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Flight Simulator Instructor Jobs in Portland, OR

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Flight Simulator Instructor information

See Portland, OR salary details

$26.5K

$100.3K

$154.3K

How much do flight simulator instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight simulator instructor in Portland, OR is $100,345.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,200.00 and $118,800.00 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 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.

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.

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 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.

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Flight Simulator Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Simulator Instructor job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,376 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Helicopter Flight Instructor

Hillsboro Aero Academy

Troutdale, OR • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Flight Instructor

Provide flight, simulator and ground instruction with Hillsboro Aero Academy. This position includes involvement in the HAA Safety Management System including risk analysis and mitigation. Flight instructors are expected to maintain adequate records, meeting course standards, fulfilling training requirements and objectives and ensuring satisfactory student progress.

Perform flight instructor duties authorized by the Federal Aviation Regulation and in accordance with the approved training course outlines

Ensure compliance with and promotion of the HAA Safety Management System and company SOPs

Maintain satisfactory student progress through the course(s), ensure course standards and training requirements are met and communicate delays to supervisor

Accurately maintain all appropriate records associated with student training

Attend weekly meetings

Determine aircraft airworthiness

Attend administrative, standardization, in-service training and instructor development meetings, as assigned

Maintain and apply effective teaching and evaluation techniques

Reconcile billable hours reports to complete bi-weekly payroll

Communicate with potential students about flight training

Other duties as assigned ie assistance fueling aircraft, driving company vehicles, etc.

Aircraft piloting skills, including familiarity with and ability to perform required flight maneuvers and procedures using FAA Practical Test Standards

Knowledge of and ability to apply effective instructional techniques in the classroom and in flight

Knowledge of appropriate Federal Aviation Regulations

Ability to work well with others, in a fast-paced environment and provide superior customer service

Demonstrate and exercise sound judgment

Strong communication and teaching skills

Supervise students and student progress.

Flight instructors must demonstrate exceptional customer service to current and potential students. Instructors will work closely with other flight instructors, maintenance technicians, safety personnel, dispatch personnel, line service, etc.

FAA Certified Flight Instructor rating, Flight Instructor-Instrument required

Must hold or be able to obtain a second class medical certificate

Successful completion of FAA Part 141 Proficiency Check

Completion of Special Federal Aviation Regulation 73 (b)(5) training with endorsement

Have completed the Robinson Helicopter Safety Course or demonstrate ability to have course completed prior to employment

This position will remain open until filled. Please do not contact Hillsboro Aero Academy regarding the status of your application.

Hillsboro Aero Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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