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Instructor Pilot Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

MTT Instructor

Herndon, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Responsibilities We are seeking a highly skilled and innovative MTT Instructor to join our team in ... Conduct pilot deliveries, collect structured feedback, administer knowledge assessments, and ...

MTT Instructor

Herndon, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Responsibilities We are seeking a highly skilled and innovative MTT Instructor to join our team in ... Conduct pilot deliveries, collect structured feedback, administer knowledge assessments, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Instructor Pilot information

See Washington salary details

$44.7K

$116.7K

$194.2K

How much do instructor pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for instructor pilot in Washington is $116,701.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,100.00 and $143,300.00 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 Washington? The most popular types of Instructor Pilot jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Instructor Pilot jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Instructor Pilot job openings:
Infographic showing various Instructor Pilot job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,701 per year, or $56.1 per hour.
Aviation Flight Trainer II - Part Time

Aviation Flight Trainer II - Part Time

Community College of Baltimore County

Catonsville, MD

$36/hr

Other

Posted 11 hours ago


Community College Of Baltimore County rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Class Description The Aviation Flight Trainer is responsible for providing in-flight airplane and helicopter instruction in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations parts 61 and 141, CCBC Flight Training Policies, and assigned Flight Training Center and airport procedures. Acts as pilot in command during training flights, endorses student pilots for solo and cross country flight operations, and recommends students for FAA knowledge testing and flight evaluations. Minimum Requirements Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Flight Instructor requirements: FAA Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI).

Proof of medical eligibility with either a FAA Medical Certificate or Basic Medical Course Completion. CFI-Instrument (CFII) preferred, CFI-Multi-Engine desirable. FAA Third Class Medical Certificate or higher required.

Education requirements: Associate's Degree preferred; experience as a US military or Airline Flight Instructor a plus. Class Specific Essential Duties Coordinates with the Aviation Program Director for student flight training requirements. Maintains student records and keeps student logbooks current.

Tracks student progress towards desired FAA pilot certificate requirements. Ensures that course standards, training requirements, and objectives are met by all assigned students as stipulated in the applicable Training Course Outline. Instructs students on proper aircraft pre-flight procedures, flight planning, weather avoidance, and aeronautical decision making.

Endorses students for solo and cross country flight operations. Instructs students on pilotage, dead-reckoning, radio navigation techniques, and required flight maneuvers. Promotes an environment of professionalism and a positive safety culture.

Monitor the maintenance condition of training aircraft and inform the Flight Training Center and CCBC of any questionable issues. Recommend curriculum and courseware improvements when appropriate and develop new curriculum or courseware as assigned. Perform other administrative duties as required.


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