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Pilot Intern Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

AEI

Fall Intern: FREE Initiative

Washington, DC · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

... FREE Framework, piloting lessons for high school students on youth agency, strengthening ... The intern will assist in furthering the mission of building agency in students and receive ...

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Pilot Intern information

What is a pilot intern?

Pilot Interns are students or recent graduates who participate in internship programs with airlines or aviation organizations to gain hands-on experience in the field of aviation. These internships typically involve shadowing experienced pilots, assisting with flight planning, and learning about aircraft operations and safety procedures. The goal of a Pilot Internship is to provide practical exposure to the aviation industry and help interns build valuable skills for their future careers as professional pilots.

What is the difference between Pilot Intern vs Flight Instructor?

AspectPilot InternFlight Instructor
Required CredentialsStudent pilot certificate, basic flight trainingCommercial pilot license, flight instructor certificate
Work EnvironmentFlight training schools, airline internshipsFlight schools, general aviation, airline training
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, flight training programsFlight schools, aviation training companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While a Pilot Intern is typically a student gaining initial flight experience and training, a Flight Instructor is a licensed pilot who teaches others how to fly. Pilot Interns focus on learning and accumulating flight hours, whereas Flight Instructors provide instruction and mentorship to aspiring pilots. Both roles are essential in aviation training but differ in certification requirements and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pilot intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pilot Intern, you need a foundational understanding of aviation theory, basic flight training, and typically enrollment in or completion of an accredited aviation program. Familiarity with flight simulators, aviation weather systems, and navigation tools is commonly required, along with progress toward a private pilot license (PPL) or similar certification. Strong communication, situational awareness, and teamwork are essential soft skills that help interns integrate with flight crews and learn effectively. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safety, building technical competence, and preparing for advancement in a highly regulated and dynamic field.

What types of hands-on experience can I expect during a pilot intern program?

As a Pilot Intern, you can expect to participate in a variety of hands-on experiences, including assisting with pre-flight inspections, observing and sometimes participating in cockpit procedures under supervision, and learning about flight planning and weather analysis. Many programs also offer the opportunity to shadow experienced pilots and attend simulator training sessions. These activities provide valuable exposure to real-world airline operations and help interns build foundational skills and confidence for a future aviation career.
What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Pilot jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Pilot Intern jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Pilot Intern job openings:
Pilot Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pilot Intern job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Internship, 1% As Needed, 52% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Fall Intern: FREE Initiative

AEI

Washington, DC • On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Overview
The FREE Initiative is a national collaborative outreach and educational resourcing effort led by AEI scholar Ian Rowe. The FREE Initiative disseminates insights about the crucial roles of family, religion, education, and entrepreneurship in developing the rising generation of young Americans. FREE is also building and catalyzing a growing network of exemplary leaders from across the nation who use their spheres of influence to revitalize community life and instill a sense of agency in the next generation.
The FREE Initiative is committed to building partnerships among policymakers, cultural leaders, and local influencers to help young Americans-particularly emerging leaders representing ethnic minorities-move up the economic ladder and invest in the social institutions that help all people flourish. The initiative's priorities include launching a tool kit for educators who are interested in teaching young people the FREE Framework, piloting lessons for high school students on youth agency, strengthening partnerships with external individuals and organizations, and building new audiences for Mr. Rowe and the FREE Initiative around the country through various outreach activities, including events. The intern will assist in furthering the mission of building agency in students and receive mentorship from the FREE Initiative manager and team.
The intern is expected to:
  • Provide research support for the FREE Initiative;
  • Assist in creating promotional content;
  • Provide administrative support with communication, events, and network of contacts;
  • Manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously;
  • Have an interest in helping students develop agency over their futures so that they can lead successful lives and rise socioeconomically.

The ideal candidate for this position will be a rising college sophomore or above with excellent writing and communication skills who is proactive, organized, and willing to learn and accept feedback. We are also seeking a candidate who is entrepreneurial, driven, and self-directed. Proficiency with Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets is beneficial. Candidates who are able to participate in the program on an in-person basis for 25-40 hours per week are encouraged to apply.
About AEI Internships
AEI internships offer a unique opportunity for undergraduates, graduate students, and recent graduates to gain experience in research, writing, business, and communications at one of the nation's leading think tanks.
Competitive candidates will generally have a GPA of 3.5 or higher from a top-ranking college or university. AEI's internship program runs for 12 weeks and all related programming will take place in-person in Washington, DC. Please see the internship program home page for updates.
The fall program dates are either Tuesday, September 8, to Friday, December 4, or Tuesday, September 15, to Friday, December 11.

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