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Tactical Air Defense Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Anduril Industries

Release Manager, Air Defense

Irvine, CA · On-site

$166K - $220K/yr

ABOUT THE TEAM The Air Defense team builds robots that find other robots and knock them out of the ... Person status is required as this position needs to access export-controlled data. * Must be ...

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Tactical Air Defense Controller information

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$55K

$119.5K

$175.5K

How much do tactical air defense controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for tactical air defense controller in the United States is $119,497.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $138,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tactical air defense controller?

A Tactical Air Defense Controller is responsible for monitoring and directing military aircraft to ensure airspace security and mission success. They coordinate air defense operations, track airborne threats, and provide real-time guidance to pilots and command units. Their role involves using radar, communication systems, and tactical data links to maintain situational awareness. This position is critical in identifying potential threats and ensuring a rapid response to protect national airspace and military assets.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a tactical air defense controller?

Tactical Air Defense Controllers are responsible for monitoring airspace using radar and surveillance systems, identifying and tracking potential threats, and coordinating aircraft and missile defense responses. They work closely with other controllers, pilots, and military command personnel to relay critical information and ensure seamless communication during high-pressure situations. Regular duties also include conducting readiness drills, maintaining system functionality, and documenting operational activities. This dynamic work environment requires constant vigilance and close teamwork to ensure effective air defense operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tactical air defense controller?

To thrive as a Tactical Air Defense Controller, you need a strong background in air defense operations, situational awareness, and rapid decision-making, often supported by specialized military training and certifications. Familiarity with radar systems, tactical data links, and command-and-control software is essential for real-time threat detection and response. Excellent communication, teamwork, and stress management skills help controllers coordinate with allied units and adapt quickly to evolving scenarios. These abilities are crucial for maintaining airspace security and ensuring timely, effective responses to potential threats.

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Tactical Air Defense Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tactical Air Defense Controller job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,497 per year, or $57.5 per hour.

Senior Tactical System Analyst CFSD Team

ApplyMint

Valparaiso, FL • On-site

$117.10 - $168.07/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Tactical Air Support Inc. Senior Tactical System Analyst (C-FSD Team)

Eglin AFB, FL; Crystal City, VA; Pax River, MD

Salary rate: $85.00 - $122.00/Hourly (DOE)

Position Summary

We are seeking part‑time F‑35 Subject Matter Experts (SME) to identify, define, and document technical data for weaponeering, and Naval Technical Requirements Product (NTRP) products for F‑35 aircraft and associated weapons systems. The Advanced Capabilities and Effective Solutions (ACES) Division supports Tactical Air's mission by delivering world‑class training, products, and support directly to fleet aviators. As part of ACES, the Classified Flight Series Data (C‑FSD) team provides the latest information on F‑35 aircraft software features and functionality for the aircraft Mission and Weapon Systems.

Responsibilities
  • Research software updates and apply to fleet airworthiness documentation (C‑FSD)
  • Compile and convey various technical and engineering documents to aircrew in written and/or oral form
  • Provide hands‑on training to USN, USMC and USAF weapon school personnel on various aircraft systems
  • Develop training materials in various formats and platforms such as PowerPoint presentations, oral briefs, and in‑flight guides for use by aircrew
  • Ensure protection of current and potential intellectual and company technology
  • Regularly interact with and provide guidance, support, and input to internal and external customers, including operational squadrons, weapon school personnel, test squadrons, and program offices
Requirements
  • Bachelor's Degree in Science, Aeronautics, Engineering, Mathematics, Operations Research, Computer Science, Physics, or related scientific discipline
  • Twelve (12) or more years' direct experience employing U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) strike/fighter aircraft
  • Travel (20%) to various work sites throughout the U.S.
  • Must be lawfully eligible to work in the United States, complete a U.S. government I‑9 form, and successfully pass a government background check.
  • Active Secret clearance with TS/SCI Eligibility
  • Eligible for SAP/SAR programs
  • Valid State Driver License
Desired Experience/Skills
  • Weapons school graduate, test pilot school graduate, former weapons school instructor, TPS, or FRS/TPU instructor
  • Comprehensive technical and functional knowledge of F‑35 weapon and mission systems or equivalent US fighter aircraft
  • Equivalent combination of training, education, and experience in a relevant field or industry will be considered in lieu of degree
  • Experience with various operational squadrons, training squadrons, test squadrons, program offices, and tactical centers of excellence
  • Familiarity or experience with the U.S. Armed Forces and Department of Defense (DoD) federal contractors and the aerospace, defense, or commercial aviation industry
  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Strong computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office (Teams, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
  • Strong organizational and time management skills with ability to correctly prioritize workload to maintain schedules, deadlines, and standards on assigned projects
Work Authorization
  • Must be lawfully eligible to work in the United States, complete a U.S. government I‑9 form, and successfully pass a government background check.
  • Tactical Air Support is a Drug & Alcohol‑Free Workplace. Pre‑employment, random, or for cause drug/alcohol testing (including for marijuana) required.

Tactical Air Support is an EEO/AA/DEI/Disabled/Veterans Employer

I understand that if an offer of employment is made, I may be required to undergo investigation into all statements and references contained in this application. Said investigation may include credit, driving, criminal background, professional references, and other background checks. By applying for this position, I authorize post‑offer investigation into my background as necessary and as a condition of employment. Note: a criminal conviction does not constitute an automatic bar to employment and will be considered only as it substantially relates to the position in question.

California Only: You have a right to receive public records documenting an arrest, indictment, conviction, civil judicial action, tax lien, or outstanding judgment that are obtained without using the services of an investigative consumer reporting agency (CA Civil Code •1786.53). Pursuant to California law, you are entitled to waive this right.

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