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Flight Simulator Instructor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Lead Training Captain

Temecula, CA · On-site

$195K - $215K/yr

This role ensures compliance with aviation regulations, oversees simulator and flight training, and mentors instructor pilots to maintain the highest standards of safety and proficiency. In addition ...

Lead Training ARO

Temecula, CA · On-site

$175K - $190K/yr

Mentor and supervise instructor AROs. * Manage simulator and flight training resources. * Integrate SMS and risk management practices into training. * Stay current with advancements in aviation ...

... simulator training, taught by all resident (TPS staff) and guest instructors. Serves as the organizational point of contact and liaison with the base personnel flight on military and civilian ...

Office Manager

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Key Responsibilities Manage daily and future schedules for aircraft, flight instructors, students, ground school, simulator sessions, classrooms, and operational activities using scheduling software ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 7, 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:
Infographic showing various Flight Simulator Instructor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,381 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Flight Operations Lead ARO

Metrea Management LLC

Temecula, CA • On-site

$175K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Company Overview

Metrea delivers effects-as-a-service to national security partners across five domains and more than a dozen mission areas—including airborne ISR, electronic warfare, secure communications, aerial refueling, special mission aviation, aerial firefighting, and advanced simulation. 

Wherever we operate, we build vertically integrated full stacks of capability—designing, building, and operating turnkey solutions that let customers scale capacity while benefiting from continuous cycles of innovation. With operators and engineers under one roof, we close the gap between lab and field—what we call connecting design with effect. 

Metrea’s solutions are built for elegance: effective, efficient, and evolving. This approach enables our partners to do more with less and achieve outsized, asymmetric advantage against rapidly evolving threats. 

Headquartered in Washington, DC, Metrea has facilities across the United States, the United Kingdom, Europe, and beyond.

This role sits within the Air Mobility area of Metrea.

Air Mobility Group (AIRMOB) is responsible for developing and delivering Metrea’s aerial refueling (AAR) capabilities, ensuring the readiness and operational effectiveness of the tanker fleet. AIRMOB oversees fleet management, maintenance, and airworthiness, working to sustain and enhance refueling operations. It manages the integration of new processes and technologies, ensuring that tanker aircraft remain mission-ready through effective logistics, maintenance oversight, and regulatory compliance. By coordinating across various teams, AIRMOB ensures the fleet meets both current and future operational needs, supporting a range of specialized air mobility missions. 


Position Summary

The Lead Air Refueling Operator is a pivotal role responsible for ensuring operational excellence, safety, and regulatory compliance of our flight operations. This position requires an individual with exceptional leadership skills and in-depth knowledge of FAA regulations who will uphold the standards of Metrea's flight operations and safety procedures. This role mentors AROs to maintain the highest standards of safety and proficiency.


What You’ll Do

  • Acts as a liaison between crew members and other managers.
  • May plan and modify routes for company aircraft in operations.
  • Maintain an adequate roster of properly qualified, current, and available AROs to meet company requirements.
  • Ensure that each ARO assigned to flight duty meets the applicable requirements and that the certification for these requirements is maintained in the crew member’s record.
  • Monitor ARO currency and legality and remove any ARO from the schedule before the expiration of any applicable qualification requirement.
  • Will serve as ARO in KC-135 operations, adhering to all applicable provisions and regulations.
  • Adhere to company Flight Operation Procedures (FOPs), Ground Operation Procedures (GOPs), FAA regulations, and Safety Notices.
  • Maintain all currencies, qualifications, and advanced systems knowledge related to the MSM KC-135 tanker fleet.


What You’ll bring

  • Must be highly knowledgeable in applicable Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Company Manuals, and all related policies and procedures.
  • Extensive KC-135 flight experience.
  • Strong organizational and leadership skills.
  • Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
  • Set a high standard for providing our customers with world-class air refueling.
  • Knowledgeable on the use of Foreflight.


Additional Eligibility Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management or related field or equivalent experience.
  • Previous USAF Instructor and Evaluator certification for KC-135 desired
  • Valid Driver’s License and US Passport.
  • Ability to maintain Top Secret clearance.


Our Firmware

At Metrea, our single core value, Rooted in Humility, and our four cornerstone attributes—Entrepreneurial, Systematic, Discerning, and Over-Deliver. These form what we call our Teammate Firmware. Just like technical firmware connects software and hardware, our Firmware is the constant interface between our mission and our people. It defines how we show up, how we work together, and how we solve complex problems.

Our team Firmware creates a web-like, hyper-collaborative, dynamically hierarchical way of working that helps us adapt quickly, communicate openly, and distribute decision-making to where expertise actually lives. It enables groups to self-organize around hard problems, shift fluidly as priorities evolve, and operate with the trust, curiosity, and discipline required in a complex mission space. This foundation allows us to deliver elegant, effective solutions and uphold our purpose: protecting our precious inheritance.


Benefits

Comprehensive medical plan options

HSA/FSA accounts

Dental and vision coverage

6% employer 401(k) match

Fully paid parental leave for all new parents

Generous PTO

Life and disability insurance
Long-term and Short-term disability coverage

AD&D Coverage

Pet Insurance

Employee Assistance Program

Subsidized gym membership / plans through Wellhub


Work Authorization / Security Clearance

Applicants must be a U.S. citizen.

Ability to maintain a Secret clearance throughout employment.

Role requires adherence to export control regulations (ITAR/EAR).


AAP/EEO Statement

This Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.


Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time exempt position with typical working hours of Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Hours and work shifts may change in accordance with department and business needs. Exempt Employees must have the ability to be on-call and available, as business needs require.   


Work Location

Temecula and Moreno Valley, CA


Work Environment

This job operates in an office setting and aboard KC-135R/RG and C-135FR aircraft


Travel

30%