Duty Positions

Senior Member Duty Positions

Taken from Figure 12, page 21 of CAPR 30-1 Organization of Civil Air Patrol

Click on links here to see descriptions of each officer's role further down this page.  

Activities Officer
Administrative Officer
Aerospace Education Officer
Alerting Officer
Chaplain
Character Development Instructor
Commander
Communications Officer
Cyber Education Officer
Deputy Commander
Emergency Services Officer
Finance Officer
Fitness Officer
Health Services Officer
Historian
Information Technology Officer
Leadership Officer
Legal Officer
Logistics Officer
NCO Advisor
Operations Officer
Personnel Officer
Professional Development Officer
Public Affairs Officer
Recruiting & Retention Officer
Safety Officer
Supply Officer
Testing Officer
Transportation Officer
 

Senior Member Duty Position

Activity Officer

Plans and conducts interesting and challenging activities for CAP cadets, to include but not limited to: 

• Field trips 
• Participating in emergency services exercises 
• Sports competitions 
• Social functions 
• Community betterment projects 
• Aerospace education activities (in coordination with aerospace education officer) 

This position is assigned to cadet programs but may be tasked to plan unit-wide activities. 

All activities will be planned and organized using the AL032 Activity Request Document

Activities Officers should be familiar with CAP regulations in the 50, 76, 160, and 900 series.

 

 

Administrative Officer

Implements, manages, and directs administrative services activities. They shall: 

• Implement administrative policies and procedures. 
• Control correspondence (including messages).
• Prepare and authenticate administrative authorizations. 
• Prepare local publications and forms. 
• Perform related duties as assigned by the unit commander. 

Administrative Officers should be familiar primarily with CAPP 205 and CAP regulations in the 5 and 10 series.

 

 

Aerospace Education Officer

To implement and direct the aerospace education portion of the CAP cadet program they shall: 

• Monitor the aerospace education portion of the CAP cadet program. 
• Generate and supervise the aerospace education activities and supporting projects for cadets. 
• Supervise the aerospace education testing program for cadets. 
• Implement the CAP external aerospace education program in their community. They shall Provide special aerospace education presentations to the general public. 
• Promote CAP aerospace education courses and instructional materials in local schools. 

Aerospace Education Officers should complete appropriate portions of CAPP 215 and be familiar with CAPR 52-16, CAPR 50-17, CAPP 15, CAPR 50-4, CAPR 280-2, and all aerospace education texts described in the CAP Bookstore Catalog and the HQ CAP/ETA publication entitled "Aerospace Education Teaching Materials."  These materials are all free for download from eServices.

CAP NHQ Description and Resources

 

Chaplain

The chaplain is a member of the commander´s staff at all echelons of command, and as such is the advisor to the commander and his/her staff on matters of religion, morals, and the well-being of personnel under his/her command. The chaplain implements and executes the CAP Chaplain Service program as recommended by the Chaplain Service Advisory council and as stated in CAPR 265-1. This program includes, but is not limited to: 

• Providing pastoral care of senior and cadet members, including counseling, visitation, encouragement, and other special assistance as the chaplain may be able to provide.
• Performing professional functions as necessary, for example, religious services, liturgies, pastoral counseling, etc. 
• Conducting moral leadership programs as outlined in the CAPP 265 series entitled "Values for Living," and CAPR 52-16. 
• Participating as chaplains in cadet summer encampments and other cadet activities. (Reference CAPR 52-16.) 
• Participating in Emergency Services missions and exercises by providing a chaplain presence and resource for members participating in the mission/exercise and those on the scene who may be in distress. 
• Participating in ecclesiastical public relations activities. 

The specific duties of CAP chaplains at each echelon of command are stated in CAPR 265-1. Every chaplain should be familiar with the following CAP directives: CAPR 20-1, CAPR 265-1, CAPP 221, CAPP 221A and CAPP 265-4.

 

 

 

Character Development Officer

The moral leadership officer is an individual active in and approved by their denomination or faith group. CDI´s are part of the CAP Chaplain Service, but have different qualifications and different responsibilities than chaplains. CDI´s will: 

• Complete training requirements for character development Instructors. 
• Develop moral leadership seminars for cadets. 
• Provide non-clergy support to assist chaplains in providing ministry to the CAP community. 
• Perform CDI duties under the direction of a chaplain when one is assigned to their unit. When a chaplain is not assigned, the CDI works under the direction of the unit commander and wing chaplain.

CAP NHQ Description and Resources

 

Commander

Squadron Commanders are responsible to the corporation and to the wing commander (or group commander if applicable) for ensuring that the corporation objectives, policies, and operational directives are effectively executed within their squadron. They shall:  

• Establish plans, policies, and procedures necessary to the fulfillment of the CAP mission, which are not in conflict with the directives of higher headquarters. 
• Keep informed of the accomplishments, problems, and degree of compliance with regulations and other directives through personal observations, inspections, reports, and staff meetings.
• Comply with all policies, regulations, and directives of higher headquarters and require the same compliance by all members of the squadron. Ensure the safety of personnel and equipment through compliance with directives and policy guidance; ensure an effective safety awareness, education, and inspection program within the unit. Select personnel to fill authorized staff positions and remove from staff position those members deemed unqualified or otherwise unsuitable to continue in their positions. Establish policies and procedures to ensure an effective squadron recruiting and retention program. 
• Coordinate the activities of staff officers to prevent overlapping of functions and to resolve conflicts. Eliminate members whose continued membership is determined undesirable in accordance with the provisions of CAPR 35-3. 
• Identify members for non-renewal where continued membership is adverse to the best interests of CAP in accordance with provisions of CAPM 39-2. 
• Determine meeting dates and attendance requirements for squadron meetings in accordance with policies established by higher headquarters. Ensure that new personnel are properly introduced to CAP and make frequent checks on their progress.  Ensure that squadron property and funds are properly safeguarded and accounted for. Initiate requests for promotion of squadron members. Ensure proper wear of the uniform and that violations are promptly corrected. Ensure that complaints and grievances are resolved fairly, impartially, and promptly. 
• Initiate recommendations for awards and decorations for squadron members. 
• Initiate organization actions affecting their squadron (charter redesignations, address changes, etc.). Refer to the next higher headquarters problems that cannot be resolved at squadron level. Promote an understanding and appreciation of CAP in the local community. Promote aerospace education.
• Squadron Commanders should be familiar with the Civil Air Patrol Constitution and Bylaws, CAP governing directives, and all policy matters affecting their command.  

NOTE: The duties above also apply to the deputy squadron commander. Squadron commanders should develop a detailed position description for their deputy, outlining his/her specific duties and responsibilities in support of the overall squadron mission.

 

 

Communication Officer

Manages and directs communications activities. They shall: 

• Develop and implement communications plans, programs, and directives in close coordination and in support of command, operations and emergency services. 
• Establish requirements and track acquisition and disposition of communication equipment in coordination with logistics. 
• Coordinate communications plans and programs with other staff agencies and with subordinate and higher headquarters. 
• Develop detailed operating procedures for communications operations and guidance to subordinate units and personnel. 
• Collect and report data to determine the effectiveness of communications operations. 
• Coordinate licensing or frequency authorizations for all radio operations. 
• Develop communications training programs.
• Coordinate communications conferences, meetings, and workshops. 
• Monitor unit communications. 
• Establish programs to maintain and operate unit radio equipment. 

Communications Officers should having a working knowledge of CAPP 214 and CAP regulations in the 50, 55, 67, and 100 series and the NTIA manual of regulations and procedures for Federal Radio Frequency Management.

 

 

Cyber Education Officer

Key Duties & Best Practices

1. Instructional Duties. The cyber education officer is an instructor and subject matter expert. He or she should be a resource to the unit on all cybersecurity related topics covered in cadet aerospace education texts.

2. Cyber Activities. Cyber education officers organize and local activities such as tours of industry sites having a significant presence in the cyber domain. Further, they promote cyber activities conducted above squadron level and steer cadets who are interested in cyber toward cyber-related National Cadet Special Activities.

3. Cyber Competitions. The cyber education officer serves as the coach of squadron-level teams at Cyber Patriot (or similar competition programs). Squadron-level officers should coordinate with their wing-level counterparts if starting a new team from scratch, and to track unit participation in the program.

4. Program Leadership. Because the cyber domain is new to CAP, cyber education officers are needed to take a leadership role in growing the program. They assist the unit in identifying solutions to existing or emerging problems and opportunities in the area of cyber programs and liaise with the wing cyber programs officer on execution. A highly successful cyber education officer will create a plan of action for the squadron’s cyber programs and activities annually.

 

 

Deputy Commander

They shall: 

• Coordinate to assure attainment of cadet program objectives and adherence to cadet program directives. 
• Ensure Cadet Protection policies and training are in place and being enforced. 
• Select and supervise the senior member staff officers to direct the cadet program. 
• Monitor funds and property used for the cadet program. 
• Supervise the activities of the logistics officer, operations officer, and senior program officer to coordinate functions required in the efficient operation of the unit.
• Assist the squadron commander in the commander's duties.

The Deputy Commander should be familiar with all CAP regulations, with particular emphasis on regulations in the 35, 50, and 280 series. Also, he/she should be familiar with cadet program aerospace education texts and other training materials described in the CAP Bookstore Catalog, CAPR 0-2 and CAPR 0-9.

 

Emergency Service Officer

Manages and directs emergency services activities. They shall: 

• Develop agreements with agencies responsible for search, domestic emergencies, and civil defense. 
• Develop and maintain an adequate emergency service force. 
• Develop training programs to ensure that highly qualified ES personnel are available for search and rescue, and disaster relief missions. 
• Develop plans and standard operating procedures to support the wing’s emergency services program. 
• Maintain records to determine the status of resources (personnel, vehicles aircraft, radios and other emergency equipment) available for ES missions.
• Develop and maintain a rapid alerting system for assembling necessary resources in a timely manner. 

Emergency Services Officers should be familiar with CAPP 213, CAPR 50-15, CAPR 55-1, CAPR 60-1 and CAPP 2.

 

 

Finance Officer

Responsible for the overall financial management of the unit. They shall: 

• Administer all funds. 
• Maintain all financial records.
• Maintain bank accounts. 
• Pay all outstanding accounts. 
• Indorse all negotiable instruments. 
• Prepare all financial reports. 
• Prepare annual budget. 

Finance Officers should be familiar with CAP regulations in the 173 series and CAPP 202.

 

 

Fitness Officer

Key Duties & Best Practices:

1. Teach & Inspire Cadets. The FEO shares his or her enthusiasm for fitness and nutrition, acting as a class- room teacher or activity leader. By teaching cadets about healthy lifestyles and exposing them to different sports, games and exercises the FEO aims to support lifelong healthy and physical activity.

2. Manage the Fitness Program. Units are required to offer at least one hour of fitness programing each month, with most of the time spent doing moderate to vigorous physical activity. Cadet NCOs should lead the majority of the cadet fitness activities and classes. The FEO will set the standards for the fitness program and help coach the NCOs to be as hands-on as possible with their experience level. The FEO should require new NCOs to provide a detailed outline before they teach a class and demonstrate a strong understanding of the fitness activity before they lead it. As cadets gain more experience they’ll need less direct oversight, but the FEO remains the person responsible for ensuring the fitness program is delivered appropriately to cadets.

3. Mentor Cadets. Every cadet will have different fitness goals. The FEO will help cadets set their fitness goals appropriately and create their plans to reach them. Encourage cadets to use the S.M.A.R.T. goal setting process (see CAPP 60-31, Cadet Staff Handbook) and track their progress. FEOs will encourage the discussion of fitness goals during leadership feedback meetings and promotion review board. Note that the process of setting the goal and working diligently to attain it is more important than whether the goal is met. The FEO will help to recognize cadets’ fitness achievements and encourage those who are struggling.

4. Lead Outreach Activities. The FEO will look beyond the squadron into the local community and wing. Encourage squadron participation in local fitness events, such as bike races or fun runs. The squadron might also volunteer to work at these events, assisting with parking, water stops, etc. to support fitness in their local community. The FEO may also help to organize wing or group cadet fitness events, such as a Wing Ironman challenge or Cadet Olympics.

5. Conduct Fitness Assessments. Conduct the CPFT fitness assessment quarterly, or more frequently as necessary, to assist cadets in measuring their fitness. The FEO will be familiar with the testing protocols of CAPP 60-50 and instruct cadets how to perform the exercises. After the assessment, the FEO will ensure that the cadets’ results are recorded in eServices.

CAP NHQ Description and Resources

 

Health Service Officer

Responsible for advising CAP commanders and units on the health, sanitation and hygiene of CAP members relevant to CAP activities. (See CAPR 160-1 for policy on emergency medical treatment). They shall: 

• Assists the ES Officer in arranging or providing training in first aid and emergency lifesaving measures to include medically recognized cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) techniques. 
• Provide bloodborne pathogen protection training including preventive measures. 
• Report bloodborne pathogen exposures and ensure that those members exposed obtain appropriate follow-up medical care from non-CAP sources.
• Advise members to obtain necessary physical examinations from their personal physicians and to complete emergency treatment consent forms where required by regulation to participate in various Civil Air Patrol activities. NOTE: Under no circumstances will CAP medical personnel perform physical examinations as part of their Civil Air Patrol duties. 
• Arrange for necessary medical training materials. Supplies and equipment for unit missions or special activities.
• Maintain first aid kits for medical emergencies. (See CAPR 160-1 for policy on emergency medical treatment.) 
• Generally advise commanders and unit personnel on preventive medicine matters relevant to CAP activities. 
• Plan conferences and meetings pertaining to special affairs. 

Health Services Officers should be familiar with all CAP regulations in the 160 series and applicable portions of CAPRs 55-1, 50-15, 52-16, 50-17 and 62-2.

 

 

Historian

Manages and directs historical activities to include: 

• Developing policies and procedures that relate to historical activities. 
• Establishing and conducting a program for the publishing of general and special histories, monographs, studies, and similar works for issue both internally and externally to CAP. 
• Establishing and conducting a program to specifically inform the general public as to the history of CAP as it relates to CAP´s current missions. 
• Issuing bibliographies, catalogs, indices, and abstracts containing information relative to publications relating to CAP history. 
• Establishing and conducting a program of the collection and preservation of items of historical significance either of a documentary or physical property nature. 
• Establishing and conducting an oral history program. 
• Representing the Civil Air Patrol at meetings of historical and other learned societies. 

Historians should be thoroughly familiar with CAPR 210-1 (the Civil Air Patrol Historical Program) and other internal and external publications relating to historical activities.

 

Information Technology Officer

Manages and directs all information technology-related activities. They shall:

• Manage and direct unit Information Technology (IT) programs.
• Serve as the unit Web Security Administrator (WSA) responsible for assigning and editing permissions for assigned members (if allowed by applicable Wing policy).
• Ensure that Operational Security (OPSEC), Information Security (INFOSEC), virus definition and appropriate software updates are performed in a timely manner.
• Develop and implement local unit IT policies and procedures in support of CAP's missions.
• Develop and implement training programs for unit members to ensure efficient use of all IT assets.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of the unit’s website.
• Submit IT feedback and suggested improvements of information systems to higher headquarters on a quarterly basis.
• Assist the unit commander in generating up-to-date measurable performance data extracted from available information systems.
• Support Function (CAP Help Desk - Unit Level):
  • Provide network administration and support.
  • Provide support for all approved hardware.
  • Provide support of all approved software.
  • Track IT-related support issues and inquiries for submission, through proper channels, to higher headquarters.
• Other IT-related duties as required.

The Information Technologies Officer (ITO) should be familiar primarily with:
CAPR 110-1,  CAP Electronic Systems and Data Administration.
CAPP 227, Information Technology Officer Specialty Track, and all related publications for National eServices applications.
CAP operational security (OPSEC) and Informational Security (INFOSEC) directives.

 

 

Leadership Officer

Responsible for leadership laboratory and physical fitness training of CAP cadets to include: 

• Proper wear of the CAP uniform. 
• Customs and courtesies of the service. 
• Leadership techniques and activities. 
• Physical fitness. 
• Squadron drill team. 

Leadership Officers should be familiar with CAP regulations in the 50 series and particularly with the Leadership Laboratory Manual that is a cost item and is described in the CAP Bookstore Catalog.

CAP NHQ Description and Resources

 

Legal Officer

Advises on legal implications of CAP programs and activities (subject to the constraints imposed by local law on the unauthorized practice of law) to include:

• Interpretation of laws and regulations. 
• Contracts and agreements. 
• Insurance. 
• Real Estate 
• Taxation. 
• Investigation. 
• Corporate records and organizations. 
• Relations with local agencies. 
• Render legal advice and opinions regarding CAP activities as requested. 
• Assist the unit safety officer in conducting investigations. 
• Advise the unit commander and investigating officer on processing complaints in accordance with CAPR 123-2. 
• Advise commanders on initiation of termination actions and serve as CAP representative at termination appeals hearings as appropriate. 
• Serve on unit membership board as directed by the unit commander. 

Legal Officers at all levels should be familiar and monitor compliance with the CAP Constitution and Bylaws, CAP regulations and with 5 U.S.C. 8141, 10 U.S.C. 9441, and 36 U.S.C. 40301-40307.

 

 

Logistics Officer

Manages and directs the logistics program to include the areas of supply, transportation, maintenance, and installation engineering. They shall: 

• Advise the commander on status of logistics programs and establish logistics policies. 
• Review budget requirements of logistics activities and direct consolidation of logistics budget. 
• Be responsible for real property management in accordance with CAPR 87-1. 

The logistics officer should be familiar with the CAP regulations in the series indicated below: 

• Transportation matters 76, 77 series 
• Usage of DOD real property 87 series 
• Aircraft status/inventory 67 series 
• Aircraft marking 66 series 
• Aircraft maintenance 66 series 
• Supply matters 67 series 
• VSI/HIS Insurance Matters 900 series 

 

NCO Advisor

Squadron NCO provides leadership, management, and guidance in organizing, professional development, training and utilization of the squadron’s NCO Corps members. Squadron NCO’s will:

• Participate in the decision-making process, as appropriate, on technical, operational and organizational issues.
• Work closely with their commander and their group’s NCO advisor and/or wing’s command NCO.
• Perform other duties as directed by the squadron commander. Encourage NCO mentorship of cadets and junior officer CAP members.
• Encourage the recruitment of enlisted service members currently serving or retired from military service for CAP membership.
• Coordinate and organize promotion/award ceremonies with the assistance of the Personnel Officer.
• Manage the Squadron Commander's duty calendar

 

Operations Officer

Manages and directs all operations activities. They shall:  

• Develop and implement operations plans, programs, and directives.
• Establish reporting procedures to determine the success of operations programs.
• Coordinate operations matters with other staff agencies or interested agencies.
• Develop standard operating procedures for the control and operation of CAP aircraft.
• Develop necessary operations policies and procedures to ensure mission accomplishment and to provide adequate guidance to subordinate personnel and units.
• Request the issuance of transportation and mission authorizations as requested.

Operations Officers should be familiar with CAPP 210, CAPP 211, CAPP 212, CAPP 213; CAP regulations in the 50, 55, 60 and 62 series and parts 1, 43, 61, 63, 91 and 92 of FAA regulations.

 

Personnel Officer

Manages and administers the CAP personnel program and associated administrative procedures to include: 

• Membership records and applications 
• Confidential screening (FBI fingerprint cards) 
• Organizational actions (charters, deactivations, etc.) 
• Appointments 
• Promotions and demotions 
• Awards and decorations 
• Duty assignments 
• Transfers 
• Retirements 
• Membership terminations/non-renewals 
• Uniforms 

Personnel officers at all levels should be familiar with the Constitution and Bylaws, CAPP 200 and CAP regulations in the 20, 35, and 39 series.

 

 

Professional Development Officer

Manages and directs the CAP professional development program. They shall: 

• Know directives applicable to professional development programs. 
• Know the structure of the CAP professional development program and senior member activities. 
• Maintain an adequate stock of application forms. 
• Assist other members in the proper completion of forms. 
• Maintain unit training records. 
• Maintain a unit training library. 
• Operate audio-visual equipment. 
• Assure security of training examinations. 
• Prepare documentation in support of training awards for the commander´s review. 
• Submit applications for awards. 
• Coordinate member training accomplishments with other members of the staff. 

Professional Development Officers should be familiar with CAPP 204, CAPR 50-17 and other regulations in the 35, 39, 50, 52, 200, 280, and 900 series.

 

 

Public Affairs Officer

Advises and assists the commander on all media relations, internal information and community relations matters. Plans, develops and implements a Public Affairs program. They shall: 

• Release information on unit activities to news media. 
• Publish unit newsletter or bulletin. 
• Coordinate participation of unit members in community activities. 
• Coordinate with other organizations and agencies as required. 
• Supervise all pubic affairs activities of subordinate units. 

Public Affairs Officers, to be effective, must be familiar with CAPP 201, CAPP 190-1, CAPP 3, current policies and activities of his/her unit.

 

 

Recruiting and Retention Officer

Formulates plans and establishes policies, procedures, and programs, designed to assist CAP in attracting new members and retaining current members. They shall: 

• Plan and conduct periodic membership drives to attract new members and to stimulate interest in current inactive members. 
• Make presentations to outside groups, both youth and adult, to attract new members. 
• Place posters and other recruiting materials in strategic locations advertising local meeting times and places. 
• Stage display booths and provide recruiting coverage at local high schools, shopping centers, air shows, and other public events.
• Personally contact individuals expressing an interest in CAP by telephone, written inquiry, etc., and follow up to ensure that all interested persons are fully informed on the CAP program and local unit activities. 

Recruiting Officers should be familiar with all aspects of the Civil Air Patrol program, particularly the CAP Constitution and Bylaws, CAPR 20-1, and CAPM 39-2.

 

 

 

Safety Officer

Assists and advises the commander in developing the overall accident prevention program. They shall: 

• Direct and perform safety inspections and surveys of hazardous areas and operations. 
• Direct and perform accident investigations and prepare safety reports. 
• Plan safety briefings to make personnel aware of hazards and safe practices.  
• Review and analyze accident reports for contributing factors, trends and other accident prevention information. 
• Prepare training guides, articles and literature, and publicize this information through bulletin boards, newspapers and posters. 
• Conduct safety studies and recommend corrective action. 

Safety Officers should be familiar with CAP regulations in the 62 series.

 

 

Supply Officer

Responsible for all matters pertaining to supply. They shall:
Ensure proper accountability for CAP property.
Be responsible for receipt, issue, storage and proper disposal of all CAP property.
Be responsible for effecting distribution and recovery of property in coordination with the transportation officer.
Recommend to the commander the allocation or reallocation of property within the unit.

Supply Officers should be familiar with CAPP 206 and CAP regulations in the 67 and 87 series.

 

Testing Officer

The squadron testing officer is a member of the squadron commander´s special staff. They shall: 

• Obtain, administer, safeguard, and return education and training materials used in Civil Air Patrol. 
• Administer the testing program in accordance with CAP regulations. 
• Advise the Squadron Commander of cadets that may have a disability preventing them from advancing. Use Best Practices. 

Testing Officers should be familiar with the provision of CAPR 50-4, CAPR 52-16, CAPR 50-17, and CAPP 8.

 

Transportation Officer

Responsible for all matters pertaining to surface and air transportation. They shall:

• Ensure that all vehicles are licensed and insured and those drivers are qualified and licensed to operate the vehicles.
• Recommend allocation and reallocation of motor vehicles.
• Maintain appropriate records on the location of all vehicles.
• Responsible for maintenance, painting, and marking vehicles.
• Coordinate airlift requirements with the operations officer.

Transportation Officers should be familiar with CAPR 62-2, CAPR 67-1 and directives in the 76, 77, and 900 series.