US Navigational Sytems Operator

Metrea; Temecula (CA); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance options

Retirement plan eligibility

Job summary

Metrea is seeking a C-135FR Navigation System Operator responsible for overseeing navigation and mission coordination for aerial refueling and transport. Ideal candidates will have military navigation experience and strong problem-solving skills.

This full-time position includes extensive domestic and international travel, requiring a valid Driver’s License and US citizenship to maintain security clearance. The Navigator will work primarily onboard aircraft during missions.

Qualifications

• Must be a US citizen with ability to maintain active US Secret clearance.
• Must be able to work independently with little assistance.
• Must have valid Driver’s License and Current Passport.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute navigation for C-135FR missions.
• Operate advanced navigation systems such as GPS and INS.
• Coordinate with pilots for precise rendezvous procedures.

Skills

Military navigator experience

Attention to detail

Excellent problem-solving skills

Communication skills

CRM skills

Education

College degree or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Company Overview

Metrea is a defense company dedicated to translating commercial innovation into solutions for the hardest problems in national security. With deep mission expertise, Metrea focuses on delivering effects-as-a-service across Aerospace, Electromagnetic & Cyber, Digital & Synthetic domains via its capability groups. Metrea also consists of six support groups (Operations, People, Finance, Legal, Strategy and Solutions) that guide the development of specific capabilities that Metrea’s files (product, projects, programs etc) leverage to achieve their targets.

Group Overview

Air Mobility Group (AIRMOB) is responsible for developing and delivering Metrea’s aerial refueling (AAR) capabilities, ensuring the readiness and operational effectiveness of the tanker fleet. AIRMOB oversees fleet management, maintenance, and airworthiness, working to sustain and enhance refueling operations. It manages the integration of new processes and technologies, ensuring that tanker aircraft remain mission‑ready through effective logistics, maintenance oversight, and regulatory compliance. By coordinating across various teams, AIRMOB ensures the fleet meets both current and future operational needs, supporting a range of specialized air mobility missions.

Position Summary

The C-135FR Navigation System Operator is a highly skilled aircrew member responsible for the planning, execution, and oversight of navigation and mission coordination for aerial refueling and transport operations. The Navigator ensures mission success through expert knowledge of navigation systems, flight planning, and real‑time mission management, while also serving as a technical advisor to aircrew and leadership.

Role and Responsibilities

Navigation Operations

• Plan and execute accurate and efficient navigation for C-135FR missions, including aerial refueling, ferry, and transport operations.
• Operate and manage advanced navigation systems such as GPS, INS, TACAN, VOR, and radar.
• Interpret aeronautical charts, flight plans, and weather data to ensure safe and effective routing.
• Monitor aircraft position, timing, and fuel status throughout all flight phases.
• Coordinate with pilots and boom operators to ensure precise rendezvous and refueling procedures.
• Maintain situational awareness and provide real‑time navigation updates to the flight crew.

Fleet Support

• Assist with the integration of the C-135FR into operational fleets by advising on navigation procedures and system compatibility.
• Provide on‑site and remote support during international operations.
• Support ferry flight preparations and execution with detailed navigation planning and coordination.
• Act as an observer/advisor during missions, offering real‑time support and post‑flight feedback.

Compliance & Documentation

• Ensure adherence to all applicable flight regulations, technical orders, and operational standards.
• Maintain all required qualifications, certifications, and training records.
• Document mission performance, identify areas for improvement, and contribute to after‑action reviews and debriefs.

Education

College degree or equivalent.

Experience

• Military navigator experience, KC‑135 preferred.
• Proven and demonstrable crew coordination and CRM skills.
• Proven and demonstrable attention to detail.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills, being able to determine error cause and determine proper corrective action.
• Must be able to take initiative and work independently.
• Excellent communication skills, the ability to read and understand information presented in writing, diagrams, and schematics.
• Must be able to accomplish all duties with little or no assistance.
• Must have good command of the English language, oral and written.

Certifications

• Former military navigator qualification.
• Valid Driver’s License.
• Current Passport.

Computer Skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite products (specifically Word and Excel).

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

• Maintain all applicable medical and flight certifications.

Benefits

• Medical insurance options.
• Retirement plan eligibility.

Work Authorization / Security Clearance

The employee must be a US citizen, able to maintain an active US Secret clearance, and be legally authorized, and able to obtain and maintain work VISA’s in various countries including India.

AAP/EEO Statement

Metrea Strategic Mobility, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

This is a full‑time position, typical working hours are 7‑hour days including 45‑60 day rotations abroad. Hours and work shifts may change in accordance with department and business needs.

Work Location

Frequent international rotations abroad, with limited training stateside.

Work Environment

This job is primarily onboard an aircraft during flight and ground operations.

Travel

Domestic and International Travel will be required on a 45‑60 day rotational basis.

Our Firmware

Metrea’s single core value, "rooted in humility", is supported by four key attributes: entrepreneurial, systematic, discerning, and over‑deliver. These attributes, combined, form our Teammate Firmware, our culture. We explore these attributes during the hiring process when we grow our teams and continually support the growth of our culture. We are a hyper‑collaborative, dynamically hierarchical organization united by a passion for what we do, how we do it, who we do it with, and who we do it for.