Operate and maintain catapults, arresting gear, and associated mechanical, hydraulic, and control systems involved primarily in aircraft carrier takeoff and landing operations. Duties include installing and maintaining visual landing aids; testing and maintaining launch and recovery equipment using electric and mechanical test equipment and hand tools; activating airfield arresting systems, such as crash barriers and cables, during emergency landing situations; directing aircraft launch and recovery operations using hand or light signals; and maintaining logs of airplane launches, recoveries, and equipment maintenance.
SOC: 55-3012.00
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate catapult and arresting gear systems on aircraft carrier flight decks during launch and recovery operations.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform preventive and corrective maintenance on launch and recovery equipment using electric and mechanical test equipment and hand tools under time-sensitive operational conditions.
Proficient
Hands-onActivate airfield arresting systems including crash barriers and emergency cables during emergency landing situations requiring rapid response.
Proficient
KnowledgeDiagnose mechanical, hydraulic, and control system malfunctions using test equipment and technical manuals to ensure mission readiness.
Proficient
Hands-onCoordinate aircraft launch and recovery sequences using standardized hand and light signals on active carrier flight decks.
Proficient
MindsetBalance mission urgency with strict adherence to safety protocols when coordinating high-tempo flight operations in hazardous deck environments.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess equipment readiness and operational status prior to and during flight operations to prevent system failures.
Proficient
Hands-onExecute installation and maintenance of visual landing aid systems following naval aviation technical specifications and safety protocols.
Developing
KnowledgeExplain hydraulic and mechanical system operations to crew members during training and operational briefs.
Developing
KnowledgeRecord detailed logs of aircraft launches, recoveries, and equipment maintenance maintaining accurate documentation for operational accountability and trend analysis.
