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Flight Planner Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Experience with Portable Flight Planning Software, Joint Mission Planning System, Common Sensor Planner. Prior experience with mission planning or avionics/sensors. Ability to effectively communicate ...

Knowledge of SITA/ARINC/LIDO/JEPPESEN/SABER communication/ flight planning software preferred * Per carrier assignment, training required in CFR 14 PART 121, 129,135, CFR 14 PART 120, CFR 49 PART 40

Knowledge of SITA/ARINC/LIDO/JEPPESEN/SABER communication/ flight planning software preferred * Per carrier assignment, training required in CFR 14 PART 121, 129,135, CFR 14 PART 120, CFR 49 PART 40

Flight Dynamicist

Cardiff By The Sea, CA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Support flight test planning, pre-flight predictions, post-flight reconstruction, and data analysis activities to validate models and improve system performance. * Collaborate across disciplines ...

Flight Dynamicist

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

Support flight test planning, pre-flight predictions, post-flight reconstruction, and data analysis activities to validate models and improve system performance. * Collaborate across disciplines ...

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Flight Planner information

What is a flight planner?

A Flight Planner is responsible for developing and coordinating flight plans to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective air travel. They consider factors such as weather conditions, air traffic control regulations, fuel requirements, and aircraft performance. Flight Planners work closely with pilots, dispatchers, and airline operations teams to optimize routes and minimize delays. Their role is critical in ensuring compliance with aviation regulations while maximizing operational efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flight planner?

To thrive as a Flight Planner, you need strong knowledge of aviation regulations, meteorology, and navigation, typically supported by relevant aviation training or a degree in aeronautics. Familiarity with flight planning software (such as Jeppesen or RocketRoute), air traffic control systems, and sometimes specific certifications like FAA Dispatcher Certification are crucial. Exceptional attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication skills help flight planners excel in coordinating with pilots, crew, and ground operations. These skills are vital to ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant flight operations in a dynamic industry.

What are some typical challenges faced by flight planners, and how are they addressed?

Flight Planners often need to quickly adapt to changing weather conditions, last-minute route changes, and varying airspace restrictions, all while maintaining safety and regulatory compliance. They regularly communicate with pilots, air traffic controllers, and operations teams to revise flight plans in real-time when needed. Staying calm under pressure, being highly organized, and utilizing specialized flight planning software are essential strategies to manage these dynamic challenges. Supportive teamwork and thorough pre-flight briefings also help ensure everyone is aligned and potential issues are resolved proactively.

How do you become a flight planner?

To become a flight planner, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by training in aviation or related fields. Many employers prefer candidates with knowledge of aviation regulations, navigation, and flight planning software, and some roles require certification or experience in aviation operations.

How much does a flight planner make?

A flight planner's salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer size. Senior or specialized flight planners with certifications may earn higher wages, and the role often requires knowledge of aviation regulations and planning software.

What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Planner jobs in California?

The most popular types of Flight Planner jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Flight Planner jobs in California?

For Flight Planner jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Flight Planner jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Flight Planner jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Flight Planner jobs?

Cities in California with the most Flight Planner job openings:

Infographic showing various Flight Planner job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Mission Planner - Engineer

JT4, LLC

Edwards, CA • On-site

$110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

JT4, LLC provides engineering and technical support to multiple western test ranges for the U.S. Air Force, Space Force, and Navy under the Joint Range Technical Services Contract, better known as J-Tech II. JT4 develops and maintains realistic, integrated test and training environments and prepares our nation's war-fighting aircraft, weapons systems, and aircrews for today's missions and tomorrow's global challenges.
JT4 will be hiring multiple candidates for this position with varying experience and skill levels. Salary ranges will be based on skill level and education.
JOB DUTIES - ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
JT4 has immediate need for aircraft Mission Planners. Candidates will Perform Mission Support System (MSS) mission planning & mission data duties for the U.S. Air Force at Edwards AFB, CA. Operate and maintain FIGHTERS, BOMBERS, and UNMANNED AIRCRAFT MSS mission planning product suite. Provide support, assistance and guidance to squadron weapons officers in establishing and maintaining mission data sensor scenarios. Assist pilots with operational mission planning and post-mission debrief support. Interface daily with pilots and frequently with maintenance personnel. May be required to work flexible schedule of odd hours, nights or weekends in support of flying operations. This position is located at a facility that requires special access.
Basic Qualifications: Current Secret clearance required. Mission planning experience with aircraft or weapon systems and experience with Linux, UNIX, Solaris or Windows operating systems. Experience with troubleshooting computer hardware/software equipment. Bachelor's degree required.
Desired Skills: Prior military aircraft tactics. Experience with Portable Flight Planning Software, Joint Mission Planning System, Common Sensor Planner. Prior experience with mission planning or avionics/sensors. Ability to effectively communicate (both verbal and written) and work as part of a team. CompTIA Security + certification highly desired; otherwise, ability to obtain certification within 6 months upon hiring.
Job Duties:
  • Supporting actual mission planning for Bomber test missions
  • Assessing MP updates/changes/fixes
  • Installing test software, then assessing it
  • Maintaining system and s/w
  • Coordinating Authorizations to Operate (ATOs) and hardware upgrades
  • Attending demo evals, FQTs, etc.
  • Building relationships across organizations
  • Providing inputs to SPO, OT, contractor
  • Interpreting requirements

Required:
  • B.A. or B.S. degree or higher
  • Experience with Microsoft Office Suite, JMPS
  • Secret Clearance, SAP eligible
  • Security+

Desired:
  • Prior military experience
  • Test experience (plan/provision/execute/analyze/report)
  • Flight experience
  • Experience with the following planning software: Portable Flight Planning Software, Joint Mission Planning System, Common Sensor Planner, AFMSS, Omniview, Enterprise Collection Planner, and/or Combat Flight Planning Software
  • Experience with web-based flight planning (i.e. Skyvector.com, etc.)

REQUIREMENTS - EDUCATION, TECHNICAL, AND WORK EXPERIENCE
The candidate must have a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from an ABET-accredited academic institution and 4 years of related engineering experience or have an accredited Master of Science in Engineering with at least 2 years of related engineering experience or have an accredited doctoral degree in engineering. The candidate must have mastery of concepts, principles, and practices of engineering that enables the employee to serve as a technical authority on projects relating to the specific programs. The position requires sufficient knowledge and skill to apply the latest developments in engineering to solve problems in the specialty area along with excellent communication and analytical skills. The candidate must have a working knowledge of computer systems and computer-based engineering tools and possess planning/organizing skills. The position may require the ability to investigate, troubleshoot, and design solutions to problems in operational hardware and software.
The candidate must possess a valid, state-issued driver's license. The candidate must be able to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance up to top secret with special access. Must be a U.S. citizen.
SALARY
The expected salary range for this position is $110,000 to 185,000 annually.
Note: The salary range offered for this position is a good faith description of the expected salary range this role will pay. JT4, LLC considers factors such as (but not limited to) responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as market/business considerations when extending an offer.
BENEFITS
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
    • Benefits Active on Day 1
  • Life Insurance
  • Health Savings Accounts/FSA's
  • Disability Insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • 401(k) Plan Options with Employer Match
    • JT4 will match 50%, up to an 8% contribution
    • 100% Immediate Vesting
  • Tuition Reimbursement

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES
Each employee must read, understand, and implement the general and specific operational, safety, quality, and environmental requirements of all plans, procedures, and policies pertaining to their job.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed in a typical office environment with no unusual hazards. Occasional lifting (up to 20 pounds), constant sitting with occasional use of computer terminal, constant use of sight abilities while reviewing documents, constant use of speech/hearing abilities for communication, and constant mental alertness are required. Travel to remote company work locations may be required.
DISCLAIMER
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by personnel assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of persons so classified.
Tasking is in support of a Federal Government Contract that requires U.S. citizenship. Some jobs may require a candidate to be eligible for a government security clearance, state-issued driver's license, or other licenses/certifications, and the inability to obtain and maintain the required clearance, license, or certification may affect an employee's ability to maintain employment.
SCC: JENG17, A1412TW

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About JT4

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

JT4 provides engineering and technical support to multiple western test ranges for the U.S. Air Force and Navy under the Joint Range Technical Services Contract, better known as J-Tech II. We develop and maintain realistic integrated test and training environments, and prepare our nation's war-fighting aircraft, weapons systems, and aircrews for today's missions and tomorrow's global challenges.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Las Vegas, NV, US

Year founded

2001

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