In this job, you will perform pre-flight, through-flight, and post-flight inspections of aircraft away from home. You'll be computing and applying aircraft weight, balance, and performance data. You'll also be compiling data on takeoffs, climbs, cruises, etc. It will be your responsibility to update the flight engineer's log.

You will operate and monitor engine and aircraft systems controls and indicators. You'll assist the pilot or perform engine starts, and monitor run up, flight operations, and engine shutdown. You will also monitor warning indicators and lights for fire, overheat, depressurization, and system failure, reporting any abnormal conditions to the pilot and recommending corrective action.

Knowledge of electrical, communication, navigation, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems is mandatory in this career field. You will learn all of that in your technical school and on-the-job training. You'll also learn flight theory, minor in-flight maintenance, emergency aircraft procedures, and using and interpreting diagrams, schematics, and performance charts. back to top

Download PDF BrochurePararescue units are elite units of the Air Forced Reserve. These units are comprised of a small group of men, for Pararescuemen are always men, who are intensely trained to perform conventional and non-conventional rescues. Their primary mission is to rescue air crews downed behind enemy lines.

This mission came into being in 1943 when an aircrew bailed out of a C-46 in the jungle along the China-Burma border. There was no doubt medical aid would be necessary, and so a few medical corpsmen voluntarily parachuted into this desolate region to find and care for the crew. And that is exactly what they did for months until the party could be lead to safety. These para-jumpers, known as PJs, began the tradition of the Pararescuemen. Still known as the PJs, these men live by their motto, "that others may live," and operate around the world.

Their work is not confined to times of conflict. The PJs assist during natural disasters, and were some of the first on the scene in New Orleans when Hurricane Katrina hit. Across the United States, they have assisted in rescues at sea, deserts and mountains. They are well known in the Northwest for saving people who get stranded on Mt. Hood in Oregon. The PJs are a part of the 920th Rescue Wing of the Air Force Reserve and primarily operate out of Patrick Air Force Base in Florida near the Kennedy Space Center. In fact, the PJs assist during every launch from Cape Canaveral. They also operate from Davis Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona and Portland Air Reserve Base in Oregon. The PJs work with HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters and HC-130P/N tankers that can refuel the helicopters in mid-air, dramatically increasing their range.

The requirements to become a Pararescuemen are stringent, but the most important attribute is the desire to do the job. Other skills can be learned. The training is long and intense, including a paramedic course, and can take the better part of two years. After that, Pararescuemen can live and work in their local communities -- many are paramedics and firemen -- and serve as they are needed.

This is one of the most exciting jobs in the Air Force Reserve and 920th Rescue Wing is credited with saving thousands of lives that would otherwise be lost. back to top

Survival instructors undergo intense training in the following areas: instructional methods and skills, wilderness living, shelter construction, fire building, map and compass navigation, backpacking, food and water procurement, wilderness medicine and basic first aid, signaling and rescue techniques, escape and evasion, and prisoner of war (POW) resistance techniques. You train in all major climactic conditions; arctic, desert, tropical, ocean, and temperate. Survival Instructors are self-motivated go-getters responsible for teaching skills that save lives. You will be in a very physically, mentally, and technically demanding career field facing new challenges daily. back to top

Plans and prepares for mission. Reviews mission tasking, intelligence, and weather information. Supervises mission planning, preparation and filing of flight plan, and crew briefing. Ensures aircraft is pre-flighted, inspected, loaded, equipped, and manned for mission. Pilots aircraft and commands crew. Operates aircraft controls and equipment. Performs, supervises, or directs navigation, in-flight refueling, rescue operations and cargo and passenger delivery. Conducts or supervises training of crewmembers. Ensures operational readiness of crew by conducting or supervising mission specific training. Develops plans and policies, monitors operations, and advises commanders. Assists commanders and performs staff functions related to this specialty. For more information on preparation for a pilot career in the Air Force Reserve click here. back to top

You will perform technical nursing duties involving the care and treatment of patients. In an inpatient care setting, you will perform nursing care duties such as feeding, bathing, and moving patients. You will assemble, operate, and maintain medical equipment such as oxygen delivery equipment, intravenous controllers, fetal monitors, suction machines, and electrocardiograph recorders. You will measure and record vital signs. You will administer medications under the supervision of a physician or a nurse. You will draw blood samples. You will perform the routine collection of urine, fecal materials, and other bodily secretions for laboratory examination. You will prepare patients for surgery and perform post-operative monitoring. You will assist in the delivery and care of newborns. In a clinic setting, you will prepare patients for examination and assist physicians with treatments and procedures. You will prepare and order linens and supplies. In an emergency room setting, you will drive an ambulance and perform lifesaving care measures for the sick and injured. back to top