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Combat Controller Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Saildrone

Corporate Controller

Alameda, CA · On-site

$201K - $266K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... combat-deployed systems supporting national security and force projection around the world, 24/7 ... THE POSITION Saildrone is seeking a Controller to join our Finance team. Reporting to the Chief ...

Sentradel

Guidance and Controls Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

About Sentradel Over 90 percent of combat deaths in Ukraine are caused by small drones. In Colombia ... Unjammable fiber optic and AI controlled drones are making the threat cheaper, faster, and harder ...

Sentradel

Head of Manufacturing

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $220K/yr

About Sentradel Over 90 percent of combat deaths in Ukraine are caused by small drones. In Colombia ... Unjammable fiber optic and AI controlled drones are making the threat cheaper, faster, and harder ...

2K

Senior Gameplay Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$108K - $161K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... controllers, navigation, and EQS * Utility AI or comparable decision-making architectures * AI in networked multiplayer: client/server authority, prediction, dedicated servers * Humanlike combat AI ...

31st Union

Senior Gameplay Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$108K - $161K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... controllers, navigation, and EQS * Utility AI or comparable decision-making architectures * AI in networked multiplayer: client/server authority, prediction, dedicated servers * Humanlike combat AI ...

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Combat Controller information

See California salary details

$54.3K

$117.9K

$173.2K

How much do combat controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for combat controller in California is $117,932.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,700.00 and $136,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a combat controller?

A Combat Controller (CCT) is a highly trained specialist in the U.S. Air Force who conducts air traffic control, close air support, and special operations missions in hostile environments. They deploy with special forces teams to establish airfields, coordinate airstrikes, and provide battlefield communication. Combat Controllers are trained in parachuting, scuba diving, survival, and combat tactics to operate in high-risk areas. Their expertise is critical for directing aircraft and ensuring mission success in austere and contested environments.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a combat controller?

Combat Controllers are responsible for coordinating air traffic in combat zones, conducting reconnaissance, and directing close air support missions alongside ground forces. Daily duties often include maintaining readiness through rigorous physical training, rehearsing communication protocols, and preparing specialized equipment for deployment. Teamwork is essential, as Combat Controllers regularly collaborate with special operations teams, pilots, and other military units to ensure successful mission execution. This dynamic role requires adaptability, excellent situational awareness, and unwavering attention to detail.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a combat controller?

To thrive as a Combat Controller, you need advanced physical fitness, proficiency in air traffic control procedures, parachuting, and specialized combat skills, typically obtained through intense military training and certification. Familiarity with military radios, navigation equipment, and laser target designators is crucial for mission success. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and strong communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills enable precise coordination under high-stress conditions, directly impacting mission success and team safety.

How do you become a combat controller?

To become a combat controller, candidates must meet basic military requirements, complete basic training, and pass the Air Force Special Warfare training program, which includes physical fitness, water confidence, and survival skills. They also need to obtain security clearances and complete specialized training at the Air Force Combat Control School. Successful candidates are then assigned to operational units where they perform tactical air traffic control, reconnaissance, and direct action missions.

What do combat controllers do?

Combat controllers are specialized military personnel who coordinate air support, establish landing zones, and provide command and control in combat environments. They often operate in challenging conditions, using skills in navigation, communication, and tactical decision-making, and are typically certified through rigorous training programs. Their role is critical in enabling precise air operations and supporting ground forces.

What are the most commonly searched types of Combat Controller jobs in California?

The most popular types of Combat Controller jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Combat Controller jobs in California?

For Combat Controller jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Combat Controller jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Combat Controller jobs in California are:

Combat Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Combat Controller job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $117,932 per year, or $56.7 per hour.

Senior Airspace Management Specialist

Anduril Industries

San Clemente, CA • On-site

$86K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Anduril rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 75,610 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Test & Evaluation (T&E) Team at Anduril operates across all product lines and business units. We manage flight operations at test ranges, conducting full system development testing, production acceptance testing, sub-component qualification testing, and more. If it involves testing, we support it.
This is a unique opportunity to work in a fast-paced, innovative environment where your expertise in airspace management directly impacts Anduril's cutting-edge flight test operations. Your contributions will play a vital role in advancing the next generation of defense technology.
WHAT YOU'LL DO

  • Airspace Coordination: Manage and deconflict airspace for test site operations, integrating manned and unmanned systems.
  • Flight Test Planning: Develop airspace management strategies for complex test scenarios.
  • Real-Time Communication: Coordinate with flight crews, test teams, and external agencies during operations.
  • Compliance Monitoring: Ensure adherence to FAA regulations and relevant airspace standards.
  • Risk Assessment: Identify and mitigate risks associated with flight operations and airspace usage.
  • Range Operations: Oversee airspace scheduling and resource allocation at test ranges.
  • Incident Response: Respond to airspace incidents and adapt plans to dynamic test conditions.
  • Stakeholder Liaison: Collaborate with internal teams, government agencies, and external stakeholders for airspace approvals.
  • Documentation: Maintain accurate records of airspace usage, operations, and safety procedures.
  • Continuous Improvement: Provide feedback to refine airspace management processes and tools.

REQUIRED SKILLS

  • Prior experience as an Air Traffic Controller, JTAC, or Combat Controller.
  • Strong understanding of airspace management and FAA regulations.
  • Experience working with manned and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).
  • FAA Air Traffic Control Specialist (ATCS) certification or equivalent experience.
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (preferred).
  • Military certifications in airspace management (e.g., JTAC qualification) are a plus.
  • Strong communication and real-time decision-making abilities.
  • Familiarity with flight test range operations and airspace deconfliction tools/software.
  • Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Top Secret security clearance
  • Willingness to work in dynamic, outdoor environments.

Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.

What Anduril employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

Social media

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