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Flight Simulation Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Daily work blends flight operations, simulator events, mission planning, debriefs, and maintenance or readiness oversight. Officers assume significant responsibility early, leading aircrews ...

Daily work blends flight operations, simulator events, mission planning, debriefs, and maintenance or readiness oversight. Officers assume significant responsibility early, leading aircrews ...

Daily work blends flight operations, simulator events, mission planning, debriefs, and maintenance or readiness oversight. Officers assume significant responsibility early, leading aircrews ...

Daily work blends flight operations, simulator events, mission planning, debriefs, and maintenance or readiness oversight. Officers assume significant responsibility early, leading aircrews ...

Daily work blends flight operations, simulator events, mission planning, debriefs, and maintenance or readiness oversight. Officers assume significant responsibility early, leading aircrews ...

Daily work blends flight operations, simulator events, mission planning, debriefs, and maintenance or readiness oversight. Officers assume significant responsibility early, leading aircrews ...

Daily work blends flight operations, simulator events, mission planning, debriefs, and maintenance or readiness oversight. Officers assume significant responsibility early, leading aircrews ...

Daily work blends flight operations, simulator events, mission planning, debriefs, and maintenance or readiness oversight. Officers assume significant responsibility early, leading aircrews ...

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Flight Simulation information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11.3K

$69.6K

$125.2K

How much do flight simulation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight simulation in Chicago, IL is $69,639.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,300.00 and $81,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in flight simulation, and how can they be overcome?

Professionals in flight simulation often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving technology, maintaining simulation accuracy, and integrating new aircraft systems into existing platforms. Staying current with software updates and industry best practices is essential to address these issues. Collaboration with engineers, pilots, and training staff also helps ensure that simulations meet real-world training needs and regulatory standards. Regular communication and ongoing professional development are key to overcoming these challenges and excelling in the field.

What are flight simulation jobs?

Flight simulation jobs involve designing, operating, or maintaining flight simulators used for pilot training, aircraft testing, or research. Professionals in this field may work as engineers, technicians, instructors, or software developers. Their responsibilities typically include creating realistic flight scenarios, ensuring simulator accuracy, troubleshooting technical issues, and training pilots to handle various flying conditions. These roles are essential in aviation for safe and cost-effective pilot training, as well as for testing new aircraft technologies.

How much do flight simulator specialists make?

Flight simulator specialists typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and employer. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills in simulation software and aircraft systems can earn higher salaries, especially in aerospace or defense industries.

How much does a flight simulator instructor make?

Flight simulator instructors typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often hold commercial pilot or instructor certifications and may work irregular hours or shifts in training environments.

How do you become a flight simulator technician?

To become a flight simulator technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with post-secondary training or an associate degree in aviation maintenance, electronics, or a related field. Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or relevant authority, such as an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license, is often required, and hands-on experience with aircraft systems or simulation equipment is highly valued.

What is the difference between Flight Simulation vs Flight Instructor?

AspectFlight SimulationFlight Instructor
Required CredentialsTypically requires technical certifications, simulator operation licenses, and sometimes pilot licensesRequires pilot licenses, flight hours, and instructor certifications
Work EnvironmentSimulators, training centers, or aerospace facilitiesFlight schools, airports, or training aircraft
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, aerospace companies, military, training centersFlight schools, aviation academies, airlines

Flight Simulation involves operating and managing flight simulators for training or testing purposes, focusing on technical and software skills. Flight Instructors teach pilots in real aircraft or simulators, emphasizing instructional skills and pilot expertise. Both roles are essential in aviation training but differ in environment and certification requirements.

How to get into flight simulation?

To pursue a career in flight simulation, gaining experience with aviation software, flight training, or related technical skills is essential. Many roles require knowledge of simulation hardware, software, and sometimes certifications such as FAA pilot licenses or specialized training programs. Building a strong understanding of aviation principles and technical proficiency can improve job prospects in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Flight Simulation Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flight Simulation Engineer, you need strong skills in aerospace engineering, computer science, and mathematics, typically backed by a relevant degree. Expertise in simulation software (such as MATLAB/Simulink, C++, or flight dynamics modeling tools) and familiarity with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) systems are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills that help address complex technical challenges. These competencies are important to ensure accurate, reliable simulations that support pilot training, aircraft development, and safety standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Simulation jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Flight Simulation jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Flight Simulation job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,639 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

$20 - $26/hr

Part-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Job Title:STEM Youth Development Professional
Location:John Will Anderson Gary Club - 2700 W. 19th Ave. Gary, IN 46404

Status:Part-Time up to 29 hours a week Monday though Friday (typical school year hours 1:00 pm to 6:30pm, summer hours vary the club is open from 6:30am to 6:00 pm)
Compensation:$26/hour

Position Overview

The STEM & AviationYouth Development Professional is responsible for delivering high-quality, hands-on STEM and Aviation programmingthatengages PreK-12th grade youth in meaningful learning experiences. This role plays a critical part in implementing grant-funded initiatives, maintaining program quality, and ensuring compliance with reporting requirements.

This position creates an engaging, structured, and supportive after-school environment where youth can build skills in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and aviationwhile developing confidence, leadership, and problem-solving abilities. The role will also support aviation career awareness, flight simulation experiences, and hands-on exploration of aviation-related pathways.

Key Responsibilities

Program Development & Implementation

  • Design, implement, and supervise engaging STEM programs aligned with organizational goals and outcome measurements.
  • Facilitate hands-on, project-based learning experiences that align with Common Core Math Standards and Next Generation Science Standards.
  • Promote active participation and consistent engagement among members.
  • Implement structured aviation learning componentsincluding:
    • Flight simulator programming
    • Aviation STEM challenges
    • Aircraft design activities
    • Airport operations simulations
    • Aviation technology exploration

Youth Development & Classroom Management

  • Establish a positive, structured, and inclusive learning environment.
  • Build strong relationships with youth through mentoring and role modeling.
  • Effectively manage classroom behavior to ensure a safe and productive program space.
  • Support members' academic success, social-emotional growth, and leadership development.
  • Provide individualized guidance to youth in setting and achieving personal goals.
  • Follow BGCA's staff best practices and utilize the Elements of High-Quality Session in all sessions.

Leadership & Partnership Development

  • Supervise and provide direction to program assistants and college interns.
  • Develop partnerships with local colleges, aviation organizations,and universities to recruit and engage interns.
  • Lead by example in professionalism, accountability, and program excellence.

Grant Compliance & Reporting

  • Maintain accurate and timely documentation of program activities, attendance, and outcomes.
  • Ensure full compliance with grant requirements and reporting standards.
  • Track data and contribute to evaluation and continuous improvement efforts.

Funder Engagement

  • Collaborate directly with funding partners.
  • Participate in quarterly deliverables, reporting, and check-ins.
  • Demonstrate professionalism, responsiveness, and strong follow-through in all communications.
  • Support aviation-focused grant initiatives and program enhancements.

Program Operations

  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized program space.
  • Manage inventory of equipment and supplies.
  • Lead and supervise field trips and enrichment activities.
  • Attend all required staff and organizational meetings.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

This position was funded through a grant partnership and was contingent upon renewal of that funding.

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Education or STEM field required
  • At least 3 years of proven classroom or youth program management experience
  • Experience with youth development organizations (Boys & Girls Clubs preferred)

Skills & Competencies

  • Strong classroom management and youth engagement skills
  • Ability to motivate and inspire youth while managing behavior effectively
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Strong organizational and time management abilities
  • Experience with data tracking, reporting, and documentation
  • Ability to build relationships with youth, families, staff, and community partners
  • Capacity to plan and deliver high-quality, structured programming
  • Detail-oriented with a strong sense of accountability

Certifications

  • CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain upon hire)

Additional Requirements

  • Must be at least 18 years of age

Physical Requirements / Work Environment

While performing the duties of this role, the employee may be required to stand, walk, sit, use hands, reach, climb stairs, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee may occasionally lift or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

This position was funded through a grant partnership and was contingent upon renewal of that funding.