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Forward Air Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Universal Strategy Group Inc

The credentials shall be equivalent to completing the Service-level JTAC qualification course, joint targeting course, Forward Air Controller course or their Service equivalents. * Experience working ...

Forward Air

Material Handler

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Ability to work safely around moving equipment, vehicles, and freight in a non-climate-controlled ... Forward Air is a leading asset-light provider of transportation services across the United States ...

Emons Air & Sea

Controller

Detroit, MI

Emons Air amp; Sea LLC is a global leader in freight forwarding, offering full-service logistics ... At Emons, we don't just move cargo--we move businesses forward. If you're a proactive, detail ...

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Forward Air Controller information

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$55K

$119.5K

$175.5K

How much do forward air controller jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for forward air controller in the United States is $119,497.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $138,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Forward Air Controller, you need a solid understanding of military tactics, air-ground coordination, and target identification, often gained through specialized military training and qualifications such as JTAC certification. Familiarity with communication systems, GPS devices, laser designators, and targeting software is crucial. Exceptional situational awareness, decisive communication, and the ability to work under extreme pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure effective, safe, and timely coordination of air support to achieve mission objectives and minimize risks to friendly forces.

What are the main challenges Forward Air Controllers face when coordinating between ground and air units?

Forward Air Controllers (FACs) often work in high-pressure environments where quick, accurate communication is crucial. One of the main challenges is ensuring clear coordination between ground forces and aircraft, especially in fast-moving or hostile situations. FACs must be adept at relaying precise targeting information while maintaining situational awareness to minimize the risk of friendly fire. Additionally, they frequently operate in diverse terrains and weather conditions, which requires adaptability and strong teamwork with both pilots and ground commanders.

What are Forward Air Controllers?

Forward Air Controllers (FACs) are specially trained military personnel responsible for directing the action of combat aircraft engaged in close air support of ground troops. They coordinate and communicate with both ground forces and pilots to ensure accurate and safe delivery of airstrikes, minimizing the risk to friendly forces and civilians. FACs play a critical role in ensuring effective battlefield coordination, often operating near the front lines and under high-pressure conditions.

What is the difference between Forward Air Controller vs Forward Observer?

AspectForward Air ControllerForward Observer
CertificationsMilitary aviation and combat training, sometimes specialized certificationsMilitary or tactical communication training, basic observation skills
Work EnvironmentCombat zones, military operations, airstrikes coordinationField operations, tactical observation, artillery or air support coordination
Employer & IndustryMilitary, defense, combat unitsMilitary, tactical units, defense operations

Both roles involve coordinating support in military operations, but Forward Air Controllers primarily direct airstrikes and coordinate aircraft, while Forward Observers focus on observing and relaying target information for artillery or air support. The roles overlap in communication skills and tactical environment, but their specific responsibilities and training differ.

More about Forward Air Controller jobs
What job categories do people searching Forward Air Controller jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forward Air Controller jobs are:
Forward Air Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forward Air Controller job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 27% Full Time, 67% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,497 per year, or $57.5 per hour.
Range Safety Support Senior Manager

Range Safety Support Senior Manager

Redhorse Corporation

Norfolk, VA

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Range Safety Support Senior Manager
About the Organization
Now is a great time to join Redhorse Corporation. Redhorse specializes in developing and implementing creative strategies and solutions with private, state, and federal customers in the areas of cultural and environmental resources services, climate and energy change, information technology, and intelligence services. We are hiring creative, motivated, and talented people with a passion for doing what's right, what's smart, and what works.
Position Description:
Redhorse Corporation is seeking a Range Safety Support Senior Manager on task with the U.S. Fleet Forces (USFF). The USFF is responsible for coordinating, establishing, and implementing integrated requirements and policies for manning, equipping, and training Atlantic and Pacific Fleet units, strike groups, and strike forces. This role will provide comprehensive operational and environmental support for Fleet training range complexes and operations while meeting OFRP requirements and adhering to governmental environment laws, acts, statutes, and policies.
Duties amp; Responsibilities:
  • Manage GIS programs in support of Weapon Safety Studies, Air Installation Compatible Use Zone (AICUZ), and NEPA programs. Specific GIS programs include Range Manager Toolkit (RMTK), Weapons Danger Zone Tool (WDZTool), and supporting GIS computers and software.
  • Provide WDZTool management requirement analysis and recommendations to examine new weapons capability within existing ranges. Work with other military services to manage/update WDZTool to meet evolving DoD/DoN needs.
  • Review classified exercise/training plans on NMCI SIPRNET as needed to ensure appropriate weapons danger zone analysis has been applied.
  • Monitor the AICUZ and RAICUZ Programs to ensure programs’ purpose, plans, guidelines, and objectives support USFF and subordinate command requirements.
  • Conduct Naval Aviation Simulation Model (NASMOD), AICUZ, RAICUZ, and Range Encroachment Action Plan (EAP) study reviews.
  • Prepare and review environmental, funding, and IT documentation.
  • Interface with other information management professionals to conceptualize and develop databases, GIS capabilities, linkages, and other information management tools to improve the USN’s ability to sustain its range complexes.
  • Examine military and joint-use airfield, airspace and range capacity. Communicate factual and technical information with colleagues who are performing related work.
  • Participate in environmental meetings and conferences. Stay abreast of applicable legislation substantially oriented towards environmental programs.
Requirements for Experience, Skills, Education and Credentials include:
  • Prior relevant fighter/attack/tactical air-to-ground rated aircrew or forward air
    controller instructor expertise.
  • Minimum one year RMTK WDZTool technical support or equivalent expertise.
  • Knowledge of range management activities and regulations/instructions.
  • Knowledge of/hands-on ability to use WDZTool.
  • Knowledge of RAICUZ and AICUZ Programs. Experience working in multi-disciplinary teams preparing products to support USN training ranges.
  • Knowledge of primary environmental laws, regulations, statutes, and DoN and
    DoD policies applicable to USN training activities.
  • Minimum three years of relevant experience in USN Fleet training, operational
    planning, and exercise implementation (e.g., staff at USFF or PACFLT HQ,
    numbered fleet, TYCOM, strike force training, forward air controller, etc.).
  • BA/BS degree. Engineering or community planning degree from Accreditation
  • Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) accredited institution is required or BS/AS degree with specialized experience in WDZ, RAICUZ, and AICUZ programs that equips the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position.
  • An active Secret clearance is required.
Executive Order Requirement:
In accordance with Executive Order 14042 as a Federal Contractor Redhorse requires all U.S. new hires to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 by December 8, 2021, or prior to the first date of employment, whichever is later. As required by the Executive Order, Redhorse will work in coordination with applicable contract agencies to consider requests for Reasonable Accommodations.
Redhorse Corporation shall, in its discretion, modify or adjust the position to meet Redhorse’s changing needs.
This job description is not a contract and may be adjusted as deemed appropriate in Redhorse’s sole discretion.
EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled

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