Job DescriptionIn this role, CFIs will fly multiple times each week, deliver ground-based instruction, and provide focused, high-quality training to military aircrew.
This is an in-person, non-commuter position. Pilots must live, or be willing to relocate, within 30 minutes of Rapid City, SD. The schedule is Monday through Friday each week and does not follow a traditional airline or rotational pilot schedule.
This position operates under FAA Part 91 and requires sound aeronautical judgment, strong crew coordination, and the ability to safely execute operations in a fast-paced environment. Pilots will work closely with program leadership, operations support personnel, and maintenance teams to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable daily operations.
In addition to flight operations, pilots will deliver ground-based instruction focused on the differences between FAA and USAF operating procedures, airspace, and regulatory frameworks to support pilot understanding and transition between environments.
Each pilot will also be assigned a ground duty aligned with site operations (e.g., safety, training coordination, or program administration). These responsibilities are integrated into standard duties and support overall program execution. The organizational structure and expectations are similar to a military flying unit.
Essential Functions- Act as CFI/PIC and conduct safe and efficient multi-engine flight operations in accordance with FAA Part 91 regulations and company procedures.
- Plan and execute flight profiles, and instruct aircrew on flight planning, aeronautical decision-making, and mission execution.
- Mentor and instruct U.S. Air Force aviators on instrument procedures, out-and-back mission profiles, and terminal area operations.
- Execute proficiency-focused flight profiles designed to enhance airmanship, repetition, and overall pilot performance.
- Deliver ground-based instruction on FAA and USAF procedural, regulatory, and airspace differences to support pilot understanding and operational integration.
- Maintain a high standard of aeronautical decision-making, risk management, and crew coordination in all phases of flight.
- Collaborate with operations support personnel, maintenance teams, and program leadership to ensure effective daily flight execution.
- Perform assigned ground duty roles (e.g., safety, training coordination, or program administration) in support of site operations.
- Participate in safety programs, reporting processes, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Maintain accurate and timely flight, training, and administrative records.
- Support operational planning, scheduling coordination, and program meetings as required.
- Represent XSTAR Aviation professionally in interactions with military personnel, government stakeholders, and industry partners.
Minimum Qualifications (Military pilots may apply a 1.5× conversion factor.)
1,500 hours total flight time.
750 hours of PIC time.
500 hours of instructor time.
500 hours of turbine time.
One of the following:- FAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI/CFII) and Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI), or
- Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate with multi-engine privileges and prior CFI experience, or
- Current or Former Military Instructor Pilots
Multi-engine experience required; multi-engine turbine experience preferred
Demonstrated experience providing flight instruction in multi-engine aircraft.
Current FAA Medical Certificate (Class II or higher).
Strong aeronautical decision-making and risk management skills.
Excellent communication and instructional ability.
Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented operational environment.
Minimum of 10 years of aviation experience.
HA-420 experience is highly sought after.
*Prior military pilots who do not meet these minimums may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Preferred Qualifications- Multi-engine turbine experience
- Prior military aviation experience
- Instructor pilot experience in structured training program
- Experience operating under FAA Part 91 or Part 135
- HA-420 Flight experience
- Bachelor's Degree
- Experience mentoring developing pilots in a training environment.
Physical Demands- Ability to operate aircraft safely and perform duties associated with flight operations.
- Ability to obtain and maintain an FAA medical certificate (Class II or higher).
- Prolonged periods sitting in aircraft and/or at a computer workstation.
Travel RequiredLimited travel may be required for training, aircraft repositioning, or program coordination.
Work Authorization / Security Requirements- U.S. Citizen required
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Clearance (Preferred)
NoticeThis job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.
