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Air Force Navigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flying hours logged as a student pilot will be credited one-for-one when calculating total time.) SUBSTITUTION:- Completion of Air Force navigator training or equivalent training in other US military ...

$105K - $137K/yr

Open to current members of the Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve or Air Force Active Duty. Learn more about this agency Duties Help As a Supervisory Navigator (Instructor), GS-2183-13 , you will:

VA

$143K/yr

... Air Force entities involved in overall planning and execution of military operations and evaluations. 4. Knowledge of AF military rated aviator (e.g., pilot, navigator) expertise as it applies to ...

$131K/yr

Air Reserve Technicians are full-time civilian employees who are also members of the Air Force ... navigator. 2. Knowledge of flying operations, command center communications, intelligence ...

$108K/yr

Knowledge of the application of Air Force military rated aviator (e.g., pilot, navigator) expertise as it applies to assigned programs and assigned weapons systems. * Ability to apply military rated ...

PROGRAM ANALYST

Arlington, VA ยท On-site +1

$143K - $187K/yr

... Air Force entities involved in overall planning and execution of military operations and evaluations. 4. Knowledge of AF military rated aviator (e.g., pilot, navigator) expertise as it applies to ...

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Air Force Navigator information

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$13

$22

$33

How much do air force navigator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for air force navigator in the United States is $22.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the main challenges Air Force Navigators face during missions, and how are they supported to overcome them?

Air Force Navigators often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, complex airspace management, and coordinating with both the aircrew and ground operations. Navigators must stay highly focused and adaptable, using advanced avionics and navigation systems to ensure mission success. The Air Force provides extensive training, continuous simulation exercises, and strong team support to help navigators build resilience and problem-solving skills necessary for high-pressure situations.

What is the $600000 bonus for the Air Force?

The $600,000 bonus for Air Force navigators is a special enlistment or retention incentive offered in certain circumstances, such as critical skill shortages or to encourage experienced personnel to extend their service. These bonuses are typically part of broader recruiting or retention programs and may require specific commitments or qualifications. Such bonuses are not standard for all navigators and are usually awarded based on current military needs and policies.

What are Air Force Navigators?

Air Force Navigators, also known as Combat Systems Officers (CSOs), are commissioned officers responsible for managing and directing the navigation, weapons, and electronic systems on various Air Force aircraft. They play a crucial role in mission planning, in-flight operations, and ensuring that aircraft reach their destinations safely and efficiently. Navigators use advanced technology and coordinate with pilots and crew to complete missions such as reconnaissance, transport, and combat operations. Their training covers a wide range of skills, including navigation, electronic warfare, and communication systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Air Force Navigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Air Force Navigator, you need a strong understanding of aviation navigation, aeronautical science, and must possess at least a bachelor's degree and completion of specialized Air Force training. Familiarity with advanced navigation systems, GPS, radar, and mission planning software is essential, along with relevant military certifications. Excellent situational awareness, teamwork, decision-making, and clear communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure mission accuracy, crew safety, and effective operations in dynamic and high-stakes environments.

What does an Air Force navigator do?

An Air Force navigator is responsible for planning and directing the flight path of military aircraft, using navigation systems and charts to ensure accurate positioning. They also assist with mission planning, communicate with air traffic control, and may operate onboard sensors or weapons systems, often working in high-pressure environments and requiring specialized training and certifications.

How to become a navigator in the Air Force?

To become an Air Force navigator, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria, including age, education, and physical fitness requirements. They typically complete Officer Training School or attend the Air Force Academy, then undergo specialized training at the Undergraduate Navigator Training (UNT) program, which covers navigation, aircraft systems, and mission planning. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with navigation tools are essential for success in this role.

How much does an Air Force navigator make?

An Air Force navigator's salary typically ranges from approximately $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, rank, and years of service. They receive additional benefits such as housing allowances, healthcare, and retirement options, and must complete specialized training and certifications to qualify for the role.

What is the difference between Air Force Navigator vs Air Force Pilot?

AspectAir Force NavigatorAir Force Pilot
Primary RolePlan and execute navigation routes, assist with mission planning, and operate navigation systemsFly aircraft, operate flight controls, and ensure mission execution
Required CertificationsNavigation training, aviation certifications, security clearancePilot certifications, flight training, security clearance
Work EnvironmentAircraft, mission planning rooms, navigation stationsAircraft cockpit, flight line, mission control

Both roles are integral to air missions, requiring aviation certifications and security clearances. Navigators focus on route planning and navigation systems, while pilots operate the aircraft. They often work together in the cockpit to ensure mission success.

More about Air Force Navigator jobs
What cities are hiring for Air Force Navigator jobs? Cities with the most Air Force Navigator job openings:
What states have the most Air Force Navigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Air Force Navigator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Air Force Navigator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Part Time. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,665 per year, or $22.9 per hour.
AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS OFFICER

AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS OFFICER

US Department of the Air Force

Minneapolis, MN โ€ข On-site

$116K/yr

Other

This job post hasย expired 2 days ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.
Air Reserve Technicians are full-time civilian employees who are also members of the Air Force Reserve unit in which they are employed. In addition to their civilian assignments, they are assigned to equivalent positions in the Reserve organization with a Reserve military rank or grade.Qualifications:THIS IS AN AIR RESERVE TECHNICIAN OFFICER POSITION.
This is an Air Reserve Technician (ART) Officer position located at 934 OPERATIONS SUPPORT with the military rank of Lt Co: O-5, AFSC: 012M3B. For questions concerning military eligibility please contact the Air Force Reserve Qualification Center at 1-800-257-1212.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: No specific length of experience required. The qualifications of Airplane/Helicopter Pilots or Airplane/Helicopter Flight Instructors in an Air Force active duty and Reserve force are directly related to the completion of prerequisite training and number of flying hours rather than years of experience. GS-13:Must have logged 2,000 or more total pilot time (i.e., accumulation of primary, secondary, instructor, evaluator, simulator and student time), or 1,300 hours Primary Flight Time (i.e. primary, secondary, instructor, and evaluator time) or Instructor Pilot time. Must be instructor qualified in unit aircraft.(Note: For position requiring the piloting of fighter jet aircraft (e.g., F-16, A-10, F-15, F-22), each hours as First Pilot and/or Instructor Pilot in a fighter jet aircraft may be counted as two hours of flying time when determining total hours of pilot time or primary and/or instructor pilot time. Training aircraft (T-37/T-38) should be considered when giving double credit but only for those hours in which candidates logged either instructor/evaluator pilot or primary pilot time. Flying hours logged as a student pilot will be credited one-for-one when calculating total time.)
SUBSTITUTION:- Completion of Air Force navigator training or equivalent training in other US military establishments for heavier-than-air aircraft may be substituted for one year of general experience.- Satisfactory completion of Air War College, Air Command and Staff College, or equivalent in another of the US military establishments, may be substituted for one year of specialized experience.- Each year of service in a Reserve component of the US military establishment in assignments that normally would result in progression into the position of Aircraft Operations Officer, and in which the flying requirements specialized by Air Force regulation have been met, may be credited for three months of general or specialized experience. The substitution, may not be made for periods of Reserve service which occurred concurrently with periods of fulltime experience for which credit is assigned.
CERTIFICATION: Must hold or qualify for a USAF Pilot or Navigator rating; hold a valid aviation service aeronautical order, be Instructor Qualified in unit MDS, and have actively flown military aircraft within the past eight (8) years. (NOTE: YOU MUST SUBMIT SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION)
MINIMUM FLYING HOURS: Applicants must have logged 1,200 or more total flying time as a Navigator.(NOTE: YOU MUST SUBMIT SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION).
Federal Time-In-Grade (TIG) Requirement for General Schedule (GS) Positions: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in-grade requirements to be consider eligible. One year at the GS-12 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-13 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
  1. Knowledge of and skill in the application of rated aviator expertise; as a pilot.
  2. Knowledge of the standards and evaluation plans and policies pertaining to operations and unit flying training activities.
  3. Knowledge of flying operations, unit mission, and command center communications, intelligence procedures, and current operations including worldwide deployment of aircraft.
  4. Knowledge of the relationships of the various Air Force Reserve entities, other MAJCOMs and Air Force in overall planning and execution of military operations and evaluations.
  5. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE:
Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
RETIRED MILITARY ARE USUALLY INELIGIBLE FOR MEMBERSHIP IN THE AIR FORCE RESERVE. RETIRED MILITARY PERSONNEL WHO HAVE ACTIVE AIR FORCE RESERVE ASSIGNMENTS MAY APPLY PROVIDED THEY SHOW ASSIGNMENT (POSITION AND UNIT) ON THEIR APPLICATION.Employment Type: OTHER