Flight Operations Flight Instructor
Department: Flight Operations
Company Commitment: Southwest Airlines is dedicated to fostering a stable and equitable work environment that promotes employee learning and growth. We encourage creativity and innovation to enhance operational effectiveness. Above all, we treat each employee with the same respect and care we expect them to extend to our valued customers.
Compensation and Benefits:
This position offers an hourly rate of $76.64*, with potential for future increases based on the applicable collective bargaining agreement. Overtime and shift premiums are also available. Additional benefits include:
- Complimentary air travel on Southwest Airlines for the employee and eligible dependents.
- Company contributions to the Retirement Savings Plan, up to 9.3% of eligible earnings**.
- Potential for annual ProfitSharing contributions to the Southwest Retirement Savings Plan***.
- Competitive health insurance for employees and eligible dependents (including pets), with coverage commencing on the first day of employment. A 30-day enrollment period is provided.
*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.
Job Summary:
The Flight Operations Flight Instructor plays a vital role in delivering Southwest Airlines’ purpose: Connecting people to what’s important through friendly, reliable, and low-cost air travel. This position supports the Flight Operations Department by providing pilot training compliant with Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), the Advanced Qualification Program Manual (AQPM), the Flight Operations Training Manual (FOTM), and company requirements. Responsibilities encompass classroom and simulator-based training, ensuring pilots possess the necessary knowledge and skills to maintain the highest standards of safety and reliability. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for effective instruction.
Location and Work Authorization:
This role requires on-site work at our Dallas, TX headquarters during standard business hours. U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. is mandatory; sponsorship is not available.
Responsibilities:
- Prepare and deliver classroom and simulator training programs adhering to FARs, training policies, manuals, and company requirements.
- Facilitate effective pilot learning and knowledge retention.
- Develop and create instructional and evaluation materials to support training programs.
- Maintain current course materials and procedures through self-study, skills practice, critique review, and instructor meetings.
- Perform other duties as assigned by management.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Proven experience operating training equipment, including computer-based training workstations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Comprehensive understanding of flight training instructional methodologies and FAR training requirements.
- Exceptional verbal and written communication skills in English.
- Ability to interpret technical aircraft documents, follow technical instructions, acquire new technical concepts, and prepare clear and concise technical documentation.
- Capacity to maintain accuracy and efficiency under time constraints while adapting to changing priorities.
- Availability to work a rotating schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to cover 24/7 operations, 365 days a year.
Education and Experience:
- Required: High School Diploma or GED.
- Required: Significant flying experience operating an aircraft.
Licensing and Certification:
- Required: Unrestricted U.S. DOT/FAA Airline Transport Pilot Certificate with:
- "Airplane Multiengine Land" category and class ratings.
- "English Proficient" limitation.
- Required: Valid United States Driver's License.
- Required: Compliance with all regulatory criteria for Flight Deck Jumpseat Access; successful and continuous enrollment in Rap Back is required.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to view and read computer/video/flight deck displays frequently.
- Capability to participate in the FAR-mandated Line Observation Program and safely enter/exit aircraft under normal and emergency conditions.
- Ability to enter and exit the flight simulator, cabin simulator, mock-up, and briefing rooms under normal and emergency conditions.
- Ability to sit in the simulator for up to 4 hours without interruption.
- Capacity to perform work duties from a limited workspace for extended periods.
- Clear communication and interaction skills in English.
- Proficiency in using computer and office productivity tools.
- Ability to occasionally lift/move 25 lbs (under 50% of the time).
- Ability to work at elevated heights and operate a flight simulator.
- Ability to manipulate flight controls at full deflection.
- Successful completion of annual flight evaluations.
- Ability to converse, present, and facilitate for up to 8 hours.
- Ability to make/receive audible call-outs in classroom and/or simulator settings.
Other Qualifications:
- Adherence to company appearance standards.
- U.S. citizenship or authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986, without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.
- Compliance with company attendance standards.
- Minimum age of 23 years.
- Maintaining professional conduct at all times, including during non-working hours and company events.
- Ability to work rotating shifts, holidays, and overtime.
- Maintaining confidentiality of sensitive company information.
- Willingness to undertake air travel with overnight stays.
- Ability to work extended hours as needed.
Southwest Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer.