Aerospace Control Officer

Overview
As a member of the military, Aerospace Control Officers contribute to air operations by providing air traffic control services and air weapons control. They perform aerospace surveillance, warning, and control of airborne objects throughout Canadian airspace, and as part of the Canadian Air Navigation System, they also provide control to civilian and military aircraft during combat and training operations worldwide.

Work environment
Aerospace Control Officers may be deployed to a ship, aircraft, or in the field throughout Canada, the United States and Europe. Initially, they are employed as air traffic controllers at Canadian military airbases or in the air defence realm, controlling fighter aircraft at the Canadian Air Defence Sector.

For Regular Force officers, upon completion of all required training, assignment occurs at the first base with potential relocations. For Primary Reserve Force officers, they join a specific Reserve unit, working part‑time (typically one night per week and some weekends) with possibilities of full‑time employment.

Entry plans

Direct Entry Options – if you already have a university degree that meets CAF criteria, you may be placed directly into required on‑the‑job training following basic training.

Paid Education Options – the CAF pays successful recruits to complete a bachelor’s degree program in the Royal Military College System. Candidates enter the Canadian Military College System as an Officer Cadet and study subjects relevant to both military and academic career. Full‑time salary, medical and dental care, and vacation time are provided for a defined period of service.

The Aircrew Selection Centre in Trenton, Ontario requires all Pilots, Aerospace Controllers and Air Combat Systems Officers to attend and successfully complete a 2‑day computer‑based scenario test.

Training
After enrolment, basic officer training lasts 12 weeks at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School, covering military knowledge, leadership, regulations, weapons handling, first aid, and physical fitness. Successful completion is required for further training and may include second‑language training (2‑9 months).

Next, Aerospace Control Officers attend the Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Control Operations (3‑5 months). They learn control techniques for air defence and air traffic control, simulator training on airborne weapons systems, ground control systems, radar, meteorology, radio telephony, navigation orders, aircraft performance, and command directives.

They earn a licence in the control of live aircraft after passing examination on local operating procedures.

Specialized courses are available, including Airborne Warning and Control System, Space and Missile operations, Tactical Air Control Party (Land), and Maritime Fighter Control (Navy).

Part‑time options
This position is available for part‑time employment with the Primary Reserve in certain locations across Canada. Reserve members typically serve part‑time at an Air Force wing in their community, may volunteer for deployment on missions, and can serve up to 12 days per month in a regular work day with opportunities to serve full time for short durations.

Eligibility
The occupation is open to members of the Regular Force who have been trained as Aerospace Control Officers and wish to transfer to the Reserve Force, or to former military members who hold the Aerospace Control Officer qualification.

Related Careers

Aerospace Control Operator

Naval Electronic Sensor Operator

Air Combat Systems Officer

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