2026-2027 Aviation Instructor - Pilot
Newport News Public Schools · Newport News, VA
- On site
- Full-time
- $70,000 / year
- Newport News, VA
Job highlights
- Instruct secondary students in flight operations.
- Develop interest in aviation careers.
- Create engaging lesson plans.
- Manage classroom and equipment safely.
- Evaluate student progress and communicate with parents.
About the role
Job Summary
The Aviation Instructor Pilot is responsible for instructing secondary school students in flight operations, fostering a safe and engaging learning environment. This role aims to cultivate student interest and appreciation for the aviation field by developing their knowledge, skills, and talents through diverse instructional techniques tailored to individual abilities.
Essential Duties
- Instructs students in all aspects of flight operations, including ground instruction and unmanned aerial systems, adhering to the Board of Education's curriculum.
- Develops students' appreciation for flight operations and the practical applications of piloting.
- Demonstrates various flight operation techniques to students.
- Creates clear lesson plans and organizes class time for a balanced program of academic instruction, hands-on application, and computer-based learning.
- Provides individualized and small group instruction, adapting curriculum for students with diverse abilities.
- Utilizes a variety of instructional techniques suitable for different ages and skill levels.
- Establishes and maintains student behavior standards, ensuring a safe, orderly, and effective learning environment.
- Teaches students the proper use and care of aviation equipment.
- Manages and organizes storage areas for materials and equipment to ensure safety and prevent loss or damage.
- Performs minor repairs on aviation equipment and coordinates major repairs.
- Evaluates student performance and progress, providing regular reports.
- Communicates regularly with parents/guardians about student behavior and academic performance.
- Identifies student needs and collaborates with staff to address health, attitude, and learning challenges.
- Maintains detailed student records.
- Selects, orders, and manages books, instructional materials, aviation equipment, and aids.
- Models non-discriminatory practices in all professional activities.
(These duties are illustrative and may not encompass all responsibilities.)
Minimum Qualifications
- Must possess a pilot’s license and meet Virginia Department of Education requirements for aviation instruction.
- Must demonstrate effective instructional delivery and excellent communication skills.
- Must have in-depth knowledge of aviation and a certified flight instructor or ground instructor rating.
- Must have practical skills in operating various aviation technology devices and equipment.
- Must be able to instruct students in aviation flight operations.
- Must be able to build and maintain effective working relationships with administrators, parents, and students.
For additional information, visit: https://sbo.nn.k12.va.us/hr/jobs/descriptions/AviationInstructor-PilotAS.pdf
Key skills/competency
- Aviation Instructor Pilot
- Flight Operations Instruction
- Ground and Unmanned Aerial Systems Instruction
- Curriculum Development
- Student Assessment
- Aviation Equipment Management
- Classroom Management
- Pilot's License
- Certified Flight Instructor Rating
- Virginia Department of Education Requirements
Skills & topics
- Aviation Instructor
- Pilot
- Flight Operations
- Secondary Education
- Curriculum Development
- Instructional Design
- Aviation Technology
- Pilot's License
- Flight Instructor
- Ground Instructor
How to get hired
- Tailor your resume: Highlight your pilot's license, instructor ratings, and teaching experience, aligning them with Newport News Public Schools' aviation program needs.
- Showcase instructional skills: Emphasize your ability to develop lesson plans, manage a classroom, and adapt teaching methods for diverse learners in your application.
- Demonstrate aviation expertise: Clearly list your flight certifications, operational knowledge of aviation equipment, and understanding of flight operations principles.
- Express passion for education: Convey your enthusiasm for shaping young minds and fostering an interest in aviation careers within your cover letter or application essay.
- Prepare for interviews: Be ready to discuss your teaching philosophy, classroom management strategies, and how you would handle specific aviation instructional scenarios.
Technical preparation
Obtain/verify pilot's license and instructor ratings.,Familiarize with Virginia's aviation curriculum standards.,Practice demonstrating flight concepts clearly.,Master operating aviation technology devices.
Behavioral questions
Describe a challenging student and how you'd help.,How do you ensure a safe learning environment?,How would you handle a student struggling with piloting?,How do you manage classroom behavior effectively?
Frequently asked questions
- What are the minimum pilot qualifications for the Aviation Instructor Pilot role at Newport News Public Schools?
- To be considered for the Aviation Instructor Pilot position at Newport News Public Schools, you must possess a valid pilot's license and meet the Virginia Department of Education's requirements for teaching aviation courses. Additionally, a certified flight instructor or ground instructor rating is required.
- Does Newport News Public Schools offer opportunities for professional development for its Aviation Instructor Pilots?
- While not explicitly stated in the job description, school districts like Newport News Public Schools often provide professional development opportunities to help instructors stay current with aviation technology and teaching methodologies. It's recommended to inquire about this during the interview process.
- What is the expected class size for an Aviation Instructor Pilot at Newport News Public Schools?
- The job description emphasizes providing individual and small group instruction, suggesting that class sizes are managed to allow for personalized attention. Specific numbers would depend on school resources and student enrollment, and this can be clarified during the interview.
- How does Newport News Public Schools support its Aviation Instructor Pilots in managing and maintaining aviation equipment?
- The role includes instructing students on equipment care and use, organizing storage, and performing minor repairs. The school system would provide support for major repairs and ensure necessary resources are available for the program.
- What is the application process for the Aviation Instructor Pilot position at Newport News Public Schools?
- To apply, candidates should typically submit an application through the Newport News Public Schools HR portal, along with a resume and any other required documents like certifications and transcripts. The specific link for applications can usually be found on their employment website.
- Can a candidate with a strong piloting background but limited formal teaching experience apply for the Aviation Instructor Pilot job?
- The role requires effective instructional delivery techniques and the ability to instruct students. While a pilot's license and ratings are essential, candidates will need to demonstrate their capacity to teach and manage a classroom environment effectively. Prior teaching experience is highly beneficial, but strong communication and instructional planning skills can be key.