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Flight Navigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Training Nav

Temecula, CA ยท On-site

$175K/yr

Mentor and supervise instructor navigators. * Manage flight training resources and stay current with advancements in aviation training and technology. * Integrate SMS and risk management practices ...

Naval Flight Officers are the navigators, the lookouts and the weapon operators inside naval aviation. Whether you're hunting submarines from a P-8 Poseidon, navigating an E-2 Hawkeye through enemy ...

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Flight Navigator information

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How much do flight navigator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight navigator in the United States is $22.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical working conditions and challenges faced by flight navigators?

Flight Navigators often work in the confined space of an aircraft cockpit during flights, sometimes for extended periods and in varying weather conditions. The role involves staying focused and alert to monitor navigation systems, adjust flight paths, and provide real-time support to pilots based on changing circumstances. Navigators must be prepared to troubleshoot technical challenges, manage fatigue, and adapt quickly to unexpected situations such as reroutes due to weather or airspace restrictions. Collaboration with pilots and crew is constant, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to make swift decisions to ensure safe and efficient operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the flight navigator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flight Navigator, you need strong expertise in navigation, meteorology, map reading, and calculations, typically supported by relevant training from military, government, or aviation organizations. Familiarity with navigational charts, flight computers, GPS, radar, and, when required, certifications from aviation authorities are essential. Attention to detail, composure under pressure, and effective teamwork are key soft skills in this position. Mastery of these competencies ensures accurate route planning, safe navigation, and efficient communication with pilots and crew, which are critical for flight safety and mission success.

How much do flight navigators make?

Flight navigators typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, employer, and location. They often require specialized training and certifications, and may work irregular hours or long shifts onboard aircraft or in control centers.

What is a flight navigator?

A Flight Navigator is responsible for determining an aircraft's position, planning its route, and ensuring it stays on course during flight. They use navigation instruments, maps, and sometimes celestial navigation to guide the aircraft safely to its destination. While modern aircraft rely on automated navigation systems, some military and specialized operations still use human navigators. Their role is crucial in long-haul or complex missions where GPS or automated systems may not be fully reliable.

What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Navigator jobs? The most popular types of Flight Navigator jobs are:
What states have the most Flight Navigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Flight Navigator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Flight Navigator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,665 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

US Navigational Sytems Operator

Metrea Management LLC

Temecula, CA โ€ข On-site

$64.90/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Company Overview

Metrea is a defense company dedicated to translating commercial innovation into solutions for the hardest problems in national security. With deep mission expertise, Metrea focuses on delivering effects-as-a-service across Aerospace, Electromagnetic & Cyber, Digital & Synthetic domains via its capability groups. Metrea also consists of six support groups (Operations, People, Finance, Legal, Strategy and Solutions) that guide the development of specific capabilities that Metrea's files (product, projects, programs etc) leverage to achieve their targets.

Group Overview

Air Mobility Group (AIRMOB) is responsible for developing and delivering Metrea’s aerial refueling (AAR) capabilities, ensuring the readiness and operational effectiveness of the tanker fleet. AIRMOB oversees fleet management, maintenance, and airworthiness, working to sustain and enhance refueling operations. It manages the integration of new processes and technologies, ensuring that tanker aircraft remain mission-ready through effective logistics, maintenance oversight, and regulatory compliance. By coordinating across various teams, AIRMOB ensures the fleet meets both current and future operational needs, supporting a range of specialized air mobility missions.

Position Summary

The C-135FR Navigation System Operator is a highly skilled aircrew member responsible for the planning, execution, and oversight of navigation and mission coordination for aerial refueling and transport operations. The Navigator ensures mission success through expert knowledge of navigation systems, flight planning, and real-time mission management, while also serving as a technical advisor to aircrew and leadership.

Role and Responsibilities

Navigation Operations

  • Plan and execute accurate and efficient navigation for C-135FR missions, including aerial refueling, ferry, and transport operations.
  • Operate and manage advanced navigation systems such as GPS, INS, TACAN, VOR, and radar.
  • Interpret aeronautical charts, flight plans, and weather data to ensure safe and effective routing.
  • Monitor aircraft position, timing, and fuel status throughout all flight phases.
  • Coordinate with pilots and boom operators to ensure precise rendezvous and refueling procedures.
  • Maintain situational awareness and provide real-time navigation updates to the flight crew.

Fleet Support

  • Assist with the integration of the C-135FR into operational fleets by advising on navigation procedures and system compatibility.
  • Provide on-site and remote support during international operations.
  • Support ferry flight preparations and execution with detailed navigation planning and coordination.
  • Act as an observer/advisor during missions, offering real-time support and post-flight feedback.

Compliance & Documentation

  • Ensure adherence to all applicable flight regulations, technical orders, and operational standards.
  • Maintain all required qualifications, certifications, and training records.
  • Document mission performance, identify areas for improvement, and contribute to after-action reviews and debriefs.

Skills and Experience

Education:

  • College degree or equivalent

Experience:

  • Military navigator experience, KC-135 preferred
  • Proven and demonstrable crew coordination and CRM skills
  • Proven and demonstrable attention to detail.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills, being able to determine error cause and determine proper corrective action.
  • Must be able to take initiative and work independently.
  • Excellent communication skills, the ability to read and understand the information presented in writing, diagrams, and schematics.
  • Must be able to accomplish all duties with little or no assistance.
  • Must have good command of the English language, oral and written

Certifications:

  • Former military navigator qualification
  • Valid Driver’s License
  • Current Passport

Computer Skills:

  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite products (specifically Word and Excel)

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

  • Maintain all applicable medical and flight certifications

Our Firmware

Metrea’s single core value, “rooted in humility,” is supported by four key attributes: entrepreneurial, systematic, discerning, and over-deliver. These attributes, combined, form our Teammate Firmware, our culture. We explore these attributes during the hiring process when we grow our teams and continually support the growth of our culture. We are a hyper-collaborative, dynamically hierarchical organization united by a passion for what we do, how we do it, who we do it with, and who we do it for.

Benefits

Medical insurance options

Retirement plan eligibility

Work Authorization / Security Clearance

The employee must be a US citizen, able to maintain an active US Secret clearance, and be legally authorized, and able to obtain and maintain work VISA’s in various countries including India.


AAP/EEO Statement

Metrea Strategic Mobility, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position, typical working hours are 7-hour days including 45-60 day rotations abroad. Hours and work shifts may change in accordance with department and business needs.

Work Location
Frequent international rotations abroad, with limited training stateside.

Work Environment
This job is primarily onboard an aircraft during flight and ground operations.

Travel

Domestic and International Travel will be required on a 45-60 day rotational basis.