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Ground Instructor Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Observe flight and ground lessons conducted by other flight instructors when stage checks cancel. Help improve quality of training by noting trends and raising awareness of items to be worked on with ...

Check Instructor

Mankato, MN · On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

... ground lessons conducted by other flight instructors when stage checks cancel. • Help improve quality of training by noting trends and raising awareness of items to be worked on with Flight ...

Coach

Savage, MN · On-site

This is an exciting opportunity for the right person to get in on the ground floor with our team ... Whether you are a general manager, sales associate, barre or boot camp instructor, and/or a ...

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Ground Instructor information

See Minnesota salary details

$16

$28

$67

How much do ground instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for ground instructor in Minnesota is $28.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.76 and $27.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do you need to become a ground instructor?

To become a ground instructor, you typically need a commercial pilot certificate with an instructor rating, relevant teaching experience, and knowledge of aviation regulations. Additionally, completing a ground instructor certification course and passing written exams are required to qualify for the role.

What are the typical work schedules and environments for Ground Instructors?

Ground Instructors usually work at flight schools, aviation academies, or aerospace training centers, with schedules that may include evenings or weekends to accommodate student availability. The environment is often classroom-based, but may also extend to simulation labs or one-on-one sessions. Instructors collaborate closely with flight instructors and training managers to coordinate curriculum and student progress. This structure allows for a blend of independent teaching and teamwork, creating a dynamic and supportive learning atmosphere.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Ground Instructor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ground Instructor, you need a thorough understanding of aviation theory, regulations, and instructional techniques, typically supported by an FAA Ground Instructor certificate. Familiarity with flight training software, learning management systems, and aviation simulation tools is common in this role. Strong communication, patience, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for effectively teaching diverse student groups. These skills are vital to ensure students gain the knowledge and readiness needed for safe and successful flight training.

What is a ground instructor?

A ground instructor is a certified aviation professional responsible for teaching and evaluating students on ground school topics such as aerodynamics, regulations, and navigation. They typically hold an instructor certificate and work in flight schools or training environments to prepare students for flight training and exams.

What is a Ground Instructor job?

A Ground Instructor is a certified aviation professional responsible for teaching ground school subjects to student pilots or other aviation personnel. They provide instruction on topics like aerodynamics, navigation, weather, and FAA regulations, helping students prepare for written exams and flight training. Ground Instructors do not conduct flight training but play a crucial role in ensuring students have the necessary theoretical knowledge for safe and effective flight operations.

How much do ground instructors make?

Ground instructors in aviation typically earn between $20,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of training environment. They often hold certifications such as the Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and may work part-time or full-time schedules, with pay varying based on the employer and region.

What is the going rate for ground instructors?

Ground instructors in aviation typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Rates can vary based on certifications held, such as Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and whether the position is part-time or full-time.
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Infographic showing various Ground Instructor job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,648 per year, or $28.7 per hour.
Check Instructor

$44K - $50K/yr

Other

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Description

Purpose:

To ensure safe flight practices by maintaining training standards through stage checks and lesson observations. Check Airmen will also provide mentorship to our students in a safe and comfortable environment and work together with instructors to overcome challenges in the learning process. Our Check Airmen work to ensure compliance with applicable Transportation Security Administration (TSA) procedures, Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), and North Star Aviation policy in respect to training students and conducting stage checks. 


Tasks:

Ensure safety of flight

Conduct stage checks in a professional manner and uphold the standards of North Star Aviation's Training Course Outlines.

Provide thorough, productive, and constructive debriefs to students and their instructors after completion of a stage check event.

Prescribe re-training requirements following Unsatisfactory Stage Check events.

Observe flight and ground lessons conducted by other flight instructors when stage checks cancel.

Help improve quality of training by noting trends and raising awareness of items to be worked on with Flight Instructors.

Attend meetings as scheduled by the Assistant Chief Flight Instructor (Standards).

Be an ambassador to safety by following applicable FOM procedures, file reports using the current safety reporting system, attend periodic safety meetings, and maintain a general safety mindset.

Ensure student records are kept in an orderly and accurate manner. 

Periodically audit all records pertaining to students in their care and correct any errors while following applicable NSA procedures. 

Work in conjunction with assigned scheduler to ensure adequate student progress towards applicable flight lab completion deadlines.  Student progress is a shared responsibility. Schedulers ensure "quantity" of lessons, and Flight Instructors ensure "quality" of lessons.


EEO/AAP/Drug Free Workplace

Requirements

  1. Physical Demands:
  • Frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, reaching, pushing, pulling.
  • Ability to lift/carry up to 50 lbs. routinely and up to 100 lbs. occasionally
  • Frequent work in small places, extreme temperatures, heights above six feet and noisy environments.

Education & Experience:

Must hold CFI, CFI-I, and MEI and meet the pilot-in-command recent flight experience requirements of FAR 61.57

Must be able to comply with the NSA Flight Operations Manual and FAR 141.37.

Possesses unblemished flight record

Having signed off at least one student in each TCO is preferred, but not required.

Must have evaluation and debrief skills.

Must be able to relate to instructors and students.

Strong consideration will be given to candidates with substantial dual given hours and a high number of students instructed in Private, Instrument, Commercial, and Instructor Part 61 and 141 TCOs, with particular emphasis on their pass rates.

Additional experience relevant to performing the duties of a check airman will be highly valued.