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Forward Observer Military Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astrion

PM C-UAS- C-UAS Liaison Officer

Huntsville, AL

$130K - $150K/yr

Bachelor's Degree (Military Studies & Government Studies, STEM, International Relations) preferred * Experience in Special Operations, Intelligence, Forward Observer, Air Battle Management, Air ...

Astrion

PM C-UAS- C-UAS Liaison Officer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Bachelor's Degree (Military Studies & Government Studies, STEM, International Relations) preferred * Experience in Special Operations, Intelligence, Forward Observer, Air Battle Management, Air ...

kgs

Observer-Drug Testing 154 WG

Honolulu, HI

Prior Military Experience preferred * Individuals are ineligible to serve as Observers if they have ... to provide forward leaning technical, professional, and operational solutions. KGS enables ...

kgs

Male Observer- Drug Testing 118

Nashville, TN

Prior Military Experience preferred * Individuals are ineligible to serve as Observers if they have ... to provide forward leaning technical, professional, and operational solutions. KGS enables ...

kgs

Observer-Drug Testing 154 WG

Honolulu, HI

Prior Military Experience preferred * Individuals are ineligible to serve as Observers if they have ... to provide forward leaning technical, professional, and operational solutions. KGS enables ...

kgs

Male Observer- Drug Testing 118

Nashville, TN

Prior Military Experience preferred * Individuals are ineligible to serve as Observers if they have ... to provide forward leaning technical, professional, and operational solutions. KGS enables ...

kgs

MALE OBSERVER-DRUG TESTING 134 ARW

Louisville, TN · On-site

Prior Military Experience preferred * Individuals are ineligible to serve as Observers if they have ... to provide forward leaning technical, professional, and operational solutions. KGS enables ...

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How much do forward observer military jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for forward observer military 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 some common challenges faced by Forward Observers in the military, and how can new recruits prepare for them?

Forward Observers often operate in demanding environments, requiring them to accurately identify targets and relay information under pressure. Common challenges include working in unfamiliar terrain, maintaining clear communication with artillery units, and staying concealed while observing enemy positions. New recruits can prepare by developing strong map-reading skills, practicing radio communication protocols, and building physical endurance. Teamwork and adaptability are also crucial, as Forward Observers frequently coordinate with various units to ensure mission success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forward Observer in the military, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forward Observer in the military, you need strong expertise in land navigation, target identification, and fire support coordination, typically supported by military training such as Advanced Individual Training (AIT) for this specialty. Proficiency with communications equipment, GPS devices, and fire direction systems is crucial for relaying accurate targeting information. Attention to detail, situational awareness, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for success in high-pressure and dynamic environments. These abilities ensure precise artillery support, enhance mission effectiveness, and protect both friendly forces and civilians.

What are Forward Observer Military personnel?

Forward Observer Military personnel are specialized soldiers responsible for directing artillery and mortar fire onto enemy targets. They work on the front lines, often ahead of their main unit, to observe enemy positions and relay precise targeting information back to artillery units. Their role is critical in ensuring that indirect fire strikes are accurate and effective, minimizing risks to friendly forces. Forward Observers require strong communication skills, situational awareness, and the ability to operate advanced targeting equipment under challenging conditions.

What is the difference between Forward Observer Military vs Forward Observer Civilian?

AspectForward Observer MilitaryForward Observer Civilian
CredentialsMilitary training, certifications in combat and artilleryRelevant certifications in surveying, communications, or military contracting
Work EnvironmentMilitary combat zones, training exercisesConstruction sites, military bases, remote locations
Employer & IndustryMilitary branches, defense contractorsConstruction firms, defense contractors, government agencies

Both roles involve coordinating target locations and communication, but military forward observers focus on combat support and tactical operations, while civilian forward observers typically work in construction or surveying environments. The key differences lie in training, work setting, and employer type.

Infographic showing various Forward Observer Military job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 5% As Needed, 5% Full Time, 87% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,764 per year, or $16.7 per hour.
13F Fire Support Specialist

13F Fire Support Specialist

Army National Guard

Peekskill, NY • On-site

$200 - $250/wk

Part-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Description Join the Army National Guard as a Fire Support Specialist and become part of an elite field artillery team. You will provide the intelligence needed to support infantry and tank units in combat operations while learning highly sought-after skills that will help you in your civilian career. 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 at all levels.

In this role, you will become an expert communicator as you establish, maintain, and operate communications equipment; operate laser range finders; encode and decode messages; assist in preparing and distributing fire support plans; and determine target locations using computers or manual calculations. And as your skills increase, so will your responsibilities. Advanced team members supervise and train other Soldiers, prepare observer target lists, initiate suppressive fire, and select and man observation posts.

Helpful Skills • Physically and mentally fit to perform under pressure • Ability to multitask Plus, the skills you learn as a Fire Support Specialist can prepare you for a rewarding civilian career in computer consulting, information technology support, or data processing. Earn While You Learn Instead of paying to learn these skills, get paid to train. In the Army National Guard, you will learn these valuable job skills while earning a regular paycheck and qualifying for tuition assistance.

After 10 weeks of Basic Training, where you will learn fundamental Soldiering skills, you will attend six weeks of Advanced Individual Training (AIT), which will include a combination of hands-on and classroom training where you will learn how to decisively compute target locations, proper ammunition handling techniques, system operations, and artillery tactics. Benefits/Requirements Benefits Paid training A monthly paycheck Montgomery GI Bill Federal and State tuition assistance Retirement benefits for part-time service Low-cost life insurance (up to $400,000 in coverage) 401(k)-type savings plan Student Loan Repayment Program (up to $50,000, for existing loans) Health care benefits available VA home loans Bonuses, if applicable Most non-prior service candidates will earn between $200 and $250 per drill weekend, subject to change Requirements Military enlistment in the Army National Guard Must be at least a junior in high school, or have a high school diploma or a GED certificate Must be between the ages of 17 and 35 Must be able to pass a physical exam and meet legal and moral standards Must meet citizenship requirements (see NATIONALGUARD.com for details) Requires military enlistment. Programs and benefits are subject to change.

Ask your Army National Guard recruiter for the most up-to-date information. Actual MOS assignment may depend on MOS availability.

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