Job Title

OverviewAir Combat Systems Officers plan, coordinate and direct the missions of aircraft and crew. They manage the operation of precision tactical navigation systems, sophisticated sensors, communication systems, electronic warfare equipment and weapon delivery systems. Air Combat Systems Officers often direct and coordinate the tactical activities of other units and lead a variety of missions, including:Search and RescueAnti-Submarine OperationsMaritime Surface Surveillance and TargetingSovereignty and Fisheries PatrolsCounter-Narcotics OperationsAir-to-Air RefuelingHumanitarian ReliefCombined Operations with Foreign MilitariesElectronic Warfare Training and SupportUnmanned Aerial Vehicle OperationsAircrew SelectionThe Royal Canadian Air Force requires all Pilots, Aerospace Controllers and Air Combat Systems Officers attend and successfully complete Aircrew Selection. The selection centre is located in Trenton, Ontario and candidates are tested over a 2-day period with computer-based scenarios to validate the skills and aptitudes required by the RCAF. Completion is required to progress for these occupations.Work environmentAir Combat Systems Officers work in operational flying units across Canada and as instructors. On deployed operations they work from airfields around the world and may support the Royal Canadian Navy and fly from ships at sea. Experienced officers assist in formulating strategic and operational policies and plans, determine air requirements and set standards. They may also work in international headquarters or on multinational staff or missions.Entry plansDirect Entry OptionsPaid Education OptionsIf you already have a university degree, CAF will decide if your program matches the criteria for this job and may place you directly into the required on-the-job training following basic training. Basic training and officer qualification training are required before assignment.Regular Officer Training PlanBecause CAF officers must obtain a university degree, the CAF pays successful recruits to complete a bachelor degree program in the Royal Military College System. Recruits receive a full-time salary with medical and dental care, vacation with pay, and other benefits in exchange for a period of service. Candidates typically enter as Officer Cadets and study subjects relevant to both military and academic careers. In rare instances, candidates may be approved to attend another Canadian university. If you are applying for this program, you must apply to the CAF and consider applying to other Canadian universities in case you are not accepted for ROTP.TrainingAfter enrolment, you begin basic officer training at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, for 12 weeks. Topics include general military knowledge, leadership, CAF regulations and customs, basic weapons handling and first aid. Training includes exercises in force protection, field training, navigation and leadership, with a rigorous fitness program. Training is offered in English or French and completion is required for further training.Following basic training, second-language training may be offered, taking two to nine months depending on language ability.Air Combat Systems Officers attend the Canadian Forces School of Survival and Aeromedical Training in Winnipeg, Manitoba. They must complete three courses: Aeromedical Training; Basic Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape; and Air Operations Sea Survival at the Canadian Forces School of Search and Rescue in Comox, British Columbia.Further training on duties occurs at the Canadian Forces Flying Training School in Winnipeg, with training in meteorology, navigation, guidance and control systems, electronics, communications, tactical employment of aircraft and weapons systems. Training occurs in the classroom, in the simulator, and in aircraft. After Professional Training, officers proceed to an Operational Training Unit to develop specialized skills through formal courses and on-the-job training to qualify as crew on specific aircraft types, including: Long Range Patrol, Maritime Helicopter, Search and Rescue, Electronic Warfare, Air-to-Air Refueling, Uninhabited Aerial Vehicle and Instructional Techniques.Advanced and graduate training may be offered for officers who demonstrate ability and potential.Part-time optionsThis position is available for part-time employment through the Reserve Force. Reservists generally work part-time for a Reserve unit in their community. They are not posted or required to relocate, but may volunteer to relocate or deploy on missions within or outside Canada. Reservists train with their home unit to meet professional standards and arrange additional training as needed. It is possible to set up an Individual Learning Plan to pursue a university degree, with reimbursement up to 50 percent of tuition and other costs upon successful completion while remaining a Reservist. Typically, Reservists work four evenings and one weekend per month from September to May and are paid 92.8% of Regular Force rates with a benefits package.Related CareersAerospace Control OperatorAirborne Electronic Sensor Operator #J-18808-Ljbffr