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Student Pilot Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Student Pilot information

See Michigan salary details

$43.1K

$114.1K

$175.2K

How much do student pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for student pilot in Michigan is $114,106.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,200.00 and $135,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges student pilots face during flight training, and how can they be addressed?

Student pilots often encounter challenges such as mastering complex flight maneuvers, managing cockpit workload, and overcoming initial nervousness or fear of flying. Balancing theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice can also be demanding, especially when adapting to new environments or unfamiliar aircraft. To address these challenges, it's helpful to communicate openly with instructors, consistently review flight procedures, and dedicate time to both simulator and real-world practice. Staying organized and seeking support from peers can also make the training process smoother and more enjoyable.

What is the difference between Student Pilot vs Private Pilot?

AspectStudent PilotPrivate Pilot
CertificationsStudent Pilot CertificatePrivate Pilot Certificate
Work EnvironmentTraining flights, flight schoolsPersonal, recreational flying
Employer/Industry UsageFlight training programs

The main difference between a Student Pilot and a Private Pilot is that a Student Pilot is in training and holds a student certificate, while a Private Pilot has completed certification requirements and can fly independently for personal purposes. Student Pilots are primarily focused on learning and practicing flying skills, whereas Private Pilots are authorized to carry passengers and fly for leisure without instructor supervision.

What is a student pilot?

A student pilot spends their time mastering the basics of piloting an aircraft. They learn the controls, scientific principles that enable flight, relevant laws, aircraft maintenance duties, and proper methods of communication such as a radio. As a student pilot, you need to be able to demonstrate each and every one of these skills before you can fly an aircraft solo. After becoming proficient in flying and operating a smaller aircraft, a student pilot can further train toward a job piloting larger aircraft and a fulfilling career in aviation.

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

To thrive as a Student Pilot, you need a strong understanding of aviation theory, basic aeronautical knowledge, and hold at least a valid medical certificate and student pilot license. Familiarity with flight simulators, navigation systems, and aviation communication tools is also crucial. Excellent situational awareness, discipline, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this field. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safety, effective learning, and progression toward becoming a licensed pilot.
What are popular job titles related to Student Pilot jobs in Michigan? For Student Pilot jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Student Pilot job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,106 per year, or $54.9 per hour.

Pilot-Flight Standards and Evaluation

Weston&Sampson, Inc.

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Posting Summary

College

College College Of Aviation

Executive Area

Executive Area Provost & VP Academic Affairs

Department

Department College of Aviation

Posting Number

Posting Number S1674P

Job Type

Job Type Full Time, Regular

Pay Type

Pay Grade

Pay Grade G

Campus Location

Campus Location WMU-Battle Creek - College of Aviation

Salary Range

Salary Range Pay is commensurate with qualifications and experience, combined with an excellent benefits package.

Number of Vacancies

Number of Vacancies Multiple

General Summary
  • Ensures standardization of flight instructors through maintaining documents, training profiles, and evaluation checks.
Major Duties
  • Assists in the development of standardization of new-hire and recurrent training of flight instructors.
  • Develops and maintains standardization practices and publications.
  • Conducts and documents evaluations of flight instructors and certifies their qualifications to provide flight instruction.
  • Audits instructional practices for University standards compliance and federal aviation requirements.
  • Provides ground and in-flight progress evaluations and occasional specialty flight instruction.
  • Assists in executing safety related initiatives for flight operations.
  • Participates in post-incident debriefs. Provides training and policy change recommendations as applicable.
  • Trains and evaluates staff, student, and temporary employees.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in related field from an accredited institution, or a Bachelor’s degree in a non-related field from an accredited institution combined with relevant experience.
  • Three year’s relevant experience.
  • Supervisory or lead experience.
  • Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
  • Aviation industry experience.
  • Federal Aviation Administration ( FAA ) pilot certification; Commercial Pilot, Airplane Single Engine Land ( ASEL ), Airplane Multi Engine Land ( AMEL ), Instrument Airplane.
  • Pilot and instrumental ratings for relevant aircraft
  • Must meet FAA physical and medical standards for flight licensure.
  • Hold at least an FAA 2nd class medical; and have dexterity to fly WMU primary aircraft trainers (single engine and multi engine) from both pilot positions and accommodate weight and balance for at least 70% of the student population with standard fuel loads. As a reference, considering the average weight of our students and our current fleet, flight instructors could weigh up to approximately 260lbs.
  • Ability to work irregular shifts and extended hours, including evenings and weekends.
Additional Position Information
  • There are multiple openings for this position. By applying to this posting, applicants will be considered for each position. Applicants may receive multiple email communications.
  • A physical examination may be administered by the employer’s designated physician.
  • Western Michigan University offers generous benefits to its employees including health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, retirement, and tuition discount for the employee and tuition remission for eligible dependents. To access information about the specific benefits available for this position, go to: https://www.wmich.edu/hr/enrollment-staff
Physical requirements and working conditions
  • Light work with some physical demands such as continuously lifting or moving materials less than 25 pounds, but rarely moving more than 25 to 50 pounds.
  • Work is performed with exposure to any number of elements which may occasionally require some precautions such as safety glasses, protective clothing, ear protection, etc.
  • Must be available to provide instruction or serve as pilot-in-command outside of normal business hours.
Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

  • * Do you have a Bachelor’s degree in related field from an accredited institution, or a Bachelor’s degree in a non-related field from an accredited institution combined with relevant experience?
    • Yes
    • No
  • * Do you have three year’s relevant experience?
    • Yes
    • No
  • * Do you have supervisory or lead experience?
    • Yes
    • No
  • * Do you have strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills?
    • Yes
    • No
  • * Do you have aviation industry experience?
    • Yes
    • No
  • * Do you have Federal Aviation Administration pilot certification; Commercial Pilot, Airplane Single Engine Land, Airplane Multi Engine Land, Instrument Airplane?
    • Yes
    • No
  • * Do you have Federal Aviation Administration instructor certification; Certified Flight Instructor, Airplane Single Engine, instrument Airplane?
    • Yes
    • No
  • * Do you have pilot and instrumental ratings for relevant aircraft?
    • Yes
    • No
  • * Do you meet FAA physical and medical standards for flight licensure?
    • Yes
    • No
  • * Do you hold at least an FAA 2nd class medical; and have dexterity to fly WMU primary aircraft trainers (single engine and multi engine) from both pilot positions and accommodate weight and balance for at least 70% of the student population with standard fuel loads?As a reference, considering the average weight of our students and our current fleet, flight instructors could weigh up to approximately 260lbs.
    • Yes
    • No
  • * Do you have the ability to work irregular shifts and extended hours, including evenings and weekends?
    • Yes
    • No

WMU is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Protected veterans, individuals with disabilities and all other qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

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