LATC- Certified Flight Instructor

Lake Area Technical College; Watertown (SD); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Lake Area Technical College seeks a motivated Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) to deliver high-quality flight and ground instruction for aviation and UAS training programs. The instructor will mentor students, help develop curricula aligned with FAA standards, and ensure operations meet institutional and regulatory requirements.

The role emphasizes safety, effective communication, and collaboration with faculty and industry partners.

Qualifications

• FAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certification.
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in aviation, aeronautics, or related field.
• Current FAA Second-Class Medical Certificate or ability to obtain.
• Knowledge of FAA regulations and flight training procedures.
• Strong commitment to aviation safety and student learning.

Responsibilities

• Provide flight and ground instruction per FAA regulations and approved curriculum.
• Mentor students in aircraft operations, safety, navigation, and decision-making.
• Prepare students for FAA written exams, check rides, and certification requirements.
• Maintain training records and documentation of progress.
• Conduct pre-flight briefings and post-flight debriefings to reinforce learning.

Skills

CFI Certification

Flight Instruction

Communication

Safety and Risk Management

Curriculum Development

Education

Associate or Bachelor’s degree in aviation

CFI certification (preferred)

Tools

Flight simulators

Aviation training technology

Part 107/UAS operations

Job description

LATC- Certified Flight Instructor

Job Description

POSITION OVERVIEW: Lake Area Technical College is seeking a motivated and safety-focused Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) to support aviation and Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) training programs. The Certified Flight Instructor will provide high-quality flight instruction, mentor students pursuing aviation careers, and assist with the development of training curriculum aligned with FAA regulations and industry standards.

This position plays a key role in preparing students with the technical skills, safety mindset, and professionalism required to succeed in aviation careers. The instructor will deliver both ground and flight instruction, evaluate student progress, and ensure all training operations meet regulatory and institutional standards.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• FAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certification. CFII (Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument) certification preferred.
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in aviation, aeronautics, or related field.
• Current FAA Second-Class Medical Certificate or ability to obtain.
• Demonstrated knowledge of FAA regulations and flight training procedures.
• Strong commitment to aviation safety and student learning.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work with students of diverse backgrounds and skill levels.
• Previous experience instructing in collegiate aviation programs.
• Experience with flight simulators and aviation training technology.
• Experience working with UAS or Part 107 operations.
• Strong instructional and coaching abilities.
• Commitment to maintaining a high standard of aviation safety and professionalism.
• Ability to manage multiple students and training schedules.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Ability to collaborate with faculty, staff, and industry partners.
• Combination of classroom instruction, simulator training, and flight operations.
• Work performed in aircraft, hangar environments, and instructional settings.
• Flexible schedule needed which include early mornings, evenings, or occasional weekends, depending on flight training needs from students.

A REPORTS TO: Professional Fixed Wing Department Supervisor, Dean of Academics, Vice President

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide flight and ground instruction in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and approved training curriculum.
• Train and mentor students in aircraft operations, flight safety, navigation, communication procedures, and aviation decision-making.
• Prepare students for FAA written exams, check rides, and certification requirements.
• Evaluate student performance and maintain accurate training records and documentation.
• Conduct pre-flight briefings and post-flight debriefings to reinforce learning outcomes and safety practices.
• Assist with the development and improvement of aviation training curriculum, lesson plans, and training materials.
• Maintain compliance with FAA standards, institutional policies, and safety protocols.
• Support student recruitment and outreach activities such as aviation camps, high school visits, and dual credit aviation programs.
• Participate in program advisory committees and industry engagement activities.
• Conduct aircraft preflight inspections and ensure aircraft are operated safely and responsibly.
• Report maintenance concerns and coordinate with maintenance providers when necessary.
• Promote a strong culture of aviation safety and risk management.
• Ensure proper use of flight simulators and training equipment.
• Serve as a mentor to students pursuing aviation careers.
• Support students in developing professional skills including communication, responsibility, and aviation professionalism.
• Provide guidance on career pathways including commercial aviation, UAS operations, and related aviation industries.
• Participate in departmental meetings, professional development, and college initiatives.
• Maintain accurate records related to instruction, student progress, and compliance requirements.
• Represent Lake Area Technical College in a professional manner with students, industry partners, and community stakeholders.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Salary and benefits set by the Watertown School Board.

200 9th St NE
PO Box 730
605-882-6312
605-882-6327