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Pilot Ground Instructor Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Pilot Ground Instructor information

See Utah salary details

$36K

$93.8K

$156.1K

How much do pilot ground instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot ground instructor in Utah is $93,803.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $115,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Pilot Ground Instructor, you need in-depth aviation knowledge, teaching experience, and typically a Ground Instructor certificate issued by the FAA or a similar authority. Familiarity with flight training software, simulator technology, and digital course management systems is crucial. Exceptional communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills help instructors clearly convey complex concepts and effectively support diverse learners. These abilities ensure students are well-prepared for safe flight operations and adhere to regulatory standards.

What does a pilot ground instructor do?

A typical day for a Pilot Ground Instructor involves preparing lesson plans, delivering classroom instruction to aspiring pilots, and assessing student progress through exams or knowledge checks. You may also spend time updating training materials, coordinating with flight instructors, and staying current with regulatory changes or advancements in aviation technology. Collaborative teamwork is important, as you’ll often consult with other instructors and school administrators to ensure training remains consistent and effective. Your role is vital in building the foundation for safe and skilled pilots, making every day a rewarding learning experience for both you and your students.

How to become a pilot ground instructor?

To become a pilot ground instructor, you must hold at least a commercial pilot certificate with an instrument rating, accumulate the required flight hours, and obtain a ground instructor certificate from the appropriate aviation authority by passing written exams and a background check. This role involves teaching ground school topics and preparing students for pilot certifications, often requiring strong communication skills and knowledge of aviation regulations.

How much do pilot ground instructors make?

Pilot ground instructors typically earn between $20,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of training facility. They often work part-time or on a contractual basis and may need certifications such as Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) to qualify for higher-paying roles.

What is a pilot ground instructor?

A Pilot Ground Instructor is responsible for teaching ground school courses to student pilots, covering topics like aerodynamics, weather, navigation, and federal aviation regulations. They do not provide in-flight training but help students build the necessary theoretical knowledge for flight proficiency. Ground instructors typically work at flight schools, aviation academies, or within airline training programs. Certification is required from the FAA, with different levels such as Basic, Advanced, and Instrument Ground Instructor ratings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot Ground Instructor jobs in Utah? The most popular types of Pilot Ground Instructor jobs in Utah are:
Infographic showing various Pilot Ground Instructor job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,803 per year, or $45.1 per hour.

MQ-9 UAS Pilot III (Philippines/Deployable)

Amentum

Manila, UT • On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

The UAS Pilot III will act as pilot in command (PIC) of MQ-9 aircraft and provide safe operation of the aircraft in CONUS and OCONUS locations.

Essential Responsibilities
  • Participate in all phases of flight to include planning/briefing, execution, debrief and crew resource management.
  • Adhere to specific military, civilian and ICAO flight rules to include compliance with FAA regulations.
  • Provide expertise in the operation of unmanned aircraft.
  • Develop briefing and training materials to support flight operations.
  • Plans and performs a wide range of operations with in-process analog, digital, microwave, optical and mechanical systems and equipment under ambient and environmental conditions.
  • Provide technical knowledge and experience with UAS operations to facilitate their integration safely and efficiently into the NAS. This effort requires collaboration with US Government organizations and the Original Equipment Manufacturer.
  • Provide technical knowledge and experience to support UAS integration into the NAS without reducing existing capacity, decreasing safety, negatively impacting current operators, or increasing the risk to airspace users or persons and property on the ground any more than the integration of comparable new and novel technologies.
  • Performs other related duties, as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Must have an active Secret US Government clearance with ability to obtain Top-Secret. Note: US Citizenship is required to obtain a Secret Clearance.
  • BA/BS from an accredited college or university in one of the following disciplines: engineering, business, logistics, management, math, sciences, and professional aeronautics with 5 plus years in the performance and execution of US military requirements
  • Within the last 10 years, at least one year of management experience shall be in technical program/project work related to U.S. Naval U.S. Naval / U.S. Air Force UAS flight operations.
  • Qualified MQ-9A Pilot or previously qualified MQ-9A Pilot (Form 8 within last 3 years)
  • Qualified MQ-9A Line of Sight Launch and Recovery (LOS L/R) Pilot or previously qualified MQ-9A LOS L/R Pilot (Form 8 within last 3 years)
  • Must have at least 200 hours as MQ-9A Pilot-In-Command (PIC)
  • Must possess current FAA Class I or Class II Medical Certificate or DOD equivalent.
  • Must have excellent verbal and written skills and the ability to professionally interface with numerous levels of management, customers, and peers.
  • The ability to work extended hours and travel as required.
  • The ability to work as a team to accomplish mission requirements.
  • The ability to obtain and maintain a DOD clearance.
  • Must be able to travel on CONUS/OCONUS deployments.
  • Must meet all OCONUS deployment criteria, to include pre-deployment medical screening, as a condition of employment.
  • For OCONUS deployments, must have valid U.S. Passport with a minimum of two years remaining with at least two facing pairs (four total) of blank Visa pages.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Active Top-Secret clearance.
  • Current or previously qualified MQ-9A instructor pilot.
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