Chief Flight Instructor

JOB SUMMARY:  

The Chief Flight Instructor provides leadership, oversight, and instruction within AOPA’s flight training initiatives. This role is responsible for the development, standardization, and quality control of flight training and familiarization programs delivered in AOPA-owned aircraft. The Chief Flight Instructor also manages a formation flight training and proficiency program. The position ensures training aligns with AOPA's mission to support and grow general aviation by maintaining high instructional standards, safety, and regulatory compliance.  

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:  

Flight Instruction and Training (40%): Provide primary and advanced flight instruction to AOPA staff seeking initial certification or additional ratings. Monitor student progress and ensure training milestones are met efficiently. Support AOPA projects such as formation photoshoots, event fly-ins with technical expertise and safety oversight. 

Instructor Standardization and Oversight (10%): Conduct flight instructor standardization training and safety briefings. Oversee and authorize instructor checkouts and ensure compliance with AOPA and FAA standards. Maintain CFI records and ensure instructional currency. 

Program and Operations Management (30%): Manage company-sponsored flight familiarization, training, and proficiency programs. Maintain and revise the AOPA Flight Operations Manual. Coordinate internal pilot flight planning and operations. Maintain compliance with TSA Part 1552 and other applicable regulations. 

Administrative and Compliance (10%): Ensure training and employee-related documentation is accurate and current. Collaborate with Lead Aircraft Maintenance Technician for aircraft scheduling and servicing. Stay informed on regulatory updates related to flight training. 

Collaboration and Communication (10%): Foster strong communication with Flight Operations and Maintenance. Work with all AOPA departments to support introductory flights and flight training. Represent AOPA's flight training function in interdepartmental and industry settings. 

**Although this job description aims to capture the majority of the position duties, other duties may be assigned based on business and departmental needs. 

REQUIRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS:  

Certificated Flight Instructor - Airplane Single Engine 

Flight Instructor Instrument - Airplane Rating 

Commercial Pilot Certificate - Airplane Single and Multi-Engine Land 

Minimum 500 hours Pilot in Command (PIC) 

Minimum 250 hours dual instruction given 

Minimum of three years of general aviation flight instruction experience 

Tailwheel endorsement with minimum 25 hours experience 

Demonstrated understanding of 14 CFR Parts 43, 61, 68, 91, and 119 

Current FAA 3rd Class Medical Certificate or BasicMed eligibility 

PREFERRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS:  

Bachelor’s degree in aviation, education, or related field 

Certificated Flight Instructor - Airplane Multi-Engine 

Experience operating within a Part 141 flight school environment 

WORKING CONDITIONS:  

This position works primarily in an office and flight training environment at Frederick HQ.  

Typical working hours are 8:30 am – 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, with occasional weekend or evening assignments. May require travel up to 10% of the time to support AOPA events, flight training initiatives, or instructor oversight.  

Exposure to outdoor conditions, confined aircraft spaces, and varying altitudes during flight operations may occur. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:  

The physical demands of this position are typical of an aviation and office environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will regularly be required to: 

Regular use of hands and arms with typical office equipment such as computers (screen, keyboard, etc.), phones, copiers, etc. 

Sit, stand, and walk for extended periods in the office setting and inside general aviation aircraft 

Use of both arms, hands, and legs for operating flight equipment 

Must be able to climb, crawl, bend, reach, and stoop to get in and out of aircraft. 

Must be able to physically withstand altitudes normally associated with general aviation and flying. 

Communicate clearly via radio, phone, and in person 

Occasionally lift up to 25 pounds, including aircraft equipment and instructional materials. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:  
 
This position is located at AOPA’s Frederick, MD headquarters.    

The salary range for this position is: $75,000 - $85,000, depending on education and experience.  

BENEFIT INFORMATION:  

Flight Training (earn your Private Pilot License for free) & Annual Flight Proficiency Program (so you can keep flying and remain proficient)  

Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance is available for employees and their dependents the 1st of the month following their start date  

Flexible Spending Plans  

Health Savings Plan with employer contribution (for eligible participants)  

401(k) Retirement Plan with a company match, and annual discretionary supplemental employer contribution  

Company paid Short and Long-term Disability Insurance  

Company paid Life Insurance and AD&D insurance with the option to buy up   

Paid Time Off (PTO): 17 days accrued during first year (accruals increase based on tenure)  

Paid Holidays: 12 holidays  

Personal days: 3 (prorated based on hire date)  

Volunteer day: 1 (prorated based on hire date)   

Work From Home Fridays  

Paid Parental Leave   

AOPA Membership  

Employee Assistance Program  

Wellness Program (earn medical insurance premium discounts)  

Gym Reimbursement Program  

Supplemental insurance options (critical illness, accident, hospital indemnity)  

Tuition Reimbursement Program   

Discount on AOPA swag  

Business casual dress code  

Free coffee, tea, hot cocoa