Licensed Athletic Trainer (ATC) Optimizing the Human Weapon System (OHWS) Tulsa, OK

Licensed Athletic Trainer (ATC) Optimizing the Human Weapon System (OHWS) Tulsa, OK

Introduction & Background The Oklahoma Air National Guard's 138th Fighter Wing participates in the Optimizing the Human Weapon System (OHWS) initiative, a specialized program designed to reduce spinal injuries, enhance readiness, and improve long-term quality of life for fighter pilots. Up to 85% of fighter aircrew report spine discomfort during their career, and neck/back injuries significantly impact pilot performance. OHWS provides multi-disciplinary physical training, injury prevention, rehabilitation, and spinal health optimization tailored to the unique demands of fighter aviation. The Licensed Athletic Trainer plays a critical role in delivering injury prevention, spinal health support, physical performance optimization, and post-flight care to rated aircrew. This position directly supports pilot readiness, retention, and mission capability.

Position Overview The Athletic Trainer will provide on-base and/or off-base injury prevention, rehabilitation exercise services, spinal health optimization, ergonomic assessment, pre-hab evaluation, remedial training, and post-flight treatments as outlined in the government's Performance Work Statement (PWS). This role requires independent clinical judgment, adherence to AAAHC standards, and close coordination with the government Point of Contact (POC), squadron medical personnel, and other OHWS specialists.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Athletic Training from an accredited college or university.

Experience

• Must have at least one year of clinical experience. Spine focused clinical work is preferred.

Certifications & Licensure

• Certification by the National Athletic Trainers' Association Board of Certification (NATABOC) as a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC).
• Current State of Oklahoma Athletic Training License/Registration.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) / CPR / AED certification.

Security & Compliance Requirements

• Must obtain a Common Access Card (CAC); requires favorable FBI fingerprint check and submission of NACI.
• Must complete:
• DoD IA Awareness Training annually.
• Level I OPSEC Training within 30 days of reporting and annually.
• AT Level I Antiterrorism Training within 30 days.
• Must comply with:
• DoD Privacy Program requirements for handling PII.
• COMSEC procedures for all communications.
• Installation fire, traffic, safety, and security regulations.

Professional Standards

• Must adhere to AAAHC standards and all requirements defined in the PWS.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

1. Injury Prevention & Pre-Hab

• Conduct initial assessments for all rated aircrew entering the OHWS program.
• Provide pre-habilitation evaluations, spinal health assessments, and individualized injury-prevention plans.
• Deliver ergonomic assessments and implement corrective strategies for cockpit-related spinal stressors.

2. Rehabilitation & Treatment

• Provide on-base or off-base rehabilitation exercise services for neck, spine, and musculoskeletal injuries.
• Administer post-flight treatments to mitigate acute strain and reduce long-term injury risk.

3. Human Performance Optimization

• Deliver optimized physical training, including strength and conditioning tailored to fighter aircrew.
• Utilize specialized spinal strengthening equipment and computerized isometric testing systems (contractor-provided).

4. Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain HIPAA-compliant Electronic Medical Records (EMR) using contractor-provided software.
• Provide consultation and reports similar to a commercial rehabilitation facility, with specialized focus on spinal health.

5. Coordination & Compliance

• Work closely with the government POC and squadron medical personnel.
• Participate in post-award meetings, progress reviews, and required installation training.
• Ensure compliance with all installation access, safety, and IT security policies.

6. Facility & Equipment Use

• Operate within government-provided workspace (150300 sq ft) or contractor-provided mobile unit if required.
• Maintain cleanliness, infection control, and sanitation of treatment areas.

Schedule & Hours Normal duty hours for rated pilots (and therefore service availability requirements):

• MondayThursday: 6:45 AM 5:30 PM
• Saturday (RSD): 7:00 AM 4:30 PM
• Sunday (RSD): 7:00 AM 3:30 PM

Night Flying Weeks: Hours fluctuate based on flying schedule but will not exceed a 10-hour day; may run as late as 3:00 PM 1:30 AM during summer months. Government will provide two weeks' notice for schedule changes. Telecommuting is not authorized. Recognized Holidays (No Services Performed)

• New Year's Day
• Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• President's Day
• Memorial Day
• Juneteenth
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Columbus Day
• Veterans Day
• Thanksgiving Day
• Christmas Day

Place of Performance

• 138th Fighter Wing, Tulsa Air National Guard Base (TANGB).

Additional Requirements

• Must identify as a contractor in all communications and wear contractor identification badges.
• Must safeguard government property and comply with physical security requirements.
• Vehicles and personal belongings may be subject to search upon entering/exiting the installation.

Summary This role is ideal for a licensed, certified Athletic Trainer with strong clinical skills, experience in musculoskeletal injury prevention, and interest in supporting elite tactical athletesspecifically fighter pilots. The position blends clinical care, performance optimization, and military operational support, contributing directly to pilot readiness and mission success.