Chief Flight Instructor
Apply NowCompany: Central Washington University
Location: Ellensburg, WA 98926
Description:
Central Washington University is recruiting a Chief Flight Instructor to join our Aviation team in Ellensburg, Washington. This role is an important member of our team as they enhance the vision for the University. The role is a campus-basedposition, which means you get to see the lives you are impacting. We're offering a salary, depending on experience, from $81,000 - $100,000annually plus the awesome CWU benefits.
Who we are:
We are a team of individuals committed to Changing Students' Lives. No matter what job, each of us plays a part in supporting and empowering our students to fulfill their dreams.
Working in higher education provides career growth and career choice. Think of a university campus like a mini city, operating across 380 acres. You'll find diverse academics, libraries, athletics and sporting events, full service and quick serve dining, conferences and events from small to large, recreation centers, housing, health services, police and public safety for the campus population of ~10,000 students.
Central Washington University has been named a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program Top Producing Institution for the 2022-2023 academic year. In addition, for the seventh time in eight years, CWU is a recipient of the prestigious Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. RentCafe has also named CWU #13 of the Top 20 Best College Towns in the U.S. in 2025.
Come join us on our journey to encourage, inspire, and create spaces where all identities thrive on campus.
Tour our campus in Ellensburg here. www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjdhOegDa9A
What we offer:
Our investment in you begins the day you join our team, a healthy and successful future for you is important to us. We offer medical, dental, life and disability insurance, retirement and optional savings plans, tuition assistance for you and your dependents, discounts across town, an employee assistance program for individualized counseling, and a wellness incentive program. Learn more: Benefits, Perks, and Leave and Total Rewards Calculator .
The Role:
The principle function of the Chief Flight Instructor is to accomplish safe, efficient and quality flight training that complies with Central Washington University and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) policies and procedures. Provide supervision to the Flight & Ground Instructor Pilots. Responsible to the Director of Special Operations in the management of flight training to include safety of training, quality of training, student service and student progress. This position plays a vital role in shaping the vision, mission, and values of Central Washington University by enhancing the Aviation Professional Pilot Program as the trusted choice for aspiring pilots. They create a work and learning environment built on trust, accountability, excellence, safety, and stewardship. This important position will influence the future of aviation by promoting a culture that embodies these principles, all within an academic framework that emphasizes innovation and professional integrity in flight training and education. All employees are expected to uphold and contribute to CWU's vision, mission, and values, fostering a culture of student success and institutional excellence.
Job Duties
Training/Instruction:
- Oversee instruction for flight and ground courses.
- Certify each student's training record, enrollment and graduation certificate, stage check and end-of-course exam reports, and recommendation for course completion.
- Communicate procedural and operational changes to students and instructor pilots.
- Oversee selection, training, and testing of all new hires; manage upgrade and transition training for instructor pilots.
- Mentor Assistant Chief Flight Instructors, Check Instructors, and flight instructors; support students with training progress and implement plans of action as necessary.
- Ensure assigned personnel conduct flight training in a professional, safe and efficient manner.
- Ensure student progress in flight courses meets Aviation Department minimum standards.
- Conduct weekly training meetings with Aviation Department faculty/staff.
- Conduct stage checks/end-of-course exams and instructor proficiency/standardization flights.
- Stay current on regulatory and procedural changes in flight training; assist Aviation Department faculty with course proposals, curriculum updates, and certificate/degree programs.
- Mentor flight instructors on instructional best practices and techniques.
- Work with instructors to identify students behind pace and develop individualized training plans.
- Ensure all students understand and practice all aspects of safety and CWU Aviation Safety Management System.
- Ensure course standards, training requirements, and objectives are met as outlined in Training Course Outlines (TCOs).
- Initiate stage check requests for assigned students.
- Responsible for the timely course completion of all flight students assigned, including completion of required paperwork.
- File incident reports as necessary to report any observed safety violations, or situations that may affect the safety of flight to CWU Aviation Safety Management system.
- Attend administrative, standardization, in-service training, and instructor development meetings as assigned.
- Perform those flight instructor duties authorized by the Federal Aviation Regulations in accordance with the approved Training Course Outline.
- Ensure new flight instructors receive training on how to maintain Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) 141 training records.
- Ensure standardization of flight instructors through observation and flight checks.
- Conduct initial and annual recurrent proficiency checks for instructors in accordance with FARs.
- Supervise flight training activities, ensuring FAA and university standards are met.
- Coordinate with Maintenance and Dispatch for optimal aircraft availability.
- Provide guidance and safety briefings during department all-hands meetings.
- Ensure instructors maintain FAA-required flight currency and training.
Supervision:
- Supervise the Assistant Chief Flight Instructors and Flight Instructors.
- Actively engage in recruitment and hiring process of new employees.
- Define performance expectations; provide regular informal feedback, coaching, and mentoring.
- Conduct formal performance evaluations.
- Oversee and direct the work of staff; serve as mentor, coach and leader, and resolve complaints or issues.
- Promote professional development opportunities.
- Develop and foster supportive working relationships, motivation and engagement.
- Maintain regular communication with staff to encourage engagement and community.
- Recognize and reward employees for good performance.
- Take corrective action in a timely manner.
- Schedules employee work hours/shifts; monitor hours worked; approve payable time and absence requests.
- Adjust leadership style as needed to achieve results.
- Recognize value of and promote diverse workforce; value and encourage diverse perspectives, creativity and teamwork.
Compliance:
- Ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality flight training in accordance with FAA and university policies.
- Amend FAA-approved documents as needed to maintain Part 141 compliance.
- Responsible for maintaining all training documents to ensure FAA compliance, and to ensure safety.
- Ensure the accuracy of course completion paperwork to be submitted to the FAA.
- Coordinate with CWU Safety Officer and department safety personnel to align with CWU Safety Management System policies.
- Apply and maintain standards of quality operating methods, processes, systems, and procedures; implements changes as necessary to maintain a compliant Flight Training program.
Administration:
- Coordinate student for the FAA practical test with Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs) per departmental procedures.
- Serve on departmental committees and participate in Review Boards for student training concerns.
- Collaborate with department faculty and staff to update Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and Training Course Outlines (TCOs).
- Analyze training and flight data to identify trends and inform program improvements.
- Monitor student flight timelines and intervene early to resolve delays in training progress.
- Act as the primary FAA liaison for course renewals, approvals, and audits.
- Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the instructional and training environment.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Pay, Benefits, & Work Schedule
Salary : This position has a minimum annual salary of $80,588 and maximum annual salary of $120,883. The Hiring Department's expected hiring range is $81,000 - $100,000. In accordance with RCW 49.58.110, the above salary reflects the full salary range for this position. Individual placement within the hiring range is based on the candidate's current experience, education, skills, and abilities related to the position.
Schedule/Appointment : Flexible based on 40 hours per week / Monday - Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm (1 hour lunch)
Working Conditions : This position may work indoors and outdoors at times in hot/cold/noisy/dirty/wet/confined areas such as mechanical rooms and airfield and may need to physically access work areas with the equipment and tools necessary for completion of the job. This often requires standing/crawling/bending/walking/climbing while carrying/pulling/pushing/lifting associated with equipment or tools. It is essential to be able to remain at a desk/computer workstation for prolonged periods of time. Evening and weekend work is required. Occasional travel may be required. May need to drive a service vehicle in congested areas.
Benefits : CWU offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental insurance, retirement and optional savings plans, life and disability insurance, along with vacation and sick leave plans depending on employment classification. For additional information please visit Benefits, Perks, and Leave and Total Rewards Calculator .
An employee of CWU may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program if the employee has student loans. To learn more, visit: https://ofm.wa.gov/state-human-resources/public-service-loan-forgiveness-program .
How To Apply
To apply for this position, you must complete the on-line application and attach:
**Priority will be given to applications received by the screening date. Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Contact Information
Name: Jason Berthon-Koch
Title: Director of Special Operations - CEPS
Email: Jason.Berthon-Koch@cwu.edu
Phone: 509-963-2980
Website: cwu.edu/academics/aviation/
Please contact Human Resources at hr@cwu.edu or 509-963-1202 if you require technical assistance with the on-line application process.
Conditions of Employment
Background Check/Reference Check Process:
Prior to employment, final candidate(s) will be required to sign a Sexual Misconduct disclosure in pursuant to RCW 28B.112.080 and submit to a background check. All information obtained through background investigations will be strictly confidential and revealed only to those required to have access.
Notice to Prospective Employees:
Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Statement
Central Washington University is an EEO/AA/Title IX Institution. Central Washington University's policies and practices affirm and actively promote the rights of all individuals to equal opportunity in education and employment. Discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, age, marital status, disability, or status as a protected veteran is prohibited. The university provides an internal procedure for reporting discrimination and affords protection against retaliation for participating in the complaint process. Central Washington University complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and executive orders including when soliciting bids and in the fulfillment of all contracts with governmental agencies. Direct related inquiries to Civil Rights Compliance , 202 Barge Hall, Ellensburg, WA 98926-7501; Telephone 509-963-2050; or email crc@cwu.edu.
Reasonable Accommodations
Central Washington University provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities who are employees or applicants for employment. Employment opportunities will not be denied because of the need to make reasonable accommodations for a qualified individual with a disability. If you need assistance or accommodation in applying because of a disability, please contact Human Resources at HR@cwu.edu or call 509-963-1202. This job announcement and other material on this site will be made available in alternate formats upon request to an individual with a disability.
Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (Clery Act)
For the Central Washington University Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (i.e. Clery Report) which includes statistics about reported crimes and information about campus security policies, available online here or call CWU Police and Parking Services at 509-963-2959 for a paper copy.
Who we are:
We are a team of individuals committed to Changing Students' Lives. No matter what job, each of us plays a part in supporting and empowering our students to fulfill their dreams.
Working in higher education provides career growth and career choice. Think of a university campus like a mini city, operating across 380 acres. You'll find diverse academics, libraries, athletics and sporting events, full service and quick serve dining, conferences and events from small to large, recreation centers, housing, health services, police and public safety for the campus population of ~10,000 students.
Central Washington University has been named a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program Top Producing Institution for the 2022-2023 academic year. In addition, for the seventh time in eight years, CWU is a recipient of the prestigious Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. RentCafe has also named CWU #13 of the Top 20 Best College Towns in the U.S. in 2025.
Come join us on our journey to encourage, inspire, and create spaces where all identities thrive on campus.
Tour our campus in Ellensburg here. www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjdhOegDa9A
What we offer:
Our investment in you begins the day you join our team, a healthy and successful future for you is important to us. We offer medical, dental, life and disability insurance, retirement and optional savings plans, tuition assistance for you and your dependents, discounts across town, an employee assistance program for individualized counseling, and a wellness incentive program. Learn more: Benefits, Perks, and Leave and Total Rewards Calculator .
The Role:
The principle function of the Chief Flight Instructor is to accomplish safe, efficient and quality flight training that complies with Central Washington University and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) policies and procedures. Provide supervision to the Flight & Ground Instructor Pilots. Responsible to the Director of Special Operations in the management of flight training to include safety of training, quality of training, student service and student progress. This position plays a vital role in shaping the vision, mission, and values of Central Washington University by enhancing the Aviation Professional Pilot Program as the trusted choice for aspiring pilots. They create a work and learning environment built on trust, accountability, excellence, safety, and stewardship. This important position will influence the future of aviation by promoting a culture that embodies these principles, all within an academic framework that emphasizes innovation and professional integrity in flight training and education. All employees are expected to uphold and contribute to CWU's vision, mission, and values, fostering a culture of student success and institutional excellence.
Job Duties
Training/Instruction:
- Oversee instruction for flight and ground courses.
- Certify each student's training record, enrollment and graduation certificate, stage check and end-of-course exam reports, and recommendation for course completion.
- Communicate procedural and operational changes to students and instructor pilots.
- Oversee selection, training, and testing of all new hires; manage upgrade and transition training for instructor pilots.
- Mentor Assistant Chief Flight Instructors, Check Instructors, and flight instructors; support students with training progress and implement plans of action as necessary.
- Ensure assigned personnel conduct flight training in a professional, safe and efficient manner.
- Ensure student progress in flight courses meets Aviation Department minimum standards.
- Conduct weekly training meetings with Aviation Department faculty/staff.
- Conduct stage checks/end-of-course exams and instructor proficiency/standardization flights.
- Stay current on regulatory and procedural changes in flight training; assist Aviation Department faculty with course proposals, curriculum updates, and certificate/degree programs.
- Mentor flight instructors on instructional best practices and techniques.
- Work with instructors to identify students behind pace and develop individualized training plans.
- Ensure all students understand and practice all aspects of safety and CWU Aviation Safety Management System.
- Ensure course standards, training requirements, and objectives are met as outlined in Training Course Outlines (TCOs).
- Initiate stage check requests for assigned students.
- Responsible for the timely course completion of all flight students assigned, including completion of required paperwork.
- File incident reports as necessary to report any observed safety violations, or situations that may affect the safety of flight to CWU Aviation Safety Management system.
- Attend administrative, standardization, in-service training, and instructor development meetings as assigned.
- Perform those flight instructor duties authorized by the Federal Aviation Regulations in accordance with the approved Training Course Outline.
- Ensure new flight instructors receive training on how to maintain Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) 141 training records.
- Ensure standardization of flight instructors through observation and flight checks.
- Conduct initial and annual recurrent proficiency checks for instructors in accordance with FARs.
- Supervise flight training activities, ensuring FAA and university standards are met.
- Coordinate with Maintenance and Dispatch for optimal aircraft availability.
- Provide guidance and safety briefings during department all-hands meetings.
- Ensure instructors maintain FAA-required flight currency and training.
Supervision:
- Supervise the Assistant Chief Flight Instructors and Flight Instructors.
- Actively engage in recruitment and hiring process of new employees.
- Define performance expectations; provide regular informal feedback, coaching, and mentoring.
- Conduct formal performance evaluations.
- Oversee and direct the work of staff; serve as mentor, coach and leader, and resolve complaints or issues.
- Promote professional development opportunities.
- Develop and foster supportive working relationships, motivation and engagement.
- Maintain regular communication with staff to encourage engagement and community.
- Recognize and reward employees for good performance.
- Take corrective action in a timely manner.
- Schedules employee work hours/shifts; monitor hours worked; approve payable time and absence requests.
- Adjust leadership style as needed to achieve results.
- Recognize value of and promote diverse workforce; value and encourage diverse perspectives, creativity and teamwork.
Compliance:
- Ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality flight training in accordance with FAA and university policies.
- Amend FAA-approved documents as needed to maintain Part 141 compliance.
- Responsible for maintaining all training documents to ensure FAA compliance, and to ensure safety.
- Ensure the accuracy of course completion paperwork to be submitted to the FAA.
- Coordinate with CWU Safety Officer and department safety personnel to align with CWU Safety Management System policies.
- Apply and maintain standards of quality operating methods, processes, systems, and procedures; implements changes as necessary to maintain a compliant Flight Training program.
Administration:
- Coordinate student for the FAA practical test with Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs) per departmental procedures.
- Serve on departmental committees and participate in Review Boards for student training concerns.
- Collaborate with department faculty and staff to update Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and Training Course Outlines (TCOs).
- Analyze training and flight data to identify trends and inform program improvements.
- Monitor student flight timelines and intervene early to resolve delays in training progress.
- Act as the primary FAA liaison for course renewals, approvals, and audits.
- Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the instructional and training environment.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in aviation or related field.
- Meets the Chief Instructor requirements of 14 CFR 141.35(a), (c) and (d).
- FAA Commercial Pilot or Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate:
- Airplane Single-Engine Land (ASEL);
- Instrument Airplane; and
- Airplane Multiengine Land (AMEL).
- Valid FAA Flight Instructor Certificate:
- Airplane Single-Engine Land (CFI);
- Instrument Airplane (CFII); and
- Airplane Multiengine Land (MEI).
- Meets recent flight experience of PIC general experience in accordance with 14 CFR 61.57(a) and instrument experience in accordance with 14 CFR 61.57(c) or (d).
- Must satisfactorily pass a knowledge and flight proficiency test with the Flight Standards District Office's (FSDO) Principal Operations Inspector (POI), in accordance with 14 CFR 141.35(d)(3) and (4).
- At least 2,000 hours as PIC;
- At least 100 hours of flight time under actual or simulated instrument conditions; and
- Flight training experience as a certified flight instructor or an instructor in a military pilot flight training program
- 3 years and a total of 1,000 flight hours; or
- 1,500 flight hours.
- FAA Commercial Pilot or Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate:
- Minimum three (3) years of flight training experience, including at least two (2) years of supervisory experience.
- Valid state driver's license or government issued photo ID.
- Valid FAA Medical Certificate or BasicMed.
- Meets the flight review requirements in accordance with 14 CFR 61.56.
- Complex endorsement in accordance with 14 CFR 61.31(e).
- Must satisfactorily complete an evaluation/standardization check flight with the CWU Assistant Chief Instructor or designee.
- Must authorize CWU to examine FAA Accident/Incident file.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office or similar software (Word, Excel, Outlook, flight scheduling software).
- No restrictions that prevent performing assigned flight duties or normal non-flying activities.
- Demonstrated commitment to fostering a culture of collaboration, respect, and institutional excellence through leadership and engagement with students and/or colleagues.
- OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the essential functions of the position.
- Master's degree in aviation or related disciplines.
- Experience as a full-time flight instructor in a FAA Part 141 flight school.
- Any airplane type rating in accordance with 61.31(a).
- Experience in the following aircraft: Piper Archer, Seminole, Warrior III, and Cessna 172.
- Experience in Frasca RTD Advanced Aviation Training Device (AATD).
- Experience in Garmin G1000NXi, G500NXi, G5, G430, and Aspen Evolution Backup Display.
- High-performance endorsement in accordance with 61.31(f).
- High altitude endorsement in accordance with 61.31(g).
- Demonstrated participation in programs designed to promote student success.
- Demonstrated commitment to improving access to higher education for students through various activities.
- Accountability/Dependability: Accepts responsibility for quality of own work; acknowledges and corrects mistakes. Shows up on time, meets standards, deadlines, and work schedules.
- Judgement: Makes timely, informed decisions. Analyzes options and determines appropriate course of action.
- Teamwork: Promotes cooperation and mutual support to achieve goals. Encourages participation and mutual support.
- Adaptability/Flexibility: Responds positively to changing business needs and responsibilities. Adapts approach and methods to achieve results; recovers quickly from setbacks and finds alternatives.
- Commitment to Belonging: Values the uniqueness of every individual and fosters an environment where everyone feels respected and empowered to thrive.
Pay, Benefits, & Work Schedule
Salary : This position has a minimum annual salary of $80,588 and maximum annual salary of $120,883. The Hiring Department's expected hiring range is $81,000 - $100,000. In accordance with RCW 49.58.110, the above salary reflects the full salary range for this position. Individual placement within the hiring range is based on the candidate's current experience, education, skills, and abilities related to the position.
Schedule/Appointment : Flexible based on 40 hours per week / Monday - Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm (1 hour lunch)
Working Conditions : This position may work indoors and outdoors at times in hot/cold/noisy/dirty/wet/confined areas such as mechanical rooms and airfield and may need to physically access work areas with the equipment and tools necessary for completion of the job. This often requires standing/crawling/bending/walking/climbing while carrying/pulling/pushing/lifting associated with equipment or tools. It is essential to be able to remain at a desk/computer workstation for prolonged periods of time. Evening and weekend work is required. Occasional travel may be required. May need to drive a service vehicle in congested areas.
Benefits : CWU offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental insurance, retirement and optional savings plans, life and disability insurance, along with vacation and sick leave plans depending on employment classification. For additional information please visit Benefits, Perks, and Leave and Total Rewards Calculator .
An employee of CWU may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program if the employee has student loans. To learn more, visit: https://ofm.wa.gov/state-human-resources/public-service-loan-forgiveness-program .
How To Apply
To apply for this position, you must complete the on-line application and attach:
- A detailed cover letter clearly demonstrating how your education and experience: (a) meet the required (and, as applicable, preferred) qualifications, and (b) demonstrate the ability to perform the responsibilities as described by the posting;
- Resume including work history, education, training;
- Ratings, Hours Flown, Medical Category and applicable expiration dates ; and
- Contact information for three professional references.
**Priority will be given to applications received by the screening date. Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Contact Information
Name: Jason Berthon-Koch
Title: Director of Special Operations - CEPS
Email: Jason.Berthon-Koch@cwu.edu
Phone: 509-963-2980
Website: cwu.edu/academics/aviation/
Please contact Human Resources at hr@cwu.edu or 509-963-1202 if you require technical assistance with the on-line application process.
Conditions of Employment
Background Check/Reference Check Process:
Prior to employment, final candidate(s) will be required to sign a Sexual Misconduct disclosure in pursuant to RCW 28B.112.080 and submit to a background check. All information obtained through background investigations will be strictly confidential and revealed only to those required to have access.
Notice to Prospective Employees:
Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Statement
Central Washington University is an EEO/AA/Title IX Institution. Central Washington University's policies and practices affirm and actively promote the rights of all individuals to equal opportunity in education and employment. Discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, age, marital status, disability, or status as a protected veteran is prohibited. The university provides an internal procedure for reporting discrimination and affords protection against retaliation for participating in the complaint process. Central Washington University complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and executive orders including when soliciting bids and in the fulfillment of all contracts with governmental agencies. Direct related inquiries to Civil Rights Compliance , 202 Barge Hall, Ellensburg, WA 98926-7501; Telephone 509-963-2050; or email crc@cwu.edu.
Reasonable Accommodations
Central Washington University provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities who are employees or applicants for employment. Employment opportunities will not be denied because of the need to make reasonable accommodations for a qualified individual with a disability. If you need assistance or accommodation in applying because of a disability, please contact Human Resources at HR@cwu.edu or call 509-963-1202. This job announcement and other material on this site will be made available in alternate formats upon request to an individual with a disability.
Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (Clery Act)
For the Central Washington University Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (i.e. Clery Report) which includes statistics about reported crimes and information about campus security policies, available online here or call CWU Police and Parking Services at 509-963-2959 for a paper copy.