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Air Operations Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Amentum

Control Tower Operator

Waimea, HI · On-site

$50.69/hr

Operates and monitors control tower systems and equipment during Range Operations to assure that Range Control Officer is made aware of air traffic within and about operational areas. * Assists in ...

Pae

Control Tower Operator

Waimea, HI

$50.69/hr

Operates and monitors control tower systems and equipment during Range Operations to assure that Range Control Officer is made aware of air traffic within and about operational areas. * Assists in ...

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Air Operations Officer information

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$31.5K

$77.3K

$136.5K

How much do air operations officer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for air operations officer in the United States is $77,254.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,500.00 and $102,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Air Operations Officers in coordinating flight missions?

Air Operations Officers often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing weather conditions, unexpected air traffic restrictions, and the need to adapt to evolving mission requirements. Effective coordination between pilots, ground crews, and air traffic control is crucial, and officers must often make quick decisions to ensure safety and mission success. Additionally, managing multiple flight operations simultaneously and maintaining clear communication across teams requires strong organizational and leadership skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Air Operations Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Air Operations Officer, you need strong organizational, analytical, and leadership skills, typically supported by a bachelor's degree and relevant military or aviation experience. Familiarity with air traffic control systems, mission planning software, and safety protocols is essential, along with possible certifications such as Air Operations certification or equivalent military training. Excellent communication, decision-making, and stress management skills help you effectively coordinate teams and respond to dynamic situations. These skills and qualities are critical for ensuring safe, efficient, and successful air mission planning and execution.

What is the difference between Air Operations Officer vs Air Traffic Controller?

AspectAir Operations OfficerAir Traffic Controller
CertificationsTypically requires military or civil aviation certifications, including safety and operational trainingRequires FAA certification and specific training in air traffic control procedures
Work EnvironmentMilitary or civil aviation settings, overseeing flight operations and safety protocolsControl towers, airports, managing aircraft movements and ensuring safe takeoffs and landings
Employer & IndustryAirlines, military, government agencies involved in aviation operationsCommercial airports, air traffic control centers

Both roles involve aviation safety and require specialized certifications. An Air Operations Officer focuses on managing flight operations and safety protocols, often within military or civil aviation organizations. An Air Traffic Controller primarily manages aircraft movements at airports, ensuring safe and efficient traffic flow. While their environments differ, both roles are essential for aviation safety and share overlapping skills in communication and operational oversight.

What are Air Operations Officers?

Air Operations Officers are professionals responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing air operations within military or civilian aviation contexts. They oversee the scheduling and deployment of aircraft, manage airspace usage, and ensure the safe and efficient execution of flight missions. Their role often involves liaising with other military branches or agencies, analyzing mission requirements, and making real-time decisions to adapt to changing situations. Air Operations Officers play a crucial part in achieving operational objectives and maintaining safety standards in aviation environments.
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What job categories do people searching Air Operations Officer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Air Operations Officer jobs are:
Air Operations Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Air Operations Officer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,254 per year, or $37.1 per hour.
OPERATIONS OFFICER - TITLE 32

OPERATIONS OFFICER - TITLE 32

US Department of the Air Force

Warner Robins, GA

$106K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

***THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 32 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION.***
This position is for an Operations Officer, PD Number D2351000 located at 116th Operations Group, Robins AFB, GA.
This is a full-time, Excepted, dual status position which requires Georgia Air National Guard Membership.
Area of Consideration: Open to current members of the Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve or Air Force Active Duty component.Qualifications:Each applicant must fully substantiate (in her/his own words) that they meet the requirements of the specialized experience listed below; otherwise, the applicant will be considered unqualified for this vacancy. DO NOT COPY THE VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT OR THE POSITION DESCRIPTION. IF YOU DO THIS YOU WILL BE CONSIDERED UNQUALIFIED FOR THE VACANCY. Please ensure that you have included beginning and ending dates (month and year) for all jobs listed on your resume.
Military Grades: LT - LT Col.
Compatible Military Assignments: AFSC: 13B3D.
General Experience: Candidate must possess experience, education, or training interpreting, explaining, and/or applying a variety of regulations and procedures. Experience using computer and automation systems.
Specialized Experience: Candidate must possess at least 36 months experience, education, or training arranging or procuring transportation for personnel, cargo or freight; experience in non-routine pre and post auditing of freight bills, bills of lading, and personnel transportation vouchers; experience coordinating and negotiating with organizations/personnel both orally and in writing to resolve differences/problems; and experience which includes responsibility for the supervision and management of personnel including leading directing, and assigning work of personnel.Education:Substitution of Education for Specialized Experience: Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in fields listed below leading to a bachelor's degree, in an accredited college or university, meets the GS-5 level requirements.
Education: Undergraduate and Graduate Education: Major study -- accounting, business administration, business or commercial law, commerce, economics, engineering, finance, industrial management, statistics, traffic management, transportation, motor mechanics, or other fields related to the position.Employment Type: OTHER

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