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Flight Simulator Instructor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Define and manage simulator requirements for new Operational Flight Program (OFP H-builds) and ... NATOPS Instructor qualification. Equally Important: * Ability to build positive, collaborative ...

Simulator Aircrew SME, F/A-18

Lemoore, CA · On-site

$150K - $185K/yr

Define and manage simulator requirements for new Operational Flight Program (OFP H-builds) and ... NATOPS Instructor qualification. Equally Important: * Ability to build positive, collaborative ...

Teach flight fundamentals and advanced piloting skills for combat and contested environments ... Betaflight and FPV simulator software * Experience integrating operational payloads and ...

The Training program consists of Basic Qualification, Instructor Qualification, Refresher, and ... The Training consists of classroom academics, simulators (both in person and remote Training), and ...

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Flight Simulator Instructor information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$93.4K

$143.6K

How much do flight simulator instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight simulator instructor in California is $93,381.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,100.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Flight Simulator Instructor do?

A Flight Simulator Instructor trains pilots using advanced flight simulation technology, helping them practice procedures, emergency scenarios, and aircraft operations in a safe, controlled environment. They develop lesson plans, conduct training sessions, assess pilot performance, and provide feedback for improvement. These instructors are essential for both new and experienced pilots to maintain their skills and stay updated on aviation regulations and procedures.

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

To thrive as a Flight Simulator Instructor, you need a solid background in aviation, a thorough understanding of aircraft systems, and typically a commercial pilot's license or equivalent flight experience. Familiarity with advanced flight simulation software and systems, as well as certifications such as FAA Flight Instructor or similar credentials, are often required. Strong communication, instructional ability, and patience are crucial soft skills for effectively teaching and assessing pilot trainees. These skills ensure safe, effective training and help pilots develop critical competencies in a controlled environment.

What is the difference between Flight Simulator Instructor vs Flight Instructor?

AspectFlight Simulator InstructorFlight Instructor
Required CertificationsFAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), simulator training certificationFAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), pilot license
Work EnvironmentFlight simulators, training centers, aviation academiesAircraft, flight schools, training aircraft
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, flight training centers, militaryFlight schools, private aviation, commercial airlines

Both roles require FAA certification and involve pilot training, but Flight Simulator Instructors focus on simulator-based instruction in controlled environments, while Flight Instructors teach in actual aircraft. The choice depends on whether training occurs in simulators or real flight settings.

What Does a Flight Simulator Instructor Do?

A flight simulator instructor provides instruction to a student training to become a pilot. Your main responsibilities revolve around teaching ground, simulator, and flight operations. Your duties include developing curriculum, providing lessons, reviewing and grading students, monitoring the condition of an aircraft and related equipment, and creating reports on your students. You cover aviation machinery, flying techniques, safety policies and procedures, and FAA regulations. You assist students throughout the course and answer questions to ensure their success. A flight simulator instructor may also help recruit new applicants to the program.

How does a Flight Simulator Instructor typically collaborate with pilots and training teams during simulation sessions?

Flight Simulator Instructors work closely with pilots, both students and experienced crew, by guiding them through realistic scenarios and providing immediate, constructive feedback. They often coordinate with training managers and other instructors to align simulation exercises with regulatory requirements and airline procedures. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as instructors must adapt to different learning styles and ensure training objectives are met. Collaboration extends to post-session debriefs, where instructors and trainees discuss performance and areas for improvement in a supportive environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Simulator Instructor jobs in California? The most popular types of Flight Simulator Instructor jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Flight Simulator Instructor jobs in California? For Flight Simulator Instructor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Flight Simulator Instructor jobs? Cities in California with the most Flight Simulator Instructor job openings:
MH-60R Instructor Pilot

$136K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Provide MH-60R training and instruction to foreign military students employing academics, simulation devices, and in-aircraft flight experience. Provide a full range of MH-60R subject matter expertise in development of safe, sound flight operations and training. May provide additional special services such as courseware and publication reviews, grade sheet development, safety, quality audits, scheduling, training tracking, functional check flights, and other duties as may be assigned.
Company Information
ATC is a professional consulting/training development and manufacturing company that specializes in pilot, aircrew, ground-crew, and maintenance training solutions for rotary-wing, fixed-wing, and tilt-rotor aircraft operations. Since our inception in 2001, we have built an excellent reputation for designing, manufacturing, and implementing creative training solutions to the Department of Defense (DoD), United States Marine Corps (USMC), and NAVAIRSYSCOM. ATC's growth can be largely attributed to a corporate policy of integrity, synergized client collaborations, and completing all contracts early and under budget. That's the ATC difference.
Job Description
The primary duty of the Instructor Pilot (IP) is to train foreign students, and will involve direct interface with foreign transition pilot trainees, government contractors, active-duty Navy instructors, and other local personnel, while operating aircraft and associated trainers and equipment (manning trainer/equipment instructor station(s) and classroom instruction).
  • Conduct scheduled IP led/supported training for training devices and systems trainers, including operating and static aircraft, including briefs and debriefs, using traditional and modern tools such as interactive white boards, computers and video projectors.
  • Evaluate and document student training/mission performance as required.
  • Evaluate and record trainer performance in accordance with established Navy doctrine.
  • Review curriculum, assess, and recommend improvements to the training program via the appropriate training management officials.
  • Perform flights and flight training consistent with USG-approved flight syllabus.
  • Conduct training device operation/instruction to personnel as necessary, to include briefing, debriefing and grading/assessments.
  • Provide academic instruction to include instructor-led lecture discussion for self-paced computer aided instruction (CAI), computer-based training (CBT), etc. in support of courses required for MH-60R Sensor Operators.
  • Provide classroom instruction and recommendations for improvement, to include test materials, lesson plans, and trainee guides under the guidelines of current directives.
  • Attend required scheduled meetings (e.g., Scheduling, Standardization, Instructor Pilot/Aircrew, Safety).
  • Perform administrative duties such as record keeping, student progress monitoring, counseling, quality assurance, safety, security, and maintenance of training programs and equipment.
  • Safely conduct classroom, academic and practical labs, simulator, and flight instruction, maintaining a clean workspace and classroom environment.
  • Perform daily/weekly flight schedule writing duties as assigned.
  • Assist the IMSO for support of student movement through the training program.
  • Stand external door security/entry control point watch for a secure facility.
  • Assist with other administrative and non-administrative duties as assigned.
  • Complete additional duties as assigned by the Program Manager.

Requirements
Aviation instruction is a highly specialized function that requires the instructor to have credibility established by prior aircraft operational experience, prior instructional experience, and the ability to hold the attention of the students.
  • IP shall have a minimum of 500 pilot in command hours as an MH-60R IP or Evaluator.
  • Comparably experienced H-60B/F/H/S pilots with ASW experience also considered.
  • CFI/II or equivalent military instructor ratings preferred.
  • Shall have previous anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare mission experience.
  • Possess and maintain a FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Must be eligible to hold a SECRET DoD Personal Security Clearance.
  • Must be willing to work any hours, any shift, or day of the week as required.
  • Must be able to work overtime as required.

Additional Requirements
  • Complete and maintain all required aviation physiology and water survival qualifications.
  • Successfully complete an MH-60R refresher syllabus, if required, including instructor under training (IUT) syllabus and functional check pilot (FCP) syllabus.
  • Be designated an instructor by designated naval authority.
  • Annually pass/maintain an MH-60R NATOPS and instrument evaluations/qualifications administered by designated naval authority in accordance with naval aviation flight directives and civilian contract governing directives.
  • Complete other necessary qualifications annually or as required, including but not limited to laser safety, spatial disorientation training, and NITE lab.
  • Remain flight current/proficient as per squadron flight directives and civilian contract governing directives.
  • Maintain instrument, take-off, landing, emergency procedure, and mission systems operation proficiency.
  • Maintain proficiency in operation of essential all MH-60R aircrew training devices.

Security Responsibilities
Must comply with all company security and data protection / usage policies and procedures. Personally responsible for proper handling of all information and materials in any form. Shall not divulge any information or afford access to other employees not having a need-to-know. Shall not divulge information outside company without management approval. All government and proprietary information will be accessed and stored electronically on company provided resources.
Work Environment
  • Office, hangar, flight line, simulator bays, aircraft.
  • Will at times be exposed to the following conditions: extreme heat, airborne particles, high-decibel noise, hazardous materials, vibration, and confined spaces.

Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
  • Occasional domestic or international travel may be required.
  • Must be able to walk and climb stairs and ladders into/onto simulators or aircraft.
  • Must be able to stoop, bend, and crawl on top of or under machinery.
  • Must be able to detect odors or hear noises, bangs, or other sounds to detect problems or flaws in the functioning of simulators, aircraft, or the surrounding environment.

Language Skills
Must have the ability to read, analyze, and interpret complex documents. Will be required to respond effectively to sensitive inquiries and complaints. Must be able to generate effective oral and written presentations and proposals on complex subjects.
Salary Description
$136,800 Uncertified / $152,000 Certified