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Flight Training Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Chief Flight Instructor

Belgrade, MT

$120K - $160K/yr

Review and approve student training documentation, including graduation and testing records * Conduct initial and ongoing evaluations of flight instructors to ensure proficiency and standardization

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$25K

$94.6K

$145.5K

How much do flight training instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight training instructor in the United States is $94,620.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Flight Training Instructor, you need strong aeronautical knowledge, instructional skills, and typically a commercial or airline transport pilot certificate with a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) rating. Familiarity with flight simulation software, aircraft systems, and aviation regulations is essential, as are up-to-date instructor certifications. Strong communication, patience, and situational awareness help instructors effectively teach diverse students and handle dynamic environments. These skills ensure safe, effective training and foster competent, confident new pilots.

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

AspectFlight Training InstructorFlight Instructor
CertificationsCertified Flight Instructor (CFI) licenseSame as Flight Training Instructor, typically holds a CFI license
Work EnvironmentFlight schools, aviation academies, flight training centersFlight schools, private flight clubs, aviation academies
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in flight training settings, instructing student pilotsInstructs pilots in various settings, including private and commercial flying

Both roles involve instructing student pilots and require similar certifications. The main difference is that a Flight Training Instructor specifically focuses on training new pilots, often within flight schools or training centers, whereas a Flight Instructor may also teach experienced pilots or provide additional flight instruction outside formal training programs.

What are Flight Training Instructors?

Flight Training Instructors are aviation professionals who teach and guide student pilots through the process of learning to fly aircraft safely and effectively. They provide both ground instruction in subjects like aerodynamics, regulations, and navigation, as well as in-flight training to develop hands-on piloting skills. Instructors assess student progress, ensure adherence to aviation standards, and help prepare students for required licensing exams. Their role is crucial in maintaining high levels of aviation safety and competence.

What are some common challenges faced by Flight Training Instructors, and how can they be addressed?

Flight Training Instructors often face the challenge of adapting their teaching methods to suit students with varied learning styles and experience levels. Balancing safety with hands-on learning during in-flight sessions is another key challenge, as it requires constant vigilance and clear communication. Staying updated with evolving aviation regulations and technology is crucial, so ongoing professional development is important. Building strong rapport with students and maintaining a calm, supportive environment helps address these challenges and ensures effective learning.
What cities are hiring for Flight Training Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Flight Training Instructor job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Flight Training Instructor jobs? The top employers for Flight Training Instructor jobs are:
What states have the most Flight Training Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Flight Training Instructor jobs include:
Flight Training Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Training Instructor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 2% Internship, 40% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 26% Contract, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,620 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

Instructor - Chief Flight Instructor

Louisiana Community and Technical College System

Lake Charles, LA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

College: SOWELA Department: Workforce Development Sub department: Type of Appointment: Unclassified - Faculty 12 month Salary: Duties and Responsibilities: • Daily management of 14 CFR Part 61 and 141 operations and compliance with all applicable FAA and LCTCS regulations. * Conduct student stage checks, progress checks, and end-of-course evaluations as required by the Training Course Outlines (TCOs). * Provide high-quality ground and flight instruction to students under both 14 CFR Part 141 and Part 61 training programs. * Supervise, mentor, and evaluate flight instructors to ensure standardized training delivery and professional development. * Maintain accurate and timely training records in compliance with FAA and institutional documentation requirements. * Coordinate flight training schedules and ensure efficient aircraft and instructor utilization. * Assist with Safety Management System (SMS) oversight, safety briefings, and program audits. * Participate in curriculum review, instructional improvement, and integration of emerging aviation technology. * Support recruitment, outreach, and industry partnership efforts to expand the aviation program's impact in Southwest Louisiana. * Promote a culture of safety, professionalism, and continuous improvement across all training activities. * Other duties as assigned. Required Education: • Bachelor's degree in Aviation, Aeronautics, or related field. Required Experience: • Minimum of: o 1000 hours of pilot in command. o Flight training experience either as a CFI or military pilot consisting of: * 1.5 years and a total of 500 flight hours; or * 750 flight hours. Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: • Pass a knowledge test on teaching methods, Aeronautical Information Manual, provisions of 14 CFR Part 61, 91, and 141, and Private, Instrument, Commercial, CFI and CFII standards and proficiency on the flight procedures and maneuvers. * Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills. * The Assistant Chief Flight Instructor will split time between office, classroom, and flight line environments. Duties may require occasional evening or weekend work and flexibility based on flight operations, weather, and student scheduling. The position involves exposure to typical aviation conditions, including aircraft noise and outdoor weather variations. Required Licenses or Certifications: • Private Pilot * Instrument * Commercial * Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) * Certified Flight Instructor - Instrument (CFII) * Current FAA Second-Class Medical Certificate. Preferred Education: • Master's degree in Aviation, Education, or related discipline preferred. Preferred Experience: • FAA Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI) rating. * Experience teaching in a collegiate or structured flight training program. * Prior experience supervising or standardizing flight instructors. * Familiarity with flight scheduling and recordkeeping systems (e.g., Flight Schedule Pro, Talon, ETA, or similar). Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Benefits: As a member of the Louisiana Community and Technical College System, SOWELA has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options.

Benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, term life, disability, accident, vision, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), holidays (14 per year, typically includes longer break at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits and Employee Assistance Program. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment. Passing pre-employment criminal background screen is required as a condition of employment. SOWELA is an equal opportunity/equal access employer.

SOWELA is a State As a Model Employer (SAME) agency that supports improved employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

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