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Joint Fires Observer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Corps Solutions

JTAC Instructor

Coronado, CA

... Joint Fires Observer (JFO) training as stated in the Joint Close Air Support (JCAS) Action Plan (AP) Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) 2004-01, USMC Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) T amp;R, and TACP ...

Wavelink Inc

Virtual Simulation Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

... during joint fires and target training exercises using simulation systems in support of the fire ... Assign student Observation Post (OP) * Initialize CFFT III for stand alone * Set-up pilot view and ...

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How much do joint fires observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for joint fires observer in the United States is $21.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Joint Fires Observers?

Joint Fires Observers (JFOs) are specially trained military personnel responsible for coordinating and directing various types of fire support, such as artillery, mortars, naval gunfire, and close air support, onto enemy targets. They serve as critical links between ground forces and supporting fire assets, ensuring that fire missions are accurate and effective while minimizing the risk of friendly fire. JFOs work closely with Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs) and other fire support teams to enhance the lethality and safety of military operations.

What are some of the common challenges Joint Fires Observers face in coordinating with multiple units during operations?

Joint Fires Observers (JFOs) often work in fast-paced and high-pressure environments, requiring them to coordinate effectively with various ground and air units. One common challenge is ensuring real-time communication and accuracy of information across different teams, especially when integrating artillery, aviation, and naval fire support. JFOs must be adept at quickly assessing situations, relaying target data, and adapting to changing mission parameters to prevent miscommunication and ensure mission success. Building strong working relationships and maintaining situational awareness are key to overcoming these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Joint Fires Observer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Joint Fires Observer, you need a solid understanding of fire support operations, target identification, and military tactics, often gained through specialized military training and certification. Familiarity with advanced targeting systems, communication equipment, and digital mapping tools is essential for effective mission execution. Strong situational awareness, precise communication, and teamwork are critical soft skills for coordinating complex joint operations. These skills and qualities ensure accurate and safe delivery of fire support, which is vital for mission success and minimizing friendly casualties.

What is the difference between Joint Fires Observer vs Forward Observer?

AspectJoint Fires ObserverForward Observer
CertificationsMilitary fire support and communication certificationsMilitary fire support and communication certifications
Work EnvironmentJoint military operations, often in diverse terrainsFrontline combat zones, close to troops
Employer/IndustryMilitary, defense, and joint operationsMilitary, primarily Army units
Search/Comparison IntentHigh overlap in duties and certificationsCommonly compared with Joint Fires Observer in military contexts

Both Joint Fires Observers and Forward Observers are vital military roles involving fire support coordination. While they share similar certifications and operate in military environments, Joint Fires Observers typically work across joint services in diverse terrains, whereas Forward Observers are primarily attached to Army units close to combat zones. Understanding these differences helps clarify their specific responsibilities and deployment contexts.

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What job categories do people searching Joint Fires Observer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Joint Fires Observer jobs are:
Joint Fires Observer jobs near you
JTAC Instructor

JTAC Instructor

Corps Solutions

Coronado, CA

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

JTAC Instructor
Coronado, CA
The JTAC Instructor will be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the combined arms virtual environment (CAVE), conducting tactical level simulation in the CAVE to support AO, FAC, JTAC, FAC (A), and Joint Fires Observer (JFO) training as stated in the Joint Close Air Support (JCAS) Action Plan (AP) Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) 2004-01, USMC Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) T amp;R, and TACP and JFO Programs of Instruction (POIs).
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Develop and conduct simulated and practical exercises to support Joint and Service-specific fires exercises (live and synthetic); assisting the instructional staff in providing JTAC/FAC/AO/JFO/FSCC/SACC instruction and evaluation during live-fire exercises and providing classroom instruction in joint and service specific fires.
  • Configure the CAVE during active courses, start-up, shut-down, day and night operations; configure other device (DVTE) and support interfaces and test systems, in accordance with (IAW) government furnished test plans.
  • Conduct operational check of each trainer system prior to daily mission execution: radio communication, system connectivity, entity performance, calls for fire, laser system designator, infrared pointer, and video downlink.
  • Develop synthetic launch configurations and debug computing environments for CAVE and DVTE prior to every training event in the CAVE and DVTE.
  • Manage the “model and simulation” consoles and C2 interfaces for the CAVE and DVTE during “hands-on” training events to provide multi-dimensional tactical information that will foster decision making by students in a synthetic environment.
  • Serve as a role player to conduct synthetic training and role-play for notional units/staff to include rotary wing and fixed wing CAS and FAC(A) assets, Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) and CAS assets, indirect fire assets, fire support coordination positions and command and control entities, utilizing standard joint operational procedures and doctrine.
  • Conduct post training analysis of training devices fidelity and functionality for 23 courses per year, documenting deficiencies at the conclusion of each synthetic training event and providing feedback to the instructor staff via verbal and written debriefs.
  • Maintain DVTE baseline configurations, configuring DVTE to support new training objectives (such as establishing a close communication net and providing a “voice-over” IP communication setup) monthly.
  • Maintain updated entity and geography database for the associated fires training devices monthly. This includes review and update to parameters of and specification changes to weapons, platforms and geography in the database; oversight of additions, deletions and changes to database entities, detailed testing of new entities prior to inclusion in training.
  • Maintain M amp;S System Upgrades quarterly to include: identifying shortfalls in the current visual database, entity behavior, and IOS discrepancy reports, providing flight profiles to programmers to fix shortfalls and inaccurate model behavior.
  • Maintain Digital Aided Close Air Support Systems, maintaining imagery database for digital planning programs (THSv2, KILSWITCH, A-PASS) and Android support for managing each system and providing instruction in THSv2 during each course convening (23 courses scheduled per year).
  • Provide JTAC/FAC/AO/JFO/FSCC/SACC instructions, from tactical level training for students (weekly during course convening) to advanced M amp;S training for instructors (performed quarterly).
EDUCATION
  • Bachelor's Degree or higher is required for this position.
EXPERIENCE
  • Experience with USMC training operations and instructions.
  • Must possess current FAC/JTAC Instructor/Evaluator qualifications.
  • Possesses recent and extensive operating and technical knowledge on current version CAVE/Supporting Arms Virtual Trainer (SAVT). Possesses over 300+ hours of documented system operation time to include systems configuration, setup, and integration of C2 systems.
  • Possesses recent and sound operating and technical knowledge of current Combined Arms Network (CAN) DVTE systems.
  • Possess professional speaking and presenting skills in order to effectively represent EWTGP at various conferences and meetings on matters under the cognizance of the N75 Division.
CLEARANCE
  • Secret security clearance is required.
WORKING CONDITIONS
  • Capacity to sit for extended periods of time and maintain focus in an office environment.
SPECIAL POSITION NOTATIONS
  • Qualification as an authorized company driver is required. All authorized company drivers must have a valid driver’s license, current automobile insurance, and a driving record that is acceptable to the company’s auto insurance provider.
  • Daily travel in local area during workday (including use of personal vehicle).
  • Able to occasionally travel away from the normal duty station on military or commercial aircraft.
ESTIMATED COMPENSATION
  • $125,000-$138,000
This position description outlines the general responsibilities and requirements for the stated position and in no way is an exhaustive list. The company maintains the right to assign or reassign responsibilities to this position at any time.

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