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Air Guard Pilot Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

LVC Planner SME

Des Moines, IA

$66K - $79K/yr

... Moines Air National Guard Base in Des Moines, Iowa. Why This Role Matters This role plays a ... pilot with operational air-to-air experience Must be a U.S. citizen Current or active DoD Secret ...

LVC Planner SME

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

... Guard Base in Des Moines, Iowa. Why This Role Matters This role plays a critical part in shaping ... Air-to-air fighter aircraft instructor pilot with operational air-to-air experience * Must have ...

... Guard Base in Des Moines, Iowa. Why This Role Matters This role plays a critical part in shaping ... Air-to-air fighter aircraft instructor pilot with operational air-to-air experience * Must be a U.S ...

... pilot lights and plug-in modules. * Required to use common hand tools, power tools and test ... Works on compressed air lines and equipment instrumentation as required. * Assist other mechanics ...

... pilot lights and plug-in modules. * Required to use common hand tools, power tools and test ... Works on compressed air lines and equipment instrumentation as required. * Assist other mechanics ...

Air Guard Pilot information

See Iowa salary details

$46.5K

$123K

$188.8K

How much do air guard pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for air guard pilot in Iowa is $122,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,900.00 and $145,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Air Guard pilot?

An Air Guard Pilot is a military aviator in the Air National Guard, responsible for flying missions that support national defense and state emergencies. They operate various aircraft, including fighter jets, transport planes, and refueling aircraft, depending on their unit's mission. Air Guard Pilots serve part-time while maintaining civilian careers or full-time roles within the Guard. Their duties include flight training, mission planning, and responding to state or federal activations.

What does an Air Guard pilot do?

A typical workweek for an Air Guard Pilot includes a mix of scheduled flight missions, simulator training, aircraft maintenance briefings, and readiness exercises. Pilots often work closely with ground crews, fellow pilots, and command staff to coordinate mission objectives and maintain operational readiness. There are also regular drills and training sessions to keep skills sharp and ensure compliance with military standards. While flying hours can vary depending on mission needs, pilots must be flexible and prepared to respond to emergencies or short-notice missions. This structure provides variety and challenge, supporting both skill development and strong team collaboration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Air Guard pilot?

To thrive as an Air Guard Pilot, you need a strong background in aviation, excellent physical conditioning, and must possess an FAA pilot’s license along with completion of specialized military pilot training. Proficiency in operating complex aircraft systems, flight simulation software, and adherence to rigorous safety and communication protocols are essential for daily operations. Leadership, adaptability, and the ability to remain calm and decisive under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring mission success, team safety, and effective responses to dynamic and challenging situations.

Can I be an Air Guard Pilot?

Yes, individuals can become Air Guard Pilots if they meet eligibility requirements, including age, education, physical fitness, and military training standards. Candidates typically need a bachelor's degree, a valid pilot's license, and must complete officer training and flight training programs. The role involves operating military aircraft and often requires security clearances and ongoing training.

How often do Air Guard pilots fly?

Air Guard pilots typically fly several times a month, with flight frequency depending on unit schedules, training requirements, and operational needs. They often participate in regular drills, training exercises, and missions to maintain proficiency and meet certification standards.

What are the most commonly searched types of Air Guard Pilot jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Air Guard Pilot jobs in Iowa are:

What job categories do people searching Air Guard Pilot jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Air Guard Pilot jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Air Guard Pilot job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,965 per year, or $59.1 per hour.

LVC Planner SME

Des Moines, IA

$66K - $79K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

BGI is seeking a highly skilled Live/Virtual/Constructive (LVC) Mission Planner and Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support the 132nd Combat Training Squadron (CTS) and the Distributed Training Operations Center (DTOC) at the Des Moines Air National Guard Base in Des Moines, Iowa. Why This Role Matters This role plays a critical part in shaping the future of combat readiness. By designing and executing high-fidelity training scenarios that integrate live, virtual, and constructive elements, you will directly enhance the preparedness of Air National Guard and U.S

Air Force personnel. Your expertise will help bridge the gap between simulation and real-world operations, ensuring tactical effectiveness and mission success across joint and coalition forces. Job Responsibilities Lead all aspects of LVC mission planning and execution for Live-Constructive training events.

Integrate virtual simulators into daily live training opportunities to maximize realism and effectiveness. Oversee LVC mission testing, including Modeling & Simulation (M&S), Network Integration (Net Int), and Operational Tests (Ops Tests). Serve as Event Lead during mission pre-briefs, execution, debriefs, and post-mission documentation.

Support DTOC mission planning cell by: Creating scenarios using Environment Generator software Coordinating with Network Operations Center (NOC), Live Mission Operations Node (LMON), and Live Mission Operations Center-Planning (LMOC-P) personnel for Event Control Center (ECC) setup Troubleshooting software and hardware issues Creating and distributing Mission Planning Cell (MPC) packages in accordance with the Performance Work Statement (PWS) Deliver LVC academic briefings in coordination with the Training Manager. Represent DTOC as an LVC SME in meetings and planning sessions. Advise CTS/DTOC leadership on LVC events, tests, and emerging technologies.

Incorporate Air Force Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (AFTTP 3-1) into daily LVC-centric training events.Education & Experience (choose one) Bachelor's degree in a related field and 10 years of relevant experience; or Master's degree in a related field and 8 years of relevant experience; or High school diploma or equivalent and 14 years of relevant experience. Tactical Experience Experience with LVC software applications (preferred) Familiarity with AFTTP 3-1 and Joint Warfare Publications Experience operating within an active mission planning cell Previously qualified as a mission commander, section lead, or equivalent Ability to create and disseminate Concept of Operations (CONOPS) and planning products in accordance with Air Force and Department of Defense (DoD) standards Prior experience conducting training in a Distributed Mission Operations (DMO) environment Air-to-air fighter aircraft instructor pilot with operational air-to-air experience Must be a U.S. citizen Current or active DoD Secret clearance (maintained throughout employment) Preferred Requirements Current or previous Weapons and Tactics experience Led multi-unit or joint-force exercises in a DMO environment

Optimized LMOC-P, War Room, or similar systems for mission realism. Contributed to updates or application of AFTTP 3-1 and Joint Warfare doctrine. Instructed across multiple fighter platforms or mission sets.

Directed mission planning and post-mission analysis in high-tempo ops. Mentored junior instructors and led evaluation teams in simulation training. Active Top Secret clearance or ability to obtain one.

Physical Requirements Ability to lift and carry boxes of records or equipment (up to 40 lbs) Ability to stoop, bend, crawl, and climb into simulators or aircraft cockpits Must be able to detect environmental cues (e.g., sounds, odors) for troubleshooting Ability to distinguish colors for system diagnosticsEducation & Experience (choose one) Bachelor's degree in a related field and 10 years of relevant experience; or Master's degree in a related field and 8 years of relevant experience; or High school diploma or equivalent and 14 years of relevant experience. Tactical Experience Experience with LVC software applications (preferred) Familiarity with AFTTP 3-1 and Joint Warfare Publications Experience operating within an active mission planning cell Previously qualified as a mission commander, section lead, or equivalent Ability to create and disseminate Concept of Operations (CONOPS) and planning products in accordance with Air Force and Department of Defense (DoD) standards Prior experience conducting training in a Distributed Mission Operations (DMO) environment Air-to-air fighter aircraft instructor pilot with operational air-to-air experience Must be a U.S. citizen Current or active DoD Secret clearance (maintained throughout employment) Preferred Requirements Current or previous Weapons and Tactics experience Led multi-unit or joint-force exercises in a DMO environment

Optimized LMOC-P, War Room, or similar systems for mission realism. Contributed to updates or application of AFTTP 3-1 and Joint Warfare doctrine. Instructed across multiple fighter platforms or mission sets.

Directed mission planning and post-mission analysis in high-tempo ops. Mentored junior instructors and led evaluation teams in simulation training. Active Top Secret clearance or ability to obtain one.

Physical Requirements Ability to lift and carry boxes of records or equipment (up to 40 lbs) Ability to stoop, bend, crawl, and climb into simulators or aircraft cockpits Must be able to detect environmental cues (e.g., sounds, odors) for troubleshooting Ability to distinguish colors for system diagnostics.