Launch Your Career: Flight Operations Specialist in the Virginia Army National Guard
Are you looking to pivot your career toward aviation management and operational logistics? The Virginia Army National Guard is currently hiring a Flight Operations Specialist in Sandston, VA. This is a unique opportunity to serve your community while working at the intersection of aircrew safety, mission planning, and federal regulatory compliance.
Job Responsibilities
As a Flight Operations Specialist (GS-2102-8), you are the backbone of flight safety. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Preflight Coordination: Briefing pilots on mission parameters, weather forecasts, and potential hazards.
- Flight Following: Maintaining constant communication with aviators to relay weather advisories and flight plan changes.
- Records Management: Compiling aircraft utilization reports, aircrew medical records, and flight hour logs.
- Regulatory Oversight: Ensuring all flights conform to current Army Flight Information Publications and ATC procedures.
- Emergency Response: Initiating search and rescue protocols for overdue aircraft when necessary.
Comparison of Requirements
| Feature | Requirement Status |
|---|---|
| Military Status | Must be or be eligible to join VA ARNG |
| Experience Level | 12 months at GS-07 equivalent |
| Security Clearance | Secret level required |
| Resume Limit | 2-page strict maximum |
Requirements
To be eligible for this role, you must demonstrate a breadth of experience equivalent to at least the GS-07 level. You need to provide clear documentation of your employment dates (MM/DD/YY) and weekly hours. Candidates must ensure they meet the specific military enlistment requirements for the Virginia Army National Guard.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $58,374 to $75,883. This scale reflects the specialized nature of the responsibilities and the high level of accountability expected of the role.
Benefits
Employees in this Title 32 position benefit from the comprehensive federal technician program, which includes:
- Career security in a permanent federal appointment.
- Access to federal health and retirement benefits.
- Opportunities for specialized training in flight support and administrative operations.
Application Tips
- Use the Resume Builder: This tool is designed to ensure you don't miss mandatory data fields.
- Be Quantitative: Clearly state your hours per week to prove your experience level.
- Follow the Limit: A two-page resume is a hard requirement for this announcement.
Serving as a Flight Operations Specialist is more than just a job; it is a critical component of national and state safety. If you have the required aviation background and the dedication to serve, we encourage you to submit your application package before the July 22, 2026, deadline.
Why This Flight Operations Specialist (Title 32) (Permanent) Job Matters
Launch your career in military aviation logistics as a Flight Operations Specialist with the Virginia Army National Guard.
Flight Operations Specialist (Title 32) (Permanent) Job Overview
The Virginia Army National Guard is seeking a dedicated Flight Operations Specialist (Title 32) to manage vital aviation communications, flight planning, and mission coordination at the Army Aviation Support Facility in Sandston, VA. This permanent excepted service role is essential for maintaining the safety and efficiency of National Guard flight operations.
Requirements for Flight Operations Specialist (Title 32) (Permanent)
- Must be a member of the Virginia Army National Guard or eligible for membership.
- Must possess at least 12 months of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 grade level.
- Experience in conducting preflight pilot briefings and providing in-flight advisory services.
- Knowledge of federal flight rules, regulations, and navigational procedures.
- Must be able to maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Maximum resume length of 2 pages.
- Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service System.
Preferred Qualifications for Flight Operations Specialist (Title 32) (Permanent)
- Proven experience in tracking aircraft flight hours, aircrew qualifications, and medical records.
- Proficiency in managing NOTAMs and flight clearance processing systems.
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate emergency search and rescue protocols.
- Experience using specialized flight operations software and computer-based reporting systems.
- Previous supervisory experience in training or flight operations settings.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Access to comprehensive military-grade benefits programs
- ✓Professional development and technical training opportunities
- ✓Opportunity to serve in a mission-critical support capacity
- ✓Stable federal career path within the National Guard Technician program
💡 How to Apply Flight Operations Specialist (Title 32) (Permanent) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Flight Operations Specialist (Title 32) (Permanent) Job
- Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a federal-style resume clearly detailing dates of employment and hours worked per week.
- Complete the required Occupational Questionnaire online.
- Gather supporting documentation, including your most recent SF-50 if applicable.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of July 22, 2026.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all federal requirements are met.
- Be specific regarding your experience level; quantify your hours and duties for every role listed.
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the 2-page limit requirement.
- Double-check that all proof of enlistment is attached if applying as a Group II candidate.
- Apply early to avoid potential technical issues near the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Title 32 excepted service position?
It is a National Guard position where employment is contingent upon maintaining your military membership in the Virginia Army National Guard.
Can I apply if I am not currently in the National Guard?
Yes, Group III includes individuals who are eligible for membership in the Virginia Army National Guard.
What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?
Per the announcement instructions, all applicants are required to limit their resumes to 2 pages; failure to do so may result in disqualification.
What is a Title 32 position?
It is a federal technician role that requires active membership in the National Guard.
How do I know if I am in Group I, II, or III?
Group definitions are clearly outlined in the official vacancy announcement based on your current military and technician status.
Job from Army National Guard Units
The Army National Guard is a cornerstone of the United States Armed Forces, boasting a legacy of service that dates back to the earliest American colonial days. By joining the VA AASF, you become part of a tradition dedicated to collective defense and emergency response. This position offers the stability of a federal career while keeping you connected to your local community.