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Full Time Flight Instructor Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Minimum 1,000 total flight hours. * Basic computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft ... coverage for eligible full-time employees. * 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching ...

Minimum 1,000 total flight hours. * Basic computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft ... coverage for eligible full-time employees. * 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching ...

Full Time Flight Instructor information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$24.8K

$93.9K

$144.5K

How much do full time flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time flight instructor in Phoenix, AZ is $93,949.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,500.00 and $111,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a full time flight instructor?

Full time flight instructors are certified pilots who work primarily to teach student pilots how to fly aircraft. They are responsible for providing ground instruction, in-flight training, and helping students prepare for their pilot certification exams. These instructors work for flight schools, aviation academies, or as independent contractors, and they may teach a variety of courses ranging from private pilot to advanced certifications. Their duties also include monitoring student progress, ensuring safety during training flights, and maintaining accurate training records.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time flight instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Flight Instructor, you need strong aeronautical knowledge, advanced piloting skills, and a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate, often accompanied by a commercial pilot’s license. Proficiency with flight simulators, electronic flight bags (EFBs), and aviation training management systems is commonly expected. Excellent communication, patience, and situational awareness are crucial soft skills for effectively teaching and ensuring student safety. These competencies are vital for preparing safe, competent pilots and maintaining high standards in flight training environments.

What are some common challenges faced by full time flight instructors, and how can they be addressed?

Full-time flight instructors often face challenges such as varying student learning styles, managing unpredictable weather conditions, and balancing administrative tasks with flight time. Adapting teaching methods to fit individual students and maintaining clear communication can help ensure effective instruction. Staying updated with the latest regulations and dedicating time to thorough pre-flight planning also contribute to safety and efficiency. Building strong time-management skills and seeking mentorship from experienced instructors can further help address these challenges.

What is the difference between Full Time Flight Instructor vs Part Time Flight Instructor?

AspectFull Time Flight InstructorPart Time Flight Instructor
CertificationsCommercial Pilot Certificate, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)Same as full time, but may have less experience requirements
Work EnvironmentFull schedule at flight schools or training centersFlexible hours, often evenings or weekends
Employment StatusFull-time employment with benefitsPart-time, often freelance or contract
WorkloadConsistent hours, regular student trainingVariable hours, depending on student demand

Full Time Flight Instructors work regular hours with benefits and a steady schedule, while Part Time Flight Instructors have flexible hours and may work on a contract basis. Both roles require similar certifications and are essential in pilot training programs.

How much can I make as a full time flight instructor?

Full-time flight instructors typically earn between $25,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the flight school. Entry-level instructors often start at the lower end, while experienced instructors with additional certifications can earn higher salaries, especially if they work at busy flight schools or in high-demand regions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Instructor jobs in Phoenix, AZ?

The most popular types of Flight Instructor jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:

What are popular job titles related to Full Time Flight Instructor jobs in Phoenix, AZ?

For Full Time Flight Instructor jobs in Phoenix, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Full Time Flight Instructor jobs in Phoenix, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Full Time Flight Instructor jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:

What cities near Phoenix, AZ are hiring for Full Time Flight Instructor jobs?

Cities near Phoenix, AZ with the most Full Time Flight Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Full Time Flight Instructor job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,949 per year, or $45.2 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Cirrus Aircraft rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

OverviewThe Flight Instructor provides industry-leading, learner-centric flight training to Cirrus customers. To meet the demands of discerning customers who look for the absolute best, training is provided in iconic Cirrus Aircraft SR and SF model airplanes at the premier Cirrus Services Center in Knoxville, TN. The training follows a structured syllabus with proprietary course material for streamlined training to support the learning process. Ancillary duties include identifying and communicating pilot progression and opportunities, record keeping, safety management, flight planning and preparation, lesson planning and preparation, complex problem solving, mastery of subject matter material, and recommending process improvements. Duties include acting as pilot in command of Cirrus aircraft while performing 14 CFR part 91 corporate flight operations (demonstration, repositioning, and post-maintenance flights) when needed, flight reviews, proficiency checks, and other similar pilot and flight instructor duties. The Cirrus Factory Direct instructor reports to the Flight Operations Supervisor.Responsibilities
  • Adhere to all industry and Cirrus established safety procedures and policies when performing job duties
  • Provide excellent and professional customer service
  • Make timely and accurate decisions regarding safety of flight
  • Conduct training events following program guidance and requirements
  • Provide flight and ground instruction per standards defined in Cirrus policy and procedure documents.
  • Meticulously record all training event activities and results in pilot training records
  • Recommend students for FAA written and practical tests
  • Assess pilot performance in the psychomotor, cognitive, and affective domains for each training event
  • Discover opportunities to customize training events to fit individual student needs
  • Act as pilot in command of Cirrus aircraft while performing corporate flight missions, ferry flights, internal training flights, and demonstration flights
  • Perform normal pre-flight and post-flight inspections, clean, fuel, add oil and de-ice fluid, update chart subscriptions, etc.
  • Continuous learning of the latest developments in the Cirrus Aircraft line of aircraft products
  • Process and maintain a deep level of aircraft knowledge and be a model aviator, flight instructor, and Cirrus representative
  • Maintain communication with students as required pre- and post- training
  • Enhance flight safety by providing excellent, high quality, and standardized flight and ground instruction
  • All other duties as assigned
Qualifications
  • Three year's pilot experience required
  • 1000 dual given hours or 750 hours in Cirrus required
  • SF50 Type rating preferred; ATP certificate preferred
  • Current FAA Flight Instructor Certificate
  • Airplane Single engine
  • Instrument Airplane
  • Hold FAA Pilot Certificate
  • Commercial Airplane Single Engine Land
  • Instrument Airplane
  • Current Second-class Airman Medical Certificate or higher
  • IFR in congested airspace, mountain flying, extensive IMC, international flight, and night experience preferred
  • Meet ATP Single Engine requirements as outlined in the FAR 61.159 (1,500 total time, 500 XC, 100 Night, 75 Instrument, 250 Airplane PIC)
  • 100 hours turbine time or experience currently employed as a pilot by Cirrus

Our Benefits: Cirrus provides a range of exciting benefits, including:

  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, vision, dental, with additional dependent coverage options
  • Employer-Paid Coverages: Group term life, short- and long-term disability insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts: FSA and HSA offerings with company contributions to HSA
  • Well-being: Calm Health, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness incentives through medical provider
  • 401(k) Plan: Dollar-for-dollar match up to 5% after 90 days, with 100% vesting at 1 year of service
  • PTO: Various PTO plans starting at 100 hours accrued within the first year
  • Additional Time off Benefits: Paid holidays, 2 weeks of Paid Parental leave, paid time for funeral leave and jury duty
  • Career Development: Tuition reimbursement program and professional growth opportunities
  • Exclusive Discounts: Cirrus Store, partner and marketplace discounts available
  • Community & Engagement: Company and employee clubs at various locations
These benefits are designed to support your well-being, growth, and enjoyment at Cirrus!Sign On BonusEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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