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Simulator Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

* Associates degree in science/engineering * 4 years of commercial nuclear power plant operator training experience * 2 years of experience as a simulator instructor * Previous SRO/RO license holder or ...

Supports pilot training in the F-35 simulator and academic classroom. Acts as a subject matter ... Contract Instructor will facilitate pilot training in the F-35 Full Mission Simulator using the ...

$80K - $110K/yr

This position leverages extensive experience as a T-6A Instructor Pilot (IP), Undergraduate Pilot Training (UPT) Instructor, Pilot Instructor Training (PIT) Instructor, or T-6A Simulator Instructor ...

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Simulator Instructor information

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How much do simulator instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for simulator instructor in the United States is $22.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.04 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 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 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.

How much do simulator instructors make?

Simulator instructors typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the industry they work in. They often require certification and familiarity with flight or driving simulators, and may work full-time or part-time schedules.

How to become a simulator instructor?

To become a simulator instructor, candidates typically need relevant experience in the specific industry, such as aviation or driving, and often require certification or licensing related to the field. Training on simulator operation and instructional techniques is also essential, along with strong communication skills. Some employers may prefer candidates with a background in the subject matter and familiarity with simulation software and equipment.
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What cities are hiring for Simulator Instructor jobs?

Cities with the most Simulator Instructor job openings:

What states have the most Simulator Instructor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Simulator Instructor jobs include:

Infographic showing various Simulator Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,943 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

AIRPLANE PILOT (SIMULATOR INSTRUCTOR)

US Department of the Air Force

Sheppard Air Force Base, TX

$103K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.
Qualifications:Conditions of Employment Continued:
  • This position has been designated by the Air Force as a Testing Designated Position (TDP) under the Air Force Civilian Drug Demand Reduction Program. Employee must pass initial and periodic short notice drug testing. Illegal drug use by employees in sensitive positions presents a clear threat to the mission of the Air Force, national security, and public safety.
In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Aircraft Operations Series 2181.
Minimum Eligibility Requirements: Minimum eligibility requirements for positions in this occupation are based on possession of the appropriate Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pilot certificates and/or appropriate military ratings, meeting the applicable flight hour requirements, and possession of the knowledge and skills required for the positions.
AND
Certification and Ratings: For all grade levels and specializations, candidates must possess a current Commercial Pilot Certificate or the appropriate military rating; both meet the intent of the requirement. If an agency decides, for example, not to accept the military rating, the rationale for the decision should be based upon the requirements of the position and should be thoroughly described in agency operating material. For flight instructor positions, the FAA Flight Instructor Certificate or the military equivalent rating is also required. The pilot certificate must include the rating(s) appropriate to the work of the position to be filled. For example, a position that involves flying a multi-engine airplane to various destinations under instrument flight rules would require the Commercial Pilot Certificate with the airplane, multi-engine, and instrument ratings or appropriate U.S. military ratings. Positions that require flying or instructing in flying both airplanes and helicopters require a rating in both categories. Only those ratings necessary to perform the work are required
Flight Experience: Candidates must demonstrate possession of the knowledge and skills required for the work by meeting certain minimum flight hour requirements, including recency of flight experience. The categories in which candidates are required to demonstrate proficiency relate to (1) the general knowledge and skills to pilot the aircraft, and (2) the specific knowledge and skills related to the particular position being filled. Only that flight experience that is directly related to the work of the position is required for purposes of establishing minimum eligibility.
Minimum Flight Hour Requirements: The following flight hour requirements apply to all applicants:
  1. Total Flight Time -- Flight time as pilot-in-command or copilot in aircraft of any weight or category is creditable for this requirement. For inservice placements actions, up to one-fourth of the total flight hours may by waived for candidates who have demonstrated possession of the knowledge and skills needed to perform the work, provided:
    • They hold the certificates and ratings required;
    • They have acquired the pilot-in-command hours and flight hours in other categories essential to performance of the work;
    • They meet the requirements in terms of level and quality of experience; and
    • Their flying history indicates they are qualified for the position.
  2. Pilot-In-Command -- Only flight hours acquired as pilot-in-command are creditable.
  3. Night Flying -- For inservice placement actions at the GS-11 level and above, 25 hours may be waived if the candidate demonstrates the ability to perform the work.
  4. Flying Time, Last 12 Months -- Required only for positions that involve flying. The flight hours specified apply to competitive appointments. For inservice placement actions, up to one-half of the flight hours may be waived provided the individual's total background reflects the ability to perform the duties of the position safely. For positions flying both helicopters and airplanes, at least one-fourth of the total hours must be in either category of aircraft.
Requirements
Category Flight Hours
GS-11 and above
1. Total Flight Time 1500
2. Pilot-In-Command 250
3. Night Flying 75
4. Flying Time, Last 12 months 100
The following flight hour requirements apply only when the position requires the particular specialty. Instructor Time -- Must be related to the nature of the instruction work and the category of aircraft operated (i.e., airplane or helicopter) in the position to be filled. If the purpose of the position is to provide instruction in instrument flight techniques, one-half of the flight time must have involved instrument instruction in either airplanes or helicopters.
Requirements
Category Flight Hours
GS-11 and above
Instructor Time 500
Medical Requirements

At the time of initial appointment, candidates for all pilot positions must possess a current first or second-class medical certificate in accordance with FAA regulations; both meet the intent of the requirement. If an agency decides, for example, not to accept the second-class medical certificate, the rationale for the decision should be based upon the requirements of the position and should be thoroughly described in agency operating material. Staff specialists not involved in the operation of aircraft need only have a medical examination indicating that they are able to perform the duties of the position to be filled. For flight test pilots, airspace system inspection pilots, and Customs pilots, all candidates must possess a current first-class medical certificate at the time of appointment.


FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in-grade requirements to be considered eligible. One year at the GS-11 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-12 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks. NOTE: Applicants applying as VEOA candidates who are current GS civil service employees or are prior GS civil service employees within the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements.
Education:KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
  1. Knowledge of aircraft systems and operating procedures, aerodynamics, flying fundamentals, aircraft instrumentation, ground and flight emergency procedures, and instrument and visual flight rules, as well as knowledge of training aircraft, and of the operation, characteristics, and limitations of the corresponding aircraft simulator.
  2. Knowledge of the methods, principles, practices, and programs related to curriculum development, instructional techniques, and training resources.
  3. Skill in the use of a variety of computer applications and software, to include simulator systems sufficient to meet desired learning objectives.
  4. Skill in demonstrating flying procedures and maneuvers in an aircraft simulator.
  5. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively orally and in writing to include classroom instruction before large and small audiences.
  6. Ability to teach multiple academic courses while using computer-based teaching aides.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Employment Type: OTHER