AIRPLANE PILOT (SIMULATOR INSTRUCTOR)

Air Education and Training Command; Columbus (MS); On-site; USD 121,000 - 157,000; Part time

Job summary

Air Education and Training Command in the United States Air Force seeks an aircraft simulator and academic instructor for the Undergraduate Flying Training (UFT) program. You will deliver simulator-based instruction and classroom teaching to future pilots, applying aviator experience to assess student performance.

The role emphasizes monitoring trainee progress, providing feedback, and supporting the unit's training mission while coordinating with flight instructors and training staff.

Qualifications

• At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-11 in the Federal service.
• Current Commercial Pilot Certificate or military rating required; FAA Flight Instructor Certificate preferred.
• Ratings in both airplane and helicopter categories may be required.
• Submit official orders or logbooks showing status as a rated pilot or flight instructor.
• Provide total flight hours including PIC, night, instrument, and instructor hours.

Responsibilities

• Applying aviator experience, serves as a simulator instructor for students in Undergraduate Flying Training (UFT).
• Applying aviator experience, serves as an academic instructor for students in Undergraduate Flying Training (UFT).
• Monitors and evaluates student progress and performance.
• Performs other duties related to accomplishment of the unit operational and training mission.

Job description

• Hiring Agency: Air Education and Training Command

The primary purpose of this position is: To serve as an aircraft simulator and academic instructor for students enrolled in the United States Air Force (USAF) Undergraduate Flying Training (UFT) program.

Key Responsibilities

Applying aviator experience, serves as a simulator instructor for students in Undergraduate Flying Training (UFT). Applying aviator experience, serves as an academic instructor for students in Undergraduate Flying Training (UFT). Monitors and evaluates student progress and performance. Performs other duties related to accomplishment of the unit operational and training mission.

Requirements & Education

PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.

VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.

You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-11 level (or higher) grade level or equivalent pay systems in the Federal service. Examples of specialized experience include a current Commercial Pilot Certificate or the appropriate military rating; both meet the intent of the requirement.

Additionally, the FAA Flight Instructor Certificate or the military equivalent rating is also required. (The pilot certificate must include the rating(s) appropriate to the work of the position to be filled. For example, a position that involves flying a multi-engine airplane to various destinations under instrument flight rules would require the Commercial Pilot Certificate with the airplane, multi-engine, and instrument ratings or appropriate U.S. military ratings.

Positions that require flying or instructing in flying both airplanes and helicopters require a rating in both categories. Only those ratings necessary to perform the work are required. NOTE: Candidates establishing eligibility based on military flight experience must provide official orders, forms, or logbooks showing their status as a rated military pilot, flight instructor, or flight examiner, as appropriate.

Other certificates that meet or exceed the requirements of the Commercial Pilot Certificate are also acceptable, e.g., an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate.) AND I have completed the Total Flight Hours; Pilot-In-Command Hours, Night Flying Hours requirement, Instrument hours and Instructor hours. NOTE: You must submit proof of Flight Hours.

Which agency is hiring for this position?

This position is with Air Education and Training Command, Department of the Air Force.

What is the salary for this position?

The posted pay range is $120835 – $157089/yr.

What is the application deadline?

Applications close on 2026-11-13.

Who is eligible to apply?

This position is open under the 'Fed Transition' hiring path.