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Mission Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mission Planner

Andrews, MD · On-site

$100K - $111K/yr

The candidate shall provide Mission Planning Coordination Services. * The candidate shall be a self-starter, motivated to succeed, highly attentive to detail, multi-task capable, work well with ...

Mission Planner Location: Orlando, FL Department: Ops Control Center Reports To: Mission Planning Manager FLSA Status: Exempt Summary: The Mission Planner researches each proposed flight operation ...

The candidate shall provide Mission Planning Coordination Services. * The candidate shall be a self-starter, motivated to succeed, highly attentive to detail, multi-task capable, work well with ...

The candidate shall provide Mission Planning Coordination Services. * The candidate shall be a self-starter, motivated to succeed, highly attentive to detail, multi-task capable, work well with ...

Mission Planner Location: Orlando, FL Department: Ops Control Center Reports To: Mission Planning Manager FLSA Status: Exempt Summary: The Mission Planner researches each proposed flight operation ...

Aircraft Mission Planner The Opportunity: As a defense mission professional, you ask questions others don't. You understand the nuances of complex situations. You use your skills to think bigger and ...

Aircraft Mission Planner The Opportunity: As a defense mission professional, you ask questions others don't. You understand the nuances of complex situations. You use your skills to think bigger and ...

Junior Mission Planner

Indian Springs, NV · On-site

$145K - $160K/yr

Cape Fox Federal Integrators (CFFI) is seeking a Senior Mission Planner. The ideal candidate for this position will provide Low Observable (LO) airborne Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance ...

As a Mission Planner, Principal you will be responsible for providing mission planning support to Department of the Air Force R&D technology efforts. You will be an integral part of a combined ...

Candidates will Perform Mission Support System (MSS) mission planning & mission data duties for the U.S. Air Force at Edwards AFB, CA. Operate and maintain FIGHTERS, BOMBERS, and UNMANNED AIRCRAFT ...

As a Mission Planner on the Service Operations Team, you will be responsible for developing and maintaining integrated mission schedules that enable successful spacecraft planning and operations ...

As a Mission Planner on the Service Operations Team, you will be responsible for developing and maintaining integrated mission schedules that enable successful spacecraft planning and operations ...

Candidates will Perform Mission Support System (MSS) mission planning & mission data duties for the U.S. Air Force at Edwards AFB, CA. Operate and maintain FIGHTERS, BOMBERS, and UNMANNED AIRCRAFT ...

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Mission Planner information

See salary details

$54.5K

$91.5K

$140K

How much do mission planner jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for mission planner in the United States is $91,541.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $123,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Mission Planner typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure successful mission execution?

Mission Planners play a central role in coordinating efforts between various departments, such as operations, logistics, engineering, and communications. They frequently participate in multidisciplinary meetings to gather input, review mission objectives, and address potential obstacles. Effective communication and a collaborative mindset are crucial, as Mission Planners must integrate diverse perspectives and ensure all teams are aligned with the mission plan. This collaborative approach helps identify risks early and facilitates smooth execution, often under tight deadlines or dynamic conditions.

What is the difference between Mission Planner vs Drone Pilot?

AspectMission PlannerDrone Pilot
CredentialsTypically requires UAV-specific certifications and knowledge of flight planning softwareRequires FAA Part 107 certification or equivalent, with piloting skills
Work EnvironmentPrimarily desktop-based, planning missions and analyzing dataField-based, operating drones during missions
Industry UsageUsed by UAV operators, surveyors, and researchers for mission planningUsed by licensed pilots for executing drone flights

Mission Planner focuses on creating flight plans and managing UAV missions, often working behind the scenes. Drone Pilots execute these plans in the field, operating drones during missions. Both roles are essential in the drone industry but differ in responsibilities and work settings.

What Is a Mission Planner?

A mission planner helps plan missions for an organization or military entity. Job duties vary, but they may include preparing an autopilot route for aircraft or deciding what vehicle is necessary to complete a mission. Career qualifications often include a bachelor’s or master’s degree, experience in logistics, software skills, and knowledge of FAA regulations. As a mission planner, you need to use vehicle information to make critical decisions in real time.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

For a Mission Planner, high-paying roles typically include senior positions in aerospace, defense, or government agencies, often requiring advanced degrees, security clearances, and extensive experience. These roles may involve strategic planning, project management, or leadership in complex operations and can reach or exceed $300,000 annually. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and level of expertise.

What does a mission planner do?

A mission planner designs, develops, and coordinates operational plans for unmanned systems such as drones or spacecraft. They use specialized software to create flight paths, set waypoints, and ensure mission objectives are met safely and efficiently. Strong knowledge of navigation, automation tools, and safety protocols is essential for this role.

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

To thrive as a Mission Planner, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in fields such as aerospace engineering, military science, or logistics. Familiarity with mission planning software, GIS mapping tools, and relevant certifications like PMP or military planning courses are commonly required. Excellent communication, adaptability, and teamwork are essential soft skills for coordinating complex missions and responding to changing circumstances. These competencies ensure missions are executed efficiently, safely, and in alignment with organizational objectives.

What job should I get if I love space?

A mission planner is a role that involves designing and coordinating space missions, requiring knowledge of aerospace engineering, navigation, and project management. Careers in aerospace engineering, astrophysics, or satellite operations also align with a passion for space and often require specialized education and technical skills.

What jobs can you do with urban planning?

Urban planners, including mission planners involved in city development projects, can work in roles such as city planning, transportation planning, environmental planning, and land use management. These jobs typically require knowledge of zoning laws, GIS tools, and community engagement, and often involve working with government agencies, consulting firms, or private developers.
What cities are hiring for Mission Planner jobs? Cities with the most Mission Planner job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Mission Planner jobs? The most popular types of Mission Planner jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Mission Planner jobs? The top employers for Mission Planner jobs are:
What states have the most Mission Planner jobs? States with the most job openings for Mission Planner jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Mission Planner jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mission Planner jobs are:
Infographic showing various Mission Planner job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,541 per year, or $44 per hour.

$100K - $111K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


ASRC Federal rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

235th of 443 rated engineering


Job description

ASRC Federal is a leading government contractor furthering missions in space, public health and defense. As an Alaska Native owned corporation, our work helps secure an enduring future for our shareholders. Join our team and discover why we are a top veteran employer and Certified Great Place to Work™
ASRC Federal is seeking qualified candidates for a Mission Planner at Joint Base Andrews. This position is primarily onsite with some remote work.
PROGRAM SUMMARY:
JOB DESCRIPTION:
  • The candidate shall provide Mission Planning Coordination Services.
  • The candidate shall be a self-starter, motivated to succeed, highly attentive to detail, multi-task capable, work well with others, and get work accomplished in a fast-paced, short-notice, multiple-change office environment which holds perfection as the standard.
  • Develops plans and mission folders for worldwide missions IAW Squadron Mission Planning checklists for mission execution. Briefs aircrew during the mission planning phase and provides mission departure briefing, and flight following.
  • Determines aircraft suitability and aircraft performance limitations for the USAF C-40C designated Boeing 737-700 aircraft. Reviews and analyzes international airfield data in the Global Decision Support System (GDSS) Mission Planners Report, DOD GP/AP publications, IFR supplements, NOTAMS, Terminal Procedures (TERPS), and Aviation Resource Management (AvORM) calculations.
  • Assists external flight dispatch service provider with diplomatic clearances. Updates the Aircraft and Personnel Automated Clearance System (APACS) request for coordination of all logistical information to include aircraft fuel, services and security, aircrew transportation, hotel reservations, and aircrew support required at each worldwide location.
  • Determines Host Nation VISA and Aircraft Entry requirements in the Foreign Clearance Guide (FCG). Coordinates aircraft and crew logistical support and security with US Embassies and Host Nation authorities.
  • Leverages Mission Readiness Airlift Database (MRAD) to perform planning tasks e.g., obtain mission numbers, close out mission information, and complete MRAD cycle.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  • 5-7 years of relevant experience of planning, coordination, and oversight of Executive Airlift (EA) Special Air Missions (SAM) that support the White House, Cabinet, Congress, and senior military leaders on worldwide missions when assigned to the squadron.
  • Experience determining initial mission requirements, aircraft performance limitations, and be able to hold an FAA Flight Dispatch Certification.
  • Ability to coordinate and manage International Diplomatic Aircraft Clearances and prepare an APACS request for coordination of all logistical aircraft and aircrew support required at each worldwide location.
  • Ability to professionally interact with high-level US government, US embassy, and foreign officials.

SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Contractor shall have experience in government mission planning and/or aircrew scheduling. All personnel performing Mission Planning Services will be FAA dispatch certified or a prior Pilot/Navigator in the USAF/USN/USMC/USARMY/USCG or have previous EA Mission Planning experience. If not, personnel must have aviation mission planning experience or have military flight crew experience and receive a dispatch certification within one year of hire.
  • FAA Flight Dispatch Certification

EDUCATION:
  • Bachelor's degree

CLEARANCE LEVEL:
  • Active DoD Secret Clearance

BENEFITS:
  • Health, Dental, Vision, 401K Matching, AD&D Insurance
  • EEO Employer F/M/Vet/Disabled

We invest in the lives of our employees, both in and out of the workplace, by providing competitive pay and benefits packages. Benefits offered may include health care, dental, vision, life insurance; 401(k); education assistance; paid time off including PTO, holidays, and any other paid leave required by law. The salary offered will depend on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant experience, skills, education, geographic location, internal equity, business needs, and other factors permitted by law. Posted pay ranges are a general guideline only and are not a guarantee of compensation or salary.
EEO Statement
ASRC Federal and its Subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, gender, color, age, sexual orientation, gender identification, national origin, religion, marital status, ancestry, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status, or any other factor prohibited by applicable law.

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