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Air Force Navigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PROGRAM ANALYST

Arlington, VA · 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 ...

PROGRAM ANALYST

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$143K - $187K/yr

... g. pilot, navigator) or non-rated (e.g. logistician, space, cyberspace), is critical to the successful performance assigned duties and responsibilities. * AFI 90-508, Air Force Civilian Drug ...

VA · On-site

$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 ...

$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 ...

$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 ...

$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 ...

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 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.

PROGRAM ANALYST

HQ USAF and Support Elements

Arlington, VA • On-site, Remote

$143K - $187K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Summary
Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.
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Duties
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The primary purpose of this position is: To serve as senior Air Force analyst and to provide Air Force military rated aviator expertise in planning, developing, and evaluating certain major complex plans such as war, mobilization, and similar operations or contingency plans to project air power world wide.
Duties
  1. Applying Air Force military rated mobility aviator expertise, performs a broad range of often classified, highly complex and controversial qualitative and quantitative analyses of programs, policies, and issues which have major impact on national deterrence policy in the development of long-range plans such as war, mobilization, and similar operations or contingency plans.
  2. Using AF military rated aviator experience, develops new methods for testing and evaluating the effectiveness of assigned war, mobilization, and similar operations or contingency plans.
  3. Using AF military rated aviator experience, prepares position papers and presents high level briefings of conclusions; many being highly subjective and not readily susceptible to verification until actual operational situations are encountered.
  4. Maintains a continuous liaison with other Air Staff, other service headquarters counterparts, and DOD offices to ensure that planning is consistent and integrated throughout the defense community

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • U.S. Citizenship Required
  • Males must be registered for Selective Service, see www.sss.gov
  • If authorized, PCS will be paid IAW JTR and AF Regulations. If receiving an authorized PCS, you may be subject to completing/signing a CONUS agreement. More information on PCS requirements, may be found at: https://afciviliancareers.com/regulatory/
  • This position is subject to provisions of the DoD Priority Placement Program
  • Disclosure of Political Appointments
  • Advance in hire may be authorized if there is demonstrable proof provided on your resume
  • Leave accrual may be authorized upon request
  • Depending on the type of position (competitive/excepted) you are selected for, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period OR 2-year trial period.
  • Upon completion of your probationary/trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
  • May travel by military or commercial air to conferences, meetings, and other functions away from the duty site.
  • AF military rated aviator experience (e.g. pilot, navigator) is critical to the successful performance of the work; is highly desired
  • Must have a top secret clearance with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access
  • The employee may be required to work other than normal duty hours, which may include evenings, weekends, and/or holidays.
  • This position meets the administrative exemption criteria for the Fair Labor Standards Act (5 CFR 551.206).
  • This position is designated by the Air Force as a Testing Designated Position (TDP) under the Air Force Civilian Drug Demand Reduction Program. The employee must pass initial and periodic short notice drug testing. (cont'd)
  • Illegal drug use by employees in sensitive positions presents a clear threat to the mission of the Air Force, national security, and public safety.

Qualifications
In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Administrative and Management Positions; series 0343.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-13, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes mastery of a wide range of qualitative and/or quantitative methods for the assessment and improvement of Air Force level plans and procedures such as war, mobilization, deployment, and similar operations; and to evaluate MAJCOM and Air Staff responses to plans and studies; Knowledge of Air Force program goals and objectives, the sequence and timing of key operational events and milestones, and methods of evaluating the effectiveness of planning actions as related to actual events; Knowledge of the relationship of the various Air Force entities involved in overall planning and execution of operations and evaluations.
FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in-grade requirements to be considered eligible. One year at the GS- 13 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-14 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks. NOTE: Applicants applying as VEOA candidates who are current GS civil service employees or are prior GS civil service employees within the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements.
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 a wide range of qualitative and/or quantitative methods for the assessment and improvement of airpower plans and procedures for conducting major operations such as war, military operations other than war, mobilization, deployment.
2. Knowledge of airpower program goals and objectives, the sequence and timing of key operational events and milestones, and methods of evaluating the effectiveness of planning actions as related to actual events.
3. Knowledge of the relationship of the various 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 assigned airpower programs and weapon systems, with emphasis on airlift and air refueling experience.
5. Ability to negotiate complex issues and maintain good working relations.
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
This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Additional information
Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP): For information on how to apply as an ICTAP eligible click here. To be well-qualified and exercise selection priority for this vacancy, displaced Federal employees must be rated well qualified or above for this position. You must submit a copy of the agency notice, your most recent performance rating, and your most recent SF-50 noting position, grade level, and duty location.
Employed Annuitants (Reemployed Annuitants): Applicants in receipt of an annuity based on civilian employment in the Federal Service are subject to the DoD Policy on The Employment of Annuitants. Click here for more information.
120-Day Register: This announcement may result in a 120-day register that may be used to fill like vacancies for 120 days after the closing date. Applicants may be referred for consideration as vacancies occur.
Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible: MSP applicants, if determined best qualified, must be selected and placed at the highest grade for which they applied. You must include a completed copy of the DD Form 3145-4, Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist dated within 30 days along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility for MSP. Click here to obtain/download a copy of the DD Form 3145-4, Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist.
Priority Placement Program (PPP) Applicant Eligible: PPP Applicants, if determined well qualified and selected, will be placed at the at the full performance level. You must include the applicable completed copy of the PPP Self-Certification Checklist dated within 30 days along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility as a PPP Applicant. Click here to obtain/download a copy of the applicable PPP Self-Certification Checklist (DD3145-1 through DD3145-4, select the appropriate checklist for your claimed preference). To determine the applicable PPP Self-Certification Checklist required to substantiate the eligibilities you are claiming, refer to the AF Civilian Employment Eligibility Guide located in the Required Documents section of this vacancy announcement.
Direct Deposit: All federal employees are required to have direct deposit.
Disabled veteran leave is available to a Federal employee hired on/after 5 Nov 2016, who is a veteran with a service-connected disability rating of 30% or more. For more information, click here.
If you have questions regarding this announcement and have hearing or speech difficulties click here.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.