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Simulator Instructor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cyberspace/Cyberwarfare Instructor

Lompoc, CA ยท On-site

$105K - $175K/yr

Duties The Cyberspace Instructor serves as a subject matter expert and primary educator ... Skill in using learning management systems, distributed training systems, simulator platforms, and ...

Showing results 41-60

Simulator Instructor information

See California salary details

$13

$21

$30

How much do simulator instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for simulator instructor in California is $21.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a simulator instructor?

A Simulator Instructor is a professional who trains individuals, often pilots or other technical operators, using flight or equipment simulators. They guide trainees through realistic scenarios to develop and assess their skills in a controlled, safe environment. Simulator Instructors provide feedback, evaluate performance, and ensure that trainees meet the required standards for safety and proficiency. They often work in aviation, maritime, military, or industrial settings to help prepare personnel for real-world operations.

What is the difference between Simulator Instructor vs Flight Instructor?

AspectSimulator InstructorFlight Instructor
Required CertificationsTypically requires FAA or equivalent simulator instructor certificationRequires FAA or equivalent pilot certification and instructor ratings
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in simulators, training centers, or classroomsIn aircraft, flight schools, or training airports
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in aviation training centers, airlines, militaryUsed in flight schools, airlines, private training

Simulator Instructors focus on training pilots using flight simulators, emphasizing technical skills in a controlled environment. Flight Instructors teach pilots in actual aircraft, covering practical flying skills. Both roles require aviation certifications but differ mainly in training environment and specific certifications. Understanding these differences helps aspiring aviation professionals choose the right career path.

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

To thrive as a Simulator Instructor, you typically need a strong background in aviation or technical training, relevant certifications (such as FAA or EASA instructor credentials), and in-depth knowledge of aircraft systems and procedures. Familiarity with advanced flight simulators, learning management systems, and scenario-based training tools is essential. Excellent communication, patience, and the ability to adapt teaching styles are crucial soft skills for engaging trainees and ensuring knowledge transfer. These skills and qualities are vital to deliver effective, realistic training that ensures pilot competency and safety in real-world operations.

What are some common challenges simulator instructors face when training new pilots, and how can they be addressed?

Simulator Instructors often encounter challenges such as varying levels of trainee experience, managing simulator malfunctions, and ensuring realism in training scenarios. To address these, instructors typically tailor their teaching methods to individual learning styles, stay up-to-date with simulator technology, and regularly update scenarios to reflect current operational procedures. Open communication with trainees and collaboration with other instructors also help create a supportive learning environment and promote effective skill development.
What are popular job titles related to Simulator Instructor jobs in California? For Simulator Instructor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Simulator Instructor jobs? Cities in California with the most Simulator Instructor job openings:
Infographic showing various Simulator Instructor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,341 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

MH-60R Instructor Pilot

Aviation Training Consulting LLC

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

$136K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Provide MH-60R training and instruction to foreign military students employing academics, simulation devices, and in-aircraft flight experience. Provide a full range of MH-60R subject matter expertise in development of safe, sound flight operations and training. May provide additional special services such as courseware and publication reviews, grade sheet development, safety, quality audits, scheduling, training tracking, functional check flights, and other duties as may be assigned.
Company Information
ATC is a professional consulting/training development and manufacturing company that specializes in pilot, aircrew, ground-crew, and maintenance training solutions for rotary-wing, fixed-wing, and tilt-rotor aircraft operations. Since our inception in 2001, we have built an excellent reputation for designing, manufacturing, and implementing creative training solutions to the Department of Defense (DoD), United States Marine Corps (USMC), and NAVAIRSYSCOM. ATC's growth can be largely attributed to a corporate policy of integrity, synergized client collaborations, and completing all contracts early and under budget. That's the ATC difference.
Job Description
The primary duty of the Instructor Pilot (IP) is to train foreign students, and will involve direct interface with foreign transition pilot trainees, government contractors, active-duty Navy instructors, and other local personnel, while operating aircraft and associated trainers and equipment (manning trainer/equipment instructor station(s) and classroom instruction).
  • Conduct scheduled IP led/supported training for training devices and systems trainers, including operating and static aircraft, including briefs and debriefs, using traditional and modern tools such as interactive white boards, computers and video projectors.
  • Evaluate and document student training/mission performance as required.
  • Evaluate and record trainer performance in accordance with established Navy doctrine.
  • Review curriculum, assess, and recommend improvements to the training program via the appropriate training management officials.
  • Perform flights and flight training consistent with USG-approved flight syllabus.
  • Conduct training device operation/instruction to personnel as necessary, to include briefing, debriefing and grading/assessments.
  • Provide academic instruction to include instructor-led lecture discussion for self-paced computer aided instruction (CAI), computer-based training (CBT), etc. in support of courses required for MH-60R Sensor Operators.
  • Provide classroom instruction and recommendations for improvement, to include test materials, lesson plans, and trainee guides under the guidelines of current directives.
  • Attend required scheduled meetings (e.g., Scheduling, Standardization, Instructor Pilot/Aircrew, Safety).
  • Perform administrative duties such as record keeping, student progress monitoring, counseling, quality assurance, safety, security, and maintenance of training programs and equipment.
  • Safely conduct classroom, academic and practical labs, simulator, and flight instruction, maintaining a clean workspace and classroom environment.
  • Perform daily/weekly flight schedule writing duties as assigned.
  • Assist the IMSO for support of student movement through the training program.
  • Stand external door security/entry control point watch for a secure facility.
  • Assist with other administrative and non-administrative duties as assigned.
  • Complete additional duties as assigned by the Program Manager.

Requirements
Aviation instruction is a highly specialized function that requires the instructor to have credibility established by prior aircraft operational experience, prior instructional experience, and the ability to hold the attention of the students.
  • IP shall have a minimum of 500 pilot in command hours as an MH-60R IP or Evaluator.
  • Comparably experienced H-60B/F/H/S pilots with ASW experience also considered.
  • CFI/II or equivalent military instructor ratings preferred.
  • Shall have previous anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare mission experience.
  • Possess and maintain a FAA Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Must be eligible to hold a SECRET DoD Personal Security Clearance.
  • Must be willing to work any hours, any shift, or day of the week as required.
  • Must be able to work overtime as required.

Additional Requirements
  • Complete and maintain all required aviation physiology and water survival qualifications.
  • Successfully complete an MH-60R refresher syllabus, if required, including instructor under training (IUT) syllabus and functional check pilot (FCP) syllabus.
  • Be designated an instructor by designated naval authority.
  • Annually pass/maintain an MH-60R NATOPS and instrument evaluations/qualifications administered by designated naval authority in accordance with naval aviation flight directives and civilian contract governing directives.
  • Complete other necessary qualifications annually or as required, including but not limited to laser safety, spatial disorientation training, and NITE lab.
  • Remain flight current/proficient as per squadron flight directives and civilian contract governing directives.
  • Maintain instrument, take-off, landing, emergency procedure, and mission systems operation proficiency.
  • Maintain proficiency in operation of essential all MH-60R aircrew training devices.

Security Responsibilities
Must comply with all company security and data protection / usage policies and procedures. Personally responsible for proper handling of all information and materials in any form. Shall not divulge any information or afford access to other employees not having a need-to-know. Shall not divulge information outside company without management approval. All government and proprietary information will be accessed and stored electronically on company provided resources.
Work Environment
  • Office, hangar, flight line, simulator bays, aircraft.
  • Will at times be exposed to the following conditions: extreme heat, airborne particles, high-decibel noise, hazardous materials, vibration, and confined spaces.

Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
  • Occasional domestic or international travel may be required.
  • Must be able to walk and climb stairs and ladders into/onto simulators or aircraft.
  • Must be able to stoop, bend, and crawl on top of or under machinery.
  • Must be able to detect odors or hear noises, bangs, or other sounds to detect problems or flaws in the functioning of simulators, aircraft, or the surrounding environment.

Language Skills
Must have the ability to read, analyze, and interpret complex documents. Will be required to respond effectively to sensitive inquiries and complaints. Must be able to generate effective oral and written presentations and proposals on complex subjects.
Salary Description
$136,800 Uncertified / $152,000 Certified