Air / SOF Aviation Exercise Control SME, SOCPAC

Summary:

The Unconventional is seeking a qualified Air/SOF Aviation Exercise Control SME to support our team on multiple SOCPAC exercise events. The Air and Aviation SOF SME provides technical aviation and airspace command and control (C2) expertise within the SOCPAC ECG.

Specific duties may include, but are not limited to:

• Working in close partnership with the Exercise Design Lead, the SME synchronizes aviation-specific MSEL injects to realistically test air planning, long-range infiltration/exfiltration, personnel recovery, aerial refueling, and specialized Close Air Support (CAS). The contractor ensures all air MSEL events adhere to realistic flight timelines, fuel consumption, weapon configurations, and basing/staging constraints inherent to the distances of the Pacific theater.
• Throughout the CPX, the SME coordinates with the USPACOM Air Cell to develop and synchronize synthetic Air Tasking Orders (ATO), Airspace Control Orders (ACO), and Special Instructions (SPINS), while adjudicating training audience requests for airspace coordination and control measures. The contractor dynamically injects aviation friction—including weather diversions, contested airspace threats, and maintenance casualties—to drive realistic staff decision-making.
• Exercise support is expected to take place:
  • Keen Sword CPX, 16 – 28 OCT 2026 in Oahu, HI.
  • PACSENTRY 27-1 CPX, 31 MAR – 15 APR 2027 in Oahu, HI.
  • PACSENTRY 27-2 CPX, 31 MAY – 17 JUN 2027 in Oahu, HI.

Job Requirements:

Required Qualifications:

• Must possess Air/SOF Aviation experience: air planning, long-range infiltration/exfiltration, personnel recovery, aerial refueling, and specialized Close Air Support (CAS).
• Must have experience supporting SOF training and exercise events.
• Must be able to conduct 12-hour shift work during exercise support events.
• Must possess or be able to obtain a TS/SCI security clearance.
• Must possess proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite tools.

Clearance: Requires an active SECRET clearance.

Location: Oahu, HI

Travel: CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required.