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Law & Government

Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officers

Plan and direct the operation and maintenance of catapults, arresting gear, and associated mechanical, hydraulic, and control systems involved primarily in aircraft carrier takeoff and landing operations. Duties include supervision of readiness and safety of arresting gear, launching equipment, barricades, and visual landing aid systems; planning and coordinating the design, development, and testing of launch and recovery systems; preparing specifications for catapult and arresting gear installations; evaluating design proposals; determining handling equipment needed for new aircraft; preparing technical data and instructions for operation of landing aids; and training personnel in carrier takeoff and landing procedures.

Median salary

$55,000

Typical range

$34k – $99k

Job outlook

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Education

Typical entry: Associate degree

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Typical progression

  1. Junior Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officers

    Entry / Junior

    $34,100

    ~2 yrs to advance

  2. Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officers

    Established

    $55,000

    ~3 yrs to advance

  3. Senior Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officers

    Senior

    $77,000

Key skills

A typical day

    Fields of study

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