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Flight Instructor Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Aircraft Mechanic

Springfield, MO

$26.25 - $34.25/hr

Amazing employee flight privileges within the American Airlines global network * Training and development programs to take your career to the next level * Comprehensive health and life benefits ...

Airport Ramp Agent - SGF

Springfield, MO · On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

Join our team and see where the flight benefits can take you. Job Summary: Responsible for marshalling aircraft in and out of gate, loading, unloading and sorting baggage. Also responsible for ...

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Showing results 1-20

Flight Instructor information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$22.7K

$86.1K

$132.4K

How much do flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight instructor in Springfield, MO is $86,069.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,800.00 and $101,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much can a flight instructor earn?

Flight instructors typically earn between $25,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the number of flight hours they teach. Many instructors supplement their income by working part-time or gaining additional certifications to increase their earning potential.

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.

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, sometimes supplemented by flight hour bonuses or additional responsibilities.

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 often completing additional training on instructional techniques and safety procedures.

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. Flight instructors with certified flight instructor (CFI) ratings and strong teaching skills are typically in higher demand, especially in regions with active flight schools and pilot training programs.

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 cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Flight Instructor jobs? Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Flight Instructor job openings:
Infographic showing various Flight Instructor job openings in Springfield, MO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,069 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Instructor - Pilot Ground School

Ozarks Technical Community College

Springfield, MO • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Life

Re-posted 26 days ago


Ozarks Technical Community College rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

254th of 614 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Instructor - Pilot Ground School

Apply now Job no: 494950
Work type: Airframe and Powerplant Training Center
Location: Springfield, MO
Categories: Technical Education, Full-Time Faculty

JOB TITLE:  Instructor - Pilot Ground School                                               DEPARTMENT:  TECHNICAL EDUCATION

SALARY RANGE:  SALARY COMMENSURATE WITH EXPERIENCE                    FLSA:  EXEMPT

IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR:  Aviation Department Chair

SCHEDULE DETAILS:  Full-time/12-month position/PSRS

 

Position Summary

The instructor is responsible for developing and implementing the daily lesson plans and activities for proper management of assigned classes. This person is also responsible for creating a classroom environment that implements best practices, supports industry standards, and engages students in career and technical education.  The instructor will also maintain industry and required certification(s) and follow FAA regulations. The instructor will assist the Department Chair, fulfilling duties of a Ground Instructor and Check Airman while meeting all Part 141 Ground School requirements. This position is responsible for fifteen (15) credit hours of instruction for each fall and spring semester, and four (4) credit hours of instruction or internship supervision for the summer semester. Equivalent short-term instruction may be exchanged for credit instruction.

Essential Job Duties

  • Plan and prepare the learning environment with needed materials and supplies, including textbook and course materials selection.
  • Provide quality instruction which is reflective of current discipline standards and is accurate, relevant, and engaging using college-approved curriculum and resources.
  • Actively engage and interact with students using intentional best practice teaching strategies.
  • Assist with development, implementation, and assessment of curriculum to meet program goals.
  • Develop a course syllabus for each class taught using the approved course abstract and syllabus template.
  • Present course content in an unbiased and civil manner, while demonstrating respect, helpfulness, and responsiveness toward students.
  • Demonstrate professional conduct, positive attitude, and supportive culture. 
  • Maintain appropriate records to include student attendance, record of grades earned, and other related classroom information.
  • Schedule and maintain office hours each week convenient to students.
  • Assist in addressing student concerns regarding advisement, placement, and course difficulties.
  • Facilitate student recruitment; assist in the promotion of Aviation Department programs.
  • Complete professional development training hours and maintain appropriate professional certification, as necessary.
  • Actively participate in department and division meetings, events, and initiatives
  • Maintain confidentiality of students, parents/guardians, and fellow staff members, as well as records
  • Assist in student recruitment and program promotion events.
  • Exhibit exemplary attendance and punctuality.
  • Prepare orders for classroom related supplies, equipment, and materials.
  • Comply with college policies and procedures.
  • Comply with FAA requirements for Ground Training of Flight Technology Students
  • Demonstrate and promote safe pilot practices including following FAA regulations, referencing safety handbooks and guidelines, preflight preparation, appropriate communication, and use of Aeronautical Decision Making.
  • Pass FAR Part 141 Assistant Chief Ground Instructor or Check Airman assessment - initial and recurrent checks.
  • Perform the Duties for FAR Part 141 Assistant Chief Instructor or Check Airman.
  • Perform other duties as assigned, such as participating in commencement, work with advisory committees, sponsoring student organizations, attending college functions, and attending community events.

 

 

 

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Associate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher learning (or ability to complete an associate degree within six months of hire).
  • FAA Basic Ground Instructor (BGI) and Instrument Ground Instructor (IGI) OR hold a current Flight Instructor certificate (Airplane Single and Multiengine)
  • Valid Missouri teaching certificate with the Department of Elementary & Secondary Education (or be willing to obtain current teaching certificate in secondary and post-secondary education from the State of Missouri).
  • Knowledge of current practices that promote safety in aviation maintenance
  • Three years of relevant work experience as a pilot or in a related aviation field.
  • Demonstrate current knowledge in course content and effectiveness in teaching assigned subjects.
  • Availability to teach daytime, evening, or weekend courses, as needed.
  • Ability to work without direct supervision and able to use discretion to determine the need for administrative involvement.
  • Ability to work well with others.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to use information technology for professional productivity (such as Microsoft Office Suite).

Preferred Knowledge Skills & Abilities

  • Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher learning.
  • FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification
  • FAA Certified Advanced Ground Instructor (AGI)
  • FAR 61.56 Current and recency requirements are met and maintained.
  • Three years of work experience as an Airline Transport Pilot
  • Prior FAR Part 141 Flight or Ground School teaching experience
  • Experience as a Check Airman or Check Instructor
  • Knowledge of Learning Management Systems (such as Canvas).
  • Experience working within a collegiate setting.

Working at Ozarks Technical Community College Provides Great Benefits

  • Medical insurance coverage for employees through the CoxHealth network at no cost to employees.
  • Dental, LTD and group life insurance coverage for employees at no cost to employees.
  • Access to the on-site OTC Health and Wellness Clinic at no cost for employees and their dependents.
  • Use of the OTC fitness center at no cost to employees.
  • Twelve (12) tuition free college credit hours per fall and/or spring semester and six (6) college credit hours per summer term for employees and/or their dependents.
  • College matches the faculty PSRS retirement at 14.5%

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT: (The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.)

Environment: Work is performed primarily in a standard office setting with frequent interruptions and distractions.  Requires extended periods of time viewing computer monitor or standing; may require adjustment of schedule to include some evenings and/or weekends; may encounter occasional exposure to inclement weather during travel.  

Physical: Primary functions require sufficient physical ability and mobility to work in an office setting; to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time; to lift, carry, push, and/or pull light to moderate amounts of weight; to operate office equipment requiring repetitive hand movement and fine coordination including use of a computer keyboard; to operate shop tools common to aviation maintenance facilities;  

***OZARKS TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY, INTERPRET, OR APPLY THIS JOB DESCRIPTION IN ANY WAY THE INSTITUTION DESIRES.  THIS JOB DESCRIPTION IN NO WAY IMPLIES THAT THESE ARE THE ONLY DUTIES, INCLUDING ESSENTIAL DUTIES, TO BE PERFORMED BY THE EMPLOYEE OCCUPYING THIS POSITION.  THIS JOB DESCRIPTION IS NOT AN EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT, IMPLIED OR OTHERWISE.  THE EMPLOYMENT RELATIONSHIP REMAINS "AT-WILL."  THE AFOREMENTIONED JOB REQUIREMENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE TO REASONABLY ACCOMMODATE QUALIFIED DISABLED INDIVIDUALS.

Advertised: 26 May 2026 Central Daylight Time
Applications close: 31 Jul 2026 Central Daylight Time

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