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Self Employed Aviation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WSAA Apprentice

Grand Junction, CO

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

This position will be enrolled in West Star Aviation Academy (WSAA) learning about aviation ... To remain employed after completion of the Academy requires timely testing and completion of the ...

WSAA Apprentice - 1125

Grand Junction, CO ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position will be enrolled in West Star Aviation Academy (WSAA) learning about aviation ... To remain employed after completion of the Academy requires timely testing and completion of the ...

WSAA Apprentice - 1408

East Alton, IL ยท On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position will be enrolled in West Star Aviation Academy (WSAA) learning about aviation ... To remain employed after completion of the Academy requires timely testing and completion of the ...

Actively seeks to develop self. Actively seeks to foster education and development of peers ... Aviation Decision Making * Weather Interpretation * Flight Training * Aircraft Operations * Flight ...

Actively seeks to develop self. Actively seeks to foster education and development of peers ... Aviation Decision Making * Weather Interpretation * Flight Training * Aircraft Operations * Flight ...

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Self Employed Aviation information

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How much do self employed aviation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for self employed aviation in the United States is $21.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does it mean to be self-employed in aviation?

Being self-employed in aviation means operating as an independent contractor or business owner within the aviation industry. This can include roles such as freelance pilots, aviation consultants, aircraft maintenance providers, flight instructors, or charter service operators. Self-employed aviation professionals are responsible for managing their own business operations, securing clients, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. They enjoy flexibility and control over their schedules but also face the challenges of business development, financial management, and regulatory compliance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a self-employed aviation professional?

To thrive as a self-employed aviation professional, you need comprehensive knowledge of aviation regulations, flight operations, and business management, often supported by relevant pilot licenses and commercial certifications. Familiarity with flight planning software, maintenance tracking systems, and aviation safety tools is typically required. Strong client relations, adaptability, and self-motivation are essential soft skills for building a client base and managing a dynamic schedule. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring operational safety, regulatory compliance, business growth, and customer satisfaction in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges faced by self-employed aviation professionals, and how can they be managed?

Self-employed aviation professionals often face challenges such as fluctuating client demand, managing regulatory compliance, and maintaining their own equipment or aircraft. Building a reliable client base and staying up-to-date with industry certifications are essential for long-term success. Networking within the aviation community and investing in ongoing training can help mitigate these challenges, while robust financial planning ensures stability during slower periods. Many self-employed professionals also collaborate with other contractors or businesses to expand their service offerings and maintain steady workflow.

What is the difference between Self Employed Aviation vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectSelf Employed AviationCommercial Pilot
CredentialsPrivate Pilot License (PPL), possibly Commercial Pilot License (CPL)Commercial Pilot License (CPL), Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentFreelance, on-demand flights, private charters, aerial servicesAirlines, charter companies, cargo carriers
EmployerSelf-employed or contracted clientsAirlines or aviation companies
Work ScopeIndependent flying, aerial photography, flight instructionPassenger transport, cargo, scheduled flights

Self Employed Aviation involves independent pilots offering services like private charters or aerial work, often working for themselves. Commercial Pilots operate under airline or company employment, focusing on scheduled passenger or cargo flights. While both require a CPL, Self Employed Aviation offers more flexibility and varied work, whereas Commercial Pilots work within structured airline environments.

More about Self Employed Aviation jobs

What cities are hiring for Self Employed Aviation jobs?

Cities with the most Self Employed Aviation job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Aviation jobs?

The most popular types of Aviation jobs are:

What states have the most Self Employed Aviation jobs?

States with the most job openings for Self Employed Aviation jobs include:

Infographic showing various Self Employed Aviation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,812 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Aviation Teacher for LESA High School Aviation Class

CROSSWINDS AVIATION

Howell, MI โ€ข On-site

$27 - $40/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Livingston Educational Service Agency (LESA) in partnership with Crosswinds Aviation at Livingston County Airport KOZW has an all Livingston County high school Career and Technical Education (CTE) Aviation program that enrolls Juniors and Seniors in a private pilot ground course for first year students. For second year students there is a 2nd year curriculum consisting of review of PPL Ground, Remote Pilot Certificate, cross country planning and Instrument ground and leadership career development. This role will consist of teaching and managing this program during the school year from August-June, Monday through Friday. There is a morning session from 7:30am-9:00am and an afternoon session from 12:50pm-2:20pm.
This role will require management of the students in the program at LESA and coordination with the faculty and staff of post-secondary partners. This position will be directly employed or 1099 contracted by Crosswinds Aviation.
Position paid hourly at $27 to $40 per hour, depending on qualifications. For the right candidate, opportunities exist for additional hours and responsibilities.
Duties & Responsibilities
- High School CTE Ground School Instruction with LESA
- Follow LESA and Crosswinds Aviation teacher classroom expectations and teacher handbook
- Ensure CTE Curriculum requirements are met and review on an ongoing basis for compliance
- Manage CTE requirements and requests from LESA to support class including CTE Compliance documentation required for CIP Self Review/GEMSCIP
- Coordinate closely with the LESA Coordinator to ensure students are on track and progressing successfully in the classroom.
- Teach class daily from late August through mid-June of each school year.
- Manage attendance, grades, exam schedules and submit all required reports to LESA in a timely manner according to their schedule.
- Communicates with LESA contacts regularly regarding student progress
- Manage student concerns and report back to LESA contacts for escalation and support.
- Coordinate field trips and guest speakers with assistance from Crosswinds Aviation High School Team
Administrative Tasks
- Manage CTE Aviation program
- Attend events at local high schools or other locations as needed in coordination with Crosswinds Aviation's Client Relations & Marketing Director.
- Manage/coordinate members and meetings for aviation specific Advisory Committee.
Qualifications
Experience, Certification(s), and/or Education
Required
- High School Diploma or GED
- Basic Ground Instructor Certificate or Advanced Ground Instructor certificate or CFI
- 2 years aviation industry or training experience
Preferred:
- Experience teaching in group settings and with youth
- Instrument Ground Instructor - IGI or
- Certified Flight Instructor - CFIor
- Certified Flight Instructor Instrument - CFII
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Extensive knowledge of aviation ground school requirements and operations.
- Knowledge of Part 141 and 61 regulations (Desired).
- Knowledge of a variety of computer software applications in word processing, spreadsheets, database and presentation software.
- Skill with interpersonal relations to handle sensitive and confidential situations; demonstrate poise, tact and diplomacy.
- Skill with providing verbal and written instruction to students in English.
- Ability to attend to detail in composing, typing and proofing materials.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to manage and prioritize multiple, competing tasks and demands and to seek management assistance as appropriate.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required of personnel so classified.
Job Types: Part-time, possible Full-time opportunities available
- Pay: $27.00 - $40.00 per hour
Schedule:
- Monday to Friday - 2 sessions; morning and afternoon
- Follows Howell Public School Calendar
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Howell, MI: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)