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Commander Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Base Pay This role has a minimum base pay from $15.55 per hour with higher starting pay available based on experience. PURPOSE This position is responsible for greeting customers and managing the ...

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Commander information

See Arizona salary details

$69K

$150.5K

$238.1K

How much do commander jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for commander in Arizona is $150,478.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,500.00 and $177,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills are needed for commander jobs?

Commander jobs typically require strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills. Candidates often need relevant experience in the military, law enforcement, or emergency services, along with certifications such as leadership training or specialized technical skills. Physical fitness and the ability to work under pressure are also important.

What entry level jobs are with the commanders?

Entry-level positions for commanders often include roles such as assistant commanders, junior officers, or support staff in military, law enforcement, or security organizations. These roles typically require basic training, relevant certifications, and the ability to work in a team environment. Advancement usually involves gaining experience and additional training or education.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Commander, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Commander, you need extensive leadership experience, strategic planning abilities, and a solid background in military operations, usually supported by advanced military education and officer commissioning. Familiarity with command and control systems, military communication tools, and operational planning software is essential. Exceptional decision-making, situational awareness, and the ability to inspire and manage personnel are key soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for effective mission execution, maintaining unit cohesion, and ensuring operational success under pressure.

What is the job of a commander?

A commander is a leadership role responsible for overseeing operations, making strategic decisions, and managing personnel within military, law enforcement, or emergency services organizations. The position often requires strong leadership skills, decision-making ability, and relevant training or certifications. Commanders ensure mission objectives are achieved efficiently and safely.

What is the difference between Commander vs Pilot?

AspectCommanderPilot
Required CredentialsMilitary or specialized training, certifications depending on contextCommercial or private pilot license, FAA certifications
Work EnvironmentMilitary operations, ships, or aircraft command settingsAircraft operation, airlines, private flights
Industry UsageMilitary, maritime, aviationAviation, transportation

The main difference is that a Commander typically refers to a leadership role overseeing operations in military, maritime, or aviation contexts, requiring specialized training and certifications. A Pilot, on the other hand, is primarily responsible for flying aircraft and holds specific licenses. While both roles are involved in aviation or maritime industries, Commanders focus on leadership and strategic oversight, whereas Pilots focus on aircraft operation.

What are Commanders?

Commanders are high-ranking officers in military, naval, or law enforcement organizations who are responsible for leading and managing units, missions, or operations. They oversee personnel, develop strategies, make critical decisions, and ensure the effective execution of orders and objectives. Commanders are expected to demonstrate strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, often working under significant pressure. Their specific duties can vary depending on the branch of service and the size of the unit they command.

What are some common challenges faced by a Commander in coordinating large teams or units?

Commanders often manage diverse teams with varying skill levels, backgrounds, and responsibilities. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication across all levels, especially in high-pressure or rapidly changing situations. Additionally, balancing strategic decision-making with the welfare and morale of personnel requires strong leadership and adaptability. Commanders must also stay updated on operational protocols while fostering teamwork and collaboration among units to achieve mission objectives effectively.

What's the typical salary for commanders?

The salary for a commander varies depending on the industry, location, and level of experience. In the military, for example, commanders can earn from around $50,000 to over $150,000 annually, while civilian leadership roles with the title may have different pay scales. Factors such as certifications, leadership responsibilities, and the organization influence compensation levels.
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Commander jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Commander job openings:
Infographic showing various Commander job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $150,478 per year, or $72.3 per hour.
COMMAND AND CONTROL SPECIALIST T32

COMMAND AND CONTROL SPECIALIST T32

Air National Guard Units

Phoenix, AZ • On-site, Remote

$64K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Air National Guard rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Summary
THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 32 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION.
This National Guard position is for a COMMAND AND CONTROL SPECIALIST T32, PDD1936000 and is part of the AZ 161st Air Refueling Wing, National Guard.
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Duties
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This position is located with the 161st Air Refueling Wing in Phoenix, Arizona. The incumbent works independently or as a staff member of the AMD Air Mobility Control Team (AMCT) in providing mission management support in the execution of air mobility missions. Its paramount purpose is to provide advanced technical and training support to upgrade skills to maximize performance of the Air Mobility Division (AMD) as an effective division of the Air & Space Operations Center (AOC) force level Weapon System (WS). The command post plays an integral part in mission execution involving aircraft and aircrews, as well as maintains contact with aircrews during the mission. This position carries out essential duties on a 24/7 basis, monitoring and carrying out duties involved with security, emergency aircrew recall, the Crisis Reaction Team, and similar duties critical to the conduct of the mission assigned.
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • ARIZONA AIR NATIONAL GUARD MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED. Prior to appointment into this position, selectee must be a current member of the Arizona Air National Guard, in a military position assigned to 161st.
  • This is an excepted service position that requires membership in a compatible military assignment in the employing state's National Guar, required prior to the effective date of placement.
  • Selectee will be required to wear the military uniform.
  • Acceptance of an excepted service position constitutes concurrence with these requirements as a condition of employment.
  • Applicants who are not currently a member of the National Guard must be eligible for immediate membership and employment in the National Guard in the military grade listed in this announcement.
  • Males born after 31 December 1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • Federal employment suitability as determined by a background investigation.
  • May be required to successfully complete a trial period.
  • Participation in direct deposit is mandatory.
  • Incumbent must possess and maintain a current state driver's license.
  • Incumbent is required to maintain positional certification commensurate with their applicable AFSC and successfully complete all rectification required by MAJCOM guidance. (cont.)
  • Incumbent is required to attend Initial Qualification training at the AOC AMD Formal Training Unit class. (cont.)
  • After completion, the incumbent will receive a special experience identifier (SEI) whereupon he/she will be required to complete Mission Qualification training in order to achieve Combat Mission Ready (CMR) status. (cont.)
  • Once CMR, incumbent is qualified by functional area and proficient to support primary missions focused on his/her aligned AOC but is world-wide capable. (cont.)
  • Thereafter, incumbent will be required to complete AOC Continuation Training and maintain proficiency in AMD and AOC specific air mobility planning and execution systems.
  • Incumbent will be skilled in a variety of computer system software programs to assist in creating briefings and presentations regarding the air mobility mission or related areas.
  • The incumbent might be required to work other than normal duty hours, which may include evenings, weekends, and/or holidays. May be subject to on-call or recall due to contingencies or emergencies.
  • Incumbent must possess at least a Secret Security Clearance and be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret Security Clearance within one year of appointment.

Qualifications
Military Grades: E1/AB - E5/SSgt.
Compatible Military Assignments: Must possess or be able to obtain the 1C3X1 AFSC.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Must possess at least 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade. Experience, education, or training in mission planning for preflight, in -flight, ground or command and control (C2) duties according to specific transportation functions. Receives, interprets, extracts, and disseminates relevant data for mission planning or execution. Experience coordinating and negotiating with organizations/personnel both orally and in writing to resolve differences/problems.
Education
You must provide transcripts or other documentation to support your Educational claims. To receive credit for Education, you must provide documentation of proof that you meet the Education requirements for this position.
Additional information
If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/1959 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you be registered or you are not eligible for appointment in this agency (https://www.sss.gov/RegVer/wfRegistration.aspx).
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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.

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