US Air Force CCT Salary and Career Overview
Serving in the US Air Force as a Combat Controller (CCT) is a highly respected and challenging career path. CCTs are specialized operatives who conduct ground combat operations, providing vital support to special operations forces. In this article, we will delve into the US Air Force CCT salary and provide an overview of the career, including the role, responsibilities, requirements, and growth opportunities.
Role and Responsibilities
Combat Controllers are highly trained specialists who conduct a wide range of missions, including:
- Conducting reconnaissance and surveillance
- Providing air traffic control and combat air support
- Performing global positioning system (GPS) navigation
- Conducting parachute and combat tactics operations
- Providing medical and combat search and rescue support
CCTs work closely with other special operations forces, such as the US Army Rangers, US Navy SEALs, and US Air Force Special Operators, to accomplish their objectives.
Requirements
To become a Combat Controller, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a US citizen
- Be between the ages of 17 and 39
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Score a minimum of 60 on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
- Complete the Combat Control Team (CCT) training pipeline
- Hold a valid driver’s license
- Pass a physical fitness test
- Pass a psychological evaluation
CCT Training Pipeline
The CCT training pipeline is a rigorous and challenging process that pushes candidates to their limits. The pipeline consists of the following phases:
- Combat Control Team (CCT) Selection: Candidates undergo a 2-week selection process to assess their physical and mental abilities.
- Basic Military Training (BMT): Candidates attend BMT at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas.
- Combat Control Team (CCT) Training: Candidates attend CCT training at Pope Army Airfield in North Carolina.
- Special Operations Weather (SOWT) Training: Candidates attend SOWT training at Hurlburt Field in Florida.
- Parachutist Training: Candidates attend parachutist training at the US Army Airborne School in Georgia.
- Combat Diver Qualification Course: Candidates attend the Combat Diver Qualification Course at the US Navy Diver Training Facility in Florida.
US Air Force CCT Salary
The salary for a US Air Force Combat Controller varies based on rank and years of service. Here is a rough estimate of the salary range for a CCT:
- Airman Basic (E-1): 1,733.10 per month (approximate annual salary: 20,797.20)
- Airman (E-2): 1,942.50 per month (approximate annual salary: 23,310)
- Airman First Class (E-3): 2,043.70 per month (approximate annual salary: 24,524.40)
- Senior Airman (E-4): 2,344.40 per month (approximate annual salary: 28,132.80)
- Staff Sergeant (E-5): 2,944.90 per month (approximate annual salary: 35,338.80)
Note: These salary estimates are based on the 2022 pay scale and may vary depending on individual circumstances.
Benefits and Growth Opportunities
As a US Air Force Combat Controller, you will receive a range of benefits, including:
- Competitive salary: CCTs are among the highest-paid enlisted personnel in the US Air Force.
- Comprehensive benefits package: CCTs receive access to medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as paid time off and retirement benefits.
- Opportunities for advancement: CCTs can advance to higher ranks and take on leadership roles within the special operations community.
- Specialized training: CCTs receive advanced training in combat tactics, parachuting, and combat diving.
- Esprit de corps: CCTs are part of a tight-knit community of special operations professionals who share a strong bond and sense of camaraderie.
📝 Note: CCTs are also eligible for hazardous duty pay, jump pay, and dive pay, which can significantly increase their overall compensation package.
Conclusion
Serving as a US Air Force Combat Controller is a challenging and rewarding career path that offers a range of benefits and opportunities for growth. While the salary may not be the highest in the military, the sense of pride, camaraderie, and purpose that comes with serving in this elite unit is unmatched. If you’re considering a career as a CCT, we encourage you to research further and speak with a recruiter to learn more about this incredible opportunity.
What is the average salary for a US Air Force Combat Controller?
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The average salary for a US Air Force Combat Controller varies based on rank and years of service. However, according to the 2022 pay scale, the average annual salary for a CCT ranges from 20,797.20 to 35,338.80.
What are the requirements to become a US Air Force Combat Controller?
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To become a US Air Force Combat Controller, you must be a US citizen, be between the ages of 17 and 39, have a high school diploma or equivalent, score a minimum of 60 on the ASVAB test, and complete the CCT training pipeline.
How long is the CCT training pipeline?
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The CCT training pipeline is approximately 2 years long and consists of several phases, including Combat Control Team (CCT) Selection, Basic Military Training (BMT), Combat Control Team (CCT) Training, Special Operations Weather (SOWT) Training, Parachutist Training, and Combat Diver Qualification Course.
Related Terms:
- Air Force TACP salary
- PJ salary Air Force
- Air Force Special Reconnaissance salary
- Air Force Special Warfare salary
- Air Force Security Forces salary
- CCT Air Force
