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Joint Terminal Attack Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astrion

$145K - $155K/yr

Test and Demonstration include engineering support for interoperability testing weapon configurations with Threshold and Objective launch platforms/controllers and ground Joint Terminal Attack ...

Top Aces, Inc.

Aircraft sheet metal tech

Mesa, AZ

$26.75 - $34.75/hr

... joint terminal attack controller (JTAC) training. We pride ourselves on our unblemished safety record, having flown an industry leading 130,000+ hours of operational training without accident in ...

Astrion

$145K - $155K/yr

Test and Demonstration include engineering support for interoperability testing weapon configurations with Threshold and Objective launch platforms/controllers and ground Joint Terminal Attack ...

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Joint Terminal Attack Controller information

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$48.5K

$76.7K

$110K

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

As of Jul 23, 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,655 per year, or $36.9 per hour.
SMT MARSOC SOTACC Instructor FL

SMT MARSOC SOTACC Instructor FL

MAG Aerospace

Hurlburt Field, FL • On-site

$45K - $58K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
MAG Aerospace is seeking experienced Joint Terminal Attack Controller - Instructor (JTAC-I) to support Special Operations Forces (SOF). This is a collective recruiting effort to identify highly qualified candidates as MAG establishes a new teaming arrangement.
*** This position is contingent on contract award
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Duties include, but not limited to:
  • Provide instruction to SOTACC JTACs under instruction in classroom and both live and Live Virtual Constructed (LVC) environments, Mission Qualification Training, Unit Level Training, and any other service personnel as directed by MARFORSOC JTAC Program leadership.
  • Perform training requirements to attain and maintain Range Safety Officer (RSO) duties, conduct RSO duties as required for training events.
  • Aid in JTAC program management to include JTAC qualification tracking and other administrative requirements.

Requirements
Minimum Requirements
Required Skills: (skills a candidate MUST have to be considered for a position)
  • Candidates must have a minimum of 1 year experience as a qualified SOF JTAC - Instructor. If you are not already JTAC Evaluator (JTAC-E) qualified, MAG will sponsor your completion of a component-approved SOF JTAC-E course of instruction, including any component-unique requirements.
  • JTAC-I qualification must have occurred within the last 48 months
  • Two years' minimum experience as a SOF JTAC
  • Must be a US Citizen and possess a minimum of SECRET clearance on day one of contract execution

Company Policy
MAG Aerospace (MAG) is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to Diversity and Inclusion. We encourage diverse candidates to apply to our positions.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
Click below for the "Know Your Rights" and "Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination" supplement posters.
https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ofccp/posters
MAG Aerospace (MAG) is committed to providing an online application process that is accessible to all, including individuals with a disability, by offering an alternative way to apply for job openings. This alternative method is available for those who cannot otherwise complete the online application due to a disability or need for accommodation.
MAG provides reasonable accommodation to applicants under the guidance of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam-Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, and certain state and/or local laws.
If you need assistance due to a disability, please contact the MAG Aerospace Recruiting email:
Applicant.Assist@mag.us or call (703) 376-8993.

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