Flight Operations Flight Instructor
Job Summary:
Aviation professionals are invited to apply for the position of Flight Operations Flight Instructor at Southwest Airlines, based in Dallas, Texas, United States of America. This full-time, regular position is within the Flight Operations Department and the Pilots & Flight Operations category. The Flight Operations Flight Instructor plays a vital role in supporting the Flight Operations Department by delivering comprehensive training to Pilots. The training is conducted in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), the Advanced Qualification Program Manual (AQPM), the Flight Operations Training Manual (FOTM), and other company requirements. The incumbent will use classroom settings and flight simulators to equip pilots with the necessary knowledge and practical experience to ensure safe and reliable flights for customers. This role requires excellent interpersonal and communication skills to facilitate effective flight instruction.
Compensation and Benefits:
This position offers a competitive hourly pay rate of $76.64, with potential for future increases as per the applicable collective bargaining agreement and tenure. Additionally, opportunities for overtime and shift premiums are available.
Employees enjoy exceptional benefits including:
- Privilege of free travel on any open seat on Southwest flights for the employee and eligible dependents.
- Company contributions of up to 9.3% of eligible earnings to the Retirement Savings Plan.
- Potential for annual Profit-Sharing contribution to the Retirement Savings Plan, based on company profits.
- Comprehensive health insurance options for employees and eligible dependents, including pets, starting on the first day of employment.
Detailed benefits information is available on the company's career website.
Company Commitment:
Southwest Airlines is dedicated to providing a stable work environment with equal opportunities for learning and personal growth. The company encourages creativity and innovation to enhance effectiveness and treats all employees with the same respect and care expected when serving customers.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and conduct classroom and simulator training in accordance with FARs, training manuals, and company requirements.
- Facilitate pilot learning through effective instructional techniques.
- Create and maintain instructional and evaluation materials for training programs.
- Ensure course material and procedural integrity through self-study, skills practice, critique review, and instructor meetings.
- Perform additional job duties as directed by management.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Experience operating computer-based training workstations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs.
- Comprehensive knowledge of flight training instructional duties and FAR training requirements.
- Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills in English.
- Ability to interpret technical aircraft documents and prepare clear written technical materials.
- Capacity to work accurately under time constraints while maintaining adaptability.
- Flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Education:
- High School Diploma or GED is required.
Experience:
- Proven flying experience operating an aircraft.
Licensing/Certification:
- Unrestricted USA DOT/FAA Airline Transport Pilot Certificate with "Airplane Multiengine Land" Category and Class Ratings, and "English Proficient" limitation.
- Valid United States Driver's License.
- Meet all regulatory criteria to obtain and maintain Flight Deck Jumpseat Access, including continuous enrollment in Rap Back.
Physical Abilities:
- Visual acuity to read computer/video/flight deck displays.
- Ability to participate in the FAR Line Observation Program and safely enter/exit the aircraft and flight simulator.
- Ability to sit in a simulator for up to four hours.
- Capacity to work from limited spaces for extended durations.
- Effective English communication and interaction skills.
- Ability to use computer and office equipment efficiently.
- Ability to occasionally lift and transport up to 25 lbs.
- Ability to work at elevated heights and operate a flight simulator.
- Ability to manipulate flight controls at full deflection.
- Ability to pass annual flight evaluation.
- Ability to converse/present/facilitate for up to 8 hours.
- Ability to make/receive audible callouts in classroom and/or simulator settings.
Other Qualifications:
- Maintain a professional appearance in accordance with company guidelines.
- U.S. citizenship or authorization to work in the U.S. as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986, without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.
- Ability to comply with company attendance standards.
- Minimum age of 23 years.
- Professional behavior during and after company hours and at company events.
- Ability to work rotating shifts, holidays, and overtime as needed.
- Ability to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive company information.
- Air travel with overnight stays may be required.
- Ability to work extended hours as needed.
Additional Information:
This position requires working at the Southwest Airlines headquarters in Dallas, TX. The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity. This job description should be saved or printed for future reference as it will no longer be accessible after applying.
*Pay amount does not guarantee employment for any particular period of time. **401(k) match contributions are subject to Retirement Savings Plan vesting schedule and applicable IRS limits ***ProfitSharing contributions are subject to Retirement Savings Plan vesting schedule and are made at the discretion of the Company.