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Helicopter Instructor Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Helicopter Instructor information

See Oregon salary details

$9

$25

$51

How much do helicopter instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for helicopter instructor in Oregon is $25.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $30.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a helicopter instructor?

Helicopter Instructors are licensed pilots who are specially trained and certified to teach others how to fly helicopters. Their responsibilities include providing ground and flight training, ensuring students understand aviation regulations, safety protocols, and helicopter operations. They evaluate students’ progress, prepare them for certification exams, and help develop both technical and decision-making skills needed for safe helicopter flight.

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

To thrive as a Helicopter Instructor, you need substantial flight experience, an instructor pilot certification, and a thorough understanding of aerodynamics and aviation regulations. Familiarity with flight simulators, GPS navigation systems, and aviation safety management tools is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and the ability to give clear, constructive feedback are vital soft skills for effective teaching. These skills ensure safe, effective instruction and help students develop the proficiency and confidence needed for independent flight.

What are some common challenges helicopter instructors face when training new pilots, and how can they be addressed?

Helicopter Instructors often encounter challenges such as students struggling with the complex coordination required for helicopter controls and adapting to rapidly changing flight conditions. Effective instructors address these issues by using step-by-step teaching methods, providing frequent hands-on practice, and fostering a supportive learning environment. Additionally, clear communication and regular feedback help students build confidence and refine their skills. Collaborating closely with other instructors and participating in ongoing professional development also ensures best practices are shared and instructional techniques remain up-to-date.

What is the difference between Helicopter Instructor vs Flight Instructor?

AspectHelicopter InstructorFlight Instructor
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License (CPL) with helicopter rating, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) for helicoptersCommercial Pilot License (CPL) with airplane rating, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) for airplanes
Work EnvironmentHelicopter training schools, aerial tour companies, emergency servicesFixed-wing flight schools, aviation academies, flight training centers
Industry UsageHelicopter operations, emergency medical services, aerial photographyGeneral aviation, commercial airline training, private pilot training

Helicopter Instructors specialize in training pilots to operate helicopters, requiring specific helicopter flight certifications. Flight Instructors typically train pilots in fixed-wing aircraft. While both roles involve flight instruction and similar certifications, they focus on different aircraft types and work environments, making each role unique within the aviation industry.

Infographic showing various Helicopter Instructor job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,882 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Helicopter Flight Instructor

Troutdale, OR • On-site

Hillsboro Aero Academy
Aviation • 51 - 200 employees

Part-time

Re-posted 4 hours ago


Job description

 *** PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT IF YOU SUBMITTED YOUR APPLICATION SUCCESSFULLY ON OUR CAREER WEBSITE, YOU WILL RECEIVE A CONFIRMATION E-MAIL IN A MATTER OF MINUTES. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE ONE, PLEASE SEND YOUR RESUME AND COVER LETTER TO HR@flyhaa.com***  

General Position Summary: 

Provide flight, simulator and ground instruction with Hillsboro Aero Academy. This position includes involvement in the HAA Safety Management System including risk analysis and mitigation. Flight instructors are expected to maintain adequate records, meeting course standards, fulfilling training requirements and objectives and ensuring satisfactory student progress.  

Essential/Major Responsibilities: 

• Perform flight instructor duties authorized by the Federal Aviation Regulation and in accordance with the approved training course outlines 

• Ensure compliance with and promotion of the HAA Safety Management System and company SOPs 

• Maintain satisfactory student progress through the course(s), ensure course standards and training requirements are met and communicate delays to supervisor 

• Accurately maintain all appropriate records associated with student training 

• Attend weekly meetings 

• Determine aircraft airworthiness 

• Attend administrative, standardization, in-service training and instructor development meetings, as assigned 

• Maintain and apply effective teaching and evaluation techniques 

• Reconcile billable hours reports to complete bi-weekly payroll  

• Communicate with potential students about flight training  

• Other duties as assigned ie assistance fueling aircraft, driving company vehicles, etc.  

Specific Job Skills: 

• Aircraft piloting skills, including familiarity with and ability to perform required flight maneuvers and procedures using FAA Practical Test Standards 

• Knowledge of and ability to apply effective instructional techniques in the classroom and in flight 

• Knowledge of appropriate Federal Aviation Regulations  

• Ability to work well with others, in a fast-paced environment and provide superior customer service 

• Demonstrate and exercise sound judgment 

• Strong communication and teaching skills  

Supervisory Responsibility: 

Supervise students and student progress. 

Interpersonal Contact: 

Flight instructors must demonstrate exceptional customer service to current and potential students. Instructors will work closely with other flight instructors, maintenance technicians, safety personnel, dispatch personnel, line service, etc.  

Education and/or Experience: 

• FAA Certified Flight Instructor rating, Flight Instructor-Instrument required

• Must hold or be able to obtain a second class medical certificate  

• Successful completion of FAA Part 141 Proficiency Check  

• Completion of Special Federal Aviation Regulation 73 (b)(5) training with endorsement  

• Have completed the Robinson Helicopter Safety Course or demonstrate ability to have course completed prior to employment  

• Aircraft piloting skills, including familiarity with and ability to perform required flight maneuvers and procedures using FAA Practical Test Standards  

• Knowledge of and ability to apply effective instructional techniques in the classroom and in flight  

• Knowledge of appropriate Federal Aviation Regulations  

• Ability to work well with others, in a fast-paced environment and provide superior customer service  

• Demonstrate and exercise sound judgment  


This position will remain open until filled. Please do not contact Hillsboro Aero Academy regarding the status of your application.

 Hillsboro Aero Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer 

  *** PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT IF YOU SUBMITTED YOUR APPLICATION SUCCESSFULLY ON OUR CAREER WEBSITE, YOU WILL RECEIVE A CONFIRMATION E-MAIL IN A MATTER OF MINUTES. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE ONE, PLEASE SEND YOUR RESUME AND COVER LETTER TO HR@flyhaa.com***