Airplane Chief Instructor

Hillsboro Aero Academy•Redmond, OR

About The Position

As the Chief Instructor at Hillsboro Aero Academy’s Redmond, Oregon campus, you will play a pivotal leadership role in ensuring the highest standards of flight instruction, operational efficiency, and customer service. You will lead and manage a team of Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs) and collaborate closely with campus Chief staff, Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs), and key departments—including standards, operations, and safety—to deliver exceptional training outcomes. Your responsibilities will include maintaining regulatory compliance, optimizing resource allocation, and fostering a safe, supportive environment that helps students achieve their goals, including strong checkride pass rates. Hillsboro Aero Academy is one of the nation’s largest multi-campus airplane and helicopter flight schools, distinguished by decades of training excellence and a dedication to student success. With an extensive fleet of over 100 aircraft, we uphold rigorous safety standards, maintain IS-BAO accreditation, and support a diverse range of aspiring pilots from around the world. Our mission is to deliver comprehensive, real-world training in a professional, nurturing environment—ensuring every student has the foundation to achieve their aviation career goals. As the Chief Instructor at our Redmond campus, you will be a key contributor to our continued growth, quality-focused approach, and reputation for producing skilled, confident aviators.

Requirements

Valid FAA Class 2 Medical Certificate
Valid FAA Certified Flight Instructor Airplane (CFI) and Instrument Instructor (CFII)
Proven record of safe personal and operational flight practices
Demonstrated leadership and management experience, including team building and development
Exceptional organizational, multitasking, and critical thinking abilities
Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills, coupled with a high level of energy and professionalism

Nice To Haves

Prior Chief or Assistant Chief/Program Manager experience
Dual instruction experience with Cessna and Piper Seminole

Responsibilities

Lead, mentor, and manage a team of CFIs, assistant chiefs, and check instructors.
Ensure proper scheduling, training, and professional development of instructional staff.
Conduct regular safety and standardization meetings, promoting alignment with FAA regulations and internal quality standards.
Lead weekly CFI meetings and monthly student meetings
Uphold Chief Instructor duties in accordance with 14 CFR Part 141 and other applicable regulations.
Collaborate with campus chief staff to refine curriculum delivery, streamline training operations, and ensure timely program completion.
Monitor student progress and ensure instructional consistency, working directly with CFIs to address performance gaps and improve outcomes.
Foster a customer-focused culture, ensuring students receive supportive, personalized instruction and guidance.
Proactively engage with students to address concerns, maintain satisfaction, and support successful progression through the training program.
Work closely with Designated Pilot Examiners to ensure high checkride success rates.
Continuously refine training approaches based on DPE feedback and industry best practices.
Partner with standards, operations, and safety departments to maintain compliance with all regulatory and internal safety requirements.
Actively participate in the Safety Management System (SMS) to identify risks and implement mitigations.
Optimize resource allocation—including instructor availability—to improve training efficiency while maintaining the highest safety standards.
Recruit, interview, and onboard new CFIs as needed.
Approve employee timecards, ensure proper workload distribution, and maintain equitable scheduling.
Implement ongoing talent development initiatives to build and sustain a high-performing instructional team.