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.
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeFormulate technical specifications for catapult and arresting gear installations coordinating with engineering teams and naval aviation stakeholders.Advanced
- KnowledgeDesign launch and recovery system testing protocols leading cross-functional teams in development and validation processes.Advanced
- MindsetChampion safety culture and operational discipline in carrier flight deck operations supervising personnel and enforcing critical safety procedures under time-sensitive conditions.Advanced
- MindsetModel leadership and decision-making under high-stress carrier operations directing personnel during critical takeoff and landing sequences.Advanced
- KnowledgeEvaluate design proposals for catapult and arresting gear systems in aircraft carrier environments, ensuring alignment with operational safety and performance standards.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze handling equipment requirements for new aircraft systems integrating launch and recovery capabilities with evolving aircraft technologies.Proficient
- Hands-onCoordinate operation of catapults, arresting gear, and visual landing aid systems during carrier takeoff and landing operations under high-pressure conditions.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess readiness and safety status of launching equipment and barricades independently conducting pre-flight inspections following naval safety protocols.Proficient
- KnowledgeDevelop technical data and operational instructions for visual landing aid systems ensuring clarity and compliance with naval aviation standards.Proficient
- Hands-onDemonstrate mastery supervision of mechanical, hydraulic, and control systems for arresting gear maintaining operational readiness aboard aircraft carriers.Proficient
- KnowledgePlan maintenance schedules and operational readiness cycles for launch and recovery equipment coordinating with maintenance crews and flight operations personnel.Proficient
- MindsetEngage in training and mentorship of personnel in carrier takeoff and landing procedures developing competence and confidence in high-risk operational environments.Developing