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Remote Flight Instructor Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

DCA Remote Pilot Operator

Washington, DC · Remote

$40K - $80K/yr

Public Trust Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE Description * PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS ... Instructors) * Experience and certification in ATC Tower, TRACON or En Route simulation lab is ...

SAIC

DCA Remote Pilot Operator

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$40K - $80K/yr

We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller ... Instructors) * Experience and certification in ATC Tower, TRACON or En Route simulation lab is ...

All JobsFlight Instructor JobsRemote Flight Instructor JobsRemote Flight Instructor Jobs in Reston, VA

Remote Flight Instructor information

See Reston, VA salary details

$26K

$98.4K

$151.4K

How much do remote flight instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote flight instructor in Reston, VA is $98,438.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,800.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Remote Flight Instructor position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Remote Flight Instructor, you need in-depth knowledge of aerodynamics, flight procedures, and instructional techniques, usually supported by a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) credential and relevant flight experience. Familiarity with online training platforms, flight simulation software, and digital communication tools is essential. Strong communication, adaptability, and motivational skills help instructors effectively engage and support students in a virtual environment. These qualifications and abilities are crucial for delivering high-quality, safe flight instruction remotely and ensuring student success.

Is there a demand for flight instructors?

There is consistent demand for flight instructors 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 often sought after, especially in regions with active flight schools and pilot training programs.

How much does an independent flight instructor make?

Independent flight instructors typically earn between $30 and $70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the number of students they teach. Their income can vary widely based on the amount of flight hours they log and the rates they set for instruction, often working as contractors rather than employees.

What does a typical workday look like for a Remote Flight Instructor, and how is instruction delivered in this role?

A typical day for a Remote Flight Instructor involves delivering ground school lessons, conducting virtual flight simulation sessions, and providing real-time feedback to students using video conferencing and online training platforms. Instructors prepare lesson plans, review student progress, and may also coordinate with other team members to ensure standardized instruction. Most interactions occur online, allowing for flexible scheduling and the ability to work with students from various locations. Effective communication and organizational skills are essential, as instructors must monitor student performance and adapt their teaching methods to individual learning styles. This role offers a unique opportunity to leverage technology for teaching and can often lead to advanced instructional or management positions within online flight training organizations.

What is the 5 hour rule for CFI?

The 5-hour rule for a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) refers to the requirement that CFIs must log at least 5 hours of flight training with each student before endorsing them for solo flight or certain certifications. This ensures adequate instruction time and skill development before students fly solo. The rule helps maintain safety standards and is part of the FAA regulations governing flight training.

How much do flying instructors get paid?

Remote flight instructors typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. Salaries can vary based on whether they work for flight schools, online platforms, or as independent contractors, with some earning additional income through bonuses or flight hours.

What is a Remote Flight Instructor job?

A Remote Flight Instructor provides flight training and guidance to student pilots using online platforms, simulators, and remote communication tools. They offer lessons on flight theory, navigation, regulations, and simulator-based training to help students prepare for real-world flying. This role allows instructors to teach from anywhere while supporting students in their aviation education remotely.

What are popular job titles related to Remote Flight Instructor jobs in Reston, VA? For Remote Flight Instructor jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Remote Flight Instructor jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Remote Flight Instructor job openings:
Remote Flight Instructor jobs near you
DCA Remote Pilot Operator

DCA Remote Pilot Operator

SAIC

Washington, DC • Remote

$40K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 204 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2613200

Location: Washington, DC, US

Date Posted: 2026-06-02

Category: Information Technology

Subcategory: Computer Operator

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: No

Minimum Clearance Required: None

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Public Trust

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

  • PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS / UAV / RPV / DRONE pilot position.

We are looking for Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Washington National ATCT (DCA), located in Washington, D.C., supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Job Description:

The RPO plays the role of the pilot and other controllers in the Air Traffic Controller training simulator.  The RPO operates a combination of a simulated air traffic display and voice communication system to simulate the actions and communication of pilots and remote ATC facilities during medium and high-fidelity training exercises. RPOs receive voice commands from students, input proper entries into the automated system to simulate pilot actions, translate displayed information into appropriate ATC terminology, and respond to the student via the VCS utilizing proper phraseology.

The candidate will be required to complete the following certifications:  Classroom (pass test on airspace and procedures) and Lab (perform as a Remote Pilot Operator on all positions).

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic control specialists provide the flying public with a high level of safety and professionalism. A well-trained Air Traffic Control (ATC) workforce plays an essential role in fulfilling this responsibility. The FAA employs more than 14,000 air traffic controllers. They work in air traffic facilities of varying sizes, safely separating more than 50,000 aircraft in the National Airspace System (NAS) each day.

To provide such air traffic services, the FAA trains new air traffic control specialists and provides recurrent training to current air traffic control specialists. The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.S. and its Territories to ensure these training needs are met. The scope of the contractor-provided services includes all training and training program support to successfully train and prepare students to become fully certified air traffic controllers. SAIC must provide training and training related support services as required for all types and levels of ATC facilities.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Candidates for this position must have a minimum of a high school diploma (or equivalent) and demonstrate basic computer proficiency. Candidates must possess an ability to read and interpret materials such as diagrams and manuals, and have the ability to speak clearly and be understood
  • US Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance

Desired Skills and Experience:

  • Experience working in a multidisciplinary team (Multimedia Developers, Quality Assurance, Instructions System Designers, Subject Matter Experts, Instructors)
  • Experience and certification in ATC Tower, TRACON or En Route simulation lab is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective oral and written communications skills
  • Working knowledge of the FAAO JO 7110.65 is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective team building skills
  • MS Office Suite Proficiency (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization of current technologic tools (tablets, notebooks, applications, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization or experience with pilot/controller communications or phraseology

Target salary range: $40,001 - $80,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

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