Prepare for Takeoff

Embark on a transformative journey with our JAARS Apprenticeship designed for aspiring skilled aircraft mechanics and pilots.

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Aviation Apprenticeship

The JAARS Apprentices program is a training opportunity that prepares and deploys new mission mechanics, pilots and their families into successful, long-term service at JAARS hubs around the globe.

Is JAARS your next step in pursuing your Great Commission role? Apply by April 15 to be considered for our next cohort of Apprentices, which will start in January 2026.
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Investing in Our Apprentices

Apprentices join JAARS with the goal of reducing barriers, easing burdens and delivering God’s Word in some of the most remote places on earth. As they train with their future overseas team members, we provide apprentices with rigorous, individualized professional training, intercultural preparation and one-on-one discipleship. This discipleship is extended to spouses, who also receive similar cultural and spiritual development training.

Develop Professionally
Develop Spiritually and Personally
Build Your Team

During their time with JAARS, apprentices will:

  • Train alongside experienced technicians and aviators, mastering the skills they’ll need to be effective in their field assignments
  • Prepare for the reality of overseas living, both professionally and personally as they contribute to the global Christian movement
  • Gain work experience in mission aviation
  • Increase competence and confidence in their professional and leadership abilities
  • Network with other professionals in their field
  • Explore their personal calling, strengths and role in delivering God’s Word to some of the most remote places on earth

During their time with JAARS, apprentices will:

  • Meet bimonthly with disciplers who will help prepare them spiritually for life overseas, apart from familiar support structures
  • Deepen their relationship with God by living according to a biblical worldview, valuing God’s Word, and embracing God's truth in their lives
  • Practice regular spiritual disciplines such as spending personal time with the Lord, praying, fasting, worshipping, studying the Bible and participating in a local church body
  • Develop personal skills such as positive interpersonal communication, collaborating with teams, increasing cultural awareness, and discovering solutions to daily living challenges, especially those that relate to life overseas

During their time with JAARS, apprentices will:

  • Work alongside other missions-minded individuals and their future teammates, developing strong teamwork dynamics before leaving for the field
  • Cultivate a team-centered culture through intentional time spent together with other apprentices, their spouses and children
  • Develop a partnership team who will support apprentices and their families through prayer

Positions

We currently offer Apprenticeship opportunities for aviation mechanics and pilots. Check out the position descriptions below!

Aviation Mechanic

Position Description
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Pilot

Position Description
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Our Hiring Process

1

Prayer

Before posting a position, the Apprentices Admin team goes to the Lord in prayer and asks that he would lead the right candidates to apply and that the team would honor him with their selection.

2

Post and Apply

The job is posted on various sites, including the JAARS website. Applications are submitted through the JAARS Applicant Tracking System (ATS). Applicants select the position they are most interested in, create an account in the ATS, and complete the application. The team then reviews all applications and résumés submitted.

3

Review and First Interview

After the team reviews and screens candidates, they invite qualified applicants to an initial phone interview with a Human Resources staff member. The purpose of the interview is to assess competencies and cultural fit, among other considerations.

4

Reference Checks

The Human Resources staff member conducts checks with the references provided on the candidate’s application. Once those references are completed, the Apprentices Admin team, along with Air Operations personnel, decide which candidates to invite to a second interview.

5

Second Interview

The team then provides information on a qualified candidate to the appropriate supervisor for further review and a second-round Zoom interview. This interview includes the interviewee, the Apprentices Manager, and an Air Operations training representative.

6

Technical Assessment

Unless already accomplished, candidates visit the JAARS Base to complete a technical assessment. These will be scheduled when/if the screening team chooses.

7

Offer Letter

Official offer letters are sent to twelve candidates for each Apprentices cohort. Candidates typically have one to two weeks to respond to offer letters.

8

Offer Acceptance and Onboarding

Once candidates accept their offers, the Human Resources staff coordinates the completion of criminal background checks and all onboarding paperwork. New apprentices then respond to correspondence from the Human Resources staff and the Apprentices Coordinator as their start date approaches.

‍The selection process takes anywhere from 30–120 days. The process varies for individuals depending on the position, candidate pool, application date and the cohort for which a candidate is applying.

Hear From Past Apprentices

”In such a short time, we have already received amazing training in the hangar from experienced maintenance technicians, as well as general training for the whole family on topics such as Biblical Foundations and Healthy Families & Transitions. … We’ve also completed three 100-hour inspections on three different airplanes, and started our long-term project of completely rebuilding a Cessna 180 airplane.”

David & Shelby

Take Your Next Step

If you're ready to take the next step, we'd love to hear from you! Apply today or reach out to a member of our team for any additional questions.
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Apprentice FAQs

Details & Eligibility FAQs

Who is eligible to become an apprentice?
Mechanics, pilots and pilot-mechanics with the appropriate certifications are eligible to apply. Qualifications for all apprentice positions include:

- Biblical Christ-follower
- Value global ministry
- Active member of a biblically solid church
- Completion of initial certifications
--- Pilot: a Commercial pilot license with instrument rating and valid Class II FAA Medical or equivalent (Preferred: High performance and tailwheel aircraft endorsement)
---Mechanic: Airframe and Powerplant certificates, or ICAO equivalent
- Willing to develop a prayer-focused partnership team
- Agreement with the JAARS vision, mission, core values, and what we believe- Willing to serve overseas in a remote location at a new JAARS hub
- Learner attitude and a collaborative approach to work
- Additional qualifications such as those found in the job descriptions
Is housing included?
Apprentices may choose to live in housing on the JAARS Base. On-base rent, which is subsidized, is $150 per month. Accommodations for single apprentices include: a two-bedroom, two-bath apartment shared with a roommate; a two-bedroom, one-bath apartment shared with a roommate; or a one-bedroom, one-bath apartment with no roommate. Assignments depend on the number of apprentices and available housing units. Married apprentices work directly with JAARS Housing to find a unit that works for the needs of their families. All apartments are fully equipped with furniture (including a small TV, but not a DVD player), linens (bedding and towels), and kitchen supplies.
Are apprentices paid?
In addition to ongoing aviation training costs and significantly subsidized housing costs, apprentices are paid $16 an hour. Conversations regarding compensation post-apprenticeship will be had during the interview process with Human Resources.
What are the benefits of the Apprenticeship?
Apprentices are eligible for health insurance benefits and receive 10 vacation PTO (paid time-off) days, 12 sick PTO days, and 8 holiday PTO days (plus the PTO days during Christmas break from Christmas Eve through New Year’s Eve).
What does the training schedule look like?
All Apprentices positions are full-time (40 hours per week). Most of the time, apprentices train from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with an hour for lunch. However, work schedules vary for certain projects and training events that require involvement in evening and weekend programs.

Applicant FAQs

How does the Apprentices program prepare participants for missions?
Apprentices train with experienced aviators and technicians  to hone their skills for deployment to a JAARS hub. In addition, discipleship conversations revolve around preparing for missions.
What are the expectations for continuing work with JAARS after my apprenticeship?
After you have finished your apprentice training, you are expected to serve a four-year term. During this term, discussions will be had about longer-term service with JAARS.
What is JAARS looking for in an Apprentice candidate?
A JAARS Apprentice candidate must be a believer with a deep and growing relationship with God, must agree to the JAARS statement of faith, must be an active member of a biblically-solid church, and embrace the vision and mission of JAARS. An apprentice must also have the appropriate aviation certifications, personal attributes, and be willing to pursue overseas deployment with JAARS. Aviation certifications include:
- Pilot: Commercial pilot license with instrument rating and valid Class II FAA Medical or equivalent (Preferred: High performance and tailwheel aircraft endorsement)
Mechanic: Airframe and Powerplant certificates, or ICAO equivalent

An Apprentice’s spouse, if applicable, must be supportive and willing to be trained in preparing for an overseas assignment.
Are JAARS Apprentices paid?
In addition to ongoing aviation training costs and significantly subsidized housing costs, apprentices are paid $16 an hour. Conversations regarding compensation post-apprenticeship will be had during the interview process with Human Resources.
Besides technical training, what else is provided with Apprentices?
Apprentices receive one-on-one discipleship and a thorough compensation and benefits package that includes significantly subsidized housing, insurance, retirement and paid time off.

Pre-field training beyond aviation training—such as cross-cultural training, security training, language acquisition training, prayer partnership development training and more—is also a part of the apprenticeship. Some pre-field training components may extend beyond the 2-year apprenticeship. Spouses of apprentices should plan to take part in this aspect of training as well.
What are the normal working hours?
Apprentices typically train and/or serve for 40 hours a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with an hour lunch break. However, some training events will require longer hours and travel. Discipleship meetings typically occur during the 40 hours per week.
Outside of training for the field, what other program activities are a part of the Apprenticeship?
There will be important opportunities for apprentices to participate in relationship building with their deployment team and/or other apprentices, forming essential bonds before going overseas. While some of that bonding will happen during work hours, it’s vital for the whole deployment team, including spouses and children, to socialize outside of work hours.

Apprentices should also develop and cultivate a partnership team who will support them through prayer. They do this through regular newsletters and communication with partners and/or their local church outside of work hours. As part of their apprenticeship training, they will learn how to build their prayer team and will receive periodic check-ins with Apprentices staff on their progress.
How will my role as an Apprentice contribute to the mission and vision of JAARS?
By joining Apprentices, you are taking an active step in reducing barriers, easing burdens, and delivering God’s Word in a remote location overseas. You will receive training that will enable you to serve at an overseas JAARS hub.
When will I know if I have been accepted to JAARS Apprentices?
After you have gone through the interview and assessment process, if JAARS personnel feel confident that you and your family are a good fit for the program, you will receive communications from JAARS Human Resources, with a formal offer letter to join JAARS Apprentices.
What do I do after I have been accepted to Apprentices?
Celebrate! Complete any trainee onboarding paperwork sent by JAARS, and set up a meeting with the leadership of your local church. Share with them what you are doing and ask them to partner with you in prayer.

Apprentice Life and Culture FAQs

What are the accommodations in my apartment?
Apprentices rent fully-furnished apartments on the JAARS Base. Unmarried apprentices may share with another apprentice of the same gender. Apartments include a kitchen, cooking appliances, living room, bedroom(s), and a shared bathroom. Married apprentices work directly with JAARS Housing to find the unit that works for their family.  Monthly rent is $150, including utilities, internet, and laundry facilities.
What should I bring with me when I move to JAARS?
Apartments are fully furnished, so only bring what you really need, such as clothes and personal supplies. Decorations can also never hurt! Check out photos and a video walkthrough of one of the two bedroom, two bath apartments at this link.
What are some community building activities involved in apprentices?
Apprentices participate in regular community gatherings and Bible studies. Additionally, you will have plenty of time for recreational community-building activities with your cohort.
Where is my mail delivered?
While you are at JAARS, you will use the following addresses:
Letters:
JAARS/Apprentices
Your Name
PO Box 248
Waxhaw, NC 28173

‍Packages:
JAARS/Apprentices
Your Name
7601 Radin Road
Waxhaw, NC 28173
Do I need a car?
The JAARS Center is located about 6 miles from Waxhaw, North Carolina, and 10 miles from Lancaster, South Carolina. While a car is not required for JAARS Apprentices, most people find it helpful to bring their own car.
What is it like to live in the Waxhaw area?
JAARS is located 30 minutes south of the outer beltway of Charlotte, North Carolina, and 20 minutes from Lancaster, South Carolina. We are 10 minutes from Main Street in “downtown” Waxhaw.

JAARS is located on a beautiful 500+ acre rural campus with recreational areas and a swimming pool, library, dining room, health clinic, RV Park, childcare facilities, and youth ministries. In the community, one can find game night groups, volleyball groups, Bible studies, as well as other special events.

Waxhaw, North Carolina, is a family-friendly, historic, small town, surrounded by a natural backdrop of rolling hills, horse country, and outdoor recreation. It has creative and performing arts, vibrant music, antiques, and good old-fashioned parades.

Lancaster, South Carolina, is also a historic, small town with a state university campus, shopping areas, several festivals and events, as well as a Christmas parade each year.
What recreational activities are there in the Waxhaw area?
Recreational activities in the Waxhaw area include escape rooms, mini golf, beautiful parks, delicious places to eat, and much more! Here are some examples of what is in the area:

- Cane Creek Park – biking, walking, kayaking, picnicking
- Charlotte
- Crowders Mountain State Park
- Andrew Jackson State Park
- Rock Hill Riverwalk
- 40 Acre Rock Heritage Park
- Anne Springs Close Greenway
- Six Mile Creek Greenway
- Mini-Golf
- Historic Brattonsville
What resources are available for my family while I am an Apprentice?
Spouses of apprentices receive bimonthly discipleship like apprentices do.

There are childcare options available, a few of which are listed below. Read about all of the children and youth resources available here.

Apprentices may choose to enroll their children in the JAARS MK Station at the apprentices’ expense. MK Station is a preschool facility for children from 3 months of age through kindergarten.
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There is a summer program that serves first grade through fifth grade students.
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Middle schoolers and high schoolers may participate in the JAARS youth group.
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Families will also receive training in preparation for serving overseas.
What does spiritual development look like on a practical level?
You (and your spouse) will meet bimonthly (separately) with your discipler. Your discipler has conversation topics designed to help you prepare spiritually for your overseas deployment, but you and your discipler can also tailor your meetings to what’s most effective for you. In addition, you (and your spouse) will attend pre-field training(s) focused on spiritual preparation for overseas service. There are also many good churches in the Waxhaw area where you can grow in your faith.
What does professional development look like on a practical level?
During Apprentices, you will train with experienced mission aviators, most who have prior overseas experience. They will tailor the training to your learning needs. Some learning opportunities may include: training classes, Pre-Field Orientation, and Mountain Week.
What does building my team look like on a practical level?
JAARS will provide opportunities for team-building with your apprenticeship group as well as integration into the larger JAARS community.

During your apprenticeship, you will have the opportunity to develop teamwork dynamics with other missions-minded individuals. Some of these individuals will be your future overseas teammates, enabling you to build relationships before you go to the field.

Outside of work, there will be additional opportunities to build community with the other apprentices and their families.

Deployment FAQs

Where does JAARS plan to deploy teams?
JAARS will deploy apprentices to future hubs of operation in the swath of dense jungle areas we call the Green Band.
How are deployment locations determined?
During your apprenticeship, you will have conversations with a task force of Human Resources and Air Operations representatives who will work with you to determine the best fit for you and your family.
When will I know my deployment location?
Our goal is that you will have your deployment location and may know many members of your deployment team by the end of your apprenticeship. Ideally, the second half of your apprenticeship will focus on training, both cultural and technical, specific to your deployment location. Please keep in mind that factors such as the field program needs, priorities and political climate could impact the timing of confirmed field assignments.
How soon after my Apprenticeship can I expect to be deployed?
Once you are proficient in the necessary skills, your apprenticeship training will end. This training will take approximately two years. You can expect to be deployed as soon as possible after your apprenticeship. The political climate, visa applications, language acquisition training and other factors will be considerations in the timing of your deployment.
How long is a deployment?
You can expect to be deployed for three to four years before returning to the JAARS Base in North Carolina. This time of “home assignment” will be defined prior to your return to the United States.
Will the flight program at a hub include commercial work?
Yes, commercial income helps offset operational expenses as well as flight costs for both national and expat missionaries.