Merlin (AW101/EH101) Simulator Instructor

CAE Inc; Benson; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

CAE is seeking an experienced Merlin Simulator instructor at RAF Benson to deliver simulator-based training, assess trainees, and mentor operational aircrews across day and night scenarios. You will brief, conduct sorties from IOS/TCC, and cover aircraft systems, emergency drills, and SOPs within the approved syllabus.

The role requires CFS-B1+ or higher accreditation, QHI qualification, and proven instructional capability.

Qualifications

• Must have proven training, coaching and mentoring capability.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills required.
• Eligibility to live and work in the United Kingdom.
• Ability to obtain or hold the required security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Deliver whole-crew training in the Merlin Simulator and convert ab-initio students to operational deployment.
• Teach aircraft systems, emergency drills, flight principles and SOPs within the syllabus.
• Assess trainee performance and provide effective debriefs using recorded sessions.
• Manage safety briefs and report flight safety trends to senior staff.
• Design and develop squadron training modules and update courseware.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Instructional experience

MS Office

Education

Ex-military CFS (B1+)

Qualified Helicopter Instructor (QHI)

Job description

Join our military helicopter simulator training team at RAF Benson, delivering training across the Chinook, Merlin and possible future platforms. This opportunity focuses on instruction within the Merlin Simulator, supporting the development of military & SAR aircrew through realistic training scenarios. The successful candidate will deliver simulator-based instruction, assessment, and mentoring to students and operational crews across a broad range of operational environments.

Training Delivery

Deliver whole-crew training in the Merlin Simulator 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. Support the TCC manager in both his TCC and Test & Evaluation roles.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ex-military Central Flying School (CFS) accredited B1 or higher
• Qualified Helicopter Instructor (QHI)
• Relevant 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

• Merlin operational or instructional experience
• Merlin experience
• Tactical or Search and Rescue 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
• Qualified Helicopter Tactics Instructor (QHTI)

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. Not quite ready to apply? Join our Talent Community to stay current on the latest job opportunities, news, and events.