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Flight Simulator Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

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Flight Simulator Operator information

See Texas salary details

$10.2K

$113.3K

$179.8K

How much do flight simulator operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight simulator operator in Texas is $113,337.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,200.00 and $163,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a flight simulator operator?

A Flight Simulator Operator is responsible for running and maintaining flight simulation systems used for pilot training. They ensure the simulator is functioning correctly, troubleshoot technical issues, and assist instructors by managing scenarios. Operators may also update software, calibrate controls, and provide support to trainees during simulation sessions. This role is crucial in helping pilots gain hands-on experience in a controlled, risk-free environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flight simulator operator?

To thrive as a Flight Simulator Operator, you need strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, and a background in aviation or a related field, often supported by specialized training or certification. Familiarity with simulator software, control panels, aircraft systems, and possibly FAA or equivalent certifications is essential. Excellent problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for supporting trainees and addressing technical issues. These abilities ensure safety, realism, and efficient training sessions, which are critical for preparing pilots and aviation personnel.

What are some common challenges faced by flight simulator operators and how can they be addressed?

Flight Simulator Operators often encounter technical issues such as system malfunctions, software glitches, or unexpected simulation scenarios, which require quick troubleshooting and in-depth technical knowledge. Adapting to frequent updates in aviation protocols and simulator technology can also be challenging, making ongoing training and learning essential. Operators must work closely with instructors, maintenance teams, and trainees to ensure simulations run smoothly and training objectives are met. By staying organized, proactive, and communicative, Flight Simulator Operators can effectively manage these challenges and provide a high-quality training experience.

What are popular job titles related to Flight Simulator Operator jobs in Texas?

For Flight Simulator Operator jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Flight Simulator Operator jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Flight Simulator Operator jobs in Texas are:

Infographic showing various Flight Simulator Operator job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,337 per year, or $54.5 per hour.

Flight Ops Flight Instructor - HDQ

Southwest Airlines

Dallas, TX • On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago


Southwest Airlines rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 252 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 26 rated airlines


Job description

Flight Operations Flight Instructor

All of Southwest's People come together to deliver on our Purpose; Connecting People to what's important in their lives through friendly, reliable, and low-cost air travel. The Flight Operations Flight Instructor supports the Flight Operations Department by providing training to Pilots in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), Advanced Qualification Program Manual (AQPM), Flight Operations Training Manual (FOTM), and Company requirements/agreements. This role conducts training in the classroom and in simulators to ensure Pilots have the knowledge and hands-on experience to provide our Customers with a safe and reliable flight. The Flight Operations Flight Instructor has great interpersonal and communication skills which help them facilitate proper flight instructions.

Responsibilities:

  • Prepare and conduct classroom and simulator training in accordance with FARs, Training Policies / Manuals, and Company requirements.
  • Facilitate pilot learning
  • Develop and create instructional and evaluation media/materials for support of training programs
  • Maintain course material and procedural integrity through self-study, skills practice, critique review, and instructor meetings
  • May perform other job duties as directed by Employee's Leaders

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Knowledge and experience in the operation of training equipment that includes computer based training workstations
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office programs
  • Knowledge of flight training instructional duties along with a good working knowledge of FAR training requirements
  • Must possess excellent English verbal communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to read technical aircraft documents, follow technical instructions, learn and understand new technical concepts and prepare written technical documents that will convey information or guidance to others in an understandable manner
  • Ability to accomplish accurate work under tight time constraints while maintaining a high degree of flexibility
  • Ability to work various assigned hours as necessary, which may include evenings, weekends, holidays, with a rotating assigned work schedule to cover the operational hours (which includes 365 day a year up to 24 hours a day)

Education:

  • Required: High School Diploma or GED

Experience:

  • Required: Flying experience operating an aircraft

Licensing/Certification:

  • Required: USA DOT/FAA Unrestricted Airline Transport Pilot Certificate. The certificate must display the following:
    • "Airplane Multiengine Land" Category and Class Ratings
    • "English Proficient" limitation
  • Required: Paper or electronic logbook with at least the last 500 hours of flight time recorded
  • Required: Must possess a valid United States Driver's License
  • Required: Must meet all regulatory criteria to obtain and maintain Flight Deck Jumpseat Access; this position requires successful and continuous enrollment in Rap Back

Physical Abilities:

  • Must have vision ability to view and read computer/video/flight deck displays on a frequent basis
  • Must be able to participate in the FAR directed Line Observation Program and be able to enter and exit the aircraft under normal and emergency conditions
  • Must be able to enter and exit the flight simulator, cabin simulator or mock-up, briefing rooms under normal and emergency conditions
  • Must be able to sit in the simulator uninterrupted for up to 4 hours
  • Ability to perform work duties from limited space work station/desk/office area for extended periods of time
  • Ability to communicate and interact with others in the English language to meet the demands of the job
  • Ability to use a computer and other office productivity tools with sufficient speed and accuracy to meet the demands of the job
  • Ability to move/transport 25 lbs on an occasional basis (under 50%)
  • Ability to work at elevated heights and operate a Flight Simulator
  • Ability to manipulate applicable flight controls at full deflection
  • Ability to pass annual flight evaluation
  • Ability to converse/present/facilitate for up to 8 hours
  • Ability to make/receive audible call outs in classroom and/or simulator settings

Other Qualifications:

  • Must maintain a well-groomed appearance per Company appearance standards as described in established guidelines
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986
  • Must be able to comply with Company attendance standards as described in established guidelines
  • Must be at least 23 years of age
  • Must have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986, without requiring sponsorship now or in the future
  • Must have a professional behavior on and after Company hours and at Company events
  • Must be able to work rotating shifts, holidays, and overtime
  • Must meet confidentiality expectations as to confidential, proprietary and sensitive Company information
  • Air travel with overnight stays required
  • Ability to work extended hours as needed

Pay & Benefits:

Pay of $78.94 per hour*, with the opportunity for future increase per applicable collective bargaining agreement wage scale based on time in position. Opportunities for overtime and shift premiums.

Benefits you'll love:

  • Fly for free, as a privilege, on any open seat on all Southwest flights (your eligible dependents too)
  • Southwest will help fund your Retirement Savings Plan, which includes a dollar for-dollar 401(k) Company match contribution up to 10% of your eligible earnings**
  • Potential for annual profit-sharing contribution in the Southwest Retirement Savings Planwhen Southwest profits, you profit***
  • Competitive health insurance for you and your eligible dependents
  • Southwest offers health plan coverage options that start from the first day of employment. You'll have 30 days to select and enroll in your health plan, and coverage will be retroactively available to your first day of employment.
  • Explore more benefits you'll love: https://careers.southwestair.com/benefits

*The pay amount doesn't guarantee employment for any particular period.

**401(k) Company match contributions are subject to the plan's vesting schedule. Match contributions may vary based on the position.

***Profit-sharing contributions are subject to the Retirement Savings Plan vesting schedule and are made at the discretion of the Company.

Southwest Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Please print/save this job description because it won't be available after you apply.


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