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Helicopter Flight Instructor Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

IFR Check Airman

Watkins, MN · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

... Company instructor who performs an oversight, safety and qualification role for Helicopter and/or Fixed Wing pilots undergoing evaluation. Conducts training and flight checks in a classroom, an ...

IFR Check Airman

Watkins, MN · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

... Company instructor who performs an oversight, safety and qualification role for Helicopter and/or Fixed Wing pilots undergoing evaluation. Conducts training and flight checks in a classroom, an ...

Rotor Wing Relief Pilot

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$54.06 - $74.83/hr

... Helicopter flight hours * 1000 hours PIC in category * 500 hours of rotorcraft turbine time * 200 ... Part 121/135 Instructor/Check Pilot * Commercially rating in Fixed/ Rotor Wing * ATP Certificate

Rotor Wing Relief Pilot

Brainerd, MN · On-site

$54.06 - $74.83/hr

... Helicopter flight hours * 1000 hours PIC in category * 500 hours of rotorcraft turbine time * 200 ... Part 121/135 Instructor/Check Pilot * Commercially rating in Fixed/ Rotor Wing * ATP Certificate

Rotor Wing Relief Pilot

Hibbing, MN · On-site

$54.06 - $74.83/hr

... Helicopter flight hours * 1000 hours PIC in category * 500 hours of rotorcraft turbine time * 200 ... Part 121/135 Instructor/Check Pilot * Commercially rating in Fixed/ Rotor Wing * ATP Certificate

Rotor Wing Relief Pilot

Detroit Lakes, MN · On-site

$54.06 - $74.83/hr

... Helicopter flight hours * 1000 hours PIC in category * 500 hours of rotorcraft turbine time * 200 ... Part 121/135 Instructor/Check Pilot * Commercially rating in Fixed/ Rotor Wing * ATP Certificate

... Helicopter flight hours * 1000 hours PIC in category * 500 hours of rotorcraft turbine time * 200 ... Part 121/135 Instructor/Check Pilot * Commercially rating in Fixed/ Rotor Wing * ATP Certificate

Rotor Wing Relief Pilot

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$54.06 - $74.83/hr

... Helicopter flight hours * 1000 hours PIC in category * 500 hours of rotorcraft turbine time * 200 ... Part 121/135 Instructor/Check Pilot * Commercially rating in Fixed/ Rotor Wing * ATP Certificate

... Helicopter flight hours * 1000 hours PIC in category * 500 hours of rotorcraft turbine time * 200 ... Part 121/135 Instructor/Check Pilot * Commercially rating in Fixed/ Rotor Wing * ATP Certificate

Rotor Wing Relief Pilot

Brainerd, MN · On-site

$54.06 - $74.83/hr

... Helicopter flight hours * 1000 hours PIC in category * 500 hours of rotorcraft turbine time * 200 ... Part 121/135 Instructor/Check Pilot * Commercially rating in Fixed/ Rotor Wing * ATP Certificate

Helicopter Flight Instructor information

See Minnesota salary details

$10

$33

$51

How much do helicopter flight instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for helicopter flight instructor in Minnesota is $33.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.42 and $43.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a helicopter flight instructor?

Helicopter Flight Instructors are licensed pilots who are qualified to teach students how to fly helicopters. They provide both ground and flight instruction, covering essential topics such as flight maneuvers, safety procedures, navigation, and emergency protocols. Their goal is to prepare students for various pilot certifications and ensure they develop the skills and knowledge necessary for safe helicopter operation. Instructors typically hold a commercial pilot's license with an additional instructor rating specific to helicopters.

What does a helicopter flight instructor do?

As a helicopter flight instructor, your job is to teach a student how to pilot a helicopter, particularly as it relates to preparing them for the FAA flight exam. In your role as a CFI, you may guide students through ground school, help them acquire each rating necessary to proceed in their training, and help them meet experience requirements while flying training aircraft. Helicopter flight instructors often work with simulators and pilot helicopters in a variety of different weather conditions. Depending on the needs of your school, you may also teach students how to fly other types of aircraft, maintain records, or examine helicopters to determine airworthiness.

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

To thrive as a Helicopter Flight Instructor, you need advanced piloting skills, comprehensive aviation knowledge, and a Commercial Helicopter Pilot License with a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) rating. Familiarity with flight training software, navigation systems, and FAA regulations is essential. Strong communication, patience, and situational awareness are crucial soft skills for effective teaching and student safety. These competencies ensure that students receive thorough, safe, and high-quality training in compliance with industry standards.

What are some common challenges helicopter flight instructors face when training new pilots?

Helicopter flight instructors often encounter challenges such as adapting to varying student learning speeds and managing students’ initial anxiety or nervousness during flight. Instructors must balance maintaining safety while allowing students hands-on control, and they need to effectively communicate complex maneuvers in a way that is clear and reassuring. Additionally, instructors may work irregular hours to accommodate students’ schedules and changing weather conditions. Developing strong observation and interpersonal skills is key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring students build both competence and confidence.

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

AspectHelicopter Flight InstructorHelicopter Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot Certificate, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), specific helicopter ratingsCommercial Pilot Certificate, helicopter ratings
Work EnvironmentFlight schools, training environments, instructional settingsCharter services, corporate, transportation, aerial work
Job FocusTeaching and training pilots, safety instructionOperating helicopters for various missions, transportation

Helicopter Flight Instructors primarily focus on training and certifying new pilots, working in instructional environments. Helicopter Pilots operate aircraft for transportation, commercial, or aerial work. While both roles require similar certifications, instructors emphasize teaching, whereas pilots focus on flight operations.

How much do helicopter flight instructors make?

Helicopter flight instructors typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of employer. Instructors with advanced certifications and more flight hours can earn higher wages, especially when working for commercial flight schools or private operators.

What are the most commonly searched types of Helicopter Flight Instructor jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Helicopter Flight Instructor jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Helicopter Flight Instructor jobs in Minnesota?

For Helicopter Flight Instructor jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Helicopter Flight Instructor job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,099 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

College Laboratory Asst 2- Certified Flight Instructor- Helicopter

Minnesota Careers

Duluth, MN • On-site

$22.27 - $31.12/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 6 days ago


State Of Minnesota rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 175 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Details
Working Title: Certified Flight Instructor- Helicopter
Job Class: College Laboratory Assistant 2
Agency: Minnesota State
  • Job ID: 95751
  • Location: Duluth
  • Work Location: Lake Superior college Center for Advanced Aviation, 4960 Airport Rd. Duluth, MN 55811
  • Work Area: Academic and Student Affairs
  • Telework Eligible: No
  • Full/Part Time: Intermittent
  • Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
  • Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
  • Date Posted: 09/2/2026
  • Closing Date: 02/08/2027
  • Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: MN St Colleges & Universities / Lake Superior-Duluth CC-IWT
  • Division/Unit: MnSCU Lake Superior Duluth / MnSCU Lk Sup Duluth Comm Plan
  • Appointment Type: Unlimited, Intermittent
  • Work Shift: Variable hours
  • Work Hours: Day Shift
  • Days of Work: Variable
  • Travel Required: No
  • Salary Range: $22.27 - $31.12 / hourly * Salary placement is dependent on education and experience. Annual salary will be prorated based on actual hours work within year.
  • Classified Status: Classified
  • Bargaining Unit/Union: 218 - Insufficient Work Time/Unrep
  • FLSA Status: Nonexempt
  • Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities : Yes

The work you'll do is more than just a job.
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
Job Summary
This position provides the Center for Advanced Aviation (CAA), Professional Pilot Airplane and Helicopter programs, with tutoring, classroom assistance, student training, testing, record keeping, safety, security and technical support for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certified programs. The incumbent will serve as a Certified Flight Instructor, Chief and / or Assistant Chief Pilot (as required by FAA 141 Certification), and is responsible for direct, one to one flight instruction and leading students through: FAA required stage checks, preparation for end of course tests and proficiency checks. The CLA will be present and provide guidance to students during all pre-flight, in-flight and post-flight inspections and during all student flights. As required by the FAA, the CLA will be available by phone, radio, or other electronic means, when student flight training occurs.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Post-Secondary or industry certificate/diploma/degree or relevant licensure as a FAA 141 Certified Flight Instructor, Assistant Chief Instructor or a Multi Engine Instructor.
  • One year of teaching and/or tutoring as a Certified Flight Instructor of initial Certified Flight Instructor Candidates or 4 years of work experience as a FAA 141 Certified Flight Instructor, Assist Chief Instructor, or a Multi Engine Instructor where no industry standard or an equivalent combination of education and work experience

Preferred Qualifications
  • Demonstrated ability to work successfully with persons from diverse backgrounds, and commitment to diversity and inclusion initiatives.
  • Hold a commercial pilot or airline transport pilot certificate and a current flight instructor certificate. The certificates must contain the appropriate aircraft category, class, and instrument ratings if required for the category and class of aircraft used;
  • Flight training experience as a certified flight instructor, as a commercial or military pilot training program, or a combination thereof that must include1 year and a total of 250 flight hours; or 500 flight hours.
  • The flight instructor instrument rating or rating with instrument privileges must include:
  • At least 50 hours of flight time under actual or simulated instrument conditions; At least 500 hours as pilot in command;
  • Instrument flight instructor experience, acquired as either a certificated flight instructor-instrument or an instructor in a military pilot flight training program, 1 year and a total of 125 flight hours; or 200 flight hours;
  • For a course of training other than one leading to the issuance of a recreational or private pilot certificate or rating, or an instrument rating or a rating with instrument privileges, an assistant chief instructor must have: (1) At least 1,000 hours as pilot in command; and (2) Flight training experience, acquired as either a certificated flight instructor or an instructor in a military pilot flight training program, or a combination thereof, consisting of at least 11/2 years and a total of 500 flight hours; or 750 flight hours or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.

Other Requirements
  • This position requires successful completion of the following;
  • In accordance with the Department of Transportation requirements, safety-sensitive workers shall complete pre-employment drug and alcohol tests and will be subject to random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, and return to duty drug and alcohol testing.

Application Details
How to Apply
To view the full job posting and to apply please go to: https://minnstate.wd115.myworkdayjobs.com/Minnesota_State_Careers/job/Duluth/College-Laboratory-Asst-2--Certified-Flight-Instructor--Helicopter_JR0000005624
Contact
If you have questions about this position, contact Hannah Robarge at ef6286tm@minnstate.edu or 651-733-6832
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID95751, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Hannah Robarge at ef6286tm@minnstate.edu .
About Minnesota State
Lake Superior College is an Equal Opportunity employer and educator deeply committed to fostering the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We unequivocally prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or membership in a local commission as defined by law.
As an affirmative action employer, we proactively seek to cultivate a diverse and talented workforce. We sincerely encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including women, racial and ethnic historically underrepresented groups, persons with disabilities, and individuals with protected veteran status. Our commitment to affirmative action is integral to creating a workplace that values and leverages the unique perspectives and contributions of every employee. LSC actively seeks to attract and retain a diverse faculty and staff who represent the richness of our institution and the broader community we serve by fostering their development and recognizing their contributions. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive culture where all individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered.
Lake Superior College is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. We are an Equal Opportunity employer/educator committed to the principles of diversity. We actively seek and encourage applications from women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.
Working together to improve the state we love.
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
  • A sense of purpose in their work
  • Connection with their coworkers and communities
  • Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Other Information
Employment information for this position can be found in its collective bargaining agreement or its plan document at http://mn.gov/mmb/employee-relations/labor-relations/Labor/ .
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Minnesota State is an equal opportunity employer/educator committed to the principles of diversity. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or membership in a local commission as defined by law. As an affirmative action employer, we actively seek and encourage applications from women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and individuals with protected veteran status.

What State Of Minnesota employees say

Pay

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Get the full story on Breakroom


State of Minnesota logo

About State of Minnesota

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Minnesota State Demographic Center (SDC), part of the Minnesota Department of Administration, is the main provider of demographic data and analysis for the state of Minnesota. The SDC assists policymakers, state and local governments, businesses, nonprofits, the media, and all Minnesotans locate and understand the demographic data they need to make smart decisions.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Paul, MN, US

Year founded

1967

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