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Trainee Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... progression trainees. * Deliver instruction and evaluation aligned with AATS-approved Training ... Contract pilot shall participate in No-notice evaluation program. * Coordinate daily tasks and ...

... progression trainees. * Deliver instruction and evaluation aligned with AATS-approved Training ... Contract pilot shall participate in No-notice evaluation program. * Coordinate daily tasks and ...

LUH-72A Lakota Instructor Pilot

Marana, AZ ยท On-site

$87.10K - $157.45K/yr

Maintain training records for formal course students and ATP documentation for readiness level (RL) progression trainees. * Deliver instruction and evaluation to student pilots in accordance with ...

LUH-72A Lakota Instructor Pilot

Marana, AZ ยท On-site

$87.10K - $157.45K/yr

Maintain training records for formal course students and ATP documentation for readiness level (RL) progression trainees. * Deliver instruction and evaluation to student pilots in accordance with ...

Provide continuous training for other new hires and Job Corps trainees. * Conduct daily safety ... Pilots are expected to perform any duties required of them to ensure the safe operation of the ...

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Trainee Pilot information

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$25.5K

$43.5K

$63.5K

How much do trainee pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee pilot in the United States is $43,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,000.00 and $51,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Pilot, you need a solid understanding of aerodynamics, navigation, and aviation regulations, typically supported by at least a high school diploma and enrollment in an accredited flight training program. Familiarity with flight simulators, aviation weather systems, and logbook management tools is essential, as well as progressing toward or holding a Private Pilot License (PPL) or equivalent certification. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making under pressure, and effective communication skills set outstanding trainees apart. These skills and qualifications are critical for ensuring safety, precise flight operations, and the ability to respond to dynamic challenges in aviation environments.

What kind of support and mentorship can trainee pilots expect during their training program?

Trainee pilots typically receive structured support and mentorship from experienced instructors and training captains throughout their program. Most flight schools and airlines assign trainees to a dedicated mentor who provides guidance on both technical skills and adapting to the unique challenges of aviation. Regular feedback sessions, simulator training, and peer support groups are also common, helping trainees build confidence and address areas for improvement. This collaborative environment ensures that trainees are well-prepared for each phase of their training and transition smoothly into professional pilot roles.

What are trainee pilots?

Trainee pilots are individuals who are undergoing initial flight training to become licensed pilots. They typically enroll in flight schools or airline cadet programs, where they learn aviation theory, flight operations, and practical flying skills under the supervision of certified instructors. Trainee pilots progress through various licenses and certifications, such as the Private Pilot License (PPL) and Commercial Pilot License (CPL), depending on their career goals. Their training includes both classroom instruction and hands-on flying experience. Upon successful completion, they are qualified to fly aircraft professionally or privately, depending on their chosen path.

What is the difference between Trainee Pilot vs Flight Instructor?

AspectTrainee PilotFlight Instructor
Required CertificationsStudent pilot license, basic trainingCommercial pilot license, flight instructor certificate
Work EnvironmentFlight schools, training aircraftFlight schools, training aircraft, classrooms
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, private training, flight schoolsFlight schools, aviation training centers

While a Trainee Pilot is in the early stages of flight training aiming to obtain necessary licenses, a Flight Instructor is a certified pilot who trains others. The Trainee Pilot focuses on gaining flight hours and certifications, whereas the Flight Instructor provides instruction and mentorship to aspiring pilots, often working within the same industry and environments.

More about Trainee Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Trainee Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Trainee Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Trainee Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Trainee Pilot job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,530 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Pilot Instructor

Location: Various Locations*

Clearance: Secret Clearance, or ability to obtain one


*Note: You would not support various locations but you would be assigned a location upon hire based on your preference.


NOVA Technologies is continuously looking for qualified candidates to fill new and upcoming Pilot Instructor positions for our current and upcoming government programs. If you are interested in joining our team now or at any point in the future, please submit your application for consideration. You will be asked to confirm your specific airframe experience (C130J, C-17, F-16, F-15E, HH-60G, etc.), location preferences, and availability to start a new position within the application.


As a Pilot Instructor, you will contribute to the development and enhancement of skills through comprehensive training programs. This is a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic environment, collaborating with other aviation professionals to ensure the highest standards of safety, performance, and professionalism.


Job Duties:

  • Deliver high-quality flight instruction to aspiring pilots, including ground school, simulator sessions, and actual flight hours, while adhering to established curriculum guidelines and safety protocols.

  • Provide training for Visual Threat Recognition Avoidance Training (VTRAT).

  • Provide Crew Resource Management (CRM) and Instrument Refresher Course (IRC) training.

  • Instill a strong culture of safety by effectively communicating safety procedures, risk management strategies, and emergency response protocols to trainees.

  • Collaborate with curriculum development teams to create and refine training materials, flight plans, and course content to meet regulatory requirements and industry standards.

  • Conduct regular assessments and evaluations of trainees' progress, providing constructive feedback and guidance to support their development and growth.

  • Stay current with relevant aviation regulations, policies, and procedures, ensuring all training activities are in alignment with applicable standards and requirements.

  • Assist in the maintenance and upkeep of training aircraft, simulators, and other training equipment to ensure they are in optimal condition for safe and effective training sessions.

  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of trainee progress, training hours, and other administrative tasks as required by company policies and government regulations.

  • Foster open and effective communication with trainees, fellow instructors, and supervisory personnel to ensure a cohesive and supportive training environment.

  • Conduct ground training for other crewmembers to include diagnosis and remediation of student issues.

  • Assist in project and development work as assigned.

  • Perform administrative duties such as scheduling, record keeping, monitoring student progress, counseling, quality assurance, safety, security, and maintenance of training programs and equipment.


Qualifications:

  • Candidate must have prior experience in delivering military pilot academics and simulator training and be familiar with current instructional techniques and delivery methods

  • Bachelorโ€™s Degree

  • Must have recent experience as an Instructor Pilot or Evaluator Pilot.

  • Must have EXPERT Common Immersive Theater Environment (XCITE) experience.

  • Completion of a formal USAF Instructor training course.

  • Must have recent National Industrial Security Program Manual (NISPOM) related security management experience.

  • Must have experience of use of the Computer-Aided Assessment System.

  • Knowledge of and experience with the Visual Threat Recognition Avoidance Trainer (VTRAT).

  • Must be eligible for DoD Personnel Security Clearance

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey complex aviation concepts to diverse audiences.

  • Collaborative mindset, capable of working effectively within a team of aviation professionals.

  • A deep commitment to safety and a track record of adhering to strict safety protocols.

  • Must be thoroughly proficient in demonstrating, evaluating, diagnosing, and critiquing student performance; identifying learning difficulties; recognizing objectives not accomplished; and prescribing and conducting remedial instruction.

  • Must be physically able to enter the simulator, experience simulator motion, and take cognizance of attendeesโ€™ safety when on board the simulator.

  • Ability to adapt to changing training needs, technology, and regulations within the aviation industry.

  • Aptitude for identifying challenges and providing innovative solutions to enhance training effectiveness.

  • Proficiency in using aviation training software, flight simulators, and other relevant technology.


Veteran-founded in 1997, NOVA Technologies provides best in class Modeling & Simulation, Weapon Systems Training, Simulator Operations & Maintenance, Cybersecurity, and Mission Planning Support worldwide to the Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps and USSOCOM.


For over 25 years we have ensured that our nationโ€™s Warfighters are put first - from initial training to their safe return home.


We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits and programs. NOVA Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity, consistent with Title VII), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable law