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Air Force Navigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

For questions concerning military eligibility please contact the Air Force Reserve Qualification Center at 1-800-257-1212. SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Three years of progressively responsible experience ...

Air Reserve Technicians are full-time civilian employees who are also members of the Air Force ... The qualifications of Navigator (Instructors) in an Air Force active duty and Reserve force are ...

$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:

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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 Aug 24, 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 is an Air Force navigator?

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?

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 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 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.

How to become an Air Force navigator?

To become an Air Force navigator, candidates must meet specific eligibility requirements, including U.S. citizenship, a bachelor's degree, and passing the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test. They must complete Officer Training School or the Air Force Academy, then attend specialized navigator training at the Air Force's training command, where they learn navigation, aircraft systems, and mission procedures. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure are essential for success in this role.
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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,665 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

AIR COMMANDER (PILOT/NAVIGATOR)

US Department of the Air Force

Whiteman Air Force Base, MO

$150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

ick 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. Appointee's civilian assignments will consist of the following duties.Qualifications:THIS IS AN AIR RESERVE TECHNICIAN OFFICER POSITION.
This is an Air Reserve Technician (ART) Officer position located at 442 FIGHTER WG with the military rank of O-6/COL, AFSC: 091W0. For questions concerning military eligibility please contact the Air Force Reserve Qualification Center at 1-800-257-1212.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Must have 52 weeks of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-14 level or equivalent. Typically, this work includes three years of progressively responsible experience in a flying component of the U.S. military establishment in assignments that would normally qualify for progression to the position of Wing Commander or its equivalent
AND
Certification and Ratings:
Must have been awarded or qualify for a USAF Command Pilot or USAF Command Navigator or USAF Master Combat Systems Officer (CSO) or Command RPA Pilot or Master Air Battle Manager rating or 15 years of total rated service and hold a valid aviation service aeronautical order.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:
Minimum Flight Hour Requirements:
I have the knowledge and skills required for the work and meet the minimum flight hour requirements, including: Minimum of 2,500 Total Military Flight Time and Previous instructor qualification is required in any MDS and have actively within the past 8 years. NOTE: You must submit proof of (Flying History Report or ATAFR Form 209, Supplemental Statement of Aeronautical Qualification for Air Reserve Technician) and Flight hours.
SUBSTITUTION:
- Completion of Air Force pilot or 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 Wing Commander, 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 have been awarded or qualify for a USAF Command Pilot or USAF Command Navigator or USAF Master Combat Systems Officer (CSO) or Command RPA Pilot or Master Air Battle Manager rating or 15 years of total rated service and hold a valid aviation service aeronautical order.
MINIMUM INSTRUMENT HOURS REQUIRED: Must hold a valid USAF instrument rating or other equivalent military or civilian rating.
MINIMUM FLYING HOURS: Applicants must have logged a minimum of 2,500 Total Military Flight Time and previous instructor qualification is required in any MDS and have actively flown within the past 8 years.
Federal Time-In-Grade (TIG) Requirement for General Schedule (GS) Positions: Applicants must have served at least 52 weeks at the GS- 14 grade level or higher grade (or equivalent in an alternate pay system) within the Federal Civil Service to be considered for referral. 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 planning, organizing, coordinating, directing, and controlling activities, operations, and resources of a flying organization; and mentoring, motivating, and appraising a staff through subordinate supervisors.
2. Knowledge of the operations of a wing, various Air Force Reserve entities, other MAJCOMs and Air Force, and their relationships in overall management and execution of military operations, evaluations, and missions.
3. Knowledge of public relations and human relations as applicable to managing an organization.
4. Knowledge of rated aviator expertise and skill in its application, as either a pilot or navigator.
5. Knowledge of tactical and strategic warfare, and wartime readiness posture; Skill in exercising tact and diplomacy in dealing various individuals when accomplishing duties.
6. Skill in effective oral and written communication and public speaking to manage the operations of the assigned wing, communicate issues to subordinates, other officials, and the public, and to advocate the Air Force Reserve.
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:IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience, transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.
Employment Type: OTHER