Also known as: Advanced Foreign Counterintelligence Specialist (AFCS), Advanced Military Source Operations Specialist (AMOS), Aerospace Physiological Technician, Air Launch Weapons Technician
You arrive at the squadron hangar before dawn, the desert air still cool on Nellis AFB, Nevada. Your combat boots echo on the concrete as you head to the gear locker. You pull on your flight suit, secure your M4 carbine, and check your helmet's communications system. A quick nod and "Morning, Sergeant" to your crew chief, who's already reviewing the day's flight schedule on a digital display. Today's primary focus is F-16 Fighting Falcon pre-mission checks and ordnance loading for a training exercise.
The outlook for these military enlisted roles is stable through 2035, offering consistent opportunities. While an Associate's Degree is a typical educational path, extensive on-the-job training is provided. You can advance by gaining experience, specializing in certain fields, and pursuing leadership roles as a non-commissioned officer.
Career ladder
Often before this role
Where it can lead
$50,000 - $80,000
Estimated for US-wide average
Bachelor's Degree
Minimum educational requirement for this position
Based on job level & field
Aircraft Armament Systems Technology
Bachelor • Social Sciences • 4 years
Mechanics and Repairers, General
Bachelor • Social Sciences • 4 years
Protective Services Operations
Bachelor • Law & Public Administration • 4 years
Critical Incident Response/Special Police Operations
Bachelor • Law & Public Administration • 4 years
Technical Specialist
Vocational • Tech & Engineering • 1 year
Construction/Heavy Equipment/Earthmoving Equipment Operation
Bachelor • Social Sciences • 4 years