Qualified Flying Instructor – University Air Squadrons

Ministry of Defence - ZigZag Careers Pathway; Leuchars; On-site; GBP 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A government defence organization in the UK seeks a Qualified Flying Instructor to join the University Air Squadrons initiative. You will deliver key training to ab-initio aircrew while conducting flights and managing ground training activities. Successful candidates will need a Commercial Pilot Licence, a minimum of 500 flight hours, and excellent leadership skills. The position offers a competitive salary of approximately £55,177.08 post-training, along with pension benefits and 30 days' leave.

Benefits

30 days annual leave

Non-contributory pension scheme

UK bank holidays

Qualifications

• Minimum of 500 hours P1 flight time required.
• Strong leadership and communication skills essential.
• Must pass Tutor Qualified Flying Instructor course at RAF Wittering.

Responsibilities

• Deliver air and ground instruction for ab-initio aircrew.
• Support University Air Squadron ground activities as needed.
• Conduct standardisation sorties for UAS and AEF staff.

Skills

Single Engine Piston rating

Commercial Pilot Licence

Leadership and communication

Previous training delivery experience

Education

Aircrew Instructors Course

Job description

Qualified Flying Instructor – University Air Squadrons

Grade: Flt Lt

Location: Various – See above

Contract: 3 Years and Low mobility commitment

Security clearance: SC

Closing date: 11/01/26, 23:55

All offers of employment are subject to UK security clearance. To gain this clearance applicants normally need at least five years’ UK residency.

Overview

The ZigZag Career Pathway is an innovative Defence initiative that offers novel ways of entry into the Armed Forces. It’s a pilot programme that opens the door for people from a range of backgrounds to apply their professional skills in meaningful Defence roles.

This opportunity is open to civilians, veterans and reservists. Whether you’ve never served before or are looking to return, the ZigZag Career Pathway offers you the chance to work in fixed term military roles that are matched to your qualifications and experience.

ZigZag roles may be offered with a range of mobility commitments. Successful candidates will be supported with tailored onboarding, the right level of training, and a structured and supported induction into the Armed Forces environment.

6 Flying Training School is the largest and most diverse military flying training school in the country. From its HQ at RAFC Cranwell, the school manages a broad range of flying tasks, from Elementary Flying training on University Air Squadrons (UAS) to the provision of Air Experience Flying (AEF) for the Air Cadet Organisation.

The Role

Attract talent to Regular and Reserve RAF Service and educate selected undergraduates on the role of Air & Space Power in delivering the nation’s defence. UAS QFI is a key part of squadron training team that will cover both ground and air training delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Delivery of air and ground instruction for ab-initio aircrew as well as conversion and currency training for experienced aircrew on the AEF.
• Support University Air Squadron ground activities as directed by Officer Commanding UAS in support of the ground training programme. To include: Attendance and delivery of training at town nights during university semester time for one evening per week. EMAUS, Nottingham NG9 2HF. CUAS, Cambridge CB2 7EB.
• Supervisory care supervision at training camps (Ground or Flying) and adventure training expeditions.
• Normal working week is Monday to Friday with some occasional weekend work.
• Conduct instructional and standardisation sorties for UAS and AEF staff.
• Conduct aircraft conversion training for new pilots to the Tutor (Grob 115E) aircraft. Prior to taking up your post, you may be required to attend Aircrew Instructors Course as well as 115 Sqn, at RAF Wittering, for QFI conversion and refresher training.
• Undergo training and maintain currency for the following: Force Protection Individual Readiness Training, RAF Fitness Test, Flying Supervisors Course; Human Factors/ Error Management; Aviation Medicine Training Wing; Defence Train the Trainer; and, if required, attend the Selection Interview Technique Course.

About You

• A Single Engine Piston (SEP) rating, a Commercial Pilots Licence (CPL) and a minimum of 500hrs P1.
• Previous training delivery experience, preferably in flying training.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Will be required to pass a Tutor Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) course at RAF Wittering.
• Will require a security clearance and the role is likely to involve some weekend work to facilitate cadet flying.

Training

Depending on the candidate’s experience it is likely that a period of Phase 1 RAF Commissioning Training will be required. This could include some residential courses and be conducted either before or alongside flying training.

Salary & benefits

• Salary: On completion of Phase 1 training circa £55,177.08 (including supplements). Further details are available on request.
• Pension: automatic enrolment in the non‑contributory Armed Forces Pension Scheme2015 (opt out available).
• Leave: 30 days’ annual leave plus eight UK bank holidays.

Application process

• Application: submit a CV via the SERVE portal. Eligibility checks are completed, and applications are sifted for suitability.
• Interview: shortlisted candidates are invited to an interview covering technical skills, qualifications and suitability for military service (command, leadership and management experience).
• Medical Assessment: all candidates must pass a medical screening.
• Offer: successful candidates receive terms and conditions, and a job offer letter.

Don’t meet all the requirements? Get in touch anyway – we are keen to hear from talented individuals from diverse backgrounds. For questions or more information, contact: People‑Tx‑[e-mail].