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Instructor Pilot Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

As an Instructor Pilot at CAE, your role soars beyond training. You build confidence and skill, inspire mastery, and ensure pilots are prepared for the moments that matter. Whether leading simulator ...

As an Instructor Pilot at CAE, your role soars beyond training. You build confidence and skill, inspire mastery, and ensure pilots are prepared for the moments that matter. Whether leading simulator ...

Current or previously qualified MQ-9A instructor pilot. Compensation Details: $78.11 The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the ...

Current or previously qualified MQ-9A instructor pilot. Compensation Details: $78.11 The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the ...

As an Instructor Pilot and/or Check Pilot accountable for evaluating pilot flight performance, accurate and timely documentation and ongoing training program assessment and quality improvement. * As ...

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UAS Operator / Pilot

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$75K - $135K/yr

Our pilots can serve as both Air Vehicle Operators and External/Safety Pilots, operating fixed-wing ... Previous experience as a UAS instructor, military instructor, or flight instructor. * Experience ...

$76K/yr

GS-2181-12 (Airplane Pilot/Helicopter Pilot): Applicant must possess a USAF Pilot rating, hold a ... GS-2181-13 (Flight Instructor): Applicant must possess two years of progressively responsible ...

$76K/yr

GS-2181-12 (Airplane Pilot/Helicopter Pilot): Applicant must possess a USAF Pilot rating, hold a ... GS-2181-13 (Flight Instructor): Applicant must possess two years of progressively responsible ...

OverviewThe Flight Instructor provides industry-leading, learner-centric flight training to Cirrus ... Duties include acting as pilot in command of Cirrus aircraft while performing 14 CFR part 91 ...

The Flight Instructor provides industry-leading, learner-centric flight training to Cirrus ... Duties include acting as pilot in command of Cirrus aircraft while performing 14 CFR part 91 ...

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Instructor Pilot information

See Arizona salary details

$36.8K

$96K

$159.8K

How much do instructor pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for instructor pilot in Arizona is $96,020.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,300.00 and $117,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Instructor Pilot vs Flight Instructor?

AspectInstructor PilotFlight Instructor
CertificationsCommercial Pilot Certificate, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) often requiredCertified Flight Instructor (CFI) required
Work EnvironmentMilitary, corporate, or government aircraft trainingFlight schools, general aviation
Employer & IndustryAirlines, military, government agenciesFlight training schools, private aviation

Instructor Pilot and Flight Instructor both require CFI certification, but Instructor Pilots often operate in military or corporate settings, focusing on advanced training. Flight Instructors typically work in civilian flight schools, training new pilots. While their roles overlap in training and certification, Instructor Pilots usually handle more complex aircraft and scenarios, whereas Flight Instructors focus on foundational pilot training.

What does a pilot instructor do?

Pilot Instructors teach students how to fly so that they can obtain their pilot’s licenses. This position takes patience, precision, a sense of detail, and cool thinking under pressure. You will teach your student each and every step involved in flight. This often begins with classroom instruction and may later involve such actions as filing a flight plan, completing a pre-flight checklist, radio communication with ground personnel, and all details of takeoff, navigation, and landing. Eventually, you will guide your students through test flights. You will then file reports to your leadership on the progress of your students and help decide who is qualified to obtain their pilot’s licenses.

Are flight instructors in high demand?

Flight instructors are generally in steady demand, especially as new pilots seek certification and experience. The job market can vary based on regional aviation activity, pilot training programs, and industry growth, with opportunities often linked to flight school enrollment and airline hiring trends.

What is an instructor pilot?

Instructor Pilots are highly trained and experienced pilots who are responsible for teaching student pilots how to operate aircraft safely and effectively. They provide both ground and flight instruction, evaluate student performance, and ensure adherence to aviation regulations. Instructor Pilots may work in flight schools, military settings, or commercial training programs, and are essential for developing the next generation of competent aviators. Their role includes demonstrating maneuvers, providing feedback, and preparing students for exams and certifications.

How much do instructor pilots get paid?

Instructor pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of aircraft they instruct on. Salaries can vary based on whether they work for military, commercial, or flight training organizations, and often include benefits such as flight hours and certifications.

How do I become an instructor pilot?

To become an instructor pilot, you typically need to hold a commercial pilot certificate with an instrument rating, accumulate a specified number of flight hours, and obtain an instructor certification from the relevant aviation authority. Additional training in teaching techniques and safety procedures is also required before you can instruct other pilots.

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

Instructor Pilots often encounter challenges such as varying learning speeds among students, managing cockpit safety during training flights, and providing constructive feedback under pressure. To address these, it's important to tailor teaching methods to individual student needs, maintain clear communication and situational awareness at all times, and foster a supportive learning environment. Regular collaboration with other instructors and ongoing professional development also help Instructor Pilots stay updated on best practices and regulatory changes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an instructor pilot?

To thrive as an Instructor Pilot, you need advanced piloting skills, a commercial or airline transport pilot certificate, and a certified flight instructor (CFI) rating. Familiarity with flight simulators, aircraft-specific avionics, and training management systems is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to give constructive feedback are vital soft skills for effectively teaching and mentoring student pilots. These skills ensure safe flight operations, effective knowledge transfer, and the development of competent new pilots.
More about Instructor Pilot jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Instructor Pilot jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Instructor Pilot jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Instructor Pilot jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Instructor Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Instructor Pilot job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,020 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

F-16 Ferry Pilot - TEMPORARY

Top Aces Corporation

Mesa, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

F-16 Ferry Pilot is responsible for mission planning, briefing, execution, and debriefing missions in support of the safe and efficient movement of F-16 Aircraft between designated locations via preplanned routing and multiple sorties. As an experienced F-16 Pilot, this role will conduct aircraft delivery missions consisting of multiple sorties with individual flight durations of up to eight (8) hours. International operations may include departures, transits, arrivals, potential diversions, and landings at international airports throughout Europe, Africa, and South America. The information below is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required for this position.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Perform mission planning in preparation for F-16 AOS movement as directed by authorized planning agency.
  • Accomplish necessary ground training prior to flights.
  • Deploy as required to support mission and contract requirements.
  • Act as or support personnel responsible for flight safety, training, scheduling, standardization and evaluation, or other Program Management duties as needed.
  • Adhere to all directions provided by the Chief Pilot, Director of OPS, AOS Director and Ferry Flight F-16 Flight Lead as well as the Contract Requesting Official (CRO).
  • Adhere to OSHA and OH&S requirements, demonstrate proper use of PPE, safety systems, and tools.
  • Report hazards (such as unsafe situations and activities) and other safety concerns as soon as humanly possible to supervisor and through Company’s Safety Management System (SMS).
  • Perform related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

  • Previously qualified US DoD-trained F-16 pilot or equivalent allied training program.
  • Previously qualified in Air-to-Air Refueling in the F-16.
  • 500 hours Pilot In Command (PIC) of any fixed wing DoD (or Allied) fighter aircraft.
  • TAC F-16 pilots will have valid U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) or military qualifications and currencies for F-16.
  • Must be able to work under pressure and meet deadlines while fostering a positive attitude.
  • Must have strong problem-solving abilities.
  • Proficient in the English language with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Must be proficient in the Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Must be able to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
  • Must be able to travel within the US and internationally.
  • Must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of a F-16 Ferry Pilot in daily work performance.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a US security clearance at the secret level, or NATO equivalent.
  • Must not be barred from any military installation.

CERTIFICATIONS / LICENSES

  • FAA instrument Currency, EASA Instrument Currency, or DoD military F-16 currency.
  • Second Class Medical Certificate or DoD equivalent medical clearance.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • 1,000 hours PIC in F-16
  • 500 hours as an F-16 Instructor Pilot
  • Previous performance of a trans-oceanic fighter aircraft AOS movement as Pilot in Command
  • Functional Check Flight (FCF) qualification
  • Squadron Command experience
  • FAA CFI (I) Certificate

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Must be able to work in various weather environments and conditions.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
  • Must be able to stand, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, sit, talk, walk, hear, see, and reach with hands and arms.
  • This position requires close vision, distant vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
  • This role is performed around loud noises and hazardous chemicals with exposure to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, and risks of electrical shock. The F-16 Ferry Pilot must be able to work in environments with exposure to noise, chemicals, dust, and varying weather conditions.

TEMPORARY ASSIGNMENT NOTICE

This is a temporary position established to support the completion of specific contract-related deliverables. The assignment is anticipated to last approximately 9–14 days and is expected to conclude upon completion of the required deliverables. The anticipated duration is an estimate and may vary based on operational and contractual requirements.