Originally Posted by Southerner

Most are. Many are hired as non-seniority instructors and apply for numbers a year later. They have to apply and interview just like any other pilot.

Some instructors started as regular pilots and went into the training department. It's a mix, really. The pay is based on FO Airbus rates, so once they can hold captain they have a decision to make, as the pay doesn't go up to captain rates.