Flight Instructor - Flight Operations
The Flight Operations Department at Southwest Airlines is seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Flight Instructor to join its team. This individual will play a vital role in shaping the next generation of pilots by providing comprehensive training in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), the Advanced Qualification Program Manual (AQPM), the Flight Operations Training Manual (FOTM), and all relevant Company requirements and agreements. The Flight Instructor will be responsible for delivering engaging instruction in both classroom and simulator environments, ensuring pilots possess the necessary knowledge and practical experience to maintain the highest standards of safety and reliability. This position is based at the Dallas, TX headquarters and requires on-site presence during regular business hours.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and deliver engaging classroom and simulator training sessions, adhering strictly to FARs, training policies, manuals, and Company protocols.
- Facilitate effective learning for pilots, fostering a supportive and collaborative training environment.
- Create and maintain high-quality instructional and evaluation materials that support all training programs.
- Ensure course material and procedural integrity through ongoing self-study, skills practice, critique reviews, and regular participation in instructor meetings.
- Perform additional job-related duties as directed by leadership.
Qualifications:
- Exceptional English verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
- Proficiency in reading technical aircraft documentation and conveying complex information in a clear and concise manner.
- Ability to adapt to tight deadlines while maintaining a high degree of flexibility and accuracy.
- Availability to work varying shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required by operational needs.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs.
- Solid working knowledge of FAR training requirements.
- Experience with computer-based training workstations.
- Ability to participate in the FAR directed Line Observation Program.
- Ability to enter and exit an aircraft, flight simulator, and briefing rooms under both normal and emergency conditions.
- Ability to sit in the simulator uninterrupted for up to 4 hours.
- Ability to work in a limited space workstation/office for extended periods.
- Ability to move or transport up to 25 lbs occasionally.
- Ability to work at elevated heights and operate a Flight Simulator.
- Ability to manipulate applicable 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 call outs in classroom and/or simulator settings.
- Must maintain a well-groomed appearance.
- Must be at least 23 years of age.
- Must demonstrate professional behavior both on and after company hours.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding company information.
- Ability to travel with overnight stays as needed.
- Ability to work extended hours as needed.
Education:
- Required: High School Diploma or GED.
Experience:
- Required: Demonstrable experience in operating an aircraft.
Licensing/Certification:
- Required: Unrestricted USA DOT/FAA Airline Transport Pilot Certificate, displaying "Airplane Multiengine Land" Category and Class Ratings, and "English Proficient" limitation.
- Required: Valid United States Driver's License.
- Required: Ability to meet all regulatory criteria to obtain and maintain Flight Deck Jumpseat Access, including successful and continuous enrollment in Rap Back.
Compensation and Benefits:
This position offers a competitive hourly rate of $76.64, with potential for increases based on the applicable collective bargaining agreement and time in position. Southwest Airlines provides a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Free flight privileges on all 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 contributions to the Retirement Savings Plan.
- Competitive health insurance for employees and eligible dependents (including pets).
- Health plan coverage options starting on the first day of employment, with 30 days to enroll.
Southwest Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to creating an inclusive environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. This position requires U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship.