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Air Force Navigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$96.85/hr

... Air Force Generation (AFFORGEN) model. This scheduling process supports CAF units tasked to ... Graduate from a DoD Pilot, Navigator, or Air Battle Manager training course Other Required Skills ...

Air Force. Below are the careers in aviation that work together to get our birds in the sky ... NAVAL FLIGHT OFFICER - In this role, you're the navigator, the lookout and the weapon operator ...

Air Force. Below are the careers in aviation that work together to get our birds in the sky ... NAVAL FLIGHT OFFICER - In this role, you're the navigator, the lookout and the weapon operator ...

Air Force. Below are the careers in aviation that work together to get our birds in the sky ... NAVAL FLIGHT OFFICER - In this role, you're the navigator, the lookout and the weapon operator ...

Air Force. Below are the careers in aviation that work together to get our birds in the sky ... NAVAL FLIGHT OFFICER - In this role, you're the navigator, the lookout and the weapon operator ...

Air Force. Below are the careers in aviation that work together to get our birds in the sky ... NAVAL FLIGHT OFFICER - In this role, you're the navigator, the lookout and the weapon operator ...

Air Force. Below are the careers in aviation that work together to get our birds in the sky ... NAVAL FLIGHT OFFICER - In this role, you're the navigator, the lookout and the weapon operator ...

Air Force. Below are the careers in aviation that work together to get our birds in the sky ... NAVAL FLIGHT OFFICER - In this role, you're the navigator, the lookout and the weapon operator ...

Air Force. Below are the careers in aviation that work together to get our birds in the sky ... NAVAL FLIGHT OFFICER - In this role, you're the navigator, the lookout and the weapon operator ...

Air Force. Below are the careers in aviation that work together to get our birds in the sky ... NAVAL FLIGHT OFFICER - In this role, you're the navigator, the lookout and the weapon operator ...

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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 16, 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 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.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,665 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

$104K - $161K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Air Force Civilian Service rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 98 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

As civilians, we share the same responsibility and passion as those in uniform - driving innovation, building the systems that protect our nation, and meeting every challenge with purpose.
The Air Force Civilian Service (AFCS) is looking for an OT&E Program Manager (Test Director, NH-0301-03 (GS-12/13 equiv)) to work at AFOTEC Det 5 at Edwards AFB, CA.
Member will serve as a Test Director, leading the operational testing of Department of Defense (DoD) Acquisition Category (ACAT) I, II, or DoD oversight major weapons systems programs. Leads, plans, coordinates, executes, and reports on operational test activities during the design, development, production and fielding of new and/or modified major weapon systems.
Salary $104,349 - $161,313.
**Value of Position (VOP): If your current basic salary is within the band, but above the stated VOP, your basic salary will not be reduced if you are selected for the position.**
Work requires travel away from the normal duty station by commercial and/or military aircraft.
No remote work (situational telework)Permanent positionRecruitment & Relocation may be authorized1-2 years desired experience
AFCS Benefits:
Paid Time Off
11 Federal Holidays each year
13 sick leave days earned per year (accumulative)
Paid Vacation Time: 13-26 days per year based on length of employment
Life Insurance
Health Insurance: No waiting period to qualify for you and your family
Retirement:
Immediate coverage by the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
Basic Benefits Plan
Social Security
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), similar to a 401(k) (Automatically receive 1% agency contributions and up to 5% matching)
Qualifications
Conditions of Employment:
U.S. Citizenship required
Position requires drug testing
Must obtain/maintain a TS Security Clearance.
Employee must meet or be capable of meeting Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) requirements, which includes achieving Test and Evaluation category "Foundational" level certification within the required timeframe after appointment.
Occasional Temporary Duty assignment (TDY) travel required.
May require irregular duty hours (evenings/weekends/holidays).
Serves as the Operational Test and Evaluation (OT&E) Program Manager for assigned weapon systems and subsystems. Leads a diverse test team of military, civilian, and contractor personnel encompassing a wide variety of disciplines to include engineering, analysis, logistics, communications, maintenance, intelligence, modeling, simulation, and operations.
Designs, develops, and directs the operational test plan for assigned major weapons systems programs. Coordinates plans, testing, and resource requirements with DoD, major commands (MAJCOM), Product and Test Centers, joint and other services, and foreign countries.
Conducts testing and evaluation in the appropriate operationally representative environment.
Responsible for the final report that will be presented to senior AFOTEC, MAJCOM, and Air Force Leadership, and the Director, Operational Test and Evaluation (DOT&E) for over-sight programs.
Executes, chairs, and/or supports test events, integrated test planning meetings, integrated test team sub-groups, core teams, critical design reviews, and any other meetings necessary to plan and execute integrated operational testing and evaluations.
Desired Skills/Expertise:
Knowledge of airpower plans and procedures for conducting major operations, and the ability to apply this knowledge to evaluate mission readiness of new or modified weapon systems applying prior military officer expertise, or equivalent experience.
Knowledge of airpower program goals, objectives, operational missions, and the government acquisition process, while planning, coordinating, and budgeting OT&E test activities.
Knowledge sufficient to develop technical reports appropriate for senior AF, DoD, and joint service executive and technical level reviews.
Knowledge of a wide range of qualitative and quantitative methods for the planning and assessment of operational tests for highly complex weapon systems and subsystems.
Ability to research, analyze, and interpret high-level guidelines including general, DoD, Joint Service, and military service directives and instructions.
Skill in effectively interacting, operating, and communicating (both verbally and in writing) with personnel from diverse backgrounds/qualifications/experience.
Prior experience as a rated military aviator (e.g. pilot/navigator) or equivalent is desired.
Prior experience in aircraft test, either developmental test or operational test, as an aircrew member is highly desired.
A master's degree in a related area is highly desirable.
Qualification Requirements: **Refer to OPM Qualification Standards for information on required position series/education requirements at: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/**
Experience at the next lower broadband/grade level (or equivalent).
Similar Job Titles/Fields of Study/Skills: Test Director. Program Management. OT&E, Operational Test and Evaluation, rated military aviator (e.g. pilot/navigator), combat flight experience.
Click the apply button to complete an application and upload 2-page resume (PDF or Word Doc). Be sure to include your contact information, relevant experience (with information on day/month/year experience began and ended), and information on education, certifications or licensures, and three professional references. Please see additional recommendations for formatting your resume at the following link: https://help.test.usajobs.gov/faq/application/documents/resume/page-limit.
To receive additional information about current and future job openings with AFCS via email notification, please register at www.Afciviliancareers.com and sign up to "Get Career Updates."
AFCS is Equal Opportunity Employer. U.S. citizenship required

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