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Flight Instructor Jobs in Gardner, KS (NOW HIRING)

Global Medical Response

Flight Nurse

Overland Park, KS · On-site

$28.66 - $49.63/hr

IMMEDIATE HIRING! Flight Nurse Career Opportunity * Starting Range is $28.66-$49.63 per hour ... Instructor certifications in BLS, ACLS, PALS/PEPP, ITLS/PHTLS. Why Choose Med-Trans? As a leader in ...

Global Medical Response

Flight Nurse

Overland Park, KS · On-site

$28.66 - $49.63/hr

IMMEDIATE HIRING! Flight Nurse Career Opportunity * Starting Range is $28.66-$49.63 per hour ... Instructor certifications in BLS, ACLS, PALS/PEPP, ITLS/PHTLS. Why Choose Med-Trans? As a leader in ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Cleveland, MO

Naval Aviation Officer (Pilot / Naval Flight Officer / AMDO) Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Naval Aviation Officers serve as Pilots, Naval Flight Officers, and Aviation Maintenance ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Shawnee, KS

Naval Aviation Officer (Pilot / Naval Flight Officer / AMDO) Category / Component: Officer • Both Overview Naval Aviation Officers serve as Pilots, Naval Flight Officers, and Aviation Maintenance ...

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All JobsFlight Instructor JobsFlight Instructor Jobs in Gardner, KS

Flight Instructor information

See Gardner, KS salary details

$23.9K

$90.6K

$139.3K

How much do flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight instructor in Gardner, KS is $90,583.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,100.00 and $107,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How long does it take to become a flight instructor?

Becoming a flight instructor typically requires obtaining a commercial pilot certificate, accumulating around 250 hours of flight time, and completing instructor training, which can take several months to a year depending on the individual's schedule and progress. Once certified, flight instructors often continue to build flight hours and experience for career advancement.

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.

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 is the 5 hour rule for CFI?

The 5 hour rule for a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) refers to the requirement that CFIs must log at least 5 hours of flight training with each student before endorsing them for solo flight or certain checkrides. This ensures adequate instruction time and skill development before students fly solo or progress further in their training.

What are Flight Instructors?

Flight Instructors are certified pilots who teach student pilots how to fly aircraft safely and efficiently. They provide both ground instruction and in-flight training, covering topics such as aviation regulations, aircraft operation, navigation, and emergency procedures. Flight Instructors play a crucial role in helping students gain the skills and experience needed to earn pilot licenses and ratings. They are responsible for ensuring that students understand safety protocols and develop the confidence to operate aircraft independently.

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.

How can I become a flight instructor?

To become a flight instructor, you must hold a commercial pilot certificate with an instrument rating, accumulate the required flight hours, and obtain a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate from the FAA or relevant authority. This process involves passing written and practical exams, demonstrating teaching ability, and meeting age and medical requirements. Flight instructors typically teach students in flight schools or training centers, helping them gain experience and meet certification standards.

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 training centers seek qualified instructors to help students obtain certifications such as the private and commercial pilot licenses, making it a viable career path for those with proper certifications and experience.

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.
More about Flight Instructor jobs
What cities near Gardner, KS are hiring for Flight Instructor jobs? Cities near Gardner, KS with the most Flight Instructor job openings:
Flight Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Instructor job openings in Gardner, KS as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,583 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Now Hiring - Indoor Skydiving Instructors! (Kansas Market)

iFLY Indoor Skydiving

Overland Park, KS

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Our mission is clear: Make the dream of flight a reality! With almost 100 state-of-the-art locations in 19 countries, iFLY isn't just a company—it's a movement. We're the global leader, pushing the envelope in indoor skydiving and creating thrilling, unforgettable experiences. 

We need career-minded, fearless Flight Instructors to join our elite team! If you have spent a significant part of your life in a physically demanding role that requires strength and stamina, we want to hear from you! In this high-flying role, you'll be the ace guiding our customers through the art of indoor skydiving. We’re looking for passion, energy and a commitment to deliver adrenaline-pumping instruction. If you thrive in the cockpit of a dynamic, team-oriented environment, throttle up and apply now! 

Learn more about Life at iFLY here
 

This Job Requisition is for the Kansas Market

Important: Relocation for Flight Instructor Training Program

As part of our onboarding process, you will engage in a thorough Flight Instructor Training Program lasting around 4 to 5 months. This program involves extensive hands-on training to equip you for success as an Instructor at iFLY. Please note that relocation to a different location and/or state will be necessary during the training period. We will provide financial support for your relocation expenses. This will be expanded on during the interview process. 

For the duration of the TRAINING PROGRAM, iFLY will GUARANTEE a MINIMUM Hourly Rate of $20.00.                                                                        

As an iFLY Flight Instructor, you'll be at the helm of delivering adrenaline-packed, world-class flight experiences. Your expertise in indoor skydiving will ensure that every participant navigates the experience with confidence and understands crucial techniques and safety protocols. You'll guide and coach individuals of all skill levels, fostering a fun, supportive and secure environment.  

  • Command and Control: Deliver state-of-the-art instruction on indoor skydiving maneuvers, so that every participant masters body positioning, safety protocols and control techniques. 
  • Engage and Energize: Be the face of iFLY. Engage participants with enthusiasm, professionalism and a passion for flight. Make each flight an exhilarating journey. 
  • Safety Oversight: Navigate and enforce all safety standards with precision. Maintain a safe environment for everyone, providing smooth and secure operations. 
  • Pre-Flight Prep: Conduct flight safety instructions, flight techniques, answer questions, and calm pre-flight nerves. 
  • Post-Flight Debrief: Offer constructive feedback post-flight. Boost participants' confidence and skills with your expert insights and motivate new flyers. 
  • Teamwork: Collaborate seamlessly with fellow instructors and staff. Promote a cohesive and supportive team environment for maximum efficiency. 
  • Continuous Training & Feedback: Stay updated on the latest training tools and techniques to continually enhance both your instructional skills and the overall customer experience. 
  • Drive Add-On Sales: Actively drive add on sales by introducing guests to options that enhance their flight—such as additional flight time, high flights, return visits, or media packages.

Physical Requirements:

The role of a flight instructor is physically demanding.  Candidates will be assessed on their agility, stamina, and strength. This will be measured using a role-related Post Offer Employment Test (POET), which must be passed before you begin training. The POET simulates the movements and actions that an instructor experiences during a typical day at iFLY. The POET will be administered in a nondiscriminatory manner and that any medical or physical information will be handled in compliance with applicable disability and privacy laws.

  • Must be 18 years of age or older; 
  • Must be able in great physical condition, the role is physically demanding for long periods of time;
  • Flexibility to work weekends and holidays, which are our busiest times; 
  • Interest or background in coaching, teaching, and facilitating activity-based or entertainment-oriented roles; 
  • Passionate people with high energy and a positive attitude; 
  • Professional appearance and demeanor; 
  • Commitment to continuous improvement through training, learning and feedback; 
  • Safety focused; and, 
  • Ability to work well within a team maintaining positive relationships. 

      The Good Stuff:

      •  Competitive wages, sales commissions and milestone bonuses (minimum guarantee rate for duration of training program)
      •  Medical, dental, vision and supplemental plans 
      •  Paid time off (PTO)and;
        •  Parental Leave 
        • Company Holidays 
      • 401k retirement investment
      • Employee Assistance Programs (F2F counseling, financial coaching, legal counseling & mediation services) 
      • Tuition reimbursement 
      • Referral bonus program 
      • Team member discount on retail merchandise and flight packages 
      • FREE flight time for team members and family 
      • Ongoing training and development programs 

      Apply