Air National Guard Units | Pilot

Airplane Pilot (Accelerated Hire) – Air National Guard

Location: California Air National Guard (ANG), Operations Group, 144th Fighter Wing

Position Type: T32 Excepted Service (Permanent, Indefinite, or Temporary)

Series/Grade: GS-2181-13

Position Summary

The Air National Guard is seeking an experienced Airplane Pilot (Accelerated Hire) to join the 144th Fighter Wing. This role involves piloting unit-equipped (UE) aircraft while performing essential administrative tasks in support of the Air Operations program. This is an open-until-filled announcement; applications are reviewed on a 30-day cycle.

Duties and Responsibilities

The primary responsibilities include the safe and effective operation of unit aircraft, mission planning, and mission preparation. The incumbent will analyze intelligence and weather data, file flight plans, and conduct crew briefings. Additional duties include performing preflight inspections, equipment assessments, and supervising crew training. The pilot will advise commanders on flight theory, air navigation, meteorology, and mission tactics while ensuring compliance with Department of Defense and OSHA safety programs.

Qualifications

Candidates must possess a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification from an accredited civilian program or a certification from an accredited military aviation school. Applicants must have at least one year of on-the-job experience in the grade or comparable military rank immediately below the GS-13 level.

Specialized Competencies (36 months required):

• Operating specific main-frame military aircraft.
• Reviewing/analyzing mission tasking, intelligence, and weather.
• Conducting aircraft preflight inspections, loading, and equipment assessments.
• Performing or supervising navigation, in-flight refueling, search and rescue, or surveillance/reconnaissance operations.
• Developing plans, policies, and monitoring flight operations.
• Expertise in air navigation, meteorology, and safety program management.

Conditions of Employment

• Membership: California National Guard membership is required. Selectees must be assigned to a compatible military position and grade (O-1 through O-6) within the unit.
• Uniform: Must wear the appropriate military uniform and adhere to grooming standards.
• Clearance: Must maintain an appropriate level of security clearance.
• Administrative: Mandatory participation in direct deposit.
• Selective Service: Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.

Education and Certification Requirements

Proof of FAA or accredited military aviation certification is required at the time of application. Failure to provide necessary transcripts or certificates will result in automatic disqualification. All educational institutions must be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Foreign education must be evaluated by a recognized organization for U.S. equivalency.

Benefits and Incentives

• Incentives: Recruitment/Relocation incentives may be authorized, subject to funding and agency approval.
• Relocation: Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs may be authorized based on the Joint Travel Regulation.
• Federal Benefits: Employees are eligible for a comprehensive federal benefits package; eligibility depends on the specific appointment type.
• Note: Acceptance of this position may impact existing military bonuses or GI Bill-SR Kicker eligibility.