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Assistant Air Force Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Communication Navigation Engineer

Dayton, OH ยท On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Participate in United States Air Force Smart Operations for the 21st Century (AFSO21) initiatives ... assessments. * Assist in equipment and software deficiency analysis and recommend corrective ...

Ursa Major is seeking a Director, Air Force Weapon Systems to lead the definition, integration, and ... This role serves as the critical bridge between program management, engineering, business ...

Ursa Major is seeking a Director, Air Force Weapon Systems to lead the definition, integration, and ... This role serves as the critical bridge between program management, engineering, business ...

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Assistant Air Force Engineer information

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$33K

$88.8K

$134.5K

How much do assistant air force engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant air force engineer in the United States is $88,754.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,500.00 and $104,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Assistant Air Force Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and military training. Familiarity with technical tools such as CAD software, engineering project management systems, and adherence to military safety standards is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient design and maintenance of critical Air Force infrastructure and support mission success.

What are Assistant Air Force Engineers?

Assistant Air Force Engineers are professionals who support the engineering and technical needs of the Air Force. They help with the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of Air Force facilities, infrastructure, and systems. Their responsibilities may include assisting senior engineers, conducting site inspections, preparing reports, and ensuring that projects comply with safety and regulatory standards. This role is vital for maintaining the operational readiness and safety of Air Force bases and equipment.

What is the difference between Assistant Air Force Engineer vs Aircraft Maintenance Engineer?

AspectAssistant Air Force EngineerAircraft Maintenance Engineer
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, military trainingDiploma or degree in aeronautical/aircraft maintenance
Work EnvironmentAir Force bases, military facilitiesAircraft hangars, maintenance depots
Employer & IndustryMilitary, defense sectorCommercial and private airlines, maintenance companies

Assistant Air Force Engineers primarily work within the military environment, focusing on supporting air force operations and maintenance. Aircraft Maintenance Engineers work in civilian aviation, maintaining and repairing aircraft for airlines and private operators. Both roles require technical skills, but their work settings and employer types differ significantly.

What are some common challenges Assistant Air Force Engineers face when transitioning from academic studies to active duty roles?

Assistant Air Force Engineers often find that transitioning from academic environments to active duty roles presents new challenges, such as adapting to the fast-paced, mission-driven nature of Air Force operations and collaborating within multidisciplinary teams. Unlike classroom projects, real-world assignments may involve strict timelines, resource constraints, and the need to quickly learn specialized military protocols or technologies. Additionally, engineers must often balance technical problem-solving with leadership responsibilities and effective communication across ranks. Embracing continuous learning and seeking mentorship from experienced officers can help ease this transition.
More about Assistant Air Force Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Air Force Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Air Force Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Air Force Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Air Force Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Air Force Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Air Force Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Assistant Air Force Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,754 per year, or $42.7 per hour.
Communication Navigation Engineer

Communication Navigation Engineer

Diaconia

Dayton, OH โ€ข On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Key Responsibilities
Engineering & Technical Support
  • Apply engineering and scientific principles to improve performance and sustainability of existing and future Air Force and joint service weapon systems.
  • Support application of MIL-HDBK-516C Airworthiness Certification Criteria to aircraft systems and subsystems.
  • Support System Integrity Programs including Mechanical Systems Integrity Program (MECSIP), Critical Safety Item (CSI) management, and airworthiness certification monitoring.

Requirements Development & Analysis
  • Assist in translating operational/user requirements into weapon system requirements for design, development, testing, and deployment.
  • Support requirement and technology development into actionable plans, policies, and acquisition strategies.
  • Conduct system concept development, trade-off assessments, and technical/mission analyses.
  • Provide rapid response engineering support to address critical supportability and safety issues.

Documentation & Programmatic Support
  • Assist in the preparation and review of key program documentation including ICD, ORD/CDD, CONOPS, CPD, SRD, SEP, TEMP, PESHE, PPP, TTPs, IAS, SCG, and other acquisition and technical documents.
  • Contribute to milestone reviews and the development of staff summaries and executive briefings.
  • Support and participate in program reviews and working groups (e.g., SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, TIM, PMR).

Systems Engineering & Airworthiness
  • Assist in OSS&E (Operational Safety, Suitability, and Effectiveness) compliance per AF policy.
  • Support LCSE processes to ensure OSS&E is maintained throughout the system life cycle.
  • Conduct system safety program activities including mishap risk assessments, safety analyses, and mitigation support.
  • Participate in United States Air Force Smart Operations for the 21st Century (AFSO21) initiatives.

Technical Evaluation & Risk Management
  • Evaluate prime and subcontractor proposals including ECPs, ACSNs, CCPs, FAA bulletins, and risk assessments.
  • Assist in equipment and software deficiency analysis and recommend corrective actions.
  • Support IMP, IMS, and Systems Engineering Detail Schedule (SEDS) development and cost estimation.
  • Support configuration management, data management, and risk management processes.

Requirements
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or related technical field. Must be ABET Certified Degree https://www.abet.org/
  • Familiarity with U.S. DoD and U.S. Air Force engineering principles, airworthiness certification processes, and acquisition lifecycle.
  • Must have Air Force Engineering experience as a contractor, US Government employee and/or U.S. Military.
  • Must have Avionic Experience/Skillset
  • Ability to work with multidisciplinary teams in a structured engineering environment.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain required DoD Secret or Top Secret Security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with aircraft systems and subsystem certification.
  • Knowledge of USAF System Integrity Programs, OSS&E, and AFSO21 initiatives.
  • Prior experience with technical document development and milestone review participation.
  • Familiarity with risk management, configuration management, and system safety processes.
  • Active security clearance.
  • Support technical compliance for avionics development, testing, and sustainment including navigation, LOS/BLOS communications, network protocols, IPSec, SOAP/XML, and air data systems.
  • Evaluate technical documentation for compliance and airworthiness, summarize findings, and recommend corrective actions.
  • Provide subject matter expertise on threat warning and countermeasure systems, including radar warning receivers (e.g., AN/ALR-69A) and infrared countermeasure systems such as LAIRCM.
  • Must have knowledge of Avionics and Avionics Systems

Salary Description
$90,000 - $115,000 Depending on Experience