Careers

Are you a passionate aviator eager to inspire the next generation of pilots? Highlands Aero Flight Center, located in Abingdon, VA (KVJI), is seeking Flight Instructors (CFIs) to join our growing team. We are dedicated to providing high-quality flight training with a strong emphasis on safety, skill development, and a personalized learning experience.

Why Instruct at Highlands Aero?

• Independent Instructor Role – Set your own schedule and take control of your earnings.

• Competitive Pay & Flexible Scheduling – Work as much or as little as you choose with consistent student demand.

• Modern Fleet – Train students in our well-maintained Pipistrel Alpha Trainer and access advanced training tools, including an MSFS procedures trainer.

• Diverse Training Opportunities – From Sport to Private Pilot and Instrument and Commercial ratings, gain experience across various student levels.

• Supportive Environment – Work with a dedicated team that values professional growth and mentorship.

• Tri-Cities Area Advantage – Enjoy beautiful flying conditions in the scenic Blue Ridge region, with low air traffic congestion and diverse airspace for training.

Qualifications

• Hold a valid CFI certificate (CFI-I preferred but not required).

• Passion for teaching and mentoring students.

• Strong communication and leadership skills.

• Ability to adapt instruction to individual student learning styles.

• Commitment to safety and excellence in flight training.

• Ability to operate as an independent instructor (1099 contractor).

Are you a certified drone pilot ready to take your skills to the next level?

Highlands Aero Flight Center, located in Abingdon, VA (KVJI), is expanding our aerial services and seeking Part 107 Drone Pilots to join our operations team. We deliver FAA-compliant drone services across the Appalachian Highlands—from real estate imaging and mapping to aerial media production and survey support.

Why Fly Drones with Highlands Aero?

Project-Based Flexibility – Accept only the missions you want with no minimums or fixed schedule.

Competitive Pay – Starting at $100/project, with higher rates for technical or specialized operations.

Professional Branding – Operate under Highlands Aero’s trusted name and benefit from established client relationships and a safety-first culture.

Mission Variety – Contribute to real estate shoots, construction surveys, agricultural overlays, and event capture, using both Highlands-owned and contractor-provided equipment.

Operational Support – We handle client intake, airspace deconfliction, and project scoping—you focus on safe, effective flying.

Tri-Cities Area Advantage – Enjoy scenic missions across Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee with minimal congestion and strong demand for regional drone services.

Qualifications

• Hold a current FAA Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107)

• Demonstrated proficiency with DJI platforms (e.g., Air 3, Mavic, Mini series)

• Prior experience with aerial photography, videography, or mapping preferred

• Strong understanding of U.S. airspace, LAANC, and UAS regulations

• Professionalism in client interaction and post-mission reporting

• Ability to operate as an independent contractor (1099)