Direct Support Operator (DSO) Instructor

Leidos Holding$65K — $118K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 6+ years of relevant experience in DSO, TSO, RJ, Compass Call, or as a flight instructor.
  • Bachelor's degree can replace 4 years of experience.
  • Active TS/SCI clearance required from Day 1.
  • Ability to meet flight physical qualifications as per COR directives.
  • Demonstrated instructional expertise, preferably in flight instruction.
  • Strong customer service abilities to interact with military and civilian staff.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Proficient in Microsoft 365, PEX, and G/TIMS software.

Responsibilities

  • Serve as a Direct Support Operator Instructor for the 1A8 career field.
  • Deliver training on mission planning, flight safety, airmanship, and COMSEC procedures.
  • Develop classroom instruction materials and simulator scenarios.
  • Advise on military SOI development to keep training content current.
  • Assess student performance and create individualized training plans as necessary.
  • Travel for specific training support across various locations as required.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to influence real-world military training and readiness.
  • Work in a mission-critical environment with a focus on national security.
  • Engagement in various training methodologies including classroom and simulator.
  • Potential for professional growth and development within the role.
Full Job Description

Step into a mission‑critical role where your expertise drives real‑world impact!

Leidos is excited to offer an exciting opportunity for a talented instructor to join our team as a Direct Support Operator (DSO) Flight Instructor at Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, NM. In this role, you’ll be at the center of preparing Career Enlisted Aviators to operate the Joint Threat Warning System (JTWS) Air and next‑generation systems. This position blends impactful classroom instruction, immersive simulator training, and mission‑focused airborne operations—giving you the chance to directly influence aviators heading into meaningful real‑world missions. Candidates must hold an active Top Secret/SCI clearance to be considered.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Serve as a Direct Support Operator Instructor, training 1A8 career field personnel for basic qualifications, mission qualifications, aircraft differences, re-qualification, and instructor upgrades.

  • Deliver engaging training on mission planning, flight safety, airmanship, threat warning, TTPs, and COMSEC procedures.

  • Develop and refine classroom instruction materials and simulator scenarios.

  • Advise on military SOI development, ensuring training content is cutting-edge and mission-relevant.

  • Assess and log student performance with precision, creating individualized remedial training plans when needed.

  • Travel for aircraft-specific difference training or support to training operations across all approved 1A8 training locations, as required.

Required Qualifications:

  • 6+ years of experience. In addition to former DSO instructors or operators, we welcome former TSO operators/instructors, as well as former RJ, Compass Call, and Airborne Instructors.

  • Bachelor's degree may be substituted for 4 years of experience).

  • Active TS/SCI clearance required on Day 1—mission readiness is essential.

  • Ability to pass and maintain requisite flight physical qualifications for the duration of employment, as directed by the COR.

  • Proven instructional expertise, ideally with prior flight instructor experience.

  • Strong customer service skills, navigating interactions with military officers and civilian managers.

  • Ability to lead independently while thriving within a high-performance, dynamic team.

  • Strong communication skills—both verbal and written.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft 365 Office Suite and flight training and integration software, such as Patriot Excalibur (PEX) and Graduate / Training Integration Management System (G/TIMS).

If you’re ready to train, mentor, and shape the future of airborne cryptologic technicians, this is your opportunity to make an impact in a high-stakes mission environment.

AMSOPP1

Original Posting:
July 31, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:
Pay Range $65,650.00 - $118,675.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

About Leidos Holding

Leidos Holding Careers

Joining Leidos Holding presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance one's career with a leader in innovation and technology. The company offers a plethora of job opportunities aimed at fostering professional growth and development in a diverse and inclusive environment.

Explore Career Opportunities

Leidos Holding is actively seeking skilled professionals who are passionate about leveraging their expertise to drive innovation and leadership in their fields. With a variety of open positions, Leidos Holding provides a platform for individuals to challenge themselves in a dynamic work environment.

Innovation and Professional Growth

At Leidos Holding, innovation is at the core of everything they do. Employees are encouraged to think creatively and push boundaries. The company supports this drive for innovation through comprehensive professional development and diversity training programs that are designed to enhance skills and foster leadership.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Leidos Holding is committed to creating a workplace where diversity is not only recognized but celebrated. With a culture that values and promotes diversity, Leidos Holding ensures that all team members have the opportunity to contribute, learn, and grow.

Internship Programs

For those starting their career, Leidos Holding offers internship programs that provide a robust foundation in the industry. Internships are a great way to develop essential skills, gain valuable work experience, and build professional networks.

Benefits and Culture

Employees at Leidos Holding enjoy a range of benefits designed to support their professional and personal lives. The company culture is built on a foundation of respect and integrity, providing a supportive and collaborative environment where every team member is valued.

Join the Team

Leidos Holding is hiring! Explore job opportunities that match your skills and interests. Leidos Holding looks for driven, curious, and innovative individuals to join their team. Positions are available across various disciplines and experience levels.

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Prepare for Your Interview

To prepare for an interview at Leidos Holding, candidates should familiarize themselves with the company's missions and values, update their resumes, and be ready to discuss how their background and skills align with the position they are applying for.

Networking and Career Advancement

Leidos Holding encourages its employees to engage in networking within the company to discover new opportunities for career advancement. The leadership team at Leidos Holding is dedicated to supporting employees in their career paths with ample opportunities for networking and growth.

Explore Leidos Holding Jobs and Careers

Discover the exciting career opportunities at Leidos Holding today. With a commitment to employee growth, innovation, and diversity, Leidos Holding is the perfect place to advance your career. Check out the latest job listings and find your perfect fit at Leidos Holding.

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