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Instructor Pilot Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Valiant Integrated Services

MH-53E CIP

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Valiant is seeking an experienced MH-53E Contract Instructor Pilot (CIP) to support Fleet Replacement Squadron training at Naval Station Norfolk. This role delivers simulator, classroom, and systems ...

New

Platform Aerospace

UAV Pilot/Instructor

Blackstone, VA · On-site

$30 - $70/hr

UAV PILOT/INSTRUCTOR I-III DEPARTMENT: FLIGHT OPERATIONS REPORTS TO: FLIGHT OPERATIONS TRAINING MANAGER CLASSIFICATION: NON-EXEMPT CLEARANCE: SECRET LOCATION: BLACKSTONE, VA This position may be ...

MILVETS

Fighter Pilot - (Secret Clearance)

Hampton, VA · On-site

$89K - $111K/yr

Instructor Pilot/WSO/CSO/NFO experience * Thorough knowledge of 5th gen fighter employment and/or integration * Possess an active DoD Top Secret security clearance The U.S. Air Force can only utilize ...

Valiant Integrated Services

MH-60S Lead CIP

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Valiant is seeking an experienced MH-60S Contract Instructor Pilot (CIP) to support Fleet Replacement Squadron training at Naval Station Norfolk. This role delivers simulator, classroom, and systems ...

New

Valiant Integrated Services

E-2 Site Manager

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Attend required Government scheduled- meetings including Scheduling, Standardization, Government Instructor Pilot and Aircrew, Phase Head, and Intelligence Updates. * Lead daily instructor scheduling ...

New

Valiant Integrated Services

E-2 CINFO

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$63K - $72K/yr

Attend required Government-scheduled meetings including Scheduling, Standardization, Instructor Pilot/Aircrew, Phase Head, and Intelligence Updates. * Maintain general cleanliness and housekeeping of ...

New

Valiant Integrated Services

Part-Time E-2 CINFO

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$63K - $72K/yr

Attend required Government-scheduled meetings including Scheduling, Standardization, Instructor Pilot/Aircrew, Phase Head, and Intelligence Updates. * Maintain general cleanliness and housekeeping of ...

New

US Department of the Air Force

$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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsInstructor Pilot JobsInstructor Pilot Jobs in Virginia

Instructor Pilot information

See Virginia salary details

$39.2K

$102.2K

$170K

How much do instructor pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for instructor pilot in Virginia is $102,154.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,300.00 and $125,400.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Instructor Pilot jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Instructor Pilot jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Instructor Pilot jobs in Virginia? For Instructor Pilot jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Instructor Pilot jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Instructor Pilot jobs in Virginia are:
Instructor Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Instructor Pilot job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, and 19% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,154 per year, or $49.1 per hour.
MH-53E CIP

MH-53E CIP

Valiant Integrated Services

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Valiant is looking for a MH-53E CIP to join our team!
Valiant is seeking an experienced MH-53E Contract Instructor Pilot (CIP) to support Fleet Replacement Squadron training at Naval Station Norfolk. This role delivers simulator, classroom, and systems instruction, evaluates student performance, and supports curriculum and training device improvements for the MH-53E platform.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Conduct scheduled instructor-led and instructor-supported simulator, training device, and systems instruction, including briefs and debriefs.
  • Provide classroom instruction, tests, lesson plans, trainee guides, and academic support including CRM and Instrument Ground School.
  • Evaluate student training and mission performance and document results in accordance with established criteria.
  • Provide instruction on MH-53E aircraft systems, mission coordination, and normal and emergency procedures.
  • Provide instruction on training device operation, briefing and debriefing procedures, and grading and assessment standards.
  • Assist with simulator and training device inspections, certifications, mishap recreation, and special projects.
  • Maintain, assess, and recommend improvements to mission scenarios for effectiveness and currency.
  • Review curriculum and recommend improvements based on NATOPS changes, engineering changes, and evolving mission requirements.
  • Support Additional Duties including curriculum maintenance, testing instrument updates, feedback methodology, syllabus reviews, and validation of Maintenance Action Forms.
  • Support Collateral Duties including scheduling coordination, instructor training currency, instructional material management, required reading compliance, grading, attendance documentation, trainer performance evaluation, and instructor certification maintenance.
  • Attend required Government-scheduled meetings including Scheduling, Standardization, Instructor Pilot/Aircrew, Phase Head, and Intelligence Updates.
  • Maintain general cleanliness and housekeeping of assigned spaces and work areas.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENT: Active Secret clearance; TS/SCI preferred. Must be willing and able to obtain a TS/SCI in the future.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Must be or have been an MH-53E NATOPS-qualified Pilot within the previous five years or have been an MH-53E simulator pilot instructor within the previous five years.
  • Must have a minimum of one Fleet tour.
  • Minimum 800 flying hours in the MH-53E or similar aircraft.
  • Must successfully complete MH-53E NATOPS open-book, closed-book, and oral exams and annually renew qualifications.
  • Must demonstrate understanding of MH-53E mission, crew procedures, tactics, threat systems, syllabus flow, and curriculum change processes.
  • Ability to maintain proficiency with syllabus changes, required reading, and updates to publications.
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and maintain situational awareness during extended training scenarios.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Ability to walk on uneven surfaces.
  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
  • Ability to climb two flights of stairs and ladders.
  • Ability to lift, climb, and perform physical tasks as needed.

Valiant Integrated Services is an employer who hires in accordance with applicable state and federal law. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment in compliance with those laws.

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