Lead the 940th: Air Commander (Pilot/Navigator) Opportunity at Beale AFB
Are you a high-level military leader looking to make a lasting impact? The Department of the Air Force is seeking an experienced officer to serve as the Air Commander (Pilot/Navigator) at the 940th Air Refueling Wing at Beale Air Force Base, California. This is an Air Reserve Technician (ART) role, offering a unique opportunity to serve in both a civilian and military capacity at the O-6/Colonel level.
Job Responsibilities
As the Air Commander, you will serve as the senior leader responsible for the full-time operations of the wing. Your daily scope includes:
- Command and Control: Planning, organizing, and directing wing operations including aircraft maintenance, refueling missions, and training.
- Strategic Leadership: Managing large-scale operations involving hundreds of personnel.
- Base Support: Overseeing essential base operations, including civil engineering, logistics, and personnel management at host locations.
- Mentorship: Developing subordinate supervisors and fostering a culture of high readiness.
Requirements
Candidates must demonstrate significant leadership and aviation experience. Key requirements include:
- Military Status: Commissioned or commissionable as an ART Officer.
- Aviation Ratings: USAF Command Pilot, Command Navigator, or Master Combat Systems Officer/RPA Pilot rating.
- Flight Hours: Minimum 2,500 total military flight hours.
- Clearance: Ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance.
Comparison: Civilian vs. Military Commitment
| Feature | Civilian Role | Reserve Role |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Full-time Federal Employee | Air Force Reserve Member |
| Pay | GS-15 Scale | Military Pay Scale |
| Requirement | Maintain civil service standards | Maintain military readiness |
| Benefits | Federal Health/Retirement | Military Training/Benefits |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $169,355 to $197,200. Beyond the base pay, you receive full federal employment benefits, including comprehensive insurance options, retirement programs, and the peace of mind that comes with federal service.
How to Apply
To apply, ensure your package is submitted via the USAJOBS portal by August 25, 2026. Your package must include a two-page resume, your questionnaire responses, and supporting documentation like your SF-50 and DD-214.
This command position is a premier opportunity for senior-level officers to guide a wing through complex operations. If you meet the qualifications, start your application today and take the next step in your military and federal career.
Why This Air Commander (Pilot/Navigator) Job Matters
Take command of the 940th Air Refueling Wing as an Air Reserve Technician (ART). We are looking for an experienced O-6 Colonel level leader to oversee operations, strategy, and mission readiness at Beale AFB.
Air Commander (Pilot/Navigator) Job Overview
This is a unique Air Reserve Technician (ART) position based at Beale Air Force Base, California. You will serve as the senior leader for the 940th Air Refueling Wing, balancing dual responsibilities as a full-time federal civilian employee and an active member of the Air Force Reserve. In this critical leadership role, you will be responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the wide-ranging operations of the wing, ensuring mission success in aviation, maintenance, and logistics.
Requirements for Air Commander (Pilot/Navigator)
- Must be commissioned or commissionable as an ART Officer in the Air Force Reserve.
- Must maintain active membership in the assigned Air Force Reserve unit.
- Must possess a USAF Command Pilot, Command Navigator, Master Combat Systems Officer, Command RPA Pilot, or Master Air Battle Manager rating.
- Minimum 2,500 Total Military Flight Time and previous instructor qualification in any MDS.
- Must have actively flown within the last 8 years.
- Must hold a valid USAF instrument rating or equivalent military/civilian rating.
- Must meet the 52-week Time-In-Grade requirement at the GS-14 level for federal internal candidates.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Must undergo mandatory drug testing.
Preferred Qualifications for Air Commander (Pilot/Navigator)
- Experience in tactical or strategic warfare planning.
- Documented progression toward Wing Commander responsibilities.
- Advanced professional military education, such as completion of the Air War College or Air Command and Staff College.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with annual adjustments.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Military leave for annual 15-day active duty training with full civilian pay.
- ✓Career transition and professional development opportunities.
- ✓Eligibility for federal employee disability and leave programs.
💡 How to Apply Air Commander (Pilot/Navigator) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Air Commander (Pilot/Navigator) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Include hours worked per week and specific dates of employment in your resume.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including SF-50s for current/former federal employees and military service records (DD-214 or certification memo).
- Submit your final package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on August 25, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly two pages; documents exceeding this limit will be disqualified.
- Ensure your resume includes clear dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Double-check your SF-50 documentation to ensure it clearly reflects your current grade and one-year time-in-grade eligibility.
- Submit your documents early; system virus scans can take up to one hour to clear after uploading.
- Clearly highlight your instructor flight experience and leadership roles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Air Reserve Technician (ART)?
An ART is a full-time federal civil service employee who is also required to maintain active participation in a designated Air Force Reserve military unit.
Can I apply if I am currently on active duty?
Yes, active duty service members can apply by submitting a certification memo on official letterhead in lieu of a DD-214, provided they are within 120 days of discharge or on terminal leave.
Is relocation assistance available?
Yes, this position indicates that relocation benefits may be authorized for the right candidate.
Job from Headquarters, Air Force Reserve Command
The United States Air Force Reserve operates with a mission to fly, fight, and win. As an Air Reserve Technician, you aren't just a civilian employee; you are a vital member of the team that ensures global reach and vigilance. The 940th Air Refueling Wing thrives on core values: integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do.