Airfield Management Specialist ​/Shift Lead (NH-2150-02

NO 6-MONTH WAIT! Recently retired and/or retiring from MILITARY service ARE eligible for immediate appointment for AFTC positions. The 180-day waiting period has been waived for AFTC to hire recently retired and/or retiring service members.

• Published July 21, 2026

The Air Force Test Center (AFTC) is looking for a Full-Time Airfield Management Specialist /Shift Lead (NH-2150-02) to work at 412th Test Wing, Air Force Plant 42 (AFMC/412 TW/OL-AFP 42) at Air Force Plant 42 (OSAM) in Palmdale, CA.

To serve as an Airfield Management Shift Lead that evaluates the day-to-day airfield management operations and maintains situational awareness of airfield activities and keeps the Airfield Manager informed of any conditions that may affect the safety of the airfield. Provides flight services to the aircrews when requested. This position also provides pilots with a variety of critical information for planning and conducting safe flight as requested.

This position is located at the 412th Test Wing Operating Location Air Force Plant 42, Palmdale, CA.

This position MAY be eligible for a recruitment/relocation incentive. Specifics will be discussed with the Selecting Official.

This position MAY be eligible for paid relocation (Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs MAY be paid). Specifics will be discussed with the Selecting Official.

• Three years' experience via the AF IMT 483 Certificate of Competency or equivalent to drive on and around the airfield.
• Three years' experience managing and or executing passive and active wildlife control on and around the airfield environment.
• Three years of experience working on and around the airfield environment may include Air Traffic Control or other airfield related activity.

• Evaluates airfield operations to ensure safe, efficient, and effective airfield operations.
• Reviews and issues Notices to Airman Bird Watch condition, airfield construction, Navigational Aids status, Aircraft rescue and firefighting capability.
• Conducts ongoing airfield inspections/checks including FOD Inspections, re-opening runway after in-flight emergencies and performing BASH responses.
• Conducts airfield check prior to the start of flight operations with focus on condition of runways, taxiways, aprons, airfield lighting, navigational aids and weather equipment.
• Issues NOTAMs pertaining to airfield hazards, Advises pilots, air traffic control facilities and other on/off base agencies.
• Reviews and processes requests for Prior Permission Required, ensures all are for Official Business Only (OBO) and determines if request will be granted and processed.
• Provides pilots detailed information critical to flight safety. Reviews flight plans with pilot for accuracy, completeness and for compliance with Air Force rules and directives.
• Responds to aircraft emergencies, accidents, and incidents on the airfield. Determines need and has the authority to close runways, taxiways.
• Communicates with aircrew verbally and in writing, as needed to coordinate flight schedules and keep coworkers and customers informed of changes in status.

• Depending on the type of position (competitive/excepted) you are selected for, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period OR 2-year trial period
• Upon completion of your probationary/trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest
• Practical knowledge of Industry and AF airfield management operations practices, procedures and the established regulations, requirements and techniques related to the airfield management program.
• Practical knowledge of airfields such as condition of runways, taxiways, aprons, operational status of airfield support facilities (airfield lighting, barriers, navigational aids, etc.) and obstacles that are violations to airfield standards and safety issues that may restrict aircraft operations and issuance of NOTAMs.
• Practical knowledge and understanding of airfield manuals, instructions and procedures to conduct airfield inspections.
• Practical knowledge of aerial navigation and aviation techniques, flight operations, flight planning rules, practices and procedures to develop/change flight plans worldwide. Practical knowledge of flight operations, visual and instrument flight rules, FAA regulations, the international airway routes and structure, oceanic routes, controlled and special use airspace, flight characteristics and systems of several types of aircraft (aircraft altitude/airspeed capabilities, aircraft systems malfunctions) knowledge of flight safety, knowledge of exercise and contingency operations.