Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officer

Your Fit

Income

$97K

Preparation

Growth

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is an Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officer?

An Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officer is a specialized military officer responsible for overseeing the launch and recovery operations of aircraft, primarily on aircraft carriers. They ensure the safe and efficient handling of aircraft during takeoff and landing, often in challenging conditions.

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Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officer.

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Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

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How much does an Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officer earn

Income data is from Canada's latest census. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officer.

$97K

CAD per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $33K above the national average.

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What does an Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officer do?

Work environment

These officers typically work on aircraft carriers, which involves working on the flight deck with exposure to various weather conditions and loud noise levels. The role demands a high level of alertness and quick decision-making, often under stressful circumstances.

Quick task list

Oversees the launch and recovery of aircraft on carrier decks.
Coordinates with the bridge, air traffic control, and flight deck personnel.
Ensures compliance with safety procedures and regulations.
Manages maintenance and readiness of launch and recovery equipment.
Trains and supervises deck crew involved in flight operations.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Carrier-Based Aircraft Operations: Specializing in the unique requirements of operating fixed-wing aircraft from aircraft carriers.
Helicopter Launch and Recovery: Focusing on the specific needs of launching and recovering helicopters aboard ships.
Advanced Arresting Gear Systems: Expertise in managing advanced systems used for arresting aircraft on carrier decks.
Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch Systems (EMALS): Specializing in the operation of electromagnetic systems for launching aircraft.
Deck Safety and Management: Concentrating on maintaining safety and efficiency on crowded and hazardous flight decks.

Description

Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officers play a critical role in naval aviation, particularly in the operations of aircraft carriers. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that all aircraft are launched and recovered safely and efficiently. This involves managing complex systems like catapults for launching aircraft and arresting gears for recovery. The officers must have a comprehensive understanding of the technical aspects of these systems, as well as the capabilities and limitations of different types of aircraft.

Leadership and teamwork are essential in this high-stakes environment. Officers must effectively communicate and coordinate with pilots, air traffic controllers, and deck crews to orchestrate the precise timing required for successful operations. They must also maintain a constant awareness of changing weather conditions, aircraft status, and potential hazards on the flight deck.

The role requires continuous learning and adaptation, as technological advancements in aircraft and carrier systems evolve. Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officers must be adaptable, decisive, and able to remain calm under pressure. Their decisions have direct implications for the safety of personnel and the success of flight operations.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Being an integral part of critical naval aviation operations.
The challenge and excitement of working with advanced aircraft and carrier systems.
Leading and coordinating a highly skilled and specialized team.

You might make a good Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officer if you are...

Passionate about aviation and naval operations.
A strong leader with excellent decision-making skills.
Able to remain calm and focused in high-pressure situations.
Interested in advanced aviation technology and its practical applications.
A good communicator with the ability to work effectively in a team.

Pros:

A highly specialized and respected role in the military.
Opportunities to work with cutting-edge aviation technology.
The excitement and dynamism of working on an aircraft carrier.

Cons:

Physically and mentally demanding work environment.
Long periods away from home during deployments.
The high-stress nature of ensuring the safety of complex operations.

How to become an Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officer

Typical education

This occupation generally requires a bachelor's degree, followed by specialized military training in aviation and aircraft handling. Additional qualifications and training specific to aircraft launch and recovery operations are also necessary.

High school preparation

Courses:

Physical Education for physical fitness.
Mathematics and physics to understand the principles of flight and mechanics.
ROTC or similar programs for foundational military training.
Technology or engineering courses for a basic understanding of mechanical systems.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participation in team sports for physical conditioning and teamwork.
Leadership roles in clubs or organizations.
Volunteering or internships related to aviation or mechanical fields.

Preparation after high school

Earning a bachelor's degree, preferably in fields related to aviation, engineering, or military science.
Joining the military and completing Officer Candidate School or a service academy.
Undergoing specialized training in aircraft launch and recovery operations.
Gaining experience through military service in aviation-related roles.

More resources

U.S. Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) - Offers insights into naval aviation systems and operations.
United States Naval Academy - A service academy providing education and training for naval officers.
Naval Aviation Schools Command (NASC) - Provides training and resources for naval aviation.
The Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers - Professional organization offering resources on naval engineering and design.

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