The United States Air Force’s Security Forces (SF) career field, also known as Security Police, is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of Air Force bases, personnel, and resources. The pay scale for Security Forces airmen, including those in the elite Security Forces unit known as the Security Forces Emergency Response (SERE) team, is determined by their rank and level of experience.
SERE Team Overview Before diving into the pay scale, it’s essential to understand the role of the SERE team within the Security Forces career field. The SERE team is an elite group of airmen trained to handle high-risk situations, such as hostage rescue, counter-terrorism, and tactical operations. These airmen undergo rigorous training and are equipped to respond to emergency situations that require specialized skills and expertise.
Pay Scale Breakdown The pay scale for Security Forces airmen, including those in the SERE team, is based on the Air Force’s pay grade system, which consists of nine pay grades (E-1 to E-9). The pay scale is also influenced by the airman’s level of experience, with more experienced airmen earning higher pay. Here’s a breakdown of the pay scale for Security Forces airmen:
- Airman Basic (E-1): 1,733.40 per month (approx. 20,800 per year)
- Airman (E-2): 1,942.50 per month (approx. 23,300 per year)
- Airman First Class (E-3): 2,105.70 per month (approx. 25,300 per year)
- Senior Airman (E-4): 2,515.80 per month (approx. 30,200 per year)
- Staff Sergeant (E-5): 3,058.50 per month (approx. 36,700 per year)
- Technical Sergeant (E-6): 3,616.10 per month (approx. 43,400 per year)
- Master Sergeant (E-7): 4,394.50 per month (approx. 52,700 per year)
- Senior Master Sergeant (E-8): 5,269.40 per month (approx. 63,200 per year)
- Chief Master Sergeant (E-9): 6,265.10 per month (approx. 75,200 per year)
Special Duty Pay Airmen in the SERE team may be eligible for special duty pay, which can increase their monthly pay by up to $500. Special duty pay is awarded to airmen who perform hazardous or high-risk duties, such as those in the SERE team.
Hazardous Duty Pay In addition to special duty pay, airmen in the SERE team may also be eligible for hazardous duty pay. This pay is awarded to airmen who perform duties that involve a high level of risk, such as parachuting or handling explosives.
Example Pay Scale To give you a better idea of the pay scale for Security Forces airmen, including those in the SERE team, let’s consider an example. A Staff Sergeant (E-5) with 6 years of experience and a specialization in tactical operations may earn:
- Basic pay: $3,058.50 per month
- Special duty pay: $300 per month
- Hazardous duty pay: $200 per month
- Total pay: 3,558.50 per month (approx. 42,700 per year)
Keep in mind that this is just an example, and actual pay may vary depending on individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for a Security Forces airman in the Air Force?
+The average salary for a Security Forces airman in the Air Force varies depending on rank and level of experience. However, according to the Air Force's pay scale, the average salary for a Security Forces airman is around $40,000 per year.
Do Security Forces airmen receive special pay for hazardous duties?
+Yes, Security Forces airmen may receive special pay for hazardous duties, such as parachuting or handling explosives. This pay is awarded to airmen who perform duties that involve a high level of risk.
How much do SERE team members earn in special duty pay?
+SERE team members may earn up to $500 per month in special duty pay, depending on their level of experience and specialization. This pay is awarded to airmen who perform hazardous or high-risk duties.
In conclusion, the pay scale for Security Forces airmen, including those in the SERE team, is determined by their rank and level of experience. With special duty pay and hazardous duty pay, Security Forces airmen can earn a competitive salary that reflects their specialized skills and expertise. Whether you’re interested in joining the Security Forces career field or simply want to learn more about the pay scale, this information should provide a comprehensive overview of what to expect.
