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Flight Instructor Jobs in Suffolk, VA (NOW HIRING)

King Air 350 PIC (AUS)

Newport News, VA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

This role supports contracted flight operations and requires the highest standards of aviation ... Military Standardization Instructor Pilot, Instructor Pilot, or Maintenance Pilot * Prior OCONUS ...

MH-60S Scheduler

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

... flight, and detachment events. * Database management. Maintain local utilization databases to track mission data such as flights, simulator events, and daily Contract Instructor hours. * Master ...

Showing results 41-60

Flight Instructor information

See Suffolk, VA salary details

$23.8K

$90K

$138.4K

How much do flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight instructor in Suffolk, VA is $90,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,600.00 and $106,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 Suffolk, VA are hiring for Flight Instructor jobs?

Cities near Suffolk, VA with the most Flight Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Flight Instructor job openings in Suffolk, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,012 per year, or $43.3 per hour.

Aviation Maintenance Technician

United States Coast Guard

Elizabeth City, NC • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


United States Coast Guard rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Are You...
  • Excited to fly?
  • Able to meet aircrew physical standards, including vision?
  • Good at practical math problems?
  • Interested in mechanical systems?

Skills You'll Learn
Aircraft mechanical repair
Aircraft structural repair
Aircrew flight operations
Training You'll Get
  • AMTs receive 20 weeks of blended on-the-job training at one of 26 Coast Guard air stations, in addition to in-class training at the Aviation Technical Training Center in Elizabeth City, NC. You will learn about aircraft systems, metal work, composite repair, electrical theory and troubleshooting, and paint applications.
  • Advanced composite repair, aircraft systems, and airframe specific training, as well as advanced training in helicopter rescue operations.
  • Both full-time and part-time Coast Guard-funded educational opportunities leading to an associate or bachelor's degree or higher may be available. Specifically, the Aviation Technology program is available to the AMT rating.

Related Civilian Jobs
  • Airline Maintenance Supervisor
  • FAA Certified Aircraft Mechanic or Aircraft Inspector Authorization
  • Aviation Instructor
  • Aircraft Ground Handler
  • Flight Engineer
  • Helicopter Rescue Hoist Operator

What United States Coast Guard employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


United States Coast Guard logo

About United States Coast Guard

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) is a branch of the United States Armed Forces situated in Washington, DC, US. As part of its key mission, it is responsible for ensuring maritime safety, security, and stewardship. Founded on August 4, 1790, it is one of the country's oldest organizations in continuous service. The USCG offers a service portfolio that includes maritime law enforcement, mariner assistance, maritime environmental protection, and defense readiness. The USCG's core values include Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty. The mission statement of the USCG is to protect the maritime interests of the United States and ensure the nation's maritime economy.

Industry

National security and international affairs

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US