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Joint Terminal Attack Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Universal Strategy Group Inc

Any combined operational experience in the following areas: joint terminal attack controller, special operations terminal attack controller, tactical air control party leader, joint targeting, joint ...

Beyond SOF

Previously certified and qualified as a Joint Terminal Attack Controller Instructor (JTAC-I) while serving as a member of the United States Armed Forces * Experience planning, coordinating, and ...

Barbaricum

JTAC Instructor- AFSOC Support

Hurlburt Field, FL · On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

Barbaricum is seeking an experienced Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) Instructor to join our dedicated team in direct support of the United States Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC ...

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Joint Terminal Attack Controller information

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$76.7K

$110K

How much do joint terminal attack controller jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for joint terminal attack controller in the United States is $76,655.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $101,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Joint Terminal Attack Controller Do?

A joint terminal attack controller (JTAC) directs military aircraft during combat operations. Your duties in a theater of operation include communicating with planes, drones, and helicopters and giving directions to help them provide support for military units on the ground. In this career, you also have training responsibilities. A JTAC operator often participates in training scenarios. In these cases, you usually work with a JTAC instructor, who helps you learn procedures and evaluate tactics. As a teacher, you provide simulator instruction and evaluate performance during simulations or war games. You then help JTAC personnel correct mistakes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Joint Terminal Attack Controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC), you need comprehensive knowledge of close air support procedures, advanced communications, and tactical coordination, usually requiring specialized military training and JTAC certification. Proficiency with radio systems, targeting software, and digital mapping tools is essential for mission success. Exceptional situational awareness, decision-making under pressure, and clear communication are vital soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring precise, safe, and effective coordination of air and ground forces during high-stakes operations.

What is the difference between Joint Terminal Attack Controller vs Forward Air Controller?

AspectJoint Terminal Attack ControllerForward Air Controller
CertificationsMilitary tactical certifications, specialized JTAC trainingMilitary or civilian air traffic control certifications, tactical training
Work EnvironmentMilitary combat zones, joint operationsMilitary operations, sometimes civilian airspace coordination
Employer & IndustryMilitary branches, defense industryMilitary units, defense contractors

Both roles involve coordinating air support in military operations, with overlapping training and environments. The main difference is that a Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) is specifically trained for close air support and direct engagement with aircraft, often in combat zones, whereas a Forward Air Controller (FAC) may have broader responsibilities including air traffic control and battlefield coordination. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify their unique roles in military operations.

What are Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs)?

Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs) are specially trained military personnel responsible for directing the actions of combat aircraft engaged in close air support and other offensive air operations from a forward position. They serve as the critical link between the ground forces and aviation assets, ensuring that airstrikes are accurately and safely delivered on enemy targets while minimizing the risk to friendly troops. JTACs undergo rigorous training to coordinate air support, understand complex battlefield environments, and communicate effectively with pilots. Their role is vital for successful integrated operations in modern combat scenarios.

What are the typical challenges Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs) face when coordinating air support in dynamic combat environments?

JTACs often operate in high-pressure situations where they must quickly and accurately relay targeting information between ground forces and aircraft. A common challenge is managing complex communications across multiple channels while maintaining situational awareness to avoid friendly fire or collateral damage. JTACs must also adapt rapidly to changing battlefield conditions and coordinate with various teams, including pilots, artillery, and infantry units. Strong decision-making skills and attention to detail are crucial for success in this demanding role.
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Joint Terminal Attack Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Joint Terminal Attack Controller job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,655 per year, or $36.9 per hour.
Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) Training Specialist

Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) Training Specialist

BGI, LLC

Syracuse, NY • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Title
Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) Training Specialist
Location
Hancock AFB - Syracuse, NY 13211 US (Primary)
Position Summary and Job Responsibilities
The JTAC Training Specialist provides operational support to Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) training activities at Hancock Field in accordance with the MQ-9 ATS Performance Work Statement (PWS). The JTAC Training Specialist assists in the execution of CAS training scenarios and operational training events under the supervision of the JTAC Team Lead. This position supports training operations conducted in classroom, simulator, and operational training environments and contributes to realistic mission scenario execution. This position may be full or part time.
The Team Lead provides operational leadership to JTAC Training Specialists and supporting personnel and ensures accurate mission execution and effective delivery of training support.
Job Responsibilities
  • Support the execution of JTAC training scenarios under the supervision of the JTAC Team Lead.
  • Assist in the conduct of training events in classroom, simulator, and operational training environments.
  • Operate radios and military communications equipment to support training scenarios and mission execution.
  • Support CAS training missions and operational exercises.
  • Participate in training scenarios by role-playing operational agencies and mission elements as required.
  • Perform console operations and other mission support duties associated with training events.
  • Assist with mission scenario preparation and execution to ensure training objectives are met.
  • Support training events involving CAS, ISR, and related operational activities.
  • Safely operate motor vehicles.

Required and/or Preferred Qualifications
MUST BE U.S. CITIZEN
Education:
  • Vocational or other post-high school training.

Training and Experience:
Required
  • Previously qualified JTAC with operational experience after 11 September 2001, or
  • Prior active duty military service (Active Duty, Air National Guard, or Reserve) before 11 September 2001 and subsequent experience supporting JTAC operations as a civilian.
  • Demonstrated understanding of Close Air Support (CAS) operations and procedures.
  • Ability to support operational training events and assist in mission scenario execution..
  • Must have a valid US driver's license and acceptable driving record.

Desired
  • Operational experience supporting CAS or CSAR mission environments.
  • Experience supporting training events in operational or training range environments.
  • Experience working with JTAC personnel or aircrew during mission training events.
  • Experience as a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) representative or air traffic controller.

Computer Skills:
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.

Security Clearance:
  • Must maintain a "Secret" level security clearance.

BGI is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. Consistent with applicable law, BGI provides access and opportunities to those with disabilities. This commitment includes providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities who seek to utilize the company's on-line employment process. BGI has made extensive efforts to ensure that its on-line employment process is accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, if an applicant is unable to fully utilize BGI's procedures, BGI will provide a reasonable accommodation. Applicants that require accommodation with the online employment process may contact 330.374.7737 for assistance.
It is the policy of BGI, LLC to take affirmative action in affording equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as established by law.

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