Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)

D2 Flight Academy; New Bern (NC); On-site; USD 34,000 - 69,000; Full time

Job summary

Tradewind Flight Services in New Bern, NC is seeking an experienced Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) to join our mission-driven team. This full-time role guides students from their first flight through private, instrument, and multi-engine ratings, following Part 61 and Part 141 standards.

You will uphold training quality, maintain thorough student records, and contribute to curriculum development while assisting with marketing and recruitment activities.

Qualifications

• Must hold all three FAA flight instructor certificates (CFI, CFII, MEI) and a current FAA Second-Class Medical Certificate.
• Experience delivering high-quality flight instruction to diverse student populations.
• Knowledge of and ability to apply FAA regulations and training standards (Part 61 & Part 141).

Responsibilities

• Lead flight and ground instruction in accordance with FAA regulations and TFS curriculum.
• Maintain complete student records and progress notes.
• Assist in curriculum development and courseware improvement.
• Support marketing and recruitment efforts to grow flight training programs.
• Participate in administrative meetings and training sessions.

Skills

Customer service

Interpersonal communication

Instructional techniques

Ability to work weekends

Education

CFI, CFII, MEI certificates

FAA Second-Class Medical Certificate

Job description

Full-Time Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)

New Bern, NC | On-Site | FAA Part 61 & Part 141

About Tradewind Flight Services:

Tradewind Flight Services (TFS) is North Carolina's premier pilot training center, proudly located at Coastal Carolina Regional Airport in New Bern, NC. TFS operates FAA-approved Part 61 and Part 141 programs, a structured Career Pilot track, Military SkillBridge and VA-supported pathways, and specialized international student curricula. Our mission is to deliver world-class aviation education through expert instructors and comprehensive, student-centered programs. If you are ready to be part of an organization that sets the standard for professional pilot development, TFS is for you.

The Opportunity:

Tradewind Flight Services is actively seeking dedicated, experienced Certified Flight Instructors to join our growing, mission-driven team. As a TFS CFI, you will play a direct role in shaping the next generation of aviators — guiding students from their first flight lesson through private pilot certification, instrument and multi-engine ratings, and career-track milestones. Our student population is diverse and motivated, ranging from recreational pilots to commercial career aspirants and military personnel transitioning into civilian aviation. This is a full-time opportunity for an aviation professional who takes instruction seriously and thrives in a dynamic, high-energy flight training environment.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct facility tours and familiarize clients with TFS policies, procedures, and available flight training courses.
• Perform all flight instructor duties in strict accordance with applicable FAA Regulations (Part 61 and Part 141), the approved Training Course Outline (TCO), and the course syllabus.
• Ensure satisfactory student progress throughout each stage of training; immediately notify the Chief Flight Instructor of any delays or unsatisfactory student performance.
• Ensure all course standards, training requirements, and learning objectives are consistently met.
• Accurately maintain complete student records, including pilot logbooks, computer-based training systems, and physical training files.
• Ensure timely course completion and proper completion of all required paperwork and documentation.
• Monitor aircraft maintenance status and promptly report any questionable items or discrepancies to the maintenance department.
• Attend and actively participate in administrative meetings, standardization sessions, and recurrent training programs.
• Review existing curriculum and courseware and provide constructive recommendations for improvement.
• Develop new curriculum or courseware as assigned by the Chief Flight Instructor or Aviation Operations Manager.
• Assist in reviewing and revising TCOs, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and other TFS operational documents.
• Support marketing initiatives and actively assist in the recruitment of prospective flight students and customers.
• Staff or support front desk administration and customer service functions as needed.
• Assist with marketing duties and data collection activities as directed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Chief Flight Instructor or Aviation Operations Manager.

Minimum Qualifications:

Requirement

Details

FAA Certificates Required

Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument (CFII), and Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI) — all three certificates are required.

FAA Medical Certificate

Current FAA Second-Class Medical Certificate (must be maintained throughout employment).

Note: Candidates who do not currently hold all three certificates (CFI, CFII, and MEI) will not be considered for this position. Please ensure all certificates are current and valid prior to applying.

• Demonstrated aircraft piloting skills, including familiarity with and the ability to proficiently perform all required flight maneuvers.
• Knowledge of and ability to apply effective instructional techniques in both classroom and in-flight training environments.
• Thorough working knowledge of applicable Federal Aviation Regulations and related operational procedures.
• Ability to perform effectively under pressure in a fast-paced and acoustically active environment.
• Strong customer service orientation and interpersonal communication skills.
• Must maintain a minimum 80% student pass rate for stage checks and practical (check ride) examinations.
• Must be available and willing to work weekends as part of the regular schedule.
• No outside employment permitted without prior written approval from TFS management.
• Preferred: Experience with marketing initiatives and data collection activities in a flight training or aviation services context.

Compensation and Schedule:

Pay

Competitive hourly compensation for both flight and ground instruction, per the TFS Instructor Pay Rate Table.

Schedule

Available at TFS 5 days per week during regular business hours; guaranteed two (2) days off per week.

Leave

This position does not accrue vacation or sick time.

Physical Requirements

Ability to work in a confined area; light to moderate lifting may be required.

Tradewind Flight Services is an equal opportunity employer. We are proud to support military veterans, SkillBridge participants, and diverse aviation professionals.