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Jtac Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Corps Solutions

JTAC Instructor

Coronado, CA · On-site

JTAC Instructor Coronado, CA The JTAC Instructor will be responsible for the operation and ... Possesses recent and extensive operating and technical knowledge on current version CAVE/Supporting ...

Beyond SOF

The SOF JTAC/Fires SME shall reside within the Raider Regiment Training Education Group (RRTEG ... Teach and enforce doctrine, unit standard operating procedures (SOPs) IAW attainable/relevant ...

Blue Air Training

Mission Sensor Operator

Avon Park, FL · On-site

The Mission Sensor Operator (MSO) will operate Company owned sensors in support of our customer to ... JTAC-I (Instructor) or JTAC-SEE (Evaluator). * Must have extensive experience building Close Air ...

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How much do jtac operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for jtac operator in the United States is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Jtac Operator vs Fire Support Specialist?

AspectJtac OperatorFire Support Specialist
CertificationsJTAC certification, military trainingFire support, military or tactical certifications
Work EnvironmentMilitary operations, combat zones, tactical settingsMilitary units, tactical operations, field environments
Employer & IndustryMilitary, defense, tactical unitsMilitary, defense, artillery units
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding tactical roles, certifications, and dutiesSimilar tactical roles, training, and operational scope

Jtac Operators and Fire Support Specialists both serve in military tactical environments, often with overlapping responsibilities. Jtac Operators focus on coordinating close air support and precision strikes, requiring specialized certifications like JTAC. Fire Support Specialists assist in planning and coordinating artillery and fire missions. While their roles differ slightly in scope, both are vital for battlefield coordination and require similar training and certifications.

What are some common challenges faced by a JTAC Operator in coordinating air support during dynamic combat situations?

JTAC Operators often face the challenge of rapidly changing battlefield conditions, requiring them to maintain clear communication with both ground forces and pilots under intense pressure. They must quickly process complex information, adapt targeting plans, and ensure strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent friendly fire. The role demands strong situational awareness and the ability to make split-second decisions while collaborating closely with diverse military teams in high-stress environments.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A Jtac Operator typically does not earn $4,000 weekly without specialized training and experience, as this role involves technical skills and often military or defense-related work. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree include certain sales positions, commercial pilots, or skilled trades like plumbing or electrical work, especially with experience and certifications. However, most high-earning roles require specific skills, training, or licensing rather than a traditional degree.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a JTAC Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a JTAC (Joint Terminal Attack Controller) Operator, you need advanced knowledge of close air support tactics, military communications, and targeting procedures, typically backed by military training and JTAC certification. Proficiency in using radios, GPS systems, laser designators, and specialized mission planning software is essential. Exceptional situational awareness, decision-making under pressure, and effective communication are critical soft skills in this high-stakes role. These skills ensure the safe and effective coordination of air-to-ground operations, minimizing risk to friendly forces and maximizing mission success.

How much do JTACs make?

Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs) typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and military branch. Advanced certifications and combat deployment can increase earning potential, and many JTACs receive additional allowances for training and operational duties.

What are JTAC Operators?

JTAC Operators, or Joint Terminal Attack Controllers, are highly trained military personnel responsible for directing the action of combat aircraft engaged in close air support and other offensive air operations from a forward position. They serve as the critical link between ground forces and aircraft, ensuring precise targeting and minimizing the risk of friendly fire. JTACs must have extensive knowledge of both ground and air tactics, communication systems, and weaponry. Their expertise is vital for mission success in complex and dynamic combat environments.

How to be a JTAC operator?

A JTAC (Joint Terminal Attack Controller) operator is trained to coordinate and direct air support for ground forces. To become one, candidates typically need military experience, specialized training such as the Joint Terminal Attack Controller course, and certification in combat tactics and communication systems. Physical fitness, security clearance, and adherence to strict protocols are also required.

What is the job of a JTAC?

A JTAC (Joint Terminal Attack Controller) is responsible for directing combat aircraft and supporting weapons to engage targets accurately and safely. They coordinate close air support in combat zones, often requiring specialized training, certifications, and the ability to operate in high-pressure environments.
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Jtac Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Jtac Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 9% As Needed, 1% Full Time, 22% Temporary, 66% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 87% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,306 per year, or $20.3 per hour.
Joint Terminal Attack Controller Instructor (JTAC-I)

Joint Terminal Attack Controller Instructor (JTAC-I)

Science Applications International Corporation

Fallon, NV

Other

Posted 11 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 207 rated it services

Job description

The Army Navy Business Group currently has a career opportunity for a Joint Terminal Attack Controller Instructor (JTAC-I) training analyst to provide JTAC classroom and range training, operation of a JTAC simulator, and student evaluation support to Naval Aviation Warfighting Development Center (NAWDC) in Fallon, NV.

The ideal candidate for this position will have combat-related experience and the ability to interact with Naval Special Warfare (NSW) students, staff, and higher authority. The individual must have the ability to assess the current curriculum, establish objectives and assignments, identify curriculum shortfalls, develop solutions to those shortfalls, modify coursework, and integrate new instruction when emerging combat capabilities are fielded.  In addition, the candidate must be familiar with Modeling and Simulation (M&S) systems associated with JTAC training. The successful candidate must have the ability to work on complex, combat problems in the field, assess dynamic situations, demonstrate experience and convey direction to the students. The candidate must have extensive operational experience in combat planning and execution, and be able to train junior personnel. In addition, he/she will have excellent public speaking, presentation, and time management skills, as well as at least eight years of applicable experience in:

  • Managing/ prioritizing large, complex projects involving numerous stakeholders.
  • Leading working groups and cross-functional teams.
  • Leveraging best practices and handling multiple tasks and interruptions with minimal impact on productivity/deliverables.
  • Engaging Senior Staff at the Flag Officer/Director/Manager level.
  • Conducting fleet training analysis/assessment to identify gaps, training needs and solutions.

Specific Functional Area duties include:

  • Provide support as JTAC-I, per the JFS ESC AP MOA 2004-01, JTAC (Ground) (JTAC 

    MOA). Provide classroom lecture, practical, simulator, and field instruction to JTAC students and JTACs in refresher syllabus in JCAS and call-for-fire TTPs to include instructing and monitoring the execution of live controls. 

  • Conduct evaluation of student performance throughout and make recommendations to the NAWDC JCAS division on the eligibility of each JTAC student for initial qualification as a JTAC per the JTAC MOA. Conduct practice and graded currency controls for qualified JTACs as directed by the JCAS division. 

  • Develop and maintain the currency of the JTAC Course syllabus ensuring it satisfies the 

    requirements of the JTAC MOA and aligns with JP 3-09, JP 3-09.3, JFIRE and other sources of doctrine and TTPs adopted by Joint Fire Support (JFS) Executive Steering Committee (ESC). 

  • Assist with the NAWDC JTAC Course and maintain Joint Staff accreditation as a JTAC 

    school. 

  • Assist the Government JCAS staff in the safe execution of close air support (CAS) and Joint Fire Support training to include conducting safety drills with the appropriate Navy and local emergency medical services providers to ensure the efficacy of safety and operational risk management (ORM) plans of action. 
  • Assist JCAS staff with JTAC, fires, and communications support for air wing training during designated Air Wing Fallon events and other NAWDC and JCAS-supported events. 
  • Support the JCAS division in their role as US Navy representative to the JFS ESC to include developing TTPs and reviewing documented JCAS and Joint Fires policy, and doctrine as needed 
  • Support external commands as needed with JCAS and Joint Fires subject matter expertise 
  • Assist in the maintenance, operation and upgrading of JCAS equipment tasks. 
  • Assist in the training of both JTAC Instructors and Evaluators, as well as aircraft squadron aircrews. 
  • Safely perform instructional and supervisory roles in live, close-air support in the field and on operating ranges. 
  • Effectively employ and use NMETL methodology. 
  • Conduct observation evaluation during high tempo, fluid operations. 
  • Coordinate with the Fallon Range Department and squadron operations departments to 
  • schedule range times. 
  • Assist with operating, maintaining, and/or managing: 
    • C2 and communications (e.g. tactical comms radios; line of sight [LOS], SATCOM, and HF communications)  
    • Navigation (e.g., Defense Advanced GPS Receiver [DAGR]) 
    • Targeting equipment (e.g., Precision Strike Suite-Special Operations Forces [PSS-SOF], Video Down Link [VDL], and laser range finders and target designators) 
    • Simulation suites (e.g., Joint Fire Support Executive Steering Committee (JFS-ESC) approved simulators such as CAVE) 
    • Digital situational awareness tools such as ATAK 
    • Digitally-aided CAS systems such as VMF and Link 16 
SAIC is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.

We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

REQUIRED BACKGROUND / EDUCATION / SKILLS:

  • U.S. citizen with Bachelor of Arts or Science degree and 10 years experience with Top Secret clearance.  Ability to obtain TS/SCI 

  • Extensive knowledge of Joint Air operations, and operational experience with all service 

    branches and USSOCOM, as well as experience working with various Coalition JTACS 

  • Broad technical background, knowledge, skills, and experience in CAS, doctrine, principles, and processes for squadron operating with a USN CSG 

  • High-level experience lecturing on and implementing JCAS, JTAC principles, doctrine, and JCAS courseware as part of joint operations and training with military ground and aviation units 

  • Qualified as a JTAC Instructor while serving in the armed forces and in accordance with 

    current JTAC MOA 

  • Three (3) years of experience as JCAS operator/technician and upgrading JCAS equipment

DESIRED BACKGROUND / EDUCATION / SKILLS:

  • Ability to integrate emerging combat capabilities and new instruction effectively. 

  • Ability to work on complex, combat problems in the field, assess dynamic situations, and convey technical expertise to the students. 

  • Ability to evaluate students in a classroom and in a live environment. 

  • Ability to develop simulated training scenarios using M&S systems and a familiarity with Virtual Reality Scene Generator (VRSG) and Modern Air Combat Environment (MACE). 

  • Proficiency in current NSW/SEAL weapons systems and communications capabilities. 

  • Excellent writing skills and ability to communicate effectively, including public speaking / classroom instruction in a formal school environment. 

  • Experience in use of MS Office (e.g., PowerPoint) products

  • Master Training Specialist designation.

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