Coast Guard Aviation Job

As in the United States Air Force and Navy, the Coast Guard employs workers in the field of aviation. While not flying fighter jets, these Coast Guard employees maintain aircraft for Coast Guard use and may occasionally pilot helicopters.

Job Duties
Like the Navy, the Coast Guard has a rating system that delineates career options for new recruits. After passing the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, recruits may enter into aeronautical employment with the Coast Guard. A number of jobs in aviation, such as aviation maintenance technician and aviation survival technician, are available to USCG recruits. After extensive training, Coast Guard recruits may also pilot helicopters and other aircraft.

The job duties of a typical aeronautical employee of the Coast Guard are similar to that of an airplane mechanic. These workers will inspect aircraft, fix engines and other mechanical parts, and ensure that equipment is functioning properly. Aviation survival technicians ensure the proper function of USCG survival equipment and even act as rescue swimmers in the event of a maritime search and rescue mission. Coast Guard pilots fly helicopters and other small aircraft while interacting with other members of the aviation crew. If interested in any of these jobs in aviation, apply online to join the Coast Guard or consult with a USCG recruiter to learn about specific aeronautical opportunities with the United States Coast Guard.

Job Qualifications and Compensation
For entrance into the U.S. Coast Guard, applicants must meet a number of requirements pertaining to age, citizenship, education, health, and criminal background. To begin training for an aeronautical rating, Coast Guard employees must first receive satisfactory scores on certain sections of the ASVAB test. After acceptance into a program, Coast Guard aviators are given training courses in math, science, aviation mechanics, and other related fields of study.

Compensation will vary for Coast Guard servicemen based on rank and number of years served. Employees of the United States Coast Guard receive competitive pay and an extensive benefits package including both financial and health-related perks. Even entry-level Coast Guard workers are eligible to take advantage of these benefits in addition to base salary.