1

Flight Simulator Pilot Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Flight Simulator Pilot information

See Portland, OR salary details

$52.5K

$138.8K

$213.2K

How much do flight simulator pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight simulator pilot in Portland, OR is $138,837.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,000.00 and $164,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a flight simulator pilot?

Flight Simulator Pilots are professionals who operate advanced flight simulators to train, evaluate, or maintain the proficiency of pilots and flight crews. They may simulate a variety of flight scenarios, emergency situations, and procedures to ensure pilots are prepared for real-world flying. Flight Simulator Pilots often work for airlines, flight schools, or the military, and may also assist in developing and testing new simulator programs. Their role is crucial for improving aviation safety and pilot competence.

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

To thrive as a Flight Simulator Pilot, you need a solid understanding of aviation principles, flight operations, and typically hold a commercial or military pilot license. Familiarity with advanced flight simulator systems, scenario programming software, and regulatory compliance tools is essential. Strong communication, attention to detail, and instructional skills help in effectively guiding trainees and responding to in-simulator scenarios. These skills ensure accurate simulation, effective pilot training, and adherence to safety standards in a controlled environment.

What are some common challenges faced by flight simulator pilots during training sessions?

Flight Simulator Pilots often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing simulated scenarios, managing complex cockpit systems, and maintaining clear communication with instructors and other crew members. These sessions are designed to replicate real-life emergencies and technical malfunctions, which can be both mentally and physically demanding. However, overcoming these challenges helps pilots build confidence, improve their decision-making skills, and prepare more effectively for real-world flight situations.

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

AspectFlight Simulator PilotFlight Instructor
Required CredentialsPilot certifications, simulator operation trainingPilot certifications, teaching credentials
Work EnvironmentFlight simulators, training centersAircraft, flight schools, training aircraft
Employer & IndustryAirlines, training centers, militaryFlight schools, airlines, private training

While both roles involve aviation training, a Flight Simulator Pilot specializes in operating flight simulators for training and assessment, whereas a Flight Instructor teaches pilots in actual aircraft. The roles share certifications and industry environments but differ in practical versus simulated flight training.

What are popular job titles related to Flight Simulator Pilot jobs in Portland, OR?

For Flight Simulator Pilot jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Flight Simulator Pilot jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Flight Simulator Pilot jobs in Portland, OR are:

Helicopter Flight Instructor

Troutdale, OR • On-site

Hillsboro Aero Academy
Aviation • 51 - 200 employees

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