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Aerostat Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aerostat Operator II

Laredo, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

Aerostat Operators provide Operations and Sustainment (O&S) support for the Persistent Surveillance Systems - Tethered (PSS-T) program in CONUS site locations. PSS-T is comprised of former Persistent ...

Aerostat Operator II

Laredo, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

Aerostat Operators provide Operations and Sustainment (O&S) support for the Persistent Surveillance Systems - Tethered (PSS-T) program in CONUS site locations. PSS-T is comprised of former Persistent ...

Aerostat Operator II

Eagle Pass, TX · On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

Aerostat Operators provide Operations and Sustainment (O&S) support for the Persistent Surveillance Systems - Tethered (PSS-T) program in CONUS site locations. PSS-T is comprised of former Persistent ...

Aerostat Operator II

Eagle Pass, TX

$18 - $23.75/hr

Aerostat Operators provide Operations and Sustainment (O&S) support for the Persistent Surveillance Systems - Tethered (PSS-T) program in CONUS site locations. PSS-T is comprised of former Persistent ...

Aerostat Operator 2

Pharr, TX

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Aerostat Operator with specific experience in supporting aerostat ...

OCONUS Aerostat Operator

Mena, AR · On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

Operators/maintainers will participate in the overall, hands-on operation of the aerostat system, including launch, in-flight, recovery, and moored activities. * Candidates will perform all functions ...

Aerostat Operator 2

TX · On-site

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Aerostat Operator with specific experience in supporting aerostat ...

Aerostat Operator 2

Pharr, TX

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Aerostat Operator with specific experience in supporting aerostat ...

Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Operator 3/Flight Director with specific experience in supporting aerostat operations to support aerostat systems providing persistent ...

Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Operator 3/Flight Director with specific experience in supporting aerostat operations to support aerostat systems providing persistent ...

Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Operator 3/Flight Director with specific experience in supporting aerostat operations to support aerostat systems providing persistent ...

... Aerostat Operator with experience in supporting line handling operations to support the DHS Customs & Border Protection Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS) program. The TARS program leverages ...

... Aerostat Operator with experience in supporting line handling operations to support the DHS Customs & Border Protection Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS) program. The TARS program leverages ...

TARS General Maintenance Worker C Speed, LLC 316 Commerce Blvd, Liverpool, NY 13088 POSITION TYPE Full - Time LOCATION(s) Marfa, TX OVERVIEW C Speed, LLC is seeking an entry level Aerostat Operator ...

Laborer

Marfa, TX

$17.25 - $21/hr

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Prior Aerostat Operator experience of any size Aerostat. COMPENSATION Salary competitive, commensurate with experience Comprehensive benefits package ARE YOU INTERESTED? Then ...

Laborer

Marfa, TX · On-site

$17.25 - $21/hr

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS • Prior Aerostat Operator experience of any size Aerostat. COMPENSATION • Salary competitive, commensurate with experience • Comprehensive benefits package ARE YOU ...

Laborer

Marfa, TX · On-site

$17.25 - $21/hr

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS • Prior Aerostat Operator experience of any size Aerostat. COMPENSATION • Salary competitive, commensurate with experience • Comprehensive benefits package ARE YOU ...

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Aerostat Operator information

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$10

$20

$29

How much do aerostat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerostat operator in the United States is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Aerostat Operators and how can they be managed on the job?

Aerostat Operators often face challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, equipment malfunctions, and the need for constant situational awareness to ensure the safety and effectiveness of aerostat operations. Managing these challenges typically involves regular maintenance checks, adhering to strict operational protocols, and close coordination with team members and supervisory personnel. Operators must also develop strong problem-solving skills to respond quickly to unexpected issues and maintain clear communication across teams, often working in shifts to provide 24/7 surveillance or monitoring support.

What are aerostat operators?

Aerostat operators are professionals responsible for managing and operating aerostats, which are large, tethered balloons used for surveillance, communication, or research purposes. Their duties include launching, recovering, and maintaining the aerostat systems, as well as monitoring their performance and ensuring safe operation. Aerostat operators often work with advanced electronics, sensors, and communication equipment and may be employed in defense, security, or scientific organizations. They play a crucial role in providing persistent aerial coverage for various missions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aerostat Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aerostat Operator, you need strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or military background. Familiarity with aerostat systems, surveillance sensors, communications equipment, and certifications like FAA Part 107 for UAV operations are commonly required. Problem-solving, effective communication, and the ability to work under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the safe operation, accurate data collection, and timely response to mission requirements in demanding environments.

What is the difference between Aerostat Operator vs Balloon Pilot?

AspectAerostat OperatorBalloon Pilot
CertificationsFAA Part 107 or similar, specialized aerostat trainingFAA Private Pilot Certificate, hot air balloon rating
Work EnvironmentGround-based, tethered or free-flying aerostats in open areasIn-flight, open sky environments, often during recreational or promotional flights
Industry UsageDefense, surveillance, advertising, researchRecreational, tourism, event promotion

While both roles involve lighter-than-air craft, Aerostat Operators focus on managing tethered or free-flying aerostats for surveillance or research, requiring specialized certifications. Balloon Pilots primarily operate hot air balloons for recreation or events, with different pilot certifications. The roles differ mainly in environment and purpose, but both require knowledge of aerostat operation and safety protocols.

More about Aerostat Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Aerostat Operator jobs? The most popular types of Aerostat Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Aerostat Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Aerostat Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Aerostat Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,738 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Aerostat Operator II

Aerostat Operator II

Pae

Laredo, TX • On-site

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Aerostat Operators provide Operations and Sustainment (O&S) support for the Persistent Surveillance Systems - Tethered (PSS-T) program in CONUS site locations. PSS-T is comprised of former Persistent Ground Surveillance System (PGSS) and Persistent Threat Detection System (PTDS) programs.

Persistent Surveillance Systems-Tethered (PSS-T) delivers tactical and fixed site aerostats to exploit a full range of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), force protection and communications capabilities to joint, interagency and multinational organizations.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Performing and coordinating collection management, analysis, processing and dissemination of strategic and tactical intelligence

  • Producing, storing, and retrieving intelligence data by analyzing images, fixed/moving targets and geospatial data

  • Assessing the significance and reliability of incoming information with current intelligence

  • Establishing and maintaining systematic, cross-reference intelligence records and files

  • Assisting in emplacement and recovery of associated equipment

  • Performing pre-flight, in-flight and post-flight checks and procedures

  • All other tasks or duties assigned

Minimum Requirements:

  • All Level II Operators MUST be Trained and Certified on all Level I task and possess at least TWO (2) years of Aerostat Experience and at least Two (2) to Four (4) years of aerostats experience within one of the following labor disciplines.

  • Must have successfully completed TCOM Aerostat operator training in the 22m or 34m aerostat system at YPG or E-City training sites.

  • Must have an active Secret US Government Clearance. Note: US Citizenship is required to obtain a Secret Clearance.

  • Must have a valid Driver's License.

  • 20 Series/industry equivalents denote two (2) to four (4) years of aerostats experience within the requested labor disciplines. Experience may be substituted for education

Electrical Maintenance Mechanic

  • Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in electrical, electronics, computer engineering, engineering technology, information technology, or mechanical engineering; or a BS in engineering technology or Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BET).

  • Possess at least two (2) year's aerostat experience as an operator at the 20 series level or greater from Army MOS 35F (Intelligence Analyst), 35G (Geospatial Intelligence Imagery Analyst), 35H (Common Ground System Analyst), 96R (Ground Surveillance Systems Operator), 96U (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operator), or military branch equivalent.

  • Two years of hands-on experience in performing operations and maintenance tasks either on an AEROSTAT system or a related industry/military equivalent is required. Ability to read electronic schematics. O&M of electro-mechanical equipment to include one or more of the following: Hydraulic/servo valves Hydraulic actuators, control systems Test and diagnostic equipment

Networking, IT & information systems

  • Two years' experience is required.

  • Must be qualified at the 10 series or greater level; MOS 25B/F or other military branch equivalent or industry occupational specialties as a CISCO Network Administrator; Army MOS 25L/N or other military branch equivalent or industry occupational specialties as a Network Installation (BICSI or Network + or Comp T Certification) will be considered.

  • CCIE certification with fiber optic certification is preferred.

Mechanical Maintenance

  • Mechanical Maintenance with qualifications at the 10 series or greater from U.S. Army MOS 94D/X and 91/B/S/W or other military branch equivalent, or industry occupational specialties such National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certified Truck Mechanic or Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) General Mechanic 1 or greater.

  • Two years of hands-on experience on an AEROSTAT system or related industry/military equivalent is required.

  • O&M of mechanical equipment to include one or more of the following: Hydraulic systems, Winch systems, Tether/cable handling systems, Industrial generator sets, Power switch gear, HVAC, Cranes Aerial lift, Forklift, Industrial generator sets.

Physical Requirements:

  • Requires the ability to regularly lift up to 50 lbs.

  • Requires the ability to regularly climb extension ladders, roof ladders, stepladders, and stairs at least 10 times during shift.

  • Requires the flexibility to bend/stoop, squat repetitive during shift.

  • Requires the ability to regularly kneel repetitive for shift.

  • Requires the ability to move in a 90-degree fashion on a repetitive basis for shift.

  • Requires the ability to stretch/reach on a repetitive basis for shift.

  • Requires the ability to walk extensively throughout the plant during shift.

  • Requires the ability to interact with all clients in a professional and friendly manner despite periods of stress.

Medical Requirements

  • Successfully complete and pass the medical and dental examinations as required by Amentum and our customer.

  • Must maintain physical and dental requirements for the duration of the assignment.

#TAMOD

Service Contract Act (SCA) Compensation & Benefits:

This is an hourly, overtime-eligible position that falls under the Service Contract Act (SCA). In accordance with the Health and Welfare provisions of the SCA, and in addition to your base hourly rate, you may be eligible to receive an additional health and welfare payment for each hour you work to ensure compliance with the minimums set forth by the act. The amount you are entitled to receive will vary depending upon the fringe benefits you select now and in the future.

Compensation Details:

$34.39

The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.

Benefits Overview:

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)

  • Educational reimbursement

  • Parental leave

  • Employee stock purchase plan

  • Tax-saving options

  • Disability and life insurance

  • Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.

Original Posting:

05/18/2026 - Until Filled

Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.

Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language atLabor Laws Posters.