Firing Desk Shift Leader / Lead

Firing Desk Shift Leader / Lead - Range Safety Operations

Fort Rucker, Alabama

Summary:

The Firing Desk Shift Leader/Lead provides direct leadership, coordination, and oversight of all Firing Desk operations within the Fort Rucker Gunnery Range and Training Complex. This position ensures that live-fire and training events are conducted safely, efficiently, and in compliance with U.S. Army, installation, and contractual requirements.

The Shift Leader/Lead serves as the primary supervisor for assigned Firing Desk Safety personnel during their shift, providing guidance, tasking, and performance oversight. The position plays a pivotal role in maintaining continuous range control communication, enforcing safety standards, coordinating with Range Control personnel, and ensuring accurate operational documentation.

Job Duties:

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  Supervise and lead all Firing Desk operations during assigned shift, ensuring adherence to Fort Rucker Range Control Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and applicable safety regulations.

  
  

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  Serve as the senior point of contact for range communications, coordinating between range users, Range Control, and other training support elements.

  
  

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  Verify range clearances, firing authorizations, and safety certifications prior to commencement of training or live-fire operations.

  
  

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  Monitor range activity in real time to ensure compliance with established safety protocols, air and ground restrictions, and environmental regulations.

  
  

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  Review and approve range operational logs, ensuring accuracy in recording firing times, munitions expended, and personnel present.

  
  

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  Coordinate emergency response, cease-fire procedures, and incident reporting as required.

  
  

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  Provide on-shift guidance and mentorship to Firing Desk Safety personnel, ensuring proper manning, task distribution, and adherence to shift schedules.

  
  

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  Ensure range status indicators, signage, and flags are properly displayed and documented for all active and inactive ranges.

  
  

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  Communicate and coordinate with maintenance, targetry, and support personnel to resolve range issues affecting operations.

  
  

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  Prepare and submit shift turnover reports, summarizing range activity, incidents, and ongoing issues.

  
  

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  Participate in range safety inspections and assist in identifying hazards or process improvements.

  
  

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  Perform other duties as assigned to support the safe and effective operation of the Fort Rucker Gunnery Range and Training Complex.

  
  

Basic Qualifications:

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  High school diploma or equivalent required.

  
  

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  Minimum of 3-5 years of experience supporting range operations, firing desk, or safety functions in a U.S. Army or DoD environment.

  
  

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  Demonstrated leadership or supervisory experience in range or training support operations.

  
  

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  Thorough knowledge of U.S. Army range safety procedures, AR 385-63 (Range Safety), and DA PAM 385-63.

  
  

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  Ability to interpret range maps, overlays, and safety diagrams to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.

  
  

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  Proficient in radio and communications systems operation, including proper radio procedures and reporting formats.

  
  

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  Proficient in aircraft radio and communications.

  
  

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  Strong situational awareness and attention to detail under dynamic, high-tempo conditions.

  
  

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  Must be able to obtain and maintain installation access credentials.

  
  

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  Must be able to perform shift work.

  
  

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  Possess a valid U.S. driver's license.

  
  

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  Must be a U.S. Citizen

  
  

Preferred Qualifications:

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  Prior military service, particularly in range operations, safety, or training management roles.

  
  

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  Certification as Range Safety Officer (RSO) or completion of the U.S. Army Range Safety Course.

  
  

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  Experience leading personnel in live-fire or complex training environments.

  
  

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  Familiarity with Fort Rucker range operations, local range SOPs, and training management systems.

  
  

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  Associate's degree in safety, management, or related technical field preferred.

  
  

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  ATC or Forward Controller experience.

  
  

Other Requirements:

US Citizenship required for this Position: Yes

Performance Location: Fort Rucker, Alabama

Relocation Assistance: No

Clearance Type: N/A (may require background check)

Travel Required: Limited, within local training complex areas

Working Environment:

Work is performed in both indoor firing desk facilities and outdoor range environments. Exposure to noise, dust, and weather conditions typical of live-fire areas is expected. The position requires flexibility in scheduling, including weekend, evening, and holiday shifts to meet training demands. Duties may involve prolonged periods of sitting, standing, monitoring communications, or responding to range events.

Applied Training Solutions, LLC is a leading simulations company providing innovative systems, products, and solutions to government and commercial customers. Applied Training Solutions, LLC is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. U.S. Citizenship is required for most positions.