Prospective Instructors

Please read ALL of this information before viewing the current vacancy list.

NOTICE: We are experiencing delays in getting new applicants through the entire process.  Your patience and understanding is appreciated. 

PROCESS OVERVIEW: To get started, you must submit an instructor application via this website.  Once your application is approved, our Suitability Branch will schedule you to begin the AFJROTC background check process.  Once your background check package has been submitted for investigation, you can be granted a Provisional Certification and can then be referred to a school for employment consideration.  Additionally, you must accomplish the Initial Instructor Certification Course (IICC).  The IICC can be accomplished any time after your initial application is approved or delayed up to 30 calendar days after AFJROTC employment start.  After your background check finds you suitable to be an AFJROTC instructor, and the IICC is completed, you will be fully Certified.  Keep in mind, the vacancy lists are updated frequently, and any vacancy may be filled at any time. All applications and background checks are handled on a first in, first out basis. 

INSTRUCTOR APPLICATION: The requirements within the instructor application are self-explanatory.  Please note the requirement to be interviewed by a current instructor is for your initial application only and is not related to any specific school, or any hiring action. Applications can take up to 30 days to be approved from the date the application package is submitted.  There are multiple steps to getting an application approved, and Headquarters AFJROTC will be in touch with all new applicants to guide them in the process. Watch your email (including junk mail) often. New applications are processed in the order they are received.  Once you receive an approved application letter you will be provided directions on how to access and complete the training. 

BACKGROUND CHECK PROCESS:  The AFJROTC Background Check process is mandatory, regardless of any current security clearance you may possess.  The Air Force will check your Law Enforcement and Medical history for factors related to your ability to work with children.  Additionally, a comprehensive background investigation is performed by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) focusing on factors that determine an applicant's suitability to work with children in the high school environment.  Headquarters AFJROTC will assist you in getting your background check package compiled and Headquarters will transmit your package to DCSA.  All applicants must be found 'suitable' or 'fit' to continue in AFJROTC.  

INITIAL INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATION COURSE:  All approved applicants will be provided instructions to access the Initial Instructor Certification Course (IICC).  The IICC is all virtual and must be taken by all applicants, regardless of any previous instructional experience or courses taken.  Completion of all IICC training can be accomplished any time after the initial application is approved or delayed up to 30 calendar days following AFJROTC employment start. It is highly recommended that any new AFJROTC instructors complete IICC prior to day 1 of employment to be as prepared as possible to perform AFJROTC duties.

PROVISIONAL CERTIFCATION:  Once a new applicant's background check is submitted to DCSA, they will be considered Provisionally Certified.  Provisional Certification remains in place until the background check is finalized and the IICC is complete.  Provisional Certification allows a new instructor to be referred to a school for hiring consideration and to begin AFJROTC work in a school.  Those whose background check not yet finalized may begin work in a school, but they must operate under the observation/supervision of a fully certified AFJROTC instructor, or qualified faculty/administration official. 

BEING REFERRED TO A SCHOOL:  Please do not contact any school about AFJROTC employment until you have obtained an AFJROTC certification and are officially referred by Headquarters AFJROTC as a certified applicant (this does not include the application interview discussed above).  If it is determined that a particular individual is circumventing this official process, it can be viewed as an attempt to gain an unfair advantage over others, and that applicant may be rendered ineligible for that vacancy.  Headquarters AFJROTC reserves the right to make that determination.

Certified applicants (provisional and/or fully certified) are only referred to schools of their choosing.  Headquarters AFJROTC performs the official referral via email.  The school and the certified applicant receive an email notification of the official referral and relevant contact information (email and phone) is shared.  At that point, it is time for the certified applicant to reach out to the school to find out about any local application requirements and interview timelines.

All certified applicants who request to be referred to a school with a posted vacancy will be referred (unless the vacancy gets filled first).  Referrals may not be immediate, if the school is normally competitive and other interested candidates are expected.  

Vacancies that receive four or more qualified candidates in a short time may be removed from the vacancy list without notice, so all current candidates can be referred.  This is done so a school is not overwhelmed by a large number of candidates to interview at one time.  For example, San Antonio, TX schools are very popular and normally very competitive. 

For harder to fill locations, qualified candidates may be referred to a school immediately upon request, with the vacancy will remaining posted.

ARE THERE ANY UPCOMING VACANCIES IN A CERTAIN AREA?  No vacancies are hidden. We post all actual or pending vacancies as soon as we know of them.  If a school is not listed as having a vacancy, that means we do not yet know of a vacancy at that school.  Vacancies are removed from the listing once we simultaneously refer four or more candidates, or the school has made a hiring decision.

WHAT ABOUT DODEA SCHOOLS?  AFJROTC instructor positions in DODEA schools are restricted to experienced AFJROTC instructors only (current and/or prior instructors who are in good standing).  Ref: AFJROTCI 36-2010, Chapter 17.

HOW MANY SCHOOLS CAN I BE REFERRED TO AT ONCE? Certified applicants may volunteer for up to four schools at once.  Please do not request referral to a particular school unless you are available and willing to travel to the school for an interview (if necessary).  Any expenses for an interview are at the applicant’s expense.  Candidates who are nominated but fail to contact the school or fail to appear for a scheduled interview may be withdrawn from further hiring consideration.

HIRING SEASON IS ALL YEAR: Vacancies are filled throughout the calendar year.  Even though a school is advertised as having a vacancy, this could change if the school makes a hiring decision. It is important that anyone interested in a particular school focus first on getting their application approved, then seeing what vacancies are available.

INTERVIEW TIPS:  Be punctual!  Wear your service dress uniform during the interview.  Be genuine in every way.  All the school knows about you is your name, so everything you provide, say, and do will be part of your interview.  Headquarters AFJROTC does not provide any of your application documents to the school.  Therefore, if you want to present any documentation, it is up to you. Several free job interview preparation resources are available via the Air Force Digital University (registration required) at this link: https://digitalu.af.mil/app/search?q=Job%20Interview

If you have read all of the above, please proceed to the current vacancy list(s).

Click here to see the current instructor vacancy listing            

Click here to see an interactive map of all instructor vacancies

The success of Air Force Junior ROTC would not be possible without the expertise and dedication of the more than 1,600 retired Airmen who serve as Aerospace Science Instructors. 

Air Force Junior ROTC is a full program and is not confined to the “regular” school day, nor just the classroom.  Air Force Junior ROTC instructors conduct academic classes during the regular school day, but also supervise Leadership Development Requirements (LDRs) after regular school hours.  LDRs are experiential learning activities like drill teams, academic bowl teams, marksmanship teams, etc.  A robust and successful AFJROTC program will have several active LDRs throughout the year.

Air Force Junior ROTC Program Staffing.  Each Air Force Junior ROTC program must be staffed with a minimum of two instructors.  More instructors are added as enrollment grows.  An Air Force Junior ROTC unit typically has one retired officer and one retired enlisted instructor. 

Officer instructors are retired officers who have at least a bachelor’s degree.  Over 90 percent of them have master’s degrees with backgrounds in teaching, extensive experience managing complex programs, and many have significant experience working with youth groups.

Enlisted instructors are retired noncommissioned officers who normally have at least a bachelor’s degree.  All enlisted instructors have extensive experience in leadership, supply, administration, drill and ceremony, teaching, and many have significant experience working with youth groups.

Responsibilities of All Instructors. Instructors will exhibit only the highest levels of personal and professional conduct while serving as an Air Force Junior ROTC instructor.  The proverbial "glass house" analogy certainly applies here.  Instructors perform duties, accept responsibilities, and meet standards as prescribed by applicable Department of Defense (DoD), Air Force and Air Force Junior ROTC instructions.  Instructors will directly supervise all cadets participating in official AFJROTC unit events, AFJROTC community service events, and other unit activities (e.g. drill competitions, curriculum-in-action trips, base visits, etc.) that enhance or supplement the program. 

All Air Force Junior ROTC instructors are deeply involved in their communities.  They teach Air Force Junior ROTC aerospace science and leadership education curricula. They also serve as liaisons between the Air Force and civilian agencies in the aerospace field, and perform career and performance counseling for AFJROTC cadets.

Instructors devote themselves to cadets in the classroom and during LDRs. Their hard work and devotion have resulted in an Air Force Junior ROTC program that’s highly acclaimed at the local and national level.

Essential Functions of All Air Force Junior ROTC Instructors. To successfully serve as an AFJROTC Instructor, an applicant must be able to:

1)  Conduct Academic Classes. An Air Force Junior ROTC Instructor is expected to prepare for and teach periods of instruction of 45 to 90 minutes each, for as many as 4 to 6 periods per day, depending on a particular school’s schedule. Each class period may contain 30 students (possibly more in unusual circumstances) holding a range of ages and maturity levels, and coming from different socioeconomic backgrounds. Teaching academic classes involves significant organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills, as well as a high degree of patience.

2) Lead Before and/or After-School Activities. An Air Force Junior ROTC Instructor is expected to coordinate and lead a variety of school activities, possibly held before or after each school day, both indoors and outdoors. These activities may include physical training events, academic clubs, rocketry teams, marksmanship teams, along with performing drill instruction and demonstrating drill sequences. Leading extracurricular activities involves significant organizational skills, strong teambuilding skills, and physical stamina.

3) Lead Off-Campus Events. An Air Force Junior ROTC instructor is expected to lead field trips to historical sites, visits to local government agencies and military installations, and to march in parades with their cadets. Leading off campus events involves significant organizational skills, physical stamina, and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations.

4) Be an Ambassador of the Air Force. An Air Force Junior ROTC instructor is expected to exemplify a positive image of the Air Force at all times by conducting themselves in a highly professional manner in both their words and their actions. Additionally, an Air Force Junior ROTC instructor is expected to maintain a professional military appearance in uniform, and to comply with Air Force Junior ROTC weight and body fat standards.

5) Complete any additional state and/or local school district mandated teacher certification or continuing education requirements. Any additional certification requirements above the basic Air Force Junior ROTC instructor certification must be accomplished at no expense to the Air Force.

6) Successfully incorporate Air Force Junior ROTC-approved interactive learning software/hardware with classroom instruction, and have a competent knowledge of curriculum planning, Air Force educational programs, drill and ceremonies, and educational administration, including tests and measurements. Academic, administrative, logistical, financial support tasks, and after-school activities will be equally shared by all instructors as regular duties.

7) Complete the mandatory Air Force Junior ROTC Instructor Certification Course (JICC) as a condition of certification.

1.  What is the Air Force Junior ROTC program?
Air Force Junior ROTC is not a recruiting program for the military.  Air Force Junior ROTC exists only to instill (in high school students, grades 9-12) the values of citizenship, service to the United States, and personal responsibility through education and mentoring.  The Air Force Junior ROTC program is a 3 to 4-year course of military-based instruction (academics and leadership development requirements).  The curriculum includes an introduction to aviation history, aviation and space science, college and career readiness, global studies, practical leadership, and health and wellness.

2. What is the mission of the Air Force Junior ROTC program?
The mission of the Air Force Junior ROTC program is to develop citizens of character dedicated to serving their nation and community. More specifically, the program is designed to educate and train high school cadets in citizenship, promote community service, instill responsibility, character and self-discipline, and provide instruction in air and space fundamentals. 

3.  Who are the instructors in this course?
Instructors are all retired members of the United States Air Force.  Normally, one retired officer and one retired enlisted are employed by the school at each program. The officer is designated as the Senior Aerospace Science Instructor (SASI), and the enlisted as the Aerospace Science Instructor (ASI).   Additional enlisted instructors are authorized if the cadet enrollment exceeds 151.  While Air Force Junior ROTC instructors are retired military members, they continue to wear their Air Force uniform (at their retired grade) in the performance of their duties. As such, instructors are required to meet and maintain Air Force uniform wear, grooming and weight standards during their tenure as instructors.

4.  Who may apply for the SASI position?
Officers (Major thru Colonel) who meet the following qualifications may apply: Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution; permanently retired less than 5 years from the effective date of employment; meet DODI/AFJROTC weight/body fat standards (26% for males/36% females), possess high standards of military bearing, appearance and moral character. Officers still on active duty may apply when they receive an approved retirement date.  Desirable prerequisites: Master’s degree, teaching experience, command experience, and experience working with youth groups. Although AFJROTC provides certification training for applicants selected to teach AFJROTC, some schools may require instructors to be state-certified as a high school teacher or willing to work toward and achieve certification within a prescribed period.

5.  Who may apply for the ASI position?
Noncommissioned Officers (NCO’s) in the grades of TSgt thru CMSgt who meet the following prerequisites may apply: Hold a minimum of a Bachelor's degree, permanently retired 5 years or less from the effective date of employment, meet DODI/AFJROTCI weight/body fat standards (26% for males/36% for females), possess high standards of military bearing, appearance, and moral character.  NCOs still on active duty may apply when they have an approved retirement date. Desirable qualifications: experience in supply, administration, drill and ceremonies, classroom teaching, and working with youth groups. 

6.  Are retired Guard/Reservists eligible for SASI or ASI positions?

Yes!  Effective under the FY 2007 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), “Gray-Area” Guard and Reserve members who retire with a minimum of 20 “good years of service," but ineligible to draw their military retirement until age 60, may apply and would be subject to a Minimum Instructor Pay (MIP) formula established by AFJROTC.  A Gray Area retiree's MIP may not exceed the MIP of a retired active duty member of the same grade IAW Title 10, United States Code, Section 2031(3)(1)(A) and (B). Once drawing retired pay, the calculation remains the same, in that the active duty calculation still applies.

7.  What is the SASI’s job?
The SASI manages the entire program.  Although they spend much of their time in the classroom, after school co-curricular activities (example: drill team practice and rocket club) are a fundamental part of the job.  Additionally, enrollment activities, such as briefings to school administrators, faculty, and community organizations to explain the program and elicit support, counseling of cadets and other students, and briefings to students from supporting junior high schools are key job elements.  The SASI must be involved in community relations, liaising with other Air Force and civilian agencies in the aerospace field, unit supply or administrative functions, career and performance counseling, and an extensive extracurricular program, such as a military ball, parent-cadet banquet, inter-JROTC sports competitions, cadet news articles, drill team, honor guard, parades, flag raising, retreat ceremonies, presentation of awards, and fundraising activities for the unit or charitable institutions. As classroom teachers, they will typically be required to teach five out of six periods in the school day.  They wear their Air Force uniform while performing AFJROTC duties. Although the Air Force provides significant guidance for managing the program, self-direction, initiative, and self-reliance are essential traits of the SASI. For further information, refer to AFJROTCI 36-2010, Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps.

8.  What is the ASI’s job?
In the context of Air Force Junior ROTC program operations, the ASI is supervised by the SASI. In most units, they are responsible for the Leadership Education portion of the curriculum. This includes drill and ceremonies, principles of leadership and management, and communication skills. They assist the SASI in teaching Aerospace Science, particularly those areas where they have special competence because of their experience and training. They may give or grade tests, give career and performance counseling, and supervise cadet corps activities. They are also involved in the enrollment and co-curricular activities described in question 7. Typically, the ASIs are appointed Military Property Custodians and are responsible for uniforms and equipment and for other administrative matters. They wear their Air Force uniform while performing Air Force Junior ROTC duties. The instructors, although not on active duty, are still working in and managing a military-type unit. The same NCO-officer, subordinate-supervisor relationship which existed on active duty must be maintained in the Air Force Junior ROTC unit.  Only those NCOs who can support the objectives of Air Force Junior ROTC and give their full loyalty, support, and cooperation to the SASI in achieving goals should apply. For further information, refer to AFJROTCI 36-2010, Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps.

9.  For whom do the instructors work?
Instructors are employees of the school but are certified to teach Air Force Junior ROTC by the Air Force.  Instructors are responsible to both the school authorities and Air Force Junior ROTC for the conduct of the program.  The SASI works for the principal and is the direct supervisor of the ASI (in the context all things Air Force Junior ROTC). The school and each instructor mutually agree on the length of the instructor’s contract (not less than 10 months per year, up to 12 months).  Even though the instructor’s contract is with the school, the Air Force reserves the right to remove instructors from the program through decertification action if their performance or conduct is found to be unsatisfactory.

10.  May the instructors teach non-Air Force Junior ROTC subjects, such as math or social studies?
No. Air Force Junior ROTC instructors perform only those duties connected with the instruction, operation, and administration of the AFJROTC program.  Individuals employed as Air Force Junior ROTC instructors will not perform duties or teach classes in any discipline other than AFJROTC-directed curriculum.  However, this provision is not intended to preclude Air Force Junior ROTC instructors from serving on committees or performing other routine duties that are rotated regularly among other teachers in the school.

11.  What is the relationship of the instructors to other members of the faculty?
The SASI and ASI are members of the faculty and teach an integral part of the school’s curriculum. They are subject to the many of the same assignments and duties as other teachers (such as lunchroom monitor) and usually receive the same benefits of sick leave, holidays, and vacations as do the other teachers.  Some states/school districts may require the SASI and ASI to be certified as high school teachers above and beyond the basic Air Force Junior ROTC instructor certification.  Air Force Junior ROTC recommends that the SASI and ASI work toward those certifications.  In some states, the ASI is permitted to teach military subjects without certification and may serve as a classroom assistant without being teacher certified by the state.  See the web page called “JROTC Certifications by State.”

12. What pay does the instructor receive?
Instructors receive, at a minimum, pay equal to the difference between active duty retired pay (this calculation also applies to retired ANG/AFRES members) and the total compensation they would receive if ordered to active duty.  Active duty pay includes base pay, housing allowance (based on the ZIP code of the employing school), subsistence allowance, clothing allowance (NCOs), and COLA, if applicable.  This is computed on a monthly basis, and then multiplied by the length of the contract.  

For example: Assume your total active duty compensation to be $7,000 and your retired pay (or active duty equivalent retired pay for ANG/AFRES retirees) to be $3,000 monthly:
Pay & Allowances                               $7,000
Less Retired Pay                             -  $3,000
Minimum Pay from School              =  $4,000 (per month of contract length)

Schools may not pay less than the minimum (prescribed by Title 10, USC, Section 2031) but may pay above the minimum.  Any amount above the minimum is subject to negotiation between the instructor and the school.  The Air Force reimburses the school one-half of the minimum only, each month, for a minimum of 10 months, up to a maximum of 12 months.  Each active duty pay raise will result in an increase of the minimum pay from the school.  Conversely, each cost-of-living raise in retired pay could result in a decrease of the minimum pay.  Notwithstanding any other provision of law, AFJROTC instructors are not, while so employed, considered to be on active duty or inactive duty training for any purpose.  Only the pay is computed as though you were on active duty.  Note: MIP does not have to be met while an instructor is on Terminal Leave.
 
NOTE:  Gray-Area Guard and Reserve applicants--please refer to FAQ #6 and the Instructor Pay web page.

13.  Will my retired pay and school pay equal my gross monthly active duty salary?
For active duty retirees, yes.  For ANG/AFRES members, the calculation is based on an active duty retirement amount.  Keep in mind that any “allowances,” such as the housing allowance, are not taxable on active duty.  However, as an AFJROTC instructor, "allowance" calculations are considered part of the gross pay and are fully taxable.

14.  What is the length of the contract?
The MINIMUM instructor employment contract length is 10 months each school year.  However, the lengths of contracts vary after that. The school’s budget, school policy, and individual negotiating skill affect longer contract lengths. Some schools cannot afford to offer an 11 or 12-month contract.  Schools granting 11 or 12-month contracts must ensure that the instructors will be performing duties in direct support of AFJROTC throughout the duration of the contract. 

15.  Will the school or the Air Force reimburse me for interview or moving costs?
ONLY if the position was advertised that way by AFJROTC.  There is a specific process that dictates which vacancies have that benefit offered.  If it is not advertised that way, it is not being offered. Experienced AFJROTC instructors selected for overseas positions in Department of Defense Dependent Schools (DoDDS) are handled by DoDDS rules, which are normally funded PCS-type moves.  (NOTE: If you are just retiring, you may be entitled to a paid move provided by the Air Force.  You must check with your local TMO to determine if you are eligible).

16.  Are regular officers affected by dual compensation laws?
No.

17.  What does the Air Force furnish the AFJROTC units?
The Air Force supplies curriculum materials such as instructor guides, textbooks, training aids, lesson plans, uniforms for students, some training equipment, limited funding (O&M and MILPER), and one-half of an instructor’s minimum instructor pay (MIP) calculation (as a reimbursement to the school).

18.  What does the school furnish?
The school furnishes 100% of each instructor's salary (reimbursed 50% of MIP by the Air Force in arrears), facilities for classroom instruction, equipment and uniform storage, a drill area, and the same supervision, support, and equipment normally provided other teachers and classes.

19.  Where are the AFJROTC units located?
Air Force Junior ROTC is mandated to sustain 870 schools in 49 states, 12 Department of Defense Dependent School (DoDDS), and 2 in Guam. Use this locator to find units.

20.  Who is responsible for the success of the Air Force Junior ROTC program?
The success of the program in any school depends primarily on the instructor team, but all faculty and school administrators have an important role.  For instructors, the differences in skill, experience, and grade enable each instructor to relate to the cadets in a different way and are thus, complimentary.  A team effort is required for a successful program, and is key in determining whether the program will attract the required number and quality of students. Therefore, a collaborative effort is imperative to the viability of the program and instructor tenure.

21.  How are applicants evaluated?
Various factors, including performance report history and an interview conducted by a current SASI.  All factors are considered to approve or disapprove an application (see Instructor Application web page).  Once the initial application is approved, a Tier 1 with Childcare Inquires background check must be accomplished.  Also, mandatory initial training must be completed. If all is found to be satisfactory, then applicants are issued a certification and are then considered instructors.

22.  How does the hiring process work?
Instructor vacancies are posted on the AFJROTC website (see question 23 for more detail).  Certified instructors may apply for vacancies by emailing their preferences to Holm Center/JRI (jrotc.jri@au.af.edu).  Instructors are referred to schools of their choice.  School officials interview nominees and select the instructor they feel fits best into their school construct.  Air Force Junior ROTC has no role in the interview or actual hiring of an instructor, other than certifying new applicants and referring them to the school.

23.  How will I find out about available positions?
Instructor vacancies are posted on the AFJROTC website. On the main page, click the "Instructor Vacancy List" on the scrolling menu near the top of the screen.  The vacancy list is updated at least once per week. All known vacancies are posted as soon as we know about them.

24.  What are my chances for selection?
It is up to you, your interview skills and what you may bring to the table as an Air Force Junior ROTC instructor.  Each school chooses who they want from the list of candidates sent.

25.  When should I apply?
If you are already retired, you should apply immediately.  If not, with verification from AFPC (AD) or ARPC (ANG/AFRES) that your retirement application has been APPROVED, an application can be started.  However, we cannot finalize initial approval of any application until the actual, published retirement orders are provided.

26.  How long will my application be retained on file?
Certifications are good for five years from the retirement date. Instructors who terminate employment and are eligible for reemployment consideration for five years after their date of termination.

27.  Will you return my records, resume, or other data I provide at the time of application?
No.  However, we only accept electronic documents, so this should not be an issue.

28.  What if I retired with Air Force or VA disability?
The fact of having retired with a disability is not an issue.  What matters is that you can fully perform the essential functions of an Air Force Junior ROTC instructor. You will complete an Occupational Screening Questionnaire telling us if you can perform the essential functions of an Air Force Junior ROTC instructor.  

29.  When will I be eligible for nomination to a position?
You are eligible for nomination when Holm Center/JRI has received all necessary items, processed and evaluated your application, training, and background check and provides you a certification.

30. Why and what type of photo is required with my application?
A current, color full-length (head-to toe pose) .jpeg or PDF photo in Air Force short-sleeved or long-sleeved blue shirt and blue slacks is preferred.  If an Air Force short-sleeved or long-sleeved blue shirt and blue slacks is not readily available, civilian business attire is acceptable.  The photo does not need to be taken by a professional photographer.  Digital photo taken by family or friend is acceptable. No jackets, coats, or large, loose clothing, please. 

31.  As an Air Force Junior ROTC instructor, will my retirement status change?
No, your retired status does not change.  You are not on active duty, and you are not in the active Air Force Reserves.  Although you teach aerospace science and are associated with the Air Force as an Air Force Junior ROTC instructor, you are a school employee.

Military retirement pay is not impacted or changed in any way by being an AFJROTC instructor. 

This page explains how the monthly minimum pay for AFJROTC Instructors is calculated.  This pay is known as the Minimum Instructor Pay or “MIP.”  MIP is the difference between retired pay and the active duty pay and allowances (excluding hazardous duty and special pays) that an Air Force Junior ROTC instructor would receive if ordered to active duty. 

MIP is not the final take-home pay.  MIP is the total minimum compensation package a school must provide.  As with any compensation package, common deductions such as federal and state taxes, healthcare premiums, retirement plans, or union dues are deducted from the total compensation amount.  The total compensation amount cannot be less than the MIP.  There are times when an individual can choose to opt-in/opt-out of a certain benefit or retirement package.  Other times, participation is mandatory.  Those individual situations will impact the final take home pay.

For all Air Force Junior ​ROTC instructors, regardless if they are retired from the Active Duty, Guard or Reserve, the MIP calculations are accomplished in the same manner.  Per Department of Defense policy (ref: OSD memo 22 Oct 2007), MIP for Gray Area and Guard/Reserve retirees (in receipt of retired pay or not) will be accomplished using a “computed” retired pay method.  The “computed” retired pay amount is derived from the member’s grade and total creditable years of service, then applied to an active duty-based retirement pay calculation.  The resulting retired pay amount would be identical to that of an active duty retiree possessing the same grade and years of service.  The resulting retired pay amount is used in the instructor’s MIP calculation.  The “computed” retirement pay method ensures that no individual (with the same grade and years of service) presents a disproportionate cost to a host school.  Meaning, the MIP for retired Guard or Reserve members is calculated in the same manner as Active Duty, as if the person was receiving retired Active Duty member retired payments.  To be clear:  Retired Guard and Reserve members may not receive their monthly retired pay until they reach a certain age, but the MIP calculation is handled as if they are receiving Active Duty retiree payments now.  This is a Secretary of Defense policy and is applicable to all branches.  Therefore, the MIP for a retiree of the same rank, years of service and location would be the same regardless if they are a retired Active Duty, retired Guard, or retired Reserve member. 

The Air Force reimburses the school one half of the monthly MIP amount, each month, up to 12 months.  The total amount paid by the school is taxable income.  All changes in active duty and retired pay (i.e., COLA increases) affect the minimum pay calculation.  

Many schools elect to pay more than the MIP to attract and retain the most qualified instructors.  Schools are also encouraged to adjust instructor pay based upon the individual’s qualifications and experience. 

The Air Force will not reimburse the school for any amount paid to an instructor if they are employed while on Terminal Leave.  This also means MIP does not have to be met while on Terminal Leave. Reimbursement will start on the effective date of retirement as stated on the official retirement orders.  Any contract length above 10 months and any pay above the MIP are a matter of negotiation between the instructor and the school.

You can compute the approximate amount of your MIP by using the pay guide below. Keep in mind the figures determined here are estimates only. Official MIP amounts are generated by Air Force finance experts, after a school hires you.  

Army JROTC online MIP Calculator:  https://www.usarmyjrotc.com/pay/

For current rates: 

BAH
CONUS COLA

www.dfas.mil/militarymembers.html

Pay Computation Worksheet:

Initial Application Process:  Before any retired Airman can be considered for hire by a school, they must have received a certification from Headquarters AFJROTC. 

The initial application process screens candidates for general suitability, including time since retirement, service history, college degrees, weight and body fat standards, and desire to teach in the high school environment.  Not all applications are approved. If the initial application is approved, the applicant must complete the Initial Instructor Certification Course (IICC) and then a Tier 1 background check with Childcare Inquiries. If all of the aforementioned items are satisfactory, the applicant is then certified to teach AFJROTC. 

All applications are taken via this website.  Those who do not meet the initial screening requirements for use of the online application may still be considered on a case-by-case basis if they receive a waiver from the Chief of Instructor Management.  An example: if the applicant's time since retirement has exceeded five years, and they desire to apply for an extended vacancy or hard-to-fill location.  

School Referral and Interviews:  All vacancies are filled with volunteers only.  HQ AFJROTC cannot force anyone to apply for a particular location.  If we have no volunteers, we have no names to refer.

Once a person has received a certification with HQ AFJROTC, they are eligible to volunteer for a vacancy of their choice.  All known vacancies or pending vacancies are posted on our website under the “Instructors” menu.  If a certified instructor is interested in a particular school, their name can be forwarded without delay (unless DoDEA).  Referrals are sent via email to the school principal with the applicant’s name and contact information included.  Each referred applicant receives a separate confirmation email telling them to which school they were referred.

HQ AFJROTC's goal is to provide and maintain a fair and equitable nomination process so that any instructor has an equal chance at a particular vacancy.  Anyone interested in a particular vacancy should not attempt to interview with the school directly until HQ AFJROTC officially refers them as a certified instructor.  If it is determined that an instructor is circumventing the official process in an attempt to gain an advantage, that applicant may be rendered ineligible for that vacancy. HQ AFJROTC Instructor Management reserves the right to make that determination.

Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA Schools): Due to the high-visibility locations, proficiency in AFJROTC required, and increased cost of Headquarters visits to overseas locations, all instructors interested in AFJROTC vacancies in DoDEA are limited to experienced AFJROTC instructors (current and prior instructors only).  Current AFJROTC instructors must meet the transfer criteria as stated in AFJROTCI 36-2010 to be considered.  Prior instructors must have been in good standing when they departed their last school, and they must have received a satisfactory AFJROTC Form 99 from their previous school.  Only those names screened, approved, and referred to DoDEA by HQ AFJROTC are eligible for consideration. 

Interview Process:   It is up to the school and the instructor to establish communication and accomplish any district paperwork, school-conducted background checks, or other items necessary to complete the interview process.  HQ AFJROTC does not track all application/hiring requirements within the 630 school districts that host AFJROTC Programs. Therefore, each school must guide all instructors accordingly.  Be sure to ask questions!  Several free job interview preparation resources are available via the Air Force Digital University (registration required) at this link: https://digitalu.af.mil/app/search?q=Job%20Interview

Travel costs for an interview are at the instructors expense.  Instructors are reminded not to volunteer for a position unless they are available and willing to travel to the school for an interview. Instructors who are nominated but fail to contact the school or appear for a scheduled interview show insincerity unfavorable to the Air Force. Such instructors may be permanently withdrawn from further consideration.  Note: In unusual cases where travel is prohibitive, schools may grant an instructor an interview via an internet-based video chat or other medium of their choice.

Instructors being interviewed must put their best foot forward.  Wearing the Service Dress Uniform is the first choice for an in-person interview, since AFJROTC Instructors are required to wear the blue service uniform in the course of AFJROTC duties.

Hiring Process:  NOTE: Please DO NOT accept an offer of employment without fully understanding the contract length and the salary!  The school must offer a minimum of a 10-month contract at the Minimum Instructor Pay (MIP).  They do not have to offer more than that, but many do.  (NOTE: While on Terminal Leave, MIP is not mandated to be met.)  The schools have the final say on which instructor they choose to hire.  Once a school makes an offer to an instructor and the instructor accepts, the school will notify HQ AFJROTC Instructor Management.  At that point, the school will be asked for any additional information needed, including completion of a DD Form 2767, Annual Certification of Pay and Data Form.

Instructor Transfer Process:  Instructors may not request a transfer until they are serving in their second or subsequent school year with their current school. Instructors may not contact school officials concerning vacancies unless specifically referred by HQ AFJROTC. They must also resign their current positions effective the end of the current school year.  Instructors contacting school officials without a proper referral may be considered ineligible for the position. NOTE: Current instructors, who interview for, are offered, and decline a position may be ruled ineligible for transfer for one (1) additional school year.

Certification Process:  HQ AFJROTC provides the basic certification for all AFJROTC Instructors to teach in AFJROTC.  No instructor can become (or remain) an AFJROTC instructor without the certification granted by HQ AFJROTC.

Each state or district may levy additional certification or professional development requirements on their faculty, including AFJROTC Instructors.  HQ AFJROTC does not prohibit any such requirements, but additional requirements should be carefully measured, since AFJROTC instructors can only teach AFJROTC-approved curriculum. 

Greetings and thank you for your interest in becoming an AFJROTC Instructor!  Please read all of this thoroughly BEFORE you start an application. 

Am I obligated for applying?  You incur no obligation for submitting an application.  Once you receive a certification, the decision to be nominated to any school, or to accept a hiring offer from any school is your choice. 

Is my retired pay impacted in any way?  Being an AFJROTC instructor has no impact on your military retired pay. 

Minimum application requirements:

>>WAIVERS: Waiver requests must be resolved BEFORE an online application is attempted. Waivers are considered, based on the needs of the program. Email: jrotc.jri@au.af.edu with any waiver requests/questions.

>>INTEGRITY FIRST: Providing any false or misleading information during the application or background check process is an integrity violation and will result in your disqualification.  Bypassing the pre-screening questions with inaccurate answers or failing to disclose adverse actions is providing false and misleading information. 

1) Must be retiring/retired from a component of the Department of the Air Force.  All Air Force JROTC instructors must be retired from the Department of the Air Force (Air Force or Space Force), active, guard or reserve components.  No waivers can be granted for this requirement. NOTE: The law has changed to allow non-retired ANG/AFRES personnel and certain qualified veterans to apply, but this ON HOLD until we get the associated pay system approved from DoD (no projected date on that).

2) Have retirement orders. With verification from AFPC (AD) or from ARPC (ANG/AFRES) that your retirement application has been APPROVED, an application can be started.  However, we cannot finalize approval of any application until the actual, published retirement orders are provided to us.

3) Hold a retired grade of E6 to E9 or O4 to O6. Waivers for O3 retirees may be possible for exceptionally qualified Airmen, if interested in a hard-to-fill location.

4) BODY FAT ASSESSMENT (Not BMI): Per AFJROTCI 36-2010, members must meet weight and/or body fat standards. We use the long-standing DoD standards for Air Force Junior ROTC. Air Force PT Test results are not accepted. If you are 29.0 BMI and under, no body fat measurements are needed.  If you are found to be over 29.0 BMI, you must be measured for body fat percentage.  If you are under the maximum allowable body fat (males 26% and females 36%) you are still eligible to be approved.  If you are over your maximum body fat, your application cannot be approved.  This worksheet will be provided by Headquarters when required.

5) Hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree (major/minor is not relevant). For enlisted members who are actively pursuing their degree and are six (6) or fewer courses from completion of their bachelor's degree, they may apply if they complete an academic agreement with JRI first. (Note: some locations may require a completed bachelor's degree to be completed already). Please contact jrotc.jri@au.af.edu if you are six (6) or fewer courses from degree completion and are interested in entering into an academic agreement.  The agreement will be for you to complete the remaining courses in a set amount of time while allowing you to apply and be potentially hired as an instructor.  If you wish to pursue this option, you must have an approved Academic Agreement before attempting an application. There are no further waivers or exceptions to this requirement.

6) Use a commercial e-mail address (may not use .mil email addresses).  Remember to always check your "Junk," "Spam," or "Bulk Mail" folders throughout this process.

7) Falsifications (including omissions of facts) on an application may result in application disapproval.  Falsification of an application (or omission of facts) may result in decertification, even if discovered after being hired into a school, regardless of time.

8) Be sure that you have read and understand ALL of the following information. If you meet all the minimum requirements stated above, the following information lists the items you will need to complete your application:

• RETIREMENT ORDERS: We will accept verification of an approved retirement from AFPC/ARPC to allow you to begin an application with AFJROTC. Please understand that we cannot approve your AFJROTC application until we receive a copy of your actual, published retirement orders.

• GRAY AREA RETIREES (ANG/AFRES Members):  You must include a Points Summary (with the cover sheet!) showing verification of at least 20 satisfactory service years. You can request this via HQ ARPC. 

• RETIRED GRADE:  All Air Force Junior ROTC instructors will display on their uniform, and will be addressed as, the grade in which they were officially retired.  This may or may not be the grade held at retirement. Why?  Active Duty officer retirement orders show a "retired grade" and "highest grade held."  Officers who do not complete the mandatory time-in-grade requirements before retiring (or get a time-in-grade waiver from AFPC) will be officially retired in the next lower grade.  

NOTE: If an applicant believes his/her retirement orders are incorrect, it is the applicant’s responsibility to contact AFPC/ARPC/NGB to get their retirement orders updated/corrected, or to obtain an official clarifying document which fully explains the discrepancy. We do not accept other documents, such as a DD Form 214, to validate anyone's retired grade.  

• DEROGATORY INFORMATION / ADVERSE ACTIONS: If you have any derogatory/adverse information in your past, you must disclose it.  Disclosing it does not necessarily disqualify you--that decision will be based on the actual information.  However, failing to report any derogatory information can certainly disqualify you.  You must fully explain any derogatory information and include supporting documents with your application package.  Any and all negative information needs to be disclosed at this time and explained. Failure to do so could result in your application being permanently disapproved. (NOTE: Automatic disqualification may stem from a civilian felony conviction, a military courts-martial conviction, or military non-judicial punishment records (or civil convictions) involving a violent act, a threatening act, domestic violence, child or spouse abuse, sexual abuse or sexual-related offenses (physical or verbal), pornography, larceny (theft), forgery, or abuse of rank/position.)  Please be advised that all applicants will be screened through an Air Force Legal Office for previous judicial/non-judicial punishment records, as well as a Teir 1 with Childcare Inquiries background check. Furthermore, please know that schools will also do a thorough background check prior to employment.  

• PHOTO: Photos are required to 1) identify an applicant, and 2) to assess their military image.  A current full-length photograph showing head-to-toe, in short sleeve or long sleeve blues shirt and pants. No Coat/Jacket. This does not need to be professional photo but be sure it is in jpeg or PDF format only. No faxed photos please. We must be able to clearly see that you are within Air Force Dress and Appearance standards since all AFJROTC instructors wear an Air Force uniform daily.

• BODY FAT ASSESSMENT (Not BMI): This worksheet can be downloaded from inside the application.  Per AFJROTCI 36-2010, members must meet weight and/or body fat standards. We use the long-standing DoD standards for Air Force Junior ROTC. Air Force PT Test results are not accepted. If you are 29.0 BMI and under, no body fat measurements are needed.  If you are found to be over 29.0 BMI, you must be measured for Body Fat percentage.  If you are under the maximum allowable body fat (males 26% and females 36%) you are still eligible to be approved.  If you are over your maximum Body Fat, our application cannot be approved, but may be placed on hold until you are within standards. 

• REFERENCES: Three references with daytime contact information (complete phone numbers) are required to complete your application. One reference should be your most recent/current supervisor. None of the references should be related to you in any way. A standardized set of questions will be used when references are contacted.  Please note: the JRI staff will not attempt to find alternate contact information so the burden to provide quality contact information is placed on the applicant. You may include the references in an email or within a word document.

• COLLEGE DEGREE: Include a copy of the diploma or transcripts reflecting the degree(s) you were awarded from an accredited institution. You must have a minimum of a completed/awarded bachelor’s degree. (Location-specific waivers may be possible for those enlisted applicants who are very close to completion of a bachelor's degree but have not yet completed it. A written agreement to complete the degree within a specified timeframe will be required.)

• PERFORMANCE REPORTS/BRIEFS: You must provide copies of your last 5 years of Performance Reports/Briefs.  The full 5-year timeframe (5 years prior to retirement date) must be accounted for within the dates of the actual Performance Reports/Briefs. Any date gap or missing mandatory performance report in that 5-year history will be disqualifying.  NOTE: Effective 2016 all Air Force members, regardless of component, required either an annual report or a bi-annual report.  LOEs that only state a Performance Report was not accomplished, is lost, or is missing cannot be accepted in the AFJROTC application process.  

Note on Final Performance Report/Brief. Applicants who did not have/will not have a final performance report/brief accomplished within 12 months of their final retirement date will require an explanatory letter from the applicant detailing why the final report was not accomplished. There can be no gaps in an applicant's mandatory performance report history.  See AFI 36-2406 for details on mandatory performance reports.

It is the applicant's responsibility to contact AFPC/ANGB/ARPC to get copies of all performance reports.  If you do not have copies of your last 5 years performance reports, you may request them from: http://www.archives.gov/veterans or https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits/homepage (log-in required; search for "DPRIS")

• OCCUPATIONAL SCREENING QUESTIONNAIRE: You will need to fill out, sign, and submit an AFJROTC Occupational Screening Questionnaire. If you have a medical/physical condition that may limit you from fully performing AFJROTC instructor duties, or that requires any sort of accommodation, you will need a note from your Physician explaining it all.  This form can be downloaded in the online application module.

• APPLICATION INTERVIEW WORKSHEET: A current AFJROTC instructor must conduct an in-person interview with you. This interview is from an experienced AFJROTC instructor at a high school in your area. This interview helps determine that you understand the overarching aspects of being an instructor and if you are a good fit for an Air Force Junior ROTC instructor position. To find the nearest Air Force Junior ROTC unit, go to https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1Zh9Kwbe3F2OM3kwG1QRfJdI-6dPDaW5J&ll. You will see a map with “pins” where all the units are located. Just scroll down the page and you will see the listing with contact numbers. Please contact them to set up your interview. The instructor will have the interview form and will send the completed copy to our office. If they choose to give you a copy, you may send it to us as well. 

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- Getting an approved instructor application is the first step.  After you receive an approved instructor application, you must have your background check submitted to the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency before you can receive a Provisional Certification.  You must have a certification before you can be nominated to any school to potentially fill any current vacancies.  Additionally, the Initial Instructor Training Course must be completed no later than the 30th calendar day following employment start but can be completed much sooner.  You will receive instructions on all of that once you have an approved application. 

- Do not contact any school regarding a vacant AFJROTC instructor position until you are approved and nominated to that school by our office.  Discussing potential employment before being officially referred gives you an unfair advantage over other instructors.  Doing this may permanently disqualify you from the program.

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If you have read all of the above, and you are confident that you have everything you need....

CLICK HERE to start your Instructor Application 

Having application issues?  Review the step-by-step guide at this link: