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Commander Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Lancesoft - Viren

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Incident Responder

Richmond, VA · On-site

$25 - $29.93/hr

Length of Assignment: 12+ months - possibility to extend based on performance/position need Pay range: $25.00 - 29.93/hr on w2 (all inclusive) What schedule is the candidate required to work: The ...

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U.S. Coast Guard

Command Security Officer

Alexandria, VA · On-site +1

$102K - $133K/yr

Coast Guard, COAST GUARD CYBER COMMAND in WASHINGTON, District of Columbia. Learn more about this agency Duties Help You will serve as a/an Command Security Officer and be responsible for managing ...

U.S. Coast Guard

Command Security Officer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Coast Guard, COAST GUARD CYBER COMMAND in WASHINGTON, District of Columbia. Learn more about this agency Duties Help You will serve as a/an Command Security Officer and be responsible for managing ...

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Constellis

Command Post Operator

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$45.28/hr

POSITION SUMMARY Omniplex, a Constellis company, is seeking a highly professional cleared Command Post Operator to support one of its contracts. In this vital role, you will be responsible for the ...

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All JobsCommander JobsCommander Jobs in Virginia

Commander information

See Virginia salary details

$73.4K

$160.1K

$253.3K

How much do commander jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for commander in Virginia is $160,092.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,900.00 and $188,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a commander?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a commander?

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 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 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.

Commander jobs near you
Infographic showing various Commander job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $160,092 per year, or $77 per hour.

Senior Lessons Learned Analyst - Command Element

Makwa Global LLC

Mclean, VA • On-site

$117K - $117K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Description:

Makwa Global is seeking a Senior Lessons Learned Analyst to support the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Staff Training Program at Quantico, VA, with a specific focus on Command Element (CE) operations. This senior-level position requires extensive experience on a Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) or higher staff with a ground combat arms, aviation, or combat service support occupational specialty. The Senior Analyst will lead CE-focused analysis, develop interview questions, synthesize CE lessons, and draft formal LL report sections. This position will provide Command Element subject matter expert coverage.


Specific Responsibilities

  • Lead Command Element-focused Lessons Learned analysis for MAGTF exercises, operations, and training events
  • Develop comprehensive interview questions tailored to CE staff sections and leadership positions
  • Conduct interviews with senior leaders, staff officers, and key personnel from CE organizations
  • Synthesize complex CE lessons across multiple staff functions including operations, intelligence, logistics, communications, and fires
  • Draft formal Lessons Learned report sections with detailed analysis and actionable recommendations
  • Provide subject matter expertise on CE organization, operations, and staff functions
  • Analyze CE command and control processes, decision-making cycles, and information flow
  • Identify systemic CE issues and recommend solutions to improve MAGTF effectiveness
  • Mentor junior analysts on CE operations and LL collection methodologies
  • Coordinate with MAGTF Training and Education Command (MTEC) staff on CE requirements
  • Support development of CE training objectives and performance standards based on LL analysis
  • Brief senior leadership on CE trends, observations, and recommendations
Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree with 10+ years of senior-level military experience on a MEF or higher staff
  • Senior level experience (E-9 or O-5 and above) on a (MEF) or higher headquarters staff
  • Ground combat arms, aviation, or combat service support (MOS) required
  • Active Secret clearance required
  • Retired Marine Corps Sergeant Major, Master Gunnery Sergeant, or Senior Officer (O-5/O-6) strongly preferred
  • Comprehensive understanding of MAGTF Command Element organization, functions, and operations
  • Experience in multiple CE staff sections (G-3/S-3, G-2/S-2, G-4/S-4, G-6/S-6, fires, etc.) highly desirable
  • Expert knowledge of MAGTF command and control processes and staff planning
  • Strong analytical, writing, and communication skills with ability to synthesize complex information
  • Experience conducting interviews and facilitating after-action reviews
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and military planning systems
  • Ability to work effectively with senior military leaders and staff officers
  • Physical Requirements and Work Environment
  • Work is performed in a typical office environment at Quantico, VA
  • Must be able to work onsite at Marine Corps Base Quantico facilities
  • May require extended hours during major exercises and training events
  • Occasional field visits to observe CE operations during training events may be required

Travel

· Moderate to frequent travel required to support MAGTF exercises, formal LL collections, and coordination with Marine Division units at various Marine Corps installations