I'm in the reserves and trying to find a full time AGR job. Part of my problem is that there's just not a lot of C-17/Mobility Pilot AGR jobs out there. Jackson and Elmendorf are the only 2 flying bases, and they'll never hire an outsider for a full time position.

On the other hand, the Guard does a great job at looking out for its own people and promoting from within. So you plan isn't all that far-fetched. Just realize that in the Guard, the only time a new job opening becomes available is if someone voluntary moves/gets promoted out of it or retires (unlike active duty squadrons that have 20-40% turnover each year).

Your best source of information would be the folks up there in the squadron. Do you have any contacts up there? If not, now's the time to start getting them. Try to find an inside contact up there, hopefully someone you know. If not, then maybe a "friend of a friend" might be able to put you in touch with someone. Worst case, don't be afraid to call up there and try to talk to each squadron's chief loadmasters (aka loadmaster superintendents). Explain your situation and ask them for guidance. Initially focus on just getting to know them a little bit and see what it takes to get hired. As you gain some rapport, then you might be more comfortable (and they might be more open) with talking about full time jobs. My experience is that those old and crusty guys (myself included!) can't help but to dispense career advice.

Riddler