At a Glance
- Tasks: Support flight training operations and mentor instructors at Leading Edge Aviation.
- Company: Join a leading aviation training company with a commitment to excellence.
- Benefits: Earn up to £65,000, enjoy generous holidays, and access professional development.
- Other info: Flexible role with opportunities across campuses in Oxford and Spain.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aviation training while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Hold a valid Commercial Pilot Licence and have instructional experience.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 65000 £ per year.
The Deputy Chief Flight Instructor (Deputy CFI) supports the Chief Flight Instructor (CFI) in the delivery, oversight, and continuous improvement of flight training operations at Leading Edge Aviation (LEAL). This includes maintaining instructional standards, supervising Flight Instructors (FIs), and ensuring efficient training delivery across LEAL’s campuses (in Oxford and Alhama, Spain). The Deputy CFI acts as the CFI’s delegate in their absence and contributes to strategic training development in alignment with the Head of Training. This is a full‑time role working 40 hours per week, mostly based at our Oxford campus, with visits to our campus in Alhama, Spain.
Role Duties
- Operational Support: Assist the CFI in managing day‑to‑day flight training operations, including scheduling and resource optimisation (aircraft, simulators, instructors). Monitor training progress and intervene early where performance or scheduling issues arise.
- Instructor Oversight: Supervise, mentor, and support FIs in maintaining instructional quality and adherence to SOPs. Conduct lesson observations, provide feedback, and recommend additional training or support as needed. Support the CFI with all Line Management duties as required, including day‑to‑day management tasks, conducting annual reviews and performance management.
- Student Training: Review student progress and liaise with instructors to ensure timely completion of training phases. Conduct or supervise flight assessments, progress checks, and where necessary, remedial training sessions.
- Safety & Standards: Promote and reinforce LEAL’s Safety Management System (SMS) and Threat & Error Management (TEM) principles. Support incident/accident investigations and ensure effective dissemination of safety learnings.
- Quality Assurance: Collaborate with the Head of Standards to ensure compliance with NAA regulations and LEAL documentation. Assist in the development, review, and revision of SOPs, training syllabi, and instructional materials.
- Leadership & Development: Lead by example, upholding and promoting a culture of professionalism, integrity, and excellence. Demonstrate and uphold the company’s core values in all actions, decisions, and interactions. Represent the CFI in meetings, briefings, and when liaising with national aviation authorities or external stakeholders.
- Transition Support: Liaise with the Chief TKI and ground school team to ensure students are effectively prepared for flight training.
- Administrative Duties: Support administrative functions including reporting, records maintenance, and regulatory documentation. Assist with course planning, instructor rostering, and evaluation of training outcomes.
Core Competencies
- Hold an EASA or UK CAA Commercial Pilot Licence with valid Flight Instructor ratings relevant to LEAL’s training courses.
- Eligible to hold or obtain EASA/UK FCL.900(c) approval.
- Minimum of 1,000 hours PIC, with at least 500 hours instructional (including up to 200 hours instrument ground time).
- Proven experience in a professional flight training environment, with demonstrable instructional and supervisory capability.
- Strong interpersonal, organisational, and decision‑making skills.
- Commitment to safety, continuous improvement, and student success.
- Strong people skills with proven ability to mentor and support individuals and teams.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a positive and enthusiastic outlook.
- Demonstrable alignment with the company’s core values in attitude, conduct, and work ethic.
Further beneficial requirements
- Experience working across multiple training locations or international campuses.
- Familiarity with LEAL’s operational systems and learning environment.
- Previous leadership or deputy role within an ATO.
- Dual Licence (CAA and EASA) holder.
- Flight Examiner and FIC/FIE qualifications.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary up to £65,000, plus bonus scheme.
- Commitment to your personal and professional development.
- Generous holiday entitlement of 25 days, which increases with service, plus public holidays.
- An Airspace day for wellbeing and what is important to you.
- Enhanced sick pay and leave.
- Pension scheme with enhanced employer contributions.
- Life assurance scheme of 2x your annual salary.
- Critical illness cover.
- Access to our Individual Assistance Program and lifestyle discounts.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Free on‑site parking.
- Employee referral scheme.
Deputy Chief Flight Instructor in Oxford employer: Leading Edge Aviation Limited
Leading Edge Aviation is an exceptional employer that prioritises the professional growth and well-being of its employees. With a competitive salary, generous holiday entitlement, and a strong commitment to personal development, the Deputy Chief Flight Instructor role offers a supportive work culture where collaboration and excellence in aviation training are at the forefront. Employees benefit from enhanced sick pay, life assurance, and a range of lifestyle discounts, all while working in a dynamic environment across our Oxford and Alhama campuses.
Contact Details:
Leading Edge Aviation Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Chief Flight Instructor in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the aviation industry, especially those who might know someone at Leading Edge Aviation. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of flight training operations and LEAL’s values. Show us you’re not just a great pilot but also a perfect fit for our culture and mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your leadership skills! We want to see how you’ve mentored others and contributed to a positive training environment. Share specific examples during your discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Leading Edge Aviation.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Chief Flight Instructor in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Deputy Chief Flight Instructor role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in flight training and supervision, and don’t forget to mention any leadership roles you've held.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this position. Share your passion for aviation training and how your values align with ours at Leading Edge Aviation. Be genuine and let your personality shine through!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your instructional quality and commitment to safety. Use metrics where possible to show how you’ve positively impacted training outcomes.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team at Leading Edge Aviation!
How to prepare for a job interview at Leading Edge Aviation Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of flight training operations and the role of a Deputy Chief Flight Instructor. Brush up on your knowledge of EASA and UK CAA regulations, as well as LEAL’s Safety Management System. This will show that you’re not just interested in the job, but that you understand the industry.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully supervised and mentored other instructors in the past. Think about specific situations where you’ve had to provide feedback or support to improve instructional quality. This will demonstrate your capability to lead and uphold high standards.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to flight training operations, such as handling scheduling conflicts or addressing performance issues with instructors. Practise your responses to these scenarios to show your problem-solving skills and ability to think on your feet.
✨Align with Company Values
Familiarise yourself with Leading Edge Aviation’s vision, mission, and core values. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their culture of professionalism and excellence. This will help you stand out as a candidate who fits well within their team.
