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CAF Careers

The CAF has the below positions available:

These job descriptions in no way state or imply that these are the only duties to be performed by the employees occupying these positions. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by their supervisor. These job descriptions may be revised upon development of other duties and changes in responsibilities.

The Commemorative Air Force is an equal opportunity employer.

These jobs are civilian positions and do not require military service (including commission and enlistment).

Must meet training and background check qualifications and comply with the Protection of Minors policy. A pre-employment background investigation is performed on candidates selected for employment.

The CAF offers a generous benefit package that includes health, vision, dental, life and disability at a cost of $50 per month for the employee, and a retirement plan that is matched up to 3%. The value of this package is over $13,000.

The Commemorative Air Force is the world’s largest World War II Flying Museum with over 175 historic military aircraft and 87 units in 29 states throughout the U.S. The headquarters offices are location in Dallas at Dallas Executive Airport. Information concerning our organization can be obtained at www.commemorativeairforce.org.

The Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center's (NAEC) mission is to Honor the Past, Empower the Future by designing and operating programs that provide hands-on learning opportunities and activities for all ages. Located at Dallas Executive Airport, the NAEC is the flagship of the American Airpower Heritage Museum (AAHM), an affiliate of the Commemorative Air Force.

TO APPLY

Looking for further opportunities? Discover available positions at the CAF Headquarters here!

Gift Coordinator (Full-Time)

Department: Development

Job Summary:
Join the dynamic Development Team as a Gift Coordinator. Your contributions will directly impact the CAF’s annual fundraising campaigns, foundation and corporate giving initiatives. The Gift Coordinator processes, acknowledges, and reports gifts while maintaining accurate donor and supporter information using the Raiser’s Edge database. Assists the Finance Department in reconciling donation records, as needed. Updates email addresses and contact information in MailChimp or other email marketing tools. Responsible for handling fundraising fulfillment inquiries, coordinating responses with CAF Headquarters, and directing mail vendor, as appropriate. Conducts regular communication with donors on pledge commitments to ensure timely pledge payments. Responds, as appropriate, to supporter and donor inquiries. Maintains a historical record of direct mail packages for reference by CAF staff. Supports fundraising and donor events. Provides back-up to other members of the Development Team, including being cross trained on key activities to ensure continuity. Performs other duties as assigned. This position reports to the Philanthropy Director.

Duties & Responsibilities:
• Coordinate the processing of incoming gifts and donations according to established protocols. Responsible for entry of gifts, pledges, and payments into Raiser’s Edge.
• Work with confidential information in a professional and responsible manner.
• Make changes to contact information and mailing lists quickly and accurately.
• Handle fulfillment in an organized and efficient manner.
• Field calls from donors and act as first point of contact for donor questions concerning their philanthropy. Demonstrate exemplary customer service in all exchanges.
• Produce donor, gift, and revenue reports, lists, merge files, and labels as required.
• Update and maintain gift processing procedures.
• Track direct mail packages.
• Provide support for CAF activities and events, such as CAF Conference and other events.
• Be sufficiently knowledgeable about CRMs to answer inquiries from the Development team about prospects, gifts, and pledges within our database.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
• High School Graduate, some college and/or database experience preferred.
• Experience with Client Resource Management (CRM) databases, especially Raiser’s Edge, a plus.
• Collaborative approach to teamwork.
• Must be able to handle multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to operate independently on routine activities, exercise sound judgment, and maintain confidentiality.
• High level of poise and professionalism, including follow-through and attention to detail.
• Familiarity and basic knowledge of fundraising.
• A customer service approach and the ability to demonstrate flexibility and problem-solving skills.
• Computer literacy. Proficient knowledge and use of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) required.
• High level of enthusiasm, initiative, motivation, and self-direction.

Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

If interested, please send a cover letter, resume and salary requirements to https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Apply/2657567/Commemorative-Air-Force/Gift-Coordinator. No phone calls please.

Grants & Development Specialist (Full-Time)

Department: Development

Job Summary:
Join the CAF’s dynamic Development team as the Development & Grants Specialist. Your contributions will directly impact the CAF’s annual fundraising campaigns; donor communication strategies; foundation and corporate giving initiatives; and digital fundraising outcomes. You will primarily support fundraising efforts by implementing a comprehensive institutional giving and stewardship plan, in addition to developing grant proposals to submit to private, community, and corporate foundations. You may also write and/or edit email appeals, social media copy, magazine articles, prospect profiles, and more. The ability to write persuasively and clearly communicate the organization’s mission and programs is key. This role is also instrumental in supporting the development of the CAF’s affiliate museum, the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center (NAEC), and its educational programs. This position is ideal for a passionate, data-driven individual with a strong writing and/or communications background and a commitment to advancing the CAF’s mission through strategic grant acquisition and donor engagement. The Grants & Development Specialist reports directly to the Chief Relationship Officer.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Lead all stages of the grant lifecycle by crafting compelling proposals, reporting on programmatic impact and outcomes, and ensuring financial due diligence and stewardship.
· Coordinate prospecting research and assessment to identify and profile potential donors, foundations, corporations, or sponsorship opportunities.
· Build and support relationships with key individuals at various institutions to enhance fundraising outcomes.
· Oversee CAF’s grants program to ensure timely submissions and reporting per foundation and/or corporate guidelines, while also coordinating internal reviews with staff and volunteers.
· Manage grant pipeline by maintaining data related to grants (timelines, reports, etc.) and other organizational records using shared resources, such as Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge and Research Point.
· Maintain organized electronic and paper records of all grant-related materials, ensuring comprehensive documentation and easy retrieval.
· Partner with the Development team to devise and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies, leveraging data to enhance donor relationships and identify new opportunities.
· Work closely with the Chief Relationship Officer, Philanthropy Director, Marketing department, and other team members to write, proofread, and edit persuasive fundraising materials, including presentations, brochures, and other collateral that effectively communicate the CAF’s mission, goals, and funding needs.
· Perform other duties and special projects as assigned, like supporting annual events such as The Victory Ball, Aviation Discovery Fest, or Warbird Weekend.

Qualifications:
· Bachelor’s degree required; background in Communications, English, Journalism, Marketing, Non-profit Management and/or Development a plus.
· Minimum 2 years of experience writing and editing in a professional setting required; 3+ years of experience in a non-profit setting preferred.
· Minimum 2 years of experience in development/fundraising required.
· Demonstrated knowledge of the grant lifecycle required.
· Demonstrated ability and success in writing persuasive, clear, and concise fundraising/grant proposals required.
· Demonstrated interest or experience in aviation, STEM education, and/or WWII history a plus.

Required Skills & Abilities:
• Excellent persuasive writing and communication skills.
• High level of poise and professionalism, including follow-through and attention to detail.
• Familiarity and intermediate knowledge of grant/proposal writing and/or fundraising.
• Ability to prioritize work, manage multiple projects concurrently, and meet deadlines in a time-constrained environment.
• Familiarity with industry tools, databases, and CRM software (e.g., Candid, Blackbaud, Mailchimp, Instrumentl, etc.), preferably Raiser’s Edge.
• High level of enthusiasm, initiative, motivation, and self-direction.
• Solid understanding of budgets as they relate to proposals and grants.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Strong computer literacy.
• Must be knowledgeable about, and capable of articulating verbally and in writing, the CAF’s mission, vision, and priorities.

· Team oriented; works well within group situations.
· Must be very organized, analytical and able to handle multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
· Proficient user of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and donor databases, preferably Raiser’s Edge.
· Computer literacy.
· High level of enthusiasm, initiative, motivation and self-direction.
· Must be knowledgeable about, and capable of articulating verbally and in writing, the CAF’s mission, vision, and priorities.
· Must meet training and background check qualifications and comply with the Protection of Minors policy. A pre-employment background investigation is performed on candidates selected for employment.

If interested, please send a cover letter, resume and salary requirements to https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Apply/2597804/Commemorative-Air-Force/Grants-Development-Specialist. No phone calls please.

Director of Education (Full-Time)

Department: Education

General Summary
The Director of Education is responsible for the design and execution of programming at the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center. These educational programs incorporate elements of STEM, history, geography and workforce development topics to inspire students’ interest in aviation. The development of distance learning and e-learning programs is a critical goal over the next 2 years. Current programming includes Camp SOAR for elementary and middle school students, A is for Aerospace at the Pre-Kindergarten to 2nd grade level, and the Home Front Experience—a WWII simulation aimed at grades 4-12. Additional programs focus on workforce development such as Project Cub, a restoration of a 1946 J-3 Cub aircraft directed by a contracted Aircraft Restoration Project Manager. The Director of Education will focus on the growth of current programming with an eye toward future planning.

The Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center is the flagship educational project of the Commemorative Air Force. The NAEC located at the Dallas Executive Airport provides hands-on learning opportunities and experiences for all ages. The 47,000 square foot facility is dedicated to education with the mission to Honor the Past, Empower the Future. The museum wing includes the world’s largest collection of authentic World War II nose art, a theater, and exhibits with artifacts to honor the contributions of diverse populations. Visitors are inspired by aviation and history while learning impactful stories of heroes in World War II. The James C. Ray Education Wing houses workshops, leadership simulations, and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) programs in a more formal setting.

Responsibilities:
· Oversee a staff of one full time and several part time educators
· Recruit and supervise volunteers to assist in the delivery of educational programs on-site
· Oversee the development of aviation-inspired educational activities, including digital activities, aligned with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) and national standards when applicable
· Supervise the Aircraft Restoration Project Manager and the J-3 Cub Restoration Project
· Collaborate with the NAEC marketing team to produce promotional materials
· Create new programs for both local and national Pre-K to 12 schools
· Collect program data and collaborate with the development team for grant and sponsorship opportunities and reports
· Monitor the education supply inventory and ensure that supplies are in proper condition and available for each program and activity
· Set up and supervise education stations during public aviation events such as the Aviation Discovery Festival
· Attend volunteer training and orientations as needed
· Assist the NAEC Museum Educator and the Vice President of Education with the development of museum activities for students and the general public, including public programs
· Assist the Commemorative Air Force Vice President of Education with budgeting and financial reviews

Requirements - Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:
· Knowledge and demonstrated practice in creating hands-on, student-centered lessons with an emphasis on content-integration
· Strong creative and visionary abilities
· Experience in developing or delivering distance learning to include virtual classroom sessions, webinars, and e-learning platforms is preferred
· Demonstrated attention to detail, with a strong ability to keep accurate records and statistics
· Strong interpersonal and communication skills, in writing and orally across various media
· Solid computer-proficiency skills and abilities, including applications, databases, and Microsoft 365
· Ability to work independently and maintain confidentiality
· Willingness to collaborate on projects and work with a team
· Knowledge and experience in tool use, including handheld and power tools is a bonus
· Knowledge of science of flight or aircraft maintenance or restoration is a bonus
· Must be available to work a variable schedule to include evenings, weekends, overnights, and holidays

Education and Qualifications
· Bachelor’s Degree
· Minimum of seven years of experience in creating, leading, and delivering educational programming in museums, educational centers, or K-12 settings
· Previous supervisory experience

Physical Demands
· Regularly performs tasks with hands and fingers for grasping and holding objects
· Regularly performs office-related tasks at a desk or workstation while sitting, such as: keyboarding, phones, handwriting, filing, etc.
· Sometimes pushes, pulls, lifts, and/or carries up to 50 pounds across a distance with or without supportive devices
· Frequently stands, walks, bends, stoops, crouches, reaches, climbs, and kneels throughout the workday
· Sometimes drives or travels by car/aircraft; occasionally travels out-of-area or overnight

If interested, please send a cover letter, resume and salary requirements to https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Apply/2594647/Commemorative-Air-Force/Director-of-Education. No phone calls please.

Director of Operation (Full-Time)

Department: Operation

General Summary
The CAF Director of Operations reports to the Chief Aviation Officer. This position is responsible for all 175 aircraft, flight operations, airshow events, and operational activities that happen within the CAF and its 80 CAF units. Modeling and leadership of a safety culture is paramount. Duties include:
- Promote a safety culture first and foremost.
- Provide management and oversight of the Operations Office Manager.
- Oversight of the online flight management software ‘Rally Point’ for aircraft operations.
- Leadership of the CAF Stan Eval Committee and their safety charter.
- Oversight of the CAF pilot proficiency and evaluation program.
- Work directly with the members, volunteers, and pilots to assist them with all operational needs.
- Management of the LHFE 6802 exemption and 91.147 Rides for Hire Programs.
- Oversight of the CAF Drug and Alcohol abatement program.
- Oversight of the CAFR regulation documents including 60-1, 55-7, 66-1.
- Work closely with FAA and other industry partnerships.
- Reviews and approves pilot transition letters, FEB, and pilot fit to fly evaluations.

Employment Type:
Full-Time

Qualifications:
• Current CFI (required).
• Class 2 Medical (required, or highly desirable).
• Must be eligible to enroll in the CAF’s managed Drug and Alcohol testing program.
• Warbird, Vintage, and Flight Training experience (highly desirable).
• A&P preferred but not required.
• Experience and ability to work with volunteers is a required skill.

Benefits:
• Health, Vision and Dental Insurance available.
• Life insurance, long-term and short-term disability available.
• Up to 3% employer matched Retirement plan.
• Paid vacation time available for first year employees.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by their supervisor. This job description may be revised upon development of other duties and changes in responsibilities.

If interested, please send a cover letter and resume to jlasche@cafhq.org. No phone calls please.

Looking for further opportunities? Discover available positions at the CAF Headquarters here!