F-22/35 Variable Air Threat Simulator (VATS) (SkillBridge Intern) - 26101

About the role#

This is an unpaid internship through the DoD SkillBridge Program, specifically designed for transitioning active-duty U.S. military personnel within their final 180 days of service. This role provides hands-on training as a Variable Air Threat Simulator (VATS) Instructor Pilot (IP) or Weapon Systems Operator (WSO) at the Mission Training Center (MTC). Interns work closely with mentors and senior leadership to gain experience in mission planning, operations, and system debriefing.

What you'll do#

• Train as a VATS Simulator Instructor Pilot or Weapon Systems Operator.
• Learn MTC operations, including mission planning, execution, and debrief analysis.
• Develop mission scenarios based on customer requirements.
• Operate and troubleshoot mission systems and debriefing software.
• Identify opportunities for VATS and F-35 utilization within the Joint Simulation Environment (JSE).
• Support F-35 Weapons School classes as a VATS operator and instructor.
• Develop technical documentation and site issue reports for maintenance and operational deficiencies.

What you'll need#

• Active-duty military personnel within the final 180 days of service.
• A current and active TS/SCI clearance with relevant SAP/SAR read-ons.
• Current or previous military fighter pilot experience with one of the following:
  • 15+ years of relevant experience with a Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
  • 13+ years of relevant experience with a Master’s degree in a related field.
  • 19+ years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Preferred: Experience with fifth-generation fighter aircraft, Weapons School graduation, Aggressor pilot experience, or experience with JSE and NGTS.

Location & details#

• Location: Nellis AFB, Las Vegas, Nevada.
• Work Modality: On-site only; must be available for flexible morning and evening shifts to support training operations.