16 March 2026

Southwest | Instructor

Dallas, United States

Flight Operations Flight Instructor

Department: Flight Operations

Job Summary

The Flight Operations Flight Instructor supports the Flight Operations Department by providing training to Pilots in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), Advanced Qualification Program Manual (AQPM), Flight Operations Training Manual (FOTM), and Company requirements/agreements. This role conducts training in the classroom and in simulators to ensure Pilots have the knowledge and hands-on experience to provide Customers with a safe and reliable flight. The Flight Operations Flight Instructor possesses excellent interpersonal and communication skills to facilitate proper flight instructions.

Responsibilities

  • Prepare and conduct classroom and simulator training in accordance with FARs, Training Policies / Manuals, and Company requirements.
  • Facilitate pilot learning.
  • Develop and create instructional and evaluation media/materials for support of training programs.
  • Maintain course material and procedural integrity through self-study, skills practice, critique review, and instructor meetings.
  • May perform other job duties as directed by Employee's Leaders.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Knowledge and experience in the operation of training equipment, including computer-based training workstations.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office programs.
  • Knowledge of flight training instructional duties and a good working knowledge of FAR training requirements.
  • Excellent English verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to read technical aircraft documents, follow technical instructions, learn and understand new technical concepts, and prepare written technical documents conveying information or guidance clearly.
  • Ability to accomplish accurate work under tight time constraints while maintaining a high degree of flexibility.
  • Ability to work various assigned hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, with a rotating schedule to cover operational hours (365 days a year, up to 24 hours a day).

Education

  • Required: High School Diploma or GED.

Experience

  • Required: Flying experience operating an aircraft.

Licensing/Certification

  • Required: USA DOT/FAA Unrestricted Airline Transport Pilot Certificate with "Airplane Multiengine Land" Category and Class Ratings, and "English Proficient" limitation.
  • Required: Valid United States Driver's License.
  • Required: Must meet all regulatory criteria to obtain and maintain Flight Deck Jumpseat Access; requires successful and continuous enrollment in Rap Back.

Physical Abilities

  • Vision ability to view and read computer/video/flight deck displays frequently.
  • Ability to participate in the FAR directed Line Observation Program and enter/exit aircraft under normal and emergency conditions.
  • Ability to enter/exit flight simulator, cabin simulator or mock-up, and briefing rooms under normal and emergency conditions.
  • Ability to sit in the simulator uninterrupted for up to 4 hours.
  • Ability to perform work duties from limited space work station/desk/office area for extended periods.
  • Ability to communicate and interact with others in English to meet job demands.
  • Ability to use a computer and other office productivity tools with sufficient speed and accuracy.
  • Ability to move/transport 25 lbs on an occasional basis (under 50%).
  • 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.

Other Qualifications

  • Must maintain a well-groomed appearance per Company appearance standards.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986, without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.
  • Must be able to comply with Company attendance standards.
  • Must be at least 23 years of age.
  • Must have professional behavior on and after Company hours and at Company events.
  • Must be able to work rotating shifts, holidays, and overtime.
  • Must meet confidentiality expectations regarding Company information.
  • Air travel with overnight stays is required.
  • Ability to work extended hours as needed.

Location

Dallas, TX headquarters facility.

Compensation and Benefits

Pay of $78.94 per hour, with potential for future increases per applicable collective bargaining agreement wage scale. Opportunities for overtime and shift premiums.

Benefits include flight privileges, 401(k) Company match contribution, potential annual profit-sharing contribution, and competitive health insurance.

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