Southwest | Instructor

Flight Operations Flight Instructor

Department: Flight Operations

Position Summary

The Flight Operations Flight Instructor supports the Flight Operations Department by providing comprehensive 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 conducts both classroom and simulator training to ensure pilots possess the necessary knowledge and hands-on experience to deliver safe and reliable flight operations. Candidates must demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills to facilitate effective instruction.

This position is based at the corporate headquarters in Dallas, TX, and requires the employee to work on-site during business hours.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and conduct classroom and simulator training in compliance with FARs, training policies, and company standards.
• Facilitate pilot learning and development.
• Develop and create instructional and evaluation materials to support training programs.
• Maintain course material and procedural integrity through self-study, skills practice, critique review, and active participation in instructor meetings.
• Perform additional duties as directed by leadership.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proficiency with training equipment, including computer-based training workstations.
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office programs.
• Comprehensive understanding of flight training instructional duties and FAR training requirements.
• Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills in English.
• Ability to interpret technical aircraft documents, learn new technical concepts, and prepare written technical guidance.
• Capacity to work effectively under tight deadlines while maintaining flexibility.
• Ability to work a rotating schedule, which may include evenings, weekends, holidays, and 24-hour operations.

Required Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or GED.
• Experience: Demonstrated flying experience operating an aircraft.
• Licensing: USA DOT/FAA Unrestricted Airline Transport Pilot Certificate, including "Airplane Multiengine Land" Category/Class ratings and "English Proficient" limitation.
• Flight Records: Paper or electronic logbook documenting at least the last 500 hours of flight time.
• Documentation: Valid United States Driver’s License.
• Eligibility: Must meet all regulatory criteria for Flight Deck Jumpseat Access and maintain continuous enrollment in Rap Back.
• Citizenship: U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. without the need for future sponsorship.
• Age: Minimum 23 years of age.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to frequently view and read computer, video, and flight deck displays.
• Capacity to participate in the FAR-directed Line Observation Program.
• Ability to enter and exit aircraft, flight simulators, cabin simulators, and briefing rooms under normal and emergency conditions.
• Ability to sit in a simulator for up to 4 hours uninterrupted.
• Capacity to perform office duties for extended periods.
• Ability to lift/transport 25 lbs on an occasional basis.
• Ability to work at elevated heights.
• Capability to manipulate flight controls at full deflection.
• Ability to pass an annual flight evaluation.
• Ability to present/facilitate training for up to 8 hours.

Additional Requirements

• Compliance with company appearance and attendance standards.
• Professional conduct on and off-duty.
• Must maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive company information.
• Willingness to travel by air with overnight stays.
• Ability to work extended hours as required.

Compensation and Benefits

The starting pay is $78.94 per hour, with opportunities for future increases based on the collective bargaining agreement. Overtime and shift premiums are available. Benefits include flight privileges for employees and eligible dependents, a 401(k) company match up to 10%, potential annual profit-sharing, and competitive health insurance effective from the first day of employment.

Southwest Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fair hiring practices without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, military or veteran status, disability, or genetic information.