Southwest | Instructor

About the Role

Southwest Airlines is seeking a dedicated Flight Operations Flight Instructor to join its esteemed Flight Operations Department. This critical role is responsible for providing comprehensive pilot training, ensuring adherence to Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), the Advanced Qualification Program Manual (AQPM), the Flight Operations Training Manual (FOTM), and all Company requirements and agreements. The Flight Operations Flight Instructor will deliver instruction in both classroom and simulator environments, fostering the knowledge and practical skills necessary for pilots to ensure safe and reliable flights for all Southwest Customers.

Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills are paramount for this position, enabling the effective facilitation of flight instruction and the cultivation of a positive learning environment.

Company Promise & Culture

Southwest Airlines is committed to providing its Employees with a stable work environment and abundant opportunities for learning and professional growth. The company actively encourages creativity and innovation to enhance operational effectiveness. Central to its philosophy, Southwest Airlines treats all Employees with the same concern, respect, and caring attitude that are expected to be extended to every Customer.

The vibrant culture at Southwest Airlines emphasizes camaraderie, collaboration, and innovation fostered through face-to-face interaction at its Corporate Campus. This specific role requires the incumbent to work from the Dallas, TX headquarters facility during business hours.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and conduct classroom and simulator training sessions in strict accordance with FARs, Training Policies/Manuals, and Company requirements.
• Facilitate pilot learning and skill development effectively.
• Develop and create innovative instructional and evaluation media and materials to support training programs.
• Maintain the integrity of course materials and procedures through continuous self-study, skills practice, critique review, and active participation in instructor meetings.
• Perform other job duties as assigned by leadership.

Qualifications and Skills

• Knowledge: Proficient in the operation of training equipment, including computer-based training workstations. Comprehensive understanding of Microsoft Office programs. Strong knowledge of flight training instructional duties and a solid grasp of FAR training requirements.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent English verbal communication and interpersonal skills are essential for effective instruction and collaboration.
• Technical Aptitude: Ability to read and interpret technical aircraft documents, follow complex technical instructions, rapidly learn and understand new technical concepts, and prepare clear, concise written technical documentation.
• Performance: Demonstrated ability to achieve accurate results under tight deadlines while maintaining a high degree of flexibility.
• Work Schedule: Willingness and ability to work various assigned hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, on a rotating schedule to ensure coverage for operational hours (365 days a year, up to 24 hours a day).

Education and Experience

• Education: High School Diploma or GED is required.
• Experience: Significant flying experience operating an aircraft is required.

Licensing and Certifications

• Required: A USA DOT/FAA Unrestricted Airline Transport Pilot Certificate is mandatory, featuring "Airplane Multiengine Land" Category and Class Ratings, and an "English Proficient" limitation.
• Required: A valid United States Driver's License must be maintained.
• Required: Must meet all regulatory criteria for obtaining and maintaining Flight Deck Jumpseat Access, including successful and continuous enrollment in Rap Back.

Physical Abilities

• Vision ability to frequently view and read computer, video, and flight deck displays.
• Ability to participate in the FAR-directed Line Observation Program and safely enter/exit aircraft under normal and emergency conditions.
• Ability to enter/exit flight simulators, cabin simulators, mock-ups, and briefing rooms under normal and emergency conditions.
• Capacity to sit in a simulator uninterrupted for up to 4 hours.
• Ability to perform work duties from a limited space workstation/desk/office area for extended periods.
• Capability to communicate and interact effectively in English to meet job demands.
• Proficiency in using a computer and other office productivity tools with sufficient speed and accuracy.
• Ability to move or transport up to 25 lbs on an occasional basis (under 50%).
• Ability to work at elevated heights and operate a flight simulator.
• Capability to manipulate applicable flight controls at full deflection.
• Ability to pass an annual flight evaluation.
• Capacity to converse, present, and facilitate for up to 8 hours.
• Ability to make and receive audible call-outs in classroom and/or simulator settings.

Other Qualifications

• Must maintain a well-groomed appearance in accordance with Company appearance standards.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or possess current authorization to work in the U.S. as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986; no current or future work authorization sponsorship is available.
• Must be able to comply with Company attendance standards.
• Must be at least 23 years of age.
• Must possess professional behavior during and after Company hours and at Company events.
• Must meet confidentiality expectations regarding sensitive Company information.
• Air travel with overnight stays will be required.
• Ability to work extended hours as needed.

Pay and Benefits

• Pay: Commences at $78.94 per hour*, with potential for future increases as per the applicable collective bargaining agreement wage scale based on time in position. Opportunities for overtime and shift premiums are available.
• Benefits: Employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
  • Complimentary flight privileges on any open seat on all Southwest flights for the employee and eligible dependents.
  • Southwest will contribute to a Retirement Savings Plan, offering a dollar-for-dollar 401(k) Company match up to 10% of eligible earnings**.
  • Potential for annual profit-sharing contributions to the Southwest Retirement Savings Plan when the company profits***.
  • Competitive health insurance options for employees and their eligible dependents.
  • Health plan coverage begins on the first day of employment, with a 30-day enrollment window for retroactive coverage.
  • Additional details on other attractive benefits are available.

* The stated pay rate does not guarantee employment for any specific duration.
** 401(k) Company match contributions are subject to the plan's vesting schedule. Match contributions may vary by position.
*** Profit-sharing contributions are subject to the Retirement Savings Plan vesting schedule and are made at the discretion of the Company.

Southwest Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The company actively seeks to reflect the diverse communities it serves and welcomes applicants with varied thoughts, backgrounds, and experiences.

Please note: This job description will not be available after application submission. It is recommended to print or save this document.

Job Posting End Date: 04/29/2026