Chinook Flight Instructor

CAE Inc; Benson; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

CAE Inc. seeks an experienced helicopter training instructor to deliver comprehensive crew training on the Chinook HC Mk6A Dynamic Mission Simulator and related control centres. You will convert ab-initio students to operational deployment and mentor crews in aircraft systems, emergency drills, SOPs and mission tactics.

The role involves planning, briefing and conducting simulator sorties, assessing trainee performance and delivering effective debriefs, with a strong emphasis on safety and CRM.

Qualifications

• Ex-military CFS-accredited B1+ Qualified Helicopter Instructor (QHI).
• Relevant military helicopter instructional experience.
• Demonstrated training, coaching and mentoring capability.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Leadership and teamworking skills.
• Ability to obtain or currently hold the required UK security clearance.
• Eligibility to live and work in the United Kingdom.

Responsibilities

• Deliver whole-crew training in the Chinook HC Mk6A DMS and IOS/TCC.
• Convert ab-initio students from aircraft type training to operational deployment.
• Teach aircraft systems, emergency drills, SOPs and standard operating procedures.
• Plan, brief, set up and conduct simulator sorties from the IOS or TCC.
• Assess trainee performance and debrief using the DASOR and post-sortie documentation.
• Ensure safety during training and report flight safety trends to senior staff.

Skills

Ex-military CFS-accredited B1+ QHI

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Key Responsibilities

Training Delivery

Deliver whole-crew training in the Chinook HC Mk6A Dynamic Mission Simulator (DMS) and Tactical Control Centre. Convert ab-initio students from aircraft type training to operational deployment, Teach and mentor crews across the aircraft's capabilities, techniques and tactics using realistic day and night scenarios. Plan, brief, set up and conduct simulator sorties from the Instructor Operating Station (IOS) or Tactical Control Centre (TCC). Deliver instruction in aircraft systems, emergency drills, principles of flight, standard operating procedures and other subjects within the approved conversion syllabus. Provide instruction relevant to single-aircraft and multi-aircraft operations. Act as a role-player during training, including the provision of air traffic control, supporting players and additional crew roles. Support training on other aircraft types from the TCC where appropriate.

Assessment and Debriefing

Assess trainee and crew performance against the required standard. Use the Digital Recording and Playback system to support effective crew debriefing. Complete post-sortie documentation, including trainee performance reports and entries within the Training Management Information System. Instruct and assess Crew Resource Management principles.

Safety and Training Management

Manage training events safely, effectively and efficiently. Ensure the safety of personnel within the DMS and provide safety briefs where required. Report flight safety trends and occurrences to the appropriate senior instructor and submit a DASOR where necessary. Inform the Senior Instructor, their deputy, the Military Liaison Officer or other stakeholders of faults or delays that may affect a DMS sortie or the published training schedule.

Professional Standards

Maintain an appropriate level of handling and non-handling knowledge and skill to support training, testing, evaluation, visits and fault-finding. Maintain professional knowledge across the full spectrum of Support Helicopter operations. Use relevant mission planning and ground support systems to support the delivery of training. Undertake periodic standardisation checks by RAF Central Flying School (CFS) staff, Joint Aviation Command Aviation Standards, and internal CAE examiners. Complete mandated training and attend relevant courses as directed by the Senior Instructor, Chief Instructor and/or Customer and Operational Services Manager.

Training Development

Design and develop Squadron Training Modules as directed by the Senior Instructor. Originate and amend courseware as required. Review and amend publications where appropriate.

Additional Duties

In exceptional circumstances the role may also require the post holder to: Operate the IOS or TCC on an aircraft type for which they are not qualified. Deliver CBT or computer-aided instruction in ground school on an aircraft type for which they are qualified when the Ground School Instructor is unavailable.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ex-military Central Flying School (CFS) accredited B1 or higher Qualified Helicopter Instructor (QHI).
• Relevant military helicopter instructional experience.
• Demonstrated training, coaching, and mentoring capability.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Leadership and teamworking skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant IT systems.
• Ability to obtain, transfer, or currently hold the required security clearance.
• Eligibility to live and work in the United Kingdom.
• Applicants requiring company-sponsored UK Security Clearance must normally have resided continuously in the UK for the previous five years, in accordance with current clearance requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Chinook HC Mk6A operational or instructional experience.
• Experience delivering simulator-based military aircrew training.
• Experience supporting mission planning systems and tactical training environments.
• Instrument Rating Examiner qualifications or eligibility to obtain the qualification.
• Experience developing military training syllabi, courseware, or instructional materials.

About CAE

At CAE, our mission is clear: to help make the world a safer place. For nearly 80 years, we've driven innovation in simulation, training, and mission readiness to support critical operations worldwide. By leveraging advanced technologies, we empower our customers to operate smarter, faster, and more sustainably. Join a purpose-driven organization where bold ideas are encouraged, collaboration drives progress, and your growth fuels our shared success.

Position Type

Regular

Equal Opportunity & Accommodations

CAE is committed to providing equal opportunities to all applicants, regardless of race, nationality, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, neurodiversity, veteran status, age, or other characteristics protected by law. We encourage applicants who may not meet every qualification to apply. Reasonable accommodations are available - contact your recruiter or email [e-mail] if needed.

Data Privacy

Privacy Statement | CAE As part of our process, we may use AI-supported tools to help review applications, with human decision-making at every step. CAE thanks all applicants for their interest. However, only those whose background and experience match the requirements of the role will be contacted. Welcome to CAE! As a global leader in Civil Aviation and Defense & Security across 40 countries, we advance together as One CAE, fueled by thousands of passionate individuals operating in a culture where everyone can thrive. We hold ourselves accountable for building an inclusive community at every level, and our comprehensive benefits support you professionally and personally. Together, we are All For shaping a future where safety, sustainability, and inclusivity lead the way. Join us and be part of something bigger - where your impact reaches beyond CAE and helps shape the world of tomorrow.