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1St Shift Aircraft Detailing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Iowa Aviation Services Corp

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Lead Aircraft Detailer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

RealClean Aircraft Detailing provides exceptional detailing services and premium products that ... Day shift with some weekend availability * Schedule varies based on aircraft arrival and customer ...

Iowa Aviation Services Corp

Be Seen First

Lead Aircraft Detailer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

RealClean Aircraft Detailing provides exceptional detailing services and premium products that ... Day shift with some weekend availability * Schedule varies based on aircraft arrival and customer ...

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1St Shift Aircraft Detailing information

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$14

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$61

How much do 1st shift aircraft detailing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for 1st shift aircraft detailing in the United States is $38.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.68 and $49.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 1st shift aircraft detailing job?

1st Shift Aircraft Detailing jobs involve cleaning, polishing, and maintaining the interior and exterior of aircraft during the first shift, which typically occurs during daytime hours. Workers in this position use specialized cleaning agents and equipment to remove dirt, debris, and contaminants from various aircraft surfaces, ensuring the aircraft meets cleanliness and safety standards. The job may also include tasks like vacuuming cabins, cleaning windows, and sanitizing restrooms. Attention to detail and knowledge of aviation cleaning protocols are important for this role.

What skills and qualifications are needed for 1st shift aircraft detailing?

To thrive as a 1st Shift Aircraft Detailing Technician, you need attention to detail, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cleaning agents, specialized aircraft cleaning tools, and adherence to safety protocols are typically required. Strong work ethic, teamwork, and effective communication skills help individuals excel in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining aircraft appearance and safety standards, ensuring customer satisfaction, and supporting efficient operations.

What are common challenges faced by 1st shift aircraft detailing professionals, and how can they be managed?

1st Shift Aircraft Detailing professionals often encounter challenges such as working within tight timeframes to ensure aircraft are cleaned and ready before scheduled flights, adhering to strict safety and quality standards, and occasionally dealing with physically demanding tasks like reaching high or confined spaces. Effective time management and strong attention to detail are essential for meeting expectations. Collaborating with team members and maintaining clear communication with supervisors can help address these challenges and ensure a smooth workflow.

What is the difference between 1St Shift Aircraft Detailing vs 1St Shift Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

Aspect1St Shift Aircraft Detailing1St Shift Aircraft Maintenance Technician
CredentialsBasic training, sometimes certifications in cleaning or safetyCertifications in aviation maintenance, such as FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) license
Work EnvironmentAircraft interiors, hangars, cleaning stationsAircraft hangars, maintenance facilities, repair stations
Industry UsageAircraft cleaning and cosmetic detailingAircraft repair, inspection, and maintenance

While both roles work within the aviation industry, 1St Shift Aircraft Detailing focuses on cleaning and cosmetic upkeep of aircraft interiors, requiring minimal technical certifications. In contrast, 1St Shift Aircraft Maintenance Technicians perform technical repairs and inspections, often holding FAA certifications. The roles differ mainly in technical complexity and certification requirements, but both are essential for aircraft readiness and safety.

How do I get into 1st shift aircraft detailing?

To get into 1st shift aircraft detailing, you should have a high school diploma or equivalent and previous experience in cleaning or detailing is beneficial. Applying to companies that offer early shifts and demonstrating attention to detail and reliability can improve your chances. Some positions may require safety training or certifications related to handling cleaning chemicals or operating equipment.

How much do 1st shift aircraft detailers get paid?

First shift aircraft detailers typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, while experienced detailers or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often with opportunities for overtime and benefits.
More about 1St Shift Aircraft Detailing jobs

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1St Shift Aircraft Detailing jobs near you
Infographic showing various 1St Shift Aircraft Detailing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,655 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

Aircraft Detailer

Real Clean Aircraft Detailing

Austin, TX • On-site

$22/hr

Other

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Benefits:

Bonus based on performance

Competitive salary

Flexible schedule

Free uniforms

Opportunity for advancement

RealClean Aircraft Detailing Central Texas— Part-Time Aircraft Detailer (2 Openings)

Build a real career around private aviation.

We're a fast-growing aircraft detailing company hiring two part-time team members in San Antonio, TX. If you bring hustle, integrity, and a love for aviation, this is your runway — full-time and Lead Detailer roles open up first to the people who earn it.

Pay: $22/hr

Hours: 15–30 hrs/week to start (real path to full-time)

Location: San Antonio (occasional Austin trips — gas reimbursed for >30 mi)

The Schedule (be honest with yourself)

You need wide-open availability. Jobs can start as early as 6 a.m. or run until 9–10 p.m., and some span multiple days at 8–12 hours with breaks. Hours fluctuate with flight schedules and weather. If your schedule is rigid, this isn't the role.

What You'll Do

Detail private aircraft inside and out — wash, polish, vacuum, corrosion prevention

Set up and break down equipment for each job

Follow aviation safety protocols on airport ramps

Work alongside the Lead Detailer and keep gear organized

What We're Looking For

Skills can be taught. These can't:

Work ethic and hustle

Integrity — do it right when no one is watching

Passion for aviation

Grit to push through long days and Texas heat

Attention to detail and pride in finished work

*Previous aircraft detailing experience is a strong plus.

Requirements

Lift 30–50 lbs, stand and work for extended periods

Valid driver's license + able to pass airport ramp/security requirements

What We Provide

$22/hr starting

Paid training — virtual and on-site

All equipment and uniforms provided

Gas reimbursement for jobs >30 mi

A real path to full-time, specialty, and Lead Detailer roles

How to Apply

We expect a flood of applications and only want serious candidates. To be considered:

Send a 1–2 minute video explaining why you'd be a great fit

Upload to Loom or unlisted YouTube — link only

Follow the steps in your confirmation email for submission

No video = no consideration

If you're ready to grow with us, we want to hear from you.

Apply