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Freelance Flight Simulator Instructor Jobs in Melbourne, FL

Freelance Flight Simulator Instructor information

See Melbourne, FL salary details

$13

$20

$28

How much do freelance flight simulator instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance flight simulator instructor in Melbourne, FL is $20.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $22.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance flight simulator instructor?

A Freelance Flight Simulator Instructor is a professional pilot or aviation expert who provides training and instruction on flight simulators, typically on a contract or per-session basis rather than as a full-time employee of a flight school or airline. They help students or pilots practice procedures, improve their flying skills, and prepare for certifications or proficiency checks using advanced simulation equipment. These instructors may work with private individuals, flight schools, or corporate clients, offering flexible scheduling and tailored training programs. Their expertise ensures that trainees receive realistic, high-quality instruction to enhance safety and proficiency in real-world flying.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Flight Simulator Instructor, you need in-depth aviation knowledge, relevant pilot certifications (such as a CPL or ATPL), and experience with flight training. Familiarity with specific flight simulator platforms (like Microsoft Flight Simulator, X-Plane, or FAA-approved training devices) and associated training software is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and adaptability help tailor instruction to diverse student needs and learning styles. These skills ensure effective training, student safety, and a high standard of instruction in both simulated and real-world aviation environments.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance flight simulator instructors, and how can they be managed?

Freelance flight simulator instructors often encounter challenges such as managing irregular work schedules, adapting to various client learning styles, and keeping up with the latest simulator technology and aviation regulations. To manage these, it's helpful to maintain a flexible calendar, invest in ongoing professional development, and actively communicate with clients to tailor instruction to individual needs. Building a strong professional network can also help identify new opportunities and provide support for staying current with industry trends.

What is the difference between Freelance Flight Simulator Instructor vs Flight School Flight Instructor?

AspectFreelance Flight Simulator InstructorFlight School Flight Instructor
CertificationsFlight instructor certification, simulator trainingFlight instructor certification, simulator training
Work EnvironmentVarious locations, self-employed, flexible scheduleFlight school facilities, fixed schedule
EmployerSelf-employed or contractedFlight schools or training centers
Work FocusProviding simulator training to individual clients or groupsTraining students within a structured program

Freelance Flight Simulator Instructors operate independently, offering flexible, personalized simulator training to clients, while Flight School Flight Instructors work within established flight schools, following structured curricula. Both roles require similar certifications but differ mainly in work environment and employment structure.

What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Simulator Instructor jobs in Melbourne, FL?

The most popular types of Flight Simulator Instructor jobs in Melbourne, FL are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Flight Simulator Instructor jobs in Melbourne, FL?

For Freelance Flight Simulator Instructor jobs in Melbourne, FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Melbourne, FL are hiring for Freelance Flight Simulator Instructor jobs?

Cities near Melbourne, FL with the most Freelance Flight Simulator Instructor job openings:

Principal or Sr Principal Flight Simulation Trainer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Melbourne, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: Top SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 25% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

This requisition may be filled at the Principal or Sr Principal level based on requirements listed below.

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has an opening for a Principal Flight Simulation Trainer/ Sr. Principal Flight Simulation Trainer to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals. This position will be located in Melbourne, FL for the Product Support Group. Operating on our 9/80 schedule meaning you will get every other Friday off. The position has no opportunity for remote or telework.

Translates complex aircraft systems and flying procedures to develop detailed flight training curriculum content, including lesson plans, and exercises tailored to specific aircraft types and student skill levels.

Elicits software and hardware requirements through detailed analysis of technical data to meet customer requirements.

Leads cross-functional efforts on device functionality testing and the resolution of technical issues.

Performs product demonstrations of device functionality and capability in support of program milestones and incentives.

Collaborate with product trainers and engineering teams to provide input on curriculum design and device functionality based on external stakeholder training needs.

Troubleshoot training device issues with hardware and software engineers to resolve technical problems.

Test and validate training scenarios within aircrew training devices to ensure accuracy, realism and technical alignment with regulations and standards.

Conducts instructional sessions, briefings, follow-ups, and proficiency checks on flight simulators in accordance with federal air regulations and company policies and procedures.

Evaluates trainee progress and recommends qualification or additional training. Reviews simulator design and training effectiveness to provide maximum proficiency.

Coordinates utilization schedules for training flight crews and necessary engineering support.

Utilize Instructional Systems Design to solve complex learning and performance problems.

Basic Qualifications for Principal Flight Simulation Trainer (Level 3):

Bachelor's Degree with 5 years' experience in training and development materials; OR a Masters' Degree with 3 years' experience in training and development materials

Rated Aircrew (Pilot, Navigator, Electronic Warfare Officer (EWO), Weapon System Officer (WSO), Naval Flight Officer (NFO)).

Instructor qualification within the past 8 years

Proficient with Microsoft products

Final US Government Secret Clearance to be considered and the ability to obtain and maintain a US Government Top-Secret Clearance

Must have ability to obtain and maintain Program Access (PAR) within a reasonable period of time, as determined by the company to meet its business needs.

Basic Qualifications for Sr. Principal Flight Simulation Trainer (Level 4):

Bachelor's Degree with 8 years' experience in training and development materials; OR a Master's Degree with 6 years' experience in training and development materials

Rated Aircrew (Pilot, Navigator, Electronic Warfare Officer (EWO), Weapon System Officer (WSO), Naval Flight Officer (NFO)).

Instructor qualification within the past 8 years

Proficient with Microsoft Office products

Final US Government Secret Clearance to be considered and the ability to obtain and maintain a US Government Top-Secret Clearance

Must have ability to obtain and maintain Program Access (PAR) within a reasonable period of time, as determined by the company to meet its business needs.

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor of Science Degree in STEM

FTU / FRS instructor

Experienced/ combat mission ready in one or more combat mission design series (MDS) or type/model/series (TMS) with A, F, or B designations

U. S. Air Force or U.S. Navy Weapons School graduate (e.g., USAFWS, TOPGUN, HAVOC, MAWTS)

Experience in task analysis procedures and training systems products

Experience with Atlassian suite of cloud-based collaboration tools

Experience with Scaled Agile Framework

Experience with databases

Experience using courseware development tools

Experience with military courseware development

A current, active in-scope Government Top-Secret clearance

B-1, B-2, or B-52 experience

Instructional System Design (ISD) education, training, and /or experience from an accredited institution, ACC ISD principles course, ACC classroom instructor course, training support squadron (TRSS) detachment experience

#MPR

Primary Level Salary Range: $89,400.00 - $134,200.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $111,700.00 - $167,500.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

What Northrop Grumman employees say

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939