30 April 2026

Southwest Airlines | Instructor

United States

Flight Ops Flight Instructor

Job ID: R-2026-66189

Location: Dallas, Texas, United States

Department: Flight Operations

Job Type: Full-time Regular

Position Summary

The Flight Operations Flight Instructor supports the Flight Operations Department by providing essential training to pilots in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), the Advanced Qualification Program Manual (AQPM), the Flight Operations Training Manual (FOTM), and company requirements. This role facilitates classroom and simulator training to ensure pilots possess the necessary knowledge and hands-on experience to maintain safe and reliable flight operations.

Responsibilities

  • Prepare and conduct classroom and simulator training in accordance with FARs, training manuals, and company standards.
  • Facilitate pilot learning and development.
  • Create instructional and evaluation media/materials to support training programs.
  • Maintain course material and procedural integrity through self-study, skills practice, critique review, and instructor meetings.
  • Perform additional job duties as assigned by leadership.

Requirements

Education and Experience

  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Proven flying experience operating an aircraft.

Licensing and Certification

  • Must possess a valid USA DOT/FAA Unrestricted Airline Transport Pilot Certificate with "Airplane Multiengine Land" category/class ratings and "English Proficient" limitation.
  • Must possess a valid United States Driver's License.
  • Must meet all regulatory criteria to obtain and maintain Flight Deck Jumpseat Access, including successful and continuous enrollment in Rap Back.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Proficiency in operating training equipment, including computer-based training workstations.
  • Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs.
  • Comprehensive understanding of flight training instructional duties and FAR training requirements.
  • Excellent English verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to interpret technical aircraft documents, learn new technical concepts, and prepare written technical guidance.
  • Capability to perform accurate work under tight time constraints with a high degree of flexibility.
  • Ability to work a rotating schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to support 24/7 operational requirements.

Physical Requirements

  • Must have vision ability sufficient to read flight deck and computer displays.
  • Capacity to participate in the FAR-directed Line Observation Program and maneuver in/out of aircraft and simulators under normal and emergency conditions.
  • Ability to remain seated in a simulator for up to 4 hours.
  • Ability to move/transport up to 25 lbs occasionally.
  • Ability to work at elevated heights, operate flight simulators, and manipulate flight controls at full deflection.
  • Capability to facilitate/present for up to 8 hours and perform audible call-outs in training environments.

Additional Qualifications

  • Must be at least 23 years of age.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or hold current authorization to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
  • Must maintain a well-groomed appearance and exhibit professional behavior at all times.
  • Must be able to comply with company attendance and confidentiality standards.
  • Ability to travel by air, including overnight stays, is required.
  • This role is based at the Dallas, TX headquarters and requires on-site attendance during business hours.

Pay and Benefits

This position offers a pay rate of $78.94 per hour, with opportunities for future increases based on the collective bargaining agreement, as well as overtime and shift premiums.

  • Flight privileges for employees and eligible dependents.
  • Retirement Savings Plan with a company match of up to 10% of eligible earnings.
  • Potential for annual profit-sharing contributions.
  • Comprehensive health insurance options effective from the first day of employment.

Southwest Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fair hiring practices.

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