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Instructor Pilot Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

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Chief Flight Instructor

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$83K - $104K/yr

Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate or Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate. * Hold a current FAA Flight Instructor Certificate (CFI). * Hold the appropriate category and class ratings for the ...

Be Seen First

Chief Flight Instructor

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$83K - $104K/yr

Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate or Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate. * Hold a current FAA Flight Instructor Certificate (CFI). * Hold the appropriate category and class ratings for the ...

Flight Instructor

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$40K - $44K/yr

... required in the professional pilot programs at Saint Louis University. Participates in ... Knowledge and instructor certification appropriate to the position sought * Knowledge of various ...

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Instructor Pilot information

See Missouri salary details

$37.1K

$96.7K

$160.9K

How much do instructor pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for instructor pilot in Missouri is $96,650.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,800.00 and $118,700.00 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.

How do you become a pilot instructor?

To become a pilot instructor, you must first obtain a private pilot license and then accumulate additional flight hours to qualify for an instructor certification, such as the Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) rating. After earning the CFI, you can teach student pilots and gain experience, often requiring passing written and practical exams administered by aviation authorities.

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.

What are Instructor Pilots?

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 flying instructors get paid?

Flying instructors typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of flying school. Pay may also include hourly rates for flight hours and additional benefits such as training and certification support.

How much can you make as a pilot instructor?

Pilot instructors typically earn between $30,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of flying school or airline. Experienced instructors with advanced certifications and additional flight hours can earn higher salaries, especially if they work for major airlines or specialized training programs.

Is there a demand for flight instructors?

The demand for flight instructors remains steady due to ongoing pilot training needs and pilot shortages in the aviation industry. Flight instructors with certified flight instructor (CFI) ratings and strong teaching skills are typically in higher demand, especially in regions with expanding flight schools or increased pilot certification requirements.

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, and why are they important?

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 popular job titles related to Instructor Pilot jobs in Missouri? For Instructor Pilot jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Instructor Pilot job openings in Missouri as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,650 per year, or $46.5 per hour.
Instructor - Pilot Ground School

Other

Medical, Dental, Life

Posted 19 days ago


Ozarks Technical Community College rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

254th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Instructor - Pilot Ground School

Apply now Job no: 494950
Work type: Airframe and Powerplant Training Center
Location: Springfield, MO
Categories: Technical Education, Full-Time Faculty

JOB TITLE:  Instructor - Pilot Ground School                                               DEPARTMENT:  TECHNICAL EDUCATION

SALARY RANGE:  SALARY COMMENSURATE WITH EXPERIENCE                    FLSA:  EXEMPT

IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR:  Aviation Department Chair

SCHEDULE DETAILS:  Full-time/12-month position/PSRS

 

Position Summary

The instructor is responsible for developing and implementing the daily lesson plans and activities for proper management of assigned classes. This person is also responsible for creating a classroom environment that implements best practices, supports industry standards, and engages students in career and technical education.  The instructor will also maintain industry and required certification(s) and follow FAA regulations. The instructor will assist the Department Chair, fulfilling duties of a Ground Instructor and Check Airman while meeting all Part 141 Ground School requirements. This position is responsible for fifteen (15) credit hours of instruction for each fall and spring semester, and four (4) credit hours of instruction or internship supervision for the summer semester. Equivalent short-term instruction may be exchanged for credit instruction.

Essential Job Duties

  • Plan and prepare the learning environment with needed materials and supplies, including textbook and course materials selection.
  • Provide quality instruction which is reflective of current discipline standards and is accurate, relevant, and engaging using college-approved curriculum and resources.
  • Actively engage and interact with students using intentional best practice teaching strategies.
  • Assist with development, implementation, and assessment of curriculum to meet program goals.
  • Develop a course syllabus for each class taught using the approved course abstract and syllabus template.
  • Present course content in an unbiased and civil manner, while demonstrating respect, helpfulness, and responsiveness toward students.
  • Demonstrate professional conduct, positive attitude, and supportive culture. 
  • Maintain appropriate records to include student attendance, record of grades earned, and other related classroom information.
  • Schedule and maintain office hours each week convenient to students.
  • Assist in addressing student concerns regarding advisement, placement, and course difficulties.
  • Facilitate student recruitment; assist in the promotion of Aviation Department programs.
  • Complete professional development training hours and maintain appropriate professional certification, as necessary.
  • Actively participate in department and division meetings, events, and initiatives
  • Maintain confidentiality of students, parents/guardians, and fellow staff members, as well as records
  • Assist in student recruitment and program promotion events.
  • Exhibit exemplary attendance and punctuality.
  • Prepare orders for classroom related supplies, equipment, and materials.
  • Comply with college policies and procedures.
  • Comply with FAA requirements for Ground Training of Flight Technology Students
  • Demonstrate and promote safe pilot practices including following FAA regulations, referencing safety handbooks and guidelines, preflight preparation, appropriate communication, and use of Aeronautical Decision Making.
  • Pass FAR Part 141 Assistant Chief Ground Instructor or Check Airman assessment - initial and recurrent checks.
  • Perform the Duties for FAR Part 141 Assistant Chief Instructor or Check Airman.
  • Perform other duties as assigned, such as participating in commencement, work with advisory committees, sponsoring student organizations, attending college functions, and attending community events.

 

 

 

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Associate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher learning (or ability to complete an associate degree within six months of hire).
  • FAA Basic Ground Instructor (BGI) and Instrument Ground Instructor (IGI) OR hold a current Flight Instructor certificate (Airplane Single and Multiengine)
  • Valid Missouri teaching certificate with the Department of Elementary & Secondary Education (or be willing to obtain current teaching certificate in secondary and post-secondary education from the State of Missouri).
  • Knowledge of current practices that promote safety in aviation maintenance
  • Three years of relevant work experience as a pilot or in a related aviation field.
  • Demonstrate current knowledge in course content and effectiveness in teaching assigned subjects.
  • Availability to teach daytime, evening, or weekend courses, as needed.
  • Ability to work without direct supervision and able to use discretion to determine the need for administrative involvement.
  • Ability to work well with others.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to use information technology for professional productivity (such as Microsoft Office Suite).

Preferred Knowledge Skills & Abilities

  • Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher learning.
  • FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification
  • FAA Certified Advanced Ground Instructor (AGI)
  • FAR 61.56 Current and recency requirements are met and maintained.
  • Three years of work experience as an Airline Transport Pilot
  • Prior FAR Part 141 Flight or Ground School teaching experience
  • Experience as a Check Airman or Check Instructor
  • Knowledge of Learning Management Systems (such as Canvas).
  • Experience working within a collegiate setting.

Working at Ozarks Technical Community College Provides Great Benefits

  • Medical insurance coverage for employees through the CoxHealth network at no cost to employees.
  • Dental, LTD and group life insurance coverage for employees at no cost to employees.
  • Access to the on-site OTC Health and Wellness Clinic at no cost for employees and their dependents.
  • Use of the OTC fitness center at no cost to employees.
  • Twelve (12) tuition free college credit hours per fall and/or spring semester and six (6) college credit hours per summer term for employees and/or their dependents.
  • College matches the faculty PSRS retirement at 14.5%

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT: (The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.)

Environment: Work is performed primarily in a standard office setting with frequent interruptions and distractions.  Requires extended periods of time viewing computer monitor or standing; may require adjustment of schedule to include some evenings and/or weekends; may encounter occasional exposure to inclement weather during travel.  

Physical: Primary functions require sufficient physical ability and mobility to work in an office setting; to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time; to lift, carry, push, and/or pull light to moderate amounts of weight; to operate office equipment requiring repetitive hand movement and fine coordination including use of a computer keyboard; to operate shop tools common to aviation maintenance facilities;  

***OZARKS TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY, INTERPRET, OR APPLY THIS JOB DESCRIPTION IN ANY WAY THE INSTITUTION DESIRES.  THIS JOB DESCRIPTION IN NO WAY IMPLIES THAT THESE ARE THE ONLY DUTIES, INCLUDING ESSENTIAL DUTIES, TO BE PERFORMED BY THE EMPLOYEE OCCUPYING THIS POSITION.  THIS JOB DESCRIPTION IS NOT AN EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT, IMPLIED OR OTHERWISE.  THE EMPLOYMENT RELATIONSHIP REMAINS "AT-WILL."  THE AFOREMENTIONED JOB REQUIREMENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE TO REASONABLY ACCOMMODATE QUALIFIED DISABLED INDIVIDUALS.

Advertised: 26 May 2026 Central Daylight Time
Applications close: 31 Jul 2026 Central Daylight Time

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