Utilize a flight simulator to evaluate and verify pilot skills and ensure pilots are fully capable of handling known emergency situations. * Perform ?in aircraft? skill verification and provide local ...
Utilize a flight simulator to evaluate and verify pilot skills and ensure pilots are fully capable of handling known emergency situations. * Perform ?in aircraft? skill verification and provide local ...
Flight Instructor information
See Medford, OR salary details
$26K - $37.4K
0% of jobs
$37.4K - $48.7K
3% of jobs
$48.7K - $60.1K
9% of jobs
$60.1K - $71.5K
11% of jobs
$74.3K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$71.5K - $82.9K
7% of jobs
$82.9K - $94.3K
6% of jobs
The median wage is $101K / yr.
$94.3K - $105.6K
22% of jobs
$114.8K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$105.6K - $117K
20% of jobs
$117K - $128.4K
17% of jobs
$128.4K - $139.8K
1% of jobs
$139.8K - $151.2K
3% of jobs
$26K
$98.3K
$151.2K
How much do flight instructor jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight instructor in Medford, OR is $98,310.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,700.00 and $116,400.00 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?
| Aspect | Flight Instructor | Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Required Certifications | Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate | Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license |
| Work Environment | Flight schools, training aircraft, instructional settings | Airlines, charter companies, cargo, private flights |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Flight training academies, flight schools | Airlines, 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.
More about Flight Instructor jobs
What job categories do people searching Flight Instructor jobs in Medford, OR look for?
The top searched job categories for Flight Instructor jobs in Medford, OR are:
What cities near Medford, OR are hiring for Flight Instructor jobs?
Cities near Medford, OR with the most Flight Instructor job openings:
Job description
Vexcel Aerial Imagery is looking for a Check Airman/Training Pilot. This position assists in the development and verification of our commercial pilots in the safe operation of single and multi-engine aircraft. This role requires an experienced pilot with good interpersonal skills who enjoys working with and educating our commercial pilots.
The Check Airman is responsible for ensuring that company pilots can safely operate our high performance single and multi-engine aircraft in complex airspace and ever changing weather. Along with the rest of the training team the Check Airman duties are to annually verify that every Vexcel pilot is competently and safely able to operate Vexcel?s fleet of aircraft. This person will be responsible for providing simulator and aircraft checkouts in our wide range of aircraft, which includes Cessna 206?s and 210?s, Piper Aztecs & Navajo?s, Cessna 310?s and other models. As Check Airman, you will be a key component in ensuring Vexcel maintains a safe and productive working environment through initial and recurrent training.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Achieve expert level knowledge of all aircraft and systems used by Vexcel and deliver initial and recurrent training to the pilots in each aircraft they are authorized to operate.
- Utilize a flight simulator to evaluate and verify pilot skills and ensure pilots are fully capable of handling known emergency situations.
- Perform ?in aircraft? skill verification and provide local & cross-country skill training for pilots in the type aircraft they are being checked in.
- Ensure pilots are safely operating aircraft in compliance with all laws and regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration.
- Document all training in the company databases along with maintaining and updating training materials in the company database.
- Coordinate pilot training and instruction events as required in support of the Lead Training Pilot and Chief Pilot.
- Recommend improvements to flight training operations.
- Performs other related duties as assigned by management.
About Vexcel
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