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Forward Observer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Also known as the Forward Observer, Fire Support Specialists act as the eyes of an artillery unit and are primarily responsible for target acquisition and relaying that information to artillery units ...

Classroom Observer

Nassau, NY ยท On-site

$25/hr

Complete observation report in a timely manner and forward to the preschool evaluation department. * Maintain the confidentiality of information regarding clients and families in accordance with ...

Classroom Observer

Nassau, NY ยท On-site

$25/hr

Complete observation report in a timely manner and forward to the preschool evaluation department. * Maintain the confidentiality of information regarding clients and families in accordance with ...

Complete observation report in a timely manner and forward to the preschool evaluation department. * Maintain the confidentiality of information regarding clients and families in accordance with ...

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Forward Observer information

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$11

$16

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How much do forward observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for forward observer in the United States is $16.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a forward observer in the field?

Forward Observers are responsible for locating and identifying targets, calculating coordinates, and communicating precise targeting data to artillery and mortar units. Their days often involve operating in various terrains, using advanced communication and navigation tools, and closely coordinating with infantry and command teams. Regular duties may include conducting reconnaissance, maintaining situational awareness, and adapting plans based on rapidly changing conditions. This role requires a high degree of vigilance and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a tactical team. Forward Observers play a vital role in ensuring accurate and timely fire support, making their contributions critical to mission success.

What is a forward observer?

A Forward Observer (FO) is a military specialist responsible for directing artillery and mortar fire onto enemy targets. They work with ground units and use maps, GPS, and laser rangefinders to determine target locations and communicate precise coordinates to fire support teams. FOs play a critical role in ensuring accuracy and effectiveness while minimizing collateral damage. Their job requires strong attention to detail, quick decision-making, and the ability to operate in high-pressure combat environments.

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

To thrive as a Forward Observer, you need strong mathematical skills, situational awareness, and the ability to learn military tactics, typically obtained through specialized military training and completion of observer certification courses. Familiarity with advanced communication equipment, GPS devices, and fire direction systems is essential for accurately relaying target information. Sharp decision-making, attention to detail, and effective teamwork under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure precise and timely support for field operations, directly impacting mission success and the safety of team members.

More about Forward Observer jobs
What states have the most Forward Observer jobs? States with the most job openings for Forward Observer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Forward Observer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,764 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

18B Special Forces Weapons Instructor

Seventh Dimension

Liberty, NC โ€ข On-site

$49K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Position: 18B Special Forces Weapons Instructor
Type: Full-time
Location: Fort Bragg, North Carolina
Travel: 25%
Position Summary: The Special Forces Weapons Instructor is responsible for delivering classroom, practical, and field-based instruction on U.S. and foreign weapons systems, tactical marksmanship, mortar and anti-armor systems, close air support (CAS), forward observer (FO) procedures, and fire support operations. This role trains, mentors, and evaluates Special Forces students on weapons employment, tactical planning, range safety, and infantry tactics through academic instruction, hands-on exercises, and comprehensive field training events. The instructor develops and updates curriculum, lesson plans, and performance-based assessments while ensuring compliance with Special Forces doctrine and military training standards.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Deliver comprehensive instruction on the employment, maintenance, and engagement of U.S. and foreign light and heavy weapon systems, including pistols, rifles, shotguns, submachine guns, anti-armor systems, anti-aircraft missiles, machine guns, and mortars.
  • Provide instruction in Forward Observer (FO) procedures, Close Air Support (CAS), and Fire Direction Center (FDC) operations.
  • Utilize diverse instructional methodologies, including classroom lectures, practical exercises, and digital platforms (e.g., Blackboard, Adobe Connect).
  • Assess student performance through written, hands-on, and performance-based evaluations in accordance with the Individual Student Assessment Plan (ISAP).
  • Evaluate student presentations for adherence to instructional techniques and provide timely, relevant, and constructive feedback.
  • Lead, mentor, and evaluate students during Comprehensive Field Training (CFT) exercises, ensuring proficiency in Light Infantry tactics, troop-leading procedures, and tactical mission planning.

  • Curriculum Development and Classroom Management
  • Assist in curriculum development by designing instructional blocks and providing guidance to faculty on academic standards and learning objectives.
  • Develop lesson plans, course materials, performance tests, and self-instructional objectives to support course requirements.
  • Review and update training materials to maintain compliance with instructional design standards, emerging technologies, and current Special Forces doctrine.
  • Maintain a professional learning environment, manage classroom activities, and promote student motivation, engagement, and skill retention.
  • Analyze student feedback to improve course content and instructional methods.
  • Evaluate peer instruction and materials, applying knowledge of educational theories and course development methodologies.
  • Identify deviations from policy regarding instructor training and certification, and support corrective actions as required.
  • Communicate terminal learning objectives, safety requirements, and risk levels in accordance with TF 600-21-1.
  • Interpersonal Skills and Teamwork: Effectively communicate with staff, faculty, and students, fostering exchange of course information and instructional improvement.
  • Meticulously grade hands-on exams, range safety execution, and adherence to administrative procedures.
  • Must be adaptable to changing instructional requirements and diverse learner needs and anticipate and address impediments to learning and performance.
  • Demonstrate expertise, respects intellectual property, and adheres to organizational and professional ethics.
  • Conduct courses using a variety of instructional practices and methods, including conventional classroom presentation techniques, practical exercises, and digital platforms (e.g., Blackboard, Adobe Connect).

Required Qualifications:
  • US Citizen
  • Valid U.S. driver's license
  • Must hold an active Secret Security Clearance
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Clear and effective verbal and written communication
  • At a minimum, must have obtained the rank of E-7, Warrant Officer, or Commissioned Officer.
  • Must possess or be able to complete the Common Faculty Developer-Instructor Course (CFD-IC) or equivalent military instructor training.
  • Must complete pre-employment physical examination, annual exams, background investigation, and urinalysis screening.
  • May be subject to Temporary Duty (TDY) or business travel up to 25% of the time.
  • Must have served Honorably.
  • Must possess or be capable of completing the Common Faculty Developer-Instructor Course (CFD-IC) or equivalent military instructor training.
  • Must meet physical standards necessary to operate in rugged field environments, monitor tactical exercises, and stand for extended periods during outdoor training.
  • At a minimum, must have obtained the rank of E-7, Warrant Officer, or Commissioned Officer.
  • Must be a graduate of the 18B Special Forces Weapons Sergeant Course
  • Mastery of U.S. and foreign light weapons, heavy weapons, mortar systems, and anti-armor systems.
  • Experience conducting tactical marksmanship, range safety operations, and close-quarters combat instruction.

Physical Demands and Work Environment: While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to talk, listen, and write. The employee frequently is required to use foot/ankle motions, hands or fingers, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee is required to stand, walk, sit; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to be the best qualified for the position and successfully perform the functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made (if possible) to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.
Company Background: Seventh Dimension LLC provides focused customer support in two core competencies Training & Support Services. Since 2015, we have provided customers with flexible, adaptable, and creative approaches to solving complex problems. We are a proven prime contractor that understands future operating environments, fiscal constraints, and current force requirements. We are a SDVOSB in North Carolina with a TS Facility Clearance, Secret storage and a DCAA compliant accounting system.
Disclaimer: This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.
Seventh Dimension, LLC is a Veteran friendly employer and provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability status, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, and local laws.