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Independent Contractor Flight Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Independent Contractor Flight Instructor information

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$25K

$94.6K

$145.5K

How much do independent contractor flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor flight instructor in the United States is $94,620.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Independent Contractor Flight Instructors and how can they be managed?

Independent Contractor Flight Instructors often face challenges such as fluctuating student demand, variable scheduling, and managing their own administrative tasks like billing and record-keeping. Unlike salaried instructors, they must proactively market their services and maintain relationships with local flight schools or fixed-base operators. To manage these challenges, successful instructors often develop strong organizational skills, use scheduling and billing software, and build a network within the aviation community to ensure a steady flow of students. Establishing clear communication with clients and maintaining flexibility in scheduling also contribute to long-term success.

What is an Independent Contractor Flight Instructor?

An Independent Contractor Flight Instructor is a certified pilot who provides flight training services on a freelance or contract basis, rather than being employed directly by a flight school or aviation company. They typically work for themselves, setting their own schedules, rates, and terms of service. Independent contractors may instruct at various locations, use their own or rented aircraft, and are responsible for their own taxes and insurance. This role offers flexibility and autonomy but also requires strong business management skills and compliance with aviation regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Independent Contractor Flight Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Flight Instructor, you need a valid Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate, strong piloting skills, and a thorough understanding of aviation regulations and safety protocols. Familiarity with flight training devices, aviation weather systems, and logbook management software is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and adaptability help instructors tailor lessons to individual student needs and foster a safe learning environment. These skills ensure effective student instruction, regulatory compliance, and a reputation for professionalism in the aviation industry.
More about Independent Contractor Flight Instructor jobs
What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Flight Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Flight Instructor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Instructor jobs? The most popular types of Flight Instructor jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Flight Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Flight Instructor jobs include:
Certified Flight Instructor 2 (Pool Posting)

Certified Flight Instructor 2 (Pool Posting)

Ohio University

Athens, OH • On-site

$22K - $37K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Ohio University rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

407th of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Applications will be accepted until midnight (Eastern Time Zone) on the 'Posting End Date' shown below.
Position Information
Business Title
Certified Flight Instructor 2 (Pool Posting)
Applications Accepted From
Public: Open to the Public
Special Instructions to Applicants
To apply, please complete the online application and attach a cover letter, resume, and a list of three professional references. For references, please provide names, addresses, and current contact information. Be prepared to submit current FAA licenses and certifications. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position(s) are filled. Qualified applicants may be hired from this pool on an ongoing basis. If you have questions, please contact Deak Arch, Aviation Chair at arch@ohio.edu
This is a pool posting with a rolling application period that will continue through May 15, 2027.
This position is eligible for the following benefits:
sick leave and retirement.
Posting Number
2016407T
Department Summary
Position Summary
This is a pool posting with a rolling application period that will continue through May 15, 2027. Qualified applicants may be hired from this pool on an ongoing basis. The successful candidate must have a Bachelor's degree. In addition, applicants must have FAA certifications and licenses showing experience and ratings as a Commercial Pilot, Instrument Pilot, Certified Flight Instructor and Certified Instrument Flight Instructor with a minimum 250 hours, 100 hours PIC and 25 hours of actual or simulated instrument time. Applicants should also meet the requirements of 14 CFR 141.37 and/or 14 CFR 61.195(h).
Position Profile
Monitors and maintains airplane safety, conducts airplane maintenance, and pilots aircraft under the Aviation Flight, Aviation Management, and Aviation Technology programs in the research mission of the Avionics Engineering Center.
Level Summary
Provides professional expertise to the University community. Serves as a resource and guide to others in the department and/or university. Completes operational tasks essential for the daily functioning of the University. Additionally, contributes to larger projects or initiatives that align with department or University goals, often collaborating across teams.
Supervisory Responsibilities
May assist in mentoring or training new employees.
Fiscal Responsibilities
No budgetary responsibility. May be responsible for validating transactions.
Problem Solving
Handles a variety of problems with some independence.
Independence of Action
Some supervision; able to work independently on routine tasks.
Communication and Collaboration
Collaborates with team members and shares knowledge.
Physical Requirements
This role is primarily desk-based and involves extensive use of desktop computers. Occasionally, the job may require travel to attend meetings and programs.
Minimum Qualifications
Requires a Bachelor's degree in a related field and 3-5 years of related professional experience, or equivalent education and experience.
Preferred Qualifications
Having the flight instructor certificate for at least 24 months and have provided at least 200 hours of flight training as a flight instructor.
Department
Aviation
Pay Rate
Commensurate with experience and credentials
Total Compensation Estimator (For Full-Time Benefits Eligible Employees)
Discover the full value of joining Ohio University by clicking this link:
https://www.ohio.edu/hr/compensation/total-compensation-estimator
Our Total Compensation Estimator shows your offer package in dollars: salary plus university paid benefits including health coverage, retirement contributions, paid time off, tuition benefits, and more.
See details on what we offer in one place and compare different options for retirement and insurance.
Estimates are informational only; exact coverage is determined by eligibility policies and official plan documents.
Pay Grade
16
Pay Range
$22,296 - $37,098
FLSA Status
Exempt
Job Category
Administrative at-will appointment
Employment Type
part-time term
Job Family
Aviation
Job Sub Family
Aviation Generalist
Job Level
IC2
Job Open Date
06/22/2026
Posting End Date
05/15/2027
Planning Unit
Russ College of Engineering & Technology
Work Schedule
Varies with student flight schedules
Months
12 month
Campus
Athens, Ohio University Airport
Expected hours worked per week
27
Expected duration of assignment
12 months
Applicants may contact this person if they have questions about this position.
Deak Arch, Aviation Chair, arch@ohio.edu
Non-Discrimination Statement
Ohio university is proud of its rich history and as part of our ongoing efforts to provide and support a transformative learning experience, we affirm our commitment to fostering a welcoming and respectful workforce and community. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration free from discrimination on the basis of age, ancestry, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, military service or veteran status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, status as a parent or foster parent, or any other bases under the law. Ohio university is an equal access/equal opportunity employer.
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