Become an Airplane Pilot (Simulator Instructor) with the U.S. Air Force
Are you an experienced aviator looking to trade the cockpit for a role that shapes the future of flight? The Department of the Air Force is seeking skilled professionals for the position of Airplane Pilot (Simulator Instructor) in Columbus, Mississippi. This role is a cornerstone of the Undergraduate Flying Training (UFT) program.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will:
- Provide advanced simulation training to students in the UFT program.
- Lead academic coursework covering aircraft systems, aerodynamics, and emergency procedures.
- Monitor and assess student progression against strict mission objectives.
- Collaborate with operational units to refine training curriculum.
Requirements
| Requirement Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Certification | Commercial Pilot Certificate or Military Rating |
| Instructor Credential | FAA Flight Instructor Certificate or Military Equivalent |
| Total Flight Time | 1,500 Hours |
| Pilot-in-Command | 250 Hours |
| Instructor Time | 500 Hours |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $103,225 to $134,195 per year. Beyond the base salary, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package including federal retirement plans, comprehensive health coverage, and significant leave accrual.
Application Tips
To be successful in your application, ensure your resume is concise (max 2 pages) and explicitly lists your weekly hours for every role held. Always verify that your flight certifications are active and current.
If you have the flight hours and the passion for teaching, this role in Columbus, MS, offers a unique way to give back to the aviation community. Start your application process today to join the elite team at the Air Education and Training Command.
Why This Airplane Pilot (Simulator Instructor) Job Matters
Take your aviation expertise to the next level by shaping the next generation of Air Force pilots as a Simulator Instructor in Columbus, Mississippi.
Airplane Pilot (Simulator Instructor) Job Overview
The Department of the Air Force is seeking a dedicated Airplane Pilot (Simulator Instructor) to join the Air Education and Training Command. This role is pivotal in the United States Air Force (USAF) Undergraduate Flying Training (UFT) program. You will provide critical instruction in aircraft simulators and classroom settings, ensuring that student pilots develop the technical mastery and theoretical knowledge required for mission success. This is an exceptional opportunity for experienced aviators to transition their skills into a training environment where they can influence the future of global airpower.
Requirements for Airplane Pilot (Simulator Instructor)
- Possession of a current Commercial Pilot Certificate or equivalent U.S. military rating.
- Must hold a current FAA Flight Instructor Certificate or military equivalent.
- Minimum of 1,500 total flight hours.
- Minimum of 250 hours as Pilot-in-Command.
- At least 75 hours of night flying experience.
- Minimum 75 hours of instrument time (at least 10 hours must be actual instrument weather).
- Minimum 500 hours of instructor experience.
- Must hold a current first or second-class medical certificate per FAA regulations.
- Must meet Time-in-Grade requirements if currently or previously in a GS position within the last 52 weeks.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Preferred Qualifications for Airplane Pilot (Simulator Instructor)
- Exceptional communication skills for both classroom and flight line instruction.
- Strong proficiency in curriculum development and modern instructional techniques.
- Advanced technical expertise in aircraft systems, aerodynamics, and emergency procedures.
- Proficiency in utilizing complex computer-based training software and simulator hardware.
- Experience teaching diverse audiences through both hands-on simulation and traditional academic instruction.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement pension plan (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
- ✓Generous paid annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Career development and continuous learning opportunities
💡 How to Apply Airplane Pilot (Simulator Instructor) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Airplane Pilot (Simulator Instructor) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing hours worked per week and dates of employment.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Gather and upload all required documentation, including flight logs, pilot certificates, and medical certificates.
- Submit your complete application package via the USAJobs portal by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
- Monitor your status through your USAJobs dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; submissions over this length will not be reviewed.
- Explicitly state your hours worked per week and specific dates (month/year) for every role listed to avoid disqualification.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents include your full name.
- If claiming veteran preference, ensure your DD-214 or certification memo is attached with correct character of service documentation.
- Verify that your flight hours are clearly documented and match your stated experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use flight simulator time toward my total flight hour requirements?
Certain requirements, such as instrument time, allow for credit in a simulator or via other methods like hood instrument time, but specific categories like Pilot-in-Command must be actual flight time. Refer to the qualification summary for exact breakdowns.
Is a security clearance required for this role?
No, a security clearance is not required for this specific position.
What happens if I submit my resume without the required hours per week?
Your application may be deemed 'insufficient,' resulting in no further consideration for the position.
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: No, relocation expenses are not covered for this position.*
How do I verify my application status?
*A: You can track your application status directly through your USAJobs account dashboard.*
Job from Air Education And Training Command
The Air Education and Training Command (AETC) is tasked with recruiting, training, and educating the finest Airmen in the world. As a member of the AETC, you will contribute to the core values of integrity, service, and excellence, ensuring that USAF pilots are prepared for the complex realities of modern aerial warfare.