Become a Helicopter Flight Instructor/Evaluator with the Army National Guard
The Army National Guard is currently seeking an elite professional to serve as a Helicopter Flight Instructor/Evaluator in Ronkonkoma, New York. This high-level GS-13 position is a vital component of the Army Aviation Support Facility, tasked with the critical responsibility of training, evaluating, and maintaining the readiness of our pilot corps. If you are an experienced aviator looking to utilize your skills to train the next generation of military pilots, this is your opportunity.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will act as a subject matter expert in aviation techniques and instructional methodology. Key duties include:
- Providing rigorous flight instruction to pilots and aeroscout observers.
- Conducting standardized evaluations of crew performance and flight safety.
- Developing and overseeing comprehensive mission planning protocols.
- Advising command staff on aviation safety, weather analysis, and tactical mission feasibility.
- Managing compliance with Federal Aviation Administration and Department of the Army standards.
Requirements
To be considered for this competitive role, candidates must demonstrate significant professional experience:
- Experience: Two years of specialized experience in instructing military-grade aircraft.
- Certifications: Current FAA credentials or equivalent military aviation school certification.
- Clearance: Must hold or be eligible to obtain a Secret security clearance.
- Education: Completion of high school/GED is the minimum, with an undergraduate degree highly preferred.
Qualifications Comparison Table
| Criteria | Warrant Officer Requirements | Officer (Captain+) Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Education | HS Diploma/GED (Degree optimum) | Undergraduate Degree Required |
| Aviation Exp | 2+ years specialized instruction | 2+ years specialized instruction |
| Safety Exp | Unit-level program knowledge | Advanced safety program management |
Salary Overview
The salary for this position is competitive, ranging from $147,299 to $191,490 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Benefits
- Federal Health and Life Insurance.
- Defined benefit retirement plan (FERS).
- Opportunity to contribute to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Dedicated time for professional development and training.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Your resume MUST be two pages or less. This is the most common reason for disqualification.
- Quantify Results: When listing your duties, explain the impact of your instruction on unit readiness.
- Detail Everything: Include month/year for all past roles and clearly state your military rank or federal grade.
This position is ideal for a dedicated aviator who values safety, instruction, and mission success. If you meet the criteria and are ready to serve in a capacity that influences the future of Army aviation, we encourage you to submit your application through the official USAJOBS portal before the deadline.
Why This Helicopter Flight Instructor/Evaluator Job Matters
Take your flight career to new heights as a Helicopter Flight Instructor/Evaluator with the Army National Guard in Ronkonkoma, New York.
Helicopter Flight Instructor/Evaluator Job Overview
The Army National Guard is seeking a highly skilled Helicopter Flight Instructor/Evaluator (GS-2181-13) to join our team at the Army Aviation Support Facility 1. In this critical role, you will be responsible for the instruction, examination, and evaluation of rated pilots, instructor pilots, and aeroscout observers. You will provide expert guidance on flight techniques, instructional methodology, and comprehensive safety protocols, ensuring that all aviation operations meet the highest standards of the Department of the Army.
Requirements for Helicopter Flight Instructor/Evaluator
- Must be a current member of the Army National Guard or eligible for membership.
- Must hold appropriate FAA certifications or military aviation school qualifications.
- Must possess at least two years of specialized experience in instructing others in a specific air-frame or military aircraft.
- Must meet medical requirements (no record of claustrophobia).
- Must be eligible for and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Must be willing to participate in random drug testing as part of a Testing Designated Position (TDP).
Preferred Qualifications for Helicopter Flight Instructor/Evaluator
- Graduate degree from an accredited institution or equivalent professional military education.
- Extensive experience in complex mission environments, including night-vision operations and tactical remote site landings.
- Proven history of developing and implementing unit-level flight safety programs.
- Advanced standardization and evaluation experience within military aviation frameworks.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βCompetitive Federal Salary ($147,299 - $191,490)
- βComprehensive Federal Health and Life Insurance
- βRetirement benefits under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- βOpportunities for professional military education and career advancement
- βThrift Savings Plan (TSP) participation
π‘ How to Apply Helicopter Flight Instructor/Evaluator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Helicopter Flight Instructor/Evaluator Job
- Ensure your USAJOBS profile is up to date.
- Prepare a detailed resume (strictly limited to 2 pages).
- Collect official college transcripts and proof of FAA/Military aviation certifications.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the provided USA Staffing link.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of September 3, 2026.
- Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
π‘ General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly two pages or less; longer resumes will be automatically disqualified.
- Ensure your resume includes clear dates (month and year) for every position held.
- Explicitly highlight your experience with specific aircraft types and instructional roles.
- Check for confirmation emails after submission to ensure your documents were processed.
- Address all competencies listed in the job description within your resume entries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum resume length?
Your resume must be no longer than two pages. If it exceeds this, you will be disqualified from the selection process.
Is this a remote position?
No, this position requires on-site presence at the Army Aviation Support Facility in Ronkonkoma, New York.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, a Secret security clearance is required. You must either possess this upon hire or be capable of obtaining it within one year.
Are there drug testing requirements?
Yes, this is a Testing Designated Position, and random drug testing is a condition of employment.
What is the closing date?
The application portal closes on September 3, 2026.
Job from Army National Guard Units
The National Guard is a cornerstone of American defense and domestic emergency response. Serving both state and federal missions, the organization relies on highly skilled professionals to maintain operational excellence. As a Title 32 Excepted Service employee, you will be joining a team dedicated to protecting our nation and supporting local communities during times of crisis.
