What are the responsibilities and job description for the Asst Chief Flight Instructor position at University of Nebraska at Kearney?
Job Summary:
The Assistant Chief Flight Instructor (ACFI) assists the Chief Flight Instructor in carrying out the management, supervision, and standardization of flight training conducted under 14 CFR Part 141, in accordance with the responsibilities assigned to chief instructors and assistant chief instructors under 14 CFR §§ 141.35 and 141.36.
This position supports the day-to-day oversight of flight training, instructor training and supervision, instructional standardization, and regulatory compliance for FAA-approved training courses. The ACFI serves as a qualified and authorized instructional leader who may act on behalf of the Chief Flight Instructor as delegated, ensuring the continuous, safe, and effective conduct of training operations within a collegiate aviation environment.
In alignment with 14 CFR §§ 141.35 and 141.36, the Assistant Chief Flight Instructor shall:
Instructional Oversight & Supervision
- Assist the Chief Flight Instructor in supervising all flight instructors and ensuring training is conducted in accordance with FAA-approved Training Course Outlines (TCOs).
- Exercise delegated authority to oversee flight and ground training operations when the Chief Flight Instructor is unavailable.
- Ensure instructors are properly qualified, current, and authorized for the training they conduct.
- Provide direct leadership, mentoring, and professional guidance to flight instructors.
Standardization & Training Quality
- Assist in maintaining standardization of instructional methods, procedures, and evaluation practices across all courses.
- Conduct or assist with stage checks, end-of-course tests, and instructor standardization activities, as authorized.
- Monitor instructional quality and ensure adherence to approved syllabi, lesson plans, and grading standards.
Regulatory Compliance & FAA Coordination
- Support compliance with Part 141 certificate requirements, FAA approvals, and limitations.
- Assist in preparation for FAA inspections, surveillance, audits, and certification activities.
- Ensure training records, instructor records, and student records are accurate, complete, and maintained in accordance with FAA and institutional requirements.
- Assist with corrective actions and continuous improvement following FAA findings or internal reviews.
Safety & Risk Management
- Promote and support the program’s Safety Management System (SMS) and safety policies.
- Identify hazards and operational risks associated with flight training activities.
- Reinforce safe operating practices and regulatory compliance among instructors and students.
Administrative & Program Support
- Assist with instructor selection, onboarding, training, scheduling, and evaluation.
- Support student training progression, including monitoring progress, addressing deficiencies, and coordinating remedial training when necessary.
- Coordinate with academic leadership to ensure alignment between flight training and degree program requirements.
- Perform instructional duties as needed to support operational continuity.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of Part 141 flight training operations
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Aviation, Aviation Management, Business Management, or related field.
- FAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) with:
- Instrument Instructor (CFII)
- Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI)
- Minimum flight experience:
- 1,500 hours total Pilot in Command time in airplanes
- 1,000 hours of flight instruction given
- 400 hours of instrument flight instruction given
- Minimum of two (2) years of flight instructor experience
- Demonstrated experience in both Part 61 and Part 141 flight training operations
- Demonstrated experience as a Part 141 Check Instructor in Private Pilot, Instrument, and Commercial Pilot syllabus.
- Experience in a collegiate aviation Part 141 program
- Demonstrated leadership experience in an instructional or aviation management role
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Current FAA medical certification, instructor currency, and institutional employment requirements
Preferred Qualifications:
- Direct experience with FAA-approved Training Course Outlines (TCOs) and FAA oversight
- Experience with Safety Management Systems (SMS) Advanced degree in aviation, education, or management
About Us:
The University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) is a public university committed to excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement. As part of the University of Nebraska system, UNK offers a supportive, student-focused environment with the resources of a larger institution. Located in central Nebraska, UNK serves around 6,000 students and is known for its strong academics, welcoming campus culture, and dedication to student success. Join a team that values innovation, collaboration, and the power of education to transform lives.
As a University of Nebraska employee, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, retirement, and wellness programs plus 13 paid holidays each year, generous leave options, and tuition remission.
The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment.
Salary : $58,000 - $60,000