Intro
Unlock the secrets of Air Force Combat Controller salaries and pay scales. Discover the average annual salary, pay grades, and allowances for these elite special operators. Learn how experience, rank, and deployments impact their compensation. Get the inside scoop on the financial rewards of serving as a Combat Controller in the US Air Force.
The United States Air Force's Combat Controllers are highly trained special operators who conduct a wide range of missions, from combat search and rescue to direct action and special reconnaissance. As members of the Air Force's Special Operations Command, Combat Controllers are among the most elite warriors in the military, and their salaries reflect their high level of training and expertise.
In this article, we'll explore the Air Force Combat Controller salary and pay scale, including the factors that affect their compensation and the average salary ranges for different ranks and levels of experience.
Understanding Air Force Pay Grades
The Air Force uses a pay grade system to determine the salaries of its personnel. The system is based on a combination of rank and time in service, with higher ranks and more time in service corresponding to higher pay grades. The Air Force has nine enlisted pay grades, ranging from E-1 (Airman Basic) to E-9 (Chief Master Sergeant), and 11 officer pay grades, ranging from O-1 (Second Lieutenant) to O-10 (General).
Combat Controller Pay Scale
Combat Controllers are typically enlisted personnel who hold the Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) 1C2X1. As such, their pay scale is based on the enlisted pay chart. However, due to their high level of training and expertise, Combat Controllers often receive special pay and allowances, which can significantly increase their overall compensation.
Here is the current pay scale for enlisted personnel in the Air Force, including the average monthly salary ranges for different ranks and time in service:
| Rank | Time in Service | Average Monthly Salary |
|---|---|---|
| E-1 (Airman Basic) | 0-2 years | $1,733.10 |
| E-2 (Airman) | 2-4 years | $1,942.50 |
| E-3 (Airman First Class) | 4-6 years | $2,043.70 |
| E-4 (Senior Airman) | 6-8 years | $2,330.10 |
| E-5 (Staff Sergeant) | 8-10 years | $2,654.10 |
| E-6 (Technical Sergeant) | 10-12 years | $3,024.90 |
| E-7 (Master Sergeant) | 12-14 years | $3,443.10 |
| E-8 (Senior Master Sergeant) | 14-16 years | $3,864.10 |
| E-9 (Chief Master Sergeant) | 16+ years | $4,332.10 |
Special Pay and Allowances
In addition to their base pay, Combat Controllers may receive special pay and allowances, including:
- Special Duty Pay: Combat Controllers may receive special duty pay, which can range from $150 to $500 per month, depending on their specific duties and responsibilities.
- Hazardous Duty Pay: Combat Controllers may receive hazardous duty pay, which can range from $150 to $250 per month, depending on the level of risk associated with their duties.
- Jump Pay: Combat Controllers who are qualified parachutists may receive jump pay, which can range from $150 to $250 per month.
- Dive Pay: Combat Controllers who are qualified divers may receive dive pay, which can range from $150 to $250 per month.
- Subsistence Allowance: Combat Controllers may receive a subsistence allowance, which can range from $200 to $400 per month, depending on their location and circumstances.
- Housing Allowance: Combat Controllers may receive a housing allowance, which can range from $500 to $1,500 per month, depending on their location and circumstances.
Total Compensation
When you factor in special pay and allowances, the total compensation for Combat Controllers can be significantly higher than their base pay. Here are some estimated total compensation ranges for Combat Controllers at different ranks and levels of experience:
| Rank | Time in Service | Estimated Total Compensation |
|---|---|---|
| E-4 (Senior Airman) | 6-8 years | $3,500 - $5,000 per month |
| E-5 (Staff Sergeant) | 8-10 years | $4,000 - $6,000 per month |
| E-6 (Technical Sergeant) | 10-12 years | $5,000 - $7,500 per month |
| E-7 (Master Sergeant) | 12-14 years | $6,000 - $9,000 per month |
| E-8 (Senior Master Sergeant) | 14-16 years | $7,000 - $11,000 per month |
| E-9 (Chief Master Sergeant) | 16+ years | $8,000 - $13,000 per month |
Gallery of Air Force Combat Controller Images
Air Force Combat Controller Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for an Air Force Combat Controller?
+The average salary for an Air Force Combat Controller can range from $3,500 to $13,000 per month, depending on rank and time in service.
What special pay and allowances do Combat Controllers receive?
+Combat Controllers may receive special pay and allowances, including special duty pay, hazardous duty pay, jump pay, dive pay, subsistence allowance, and housing allowance.
How do I become an Air Force Combat Controller?
+To become an Air Force Combat Controller, you must meet the eligibility requirements, which include being a U.S. citizen, being between the ages of 17 and 39, and having a high school diploma or equivalent. You must also complete the Combat Control Team (CCT) selection course and training pipeline.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the Air Force Combat Controller salary and pay scale. If you have any further questions or would like to learn more about this topic, please don't hesitate to ask.