in hire may be authorized if there is demonstrable proof provided on your resume * Recruitment Incentive may be authorized for this position * Relocation Incentive may be authorized for this position * Leave accrual may be authorized upon request * Direct Deposit: All federal employees are required to have direct deposit. * Depending on the type of position (competitive/excepted) you are selected for, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period OR 2-year trial period. * Upon completion of your probationary/trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest. * AFSC: 1A1X2A/SMSGT Qualifications Qualifications: Applicants will be rated in accordance with the FPM 930-71 Recruitment of Air Reserve Technicians through Competitive Examination (ART Agreement)-SUPPLEMENTAL QUALIFICATION POLICY, DATED 6-OCT-2017. No specific length of experience is required. The qualifications of Flight Engineer (Instructor) in the Air Force are directly related to the completion of prerequisite training rather than years of experience. Applicants for all positions must have logged the minimum number of hours indicated below in the performance of Flight Engineer (Instructor) duties. Must have been awarded or qualify for a CEA AFSC and hold a valid aviation service aeronautical order. Must be currently qualified as Instructor in MDS and have a minimum of 500 Total Military Flight Time. (MUST PROVIDE FLIGHT LOG, FLYING HISTORY OR ATAFORS FORM WITH APPLICATION). Must have been qualified as A C-5 Flight Engineer (Instructor) within 8 YEARS of the date of application. Applicants for instructor or examiner positions must be within the past 8 YEARS instructor or examiner qualified in the specific type of aircraft.NOTE: Candidates establishing eligibility based on military flight experience must provide official orders, forms, or logbooks showing their status as a rated military pilot, flight instructor, or flight examiner as appropriate. Other certificates that meet or exceed the requirement of the Commercial Pilot Certificate are also acceptable, e.g., an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate. FEDERALTIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in-grade requirements to be considered eligible. One year at the GS-09 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-10 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks. NOTE: Applicants applying as VEOA candidates who are current GS civil service employees or are prior GS civil service employees within the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: * Knowledge of operating principles and characteristics of major aircraft systems (i.e., fuel, electrical, hydraulics, fire suppression, environmental, pressurization, engine) and the function of applicable controls, panels and indicators; and skill in analyzing operating conditions, diagnosing problems, determining alternate procedures and or initiating corrective actions. * Knowledge of the interrelationships among aircraft systems and the impact of change in performance of one on others and skill to analyze overall aircraft condition in terms of flight safety. * Knowledge of aircraft performance parameters and limitations in relation flight procedures during takeoff, climb, cruise, descent, and landing and skill to take and interpret instrument readings, make control adjustments, manage fuel flow and update performance data. * Knowledge of the methods of instruction, aircrew training program requirements, procedures, and standards of performance; and skill to apply this knowledge in planning, developing and executing unit training/evaluation programs. * Knowledge of aircraft maintenance procedures and skill in diagnosing problems and accurately reporting detailed symptoms and conditions. * Ability to communicate orally and in writing to prepare lessons, documents and reports, present training/instruction, and brief passengers and crews. OTHER SIGNIFICANT FACTS: * This position is covered by the Domestic Violence Misdemeanor Amendment (30 Sep 96) of the Gun Control Act (Lautenberg Amendment) of 1968. An individual convicted of a qualifying crime of domestic violence may not perform the duties of this position. * This is an Air Reserve Technician (ART) position. The incumbent is required to meet and maintain AirForce Reserve requirements. Work schedule will be aligned to allow incumbent to fully participate in unit training assemblies. The incumbent's regular assignments are ART duties; however, the incumbent may be assigned some non-ART duties, generally not to exceed 30 percent of total responsibilities. * May be required to travel in military and commercial aircraft to perform temporary duty assignments. * Must maintain instructor qualification and demonstrate the highest degree of technical competency in the theory of flight, aerodynamics, and aircraft systems operation. Must remain proficient in the principles of instruction and demonstrate good judgment, patience, tact, and a desire to instruct. * Must attain and maintain mission-ready status at the appropriate crew qualification level in the unit's assigned aircraft. Periodically, as prescribed by regulations, must take and pass written and in-flight standardization/evaluation examinations to include random no-notice evaluations. * May be required to maintain flight examiner qualification. * Required to maintain proficiency in the use of firearms. As prescribed by regulation, may be required to carry and use a concealed weapon while performing aircrew-related duties. * Exposed to the hazards associated with aircraft flight including but not limited to: gravity forces up to one and one-half., working in strained or cramped position as well as exposure to inclement weather during ground operations and frequent climbing, frequent kneeling, and bending. Additionally, exposed to extreme hazards induced from operating aircraft in an actual or simulated tactical environment, which may include, but not limited to, combat aircrew training sorties, aggressive maneuvers, low level flights, formation flights, aerial refuelings, airdrops, maximum effort takeoffs, maximum effort landings, and unpressurized operations at high altitude or other related scenarios. * The position requires good judgment, patience, tact, and a desire to instruct. May perform maintenance or act as crew chief in leading and directing others in the accomplishment of maintenance when away from home station. PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week. VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Education This is an Air Reser

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