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Aerostat Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Apply Early

Laborer

Deming, NM · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Prior Aerostat Operator experience of any size Aerostat. * Must pass the Aerostat basic training course for continued employment. Company EEO Statement Accessibility/Accommodation: If because of a ...

Laborer

Lajas, PR

$16 - $19.75/hr

Prior Aerostat Operator experience of any size Aerostat. * Must pass the Aerostat basic training course for continued employment. Company EEO Statement Accessibility/Accommodation: If because of a ...

Laborer

Deming, NM · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Prior Aerostat Operator experience of any size Aerostat. * Must pass the Aerostat basic training course for continued employment. Company EEO Statement Accessibility/Accommodation: If because of a ...

Laborer

Lajas, PR · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

Prior Aerostat Operator experience of any size Aerostat. * Must pass the Aerostat basic training course for continued employment. Company EEO Statement Accessibility/Accommodation: If because of a ...

Laborer

Deming, NM · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Prior Aerostat Operator experience of any size Aerostat. * Must pass the Aerostat basic training course for continued employment. Company EEO Statement Accessibility/Accommodation: If because of a ...

Laborer

Deming, NM · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Prior Aerostat Operator experience of any size Aerostat. * Must pass the Aerostat basic training course for continued employment. Accessibility/Accommodation: If because of a medical condition or ...

Experience working with field engineers, aerostat operators, Aerostat FSRs, or Aerostat instructors is desirable. * Demonstrated ability to produce MIL-SPEC technical manuals accepted by customers.

Experience working with field engineers, aerostat operators, Aerostat FSRs, or Aerostat instructors is desirable. * Demonstrated ability to produce MIL-SPEC technical manuals accepted by customers.

Experience working with field engineers, aerostat operators, Aerostat FSRs, or Aerostat instructors is desirable. * Demonstrated ability to produce MIL-SPEC technical manuals accepted by customers.

Plotter/Cutter Operator C

Elizabeth City, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

Minimum 2 years of aerostat fabrication experience and demonstrated competency as a Team Assembler C. Exceptional performance and equivalent related work experience may be substituted for aerostat ...

Plotter/Cutter Operator C

Elizabeth City, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

Minimum 2 years of aerostat fabrication experience and demonstrated competency as a Team Assembler C. Exceptional performance and equivalent related work experience may be substituted for aerostat ...

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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 Jul 7, 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:
Laborer

$17.25 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
TARS Site Laborer
C Speed, LLC
316 Commerce Blvd, Liverpool, NY 13088
POSITION TYPE
Full - Time
LOCATION(s)
Marfa, TX
OVERVIEW
C Speed, LLC is seeking an experienced Site Laborer with specific experience in supporting line handling operations to support the DHS Customs & Border Protection Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS) program. The TARS program leverages aerostat systems to provide persistent surveillance and detection capabilities, to the U.S. Government customer across eight (8) different operational sites along the US Southern border in multiple locations including Puerto Rico, Florida, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.
The successful candidate will have experience managing aerostat flight operations on platforms similar in size to the TARS aerostats. You will be part of a comprehensive flight crew activity supporting aerostat pre-launch, launch, ascent, transition, station keeping, and recovery. Secondary responsibilities will include performing recurring equipment maintenance on aerostat and radar systems, as well as support functions related to site operations (such as security, landscaping, and logistical functions. A summary of responsibilities are as follows:
POSITION SUMMARY
• Flight Crew Member (pre/post flight, launch/recovery, helium toppings, snubbing, inflations/ deflations, tether inspections, proficiency in all emergency procedures for both moored and airborne flight aerostat operations)
• Under supervision, perform corrective and preventive maintenance activities on the aerostat pressure control subsystems, power subsystems, mechanical and hydraulic subsystems, aerostat hardware and rigging, tether subsystem, and aerostat envelope.
• May require supervision to perform operation and maintenance of enclosed mooring system and winch vehicles, site power generators, stand motor vehicles, special man-lift vehicles, and forklifts.
• * Assists with operations and maintenance of compressed-gas equipment, including helium transfers to the aerostat for inflation and replenishment purposes.
• Performs corrosion control and site facilities maintenance.
• Operate general purpose and special purpose vehicles to include man lift operations to heights of 150 feet
• Works in exterior and interior work environments, sometimes in inclement weather.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned
Secondary Duties include:
• Maintain and understand site documentation such as parts request forms, equipment condition tags, timecards, and flight data and maintenance logs
• Coordinates resupply and repair logistics activities for the aerostat subsystems.
• Trains and certifies other personnel in selected aerostat subsystem procedures.
• Supports all security, logistics, and site-specific requirements as directed when not in conflict with primary electrical maintenance responsibilities.
SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS
• GED or High School Diploma.
• 3 Years' experience in mechanical maintenance. Associate and Bachelor of Science degree in any technical discipline can be substituted for years' experience.
• Ability to obtain flight operator certification
• * Must be able to understand, speak, read, and write English fluently.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Prior Aerostat Operator experience of any size Aerostat.
COMPENSATION
• Salary competitive, commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive benefits package
ARE YOU INTERESTED?
Then join the team! We look forward to receiving your online application. For more information about C Speed, LLC and additional job opportunities, please visit our website: https://www.cspeed.com/ .
C Speed provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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About C SPEED

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Liverpool, NY, US

Year founded

2006

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