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Military

Aircraft Launch and Recovery Specialists

US median pay

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not published

Job growth 2025–35

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Openings a year (US)

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Typical entry education

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What this job is

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.

What they do day to day

O*NET groups several different jobs under this title, so it doesn't publish one task list. See the related careers below for specific roles.

Education and preparation