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Aircraft Helper Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

AIRCRAFT ELECTRICIAN

Andrews, MD · On-site +1

$44.69 - $52.14/hr

Learn more about this agency Duties Help This is an excepted service position that requires ... Performs precise and advanced wiring maintenance procedures on aircraft. Utilizes computer data and ...

Aircraft Fueler

Arlington, VA · On-site

$19.65/hr

Role Purpose The aircraft Fueler responsibility is to the safe and efficient fueling/defueling and ... to help us understand your skills and experience in relation to the role. Please feel free to ...

Aircraft Fueler

Arlington, VA · On-site

$19.65/hr

Role Purpose The aircraft Fueler responsibility is to the safe and efficient fueling/defueling and ... to help us understand your skills and experience in relation to the role. Please feel free to ...

Aircraft Fueler

Arlington, VA · On-site

$19.65/hr

Role Purpose The aircraft Fueler responsibility is to the safe and efficient fueling/defueling and ... to help us understand your skills and experience in relation to the role. Please feel free to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Aircraft Helper information

See Washington salary details

$12

$19

$27

How much do aircraft helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for aircraft helper in Washington is $19.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aircraft helper?

Aircraft Helpers are entry-level workers who assist aircraft maintenance teams and mechanics at airports or maintenance facilities. Their duties typically include cleaning aircraft parts, moving tools and equipment, organizing workspaces, and helping with basic maintenance tasks under supervision. They play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation and safety of aircraft maintenance processes. This position is often a starting point for those interested in pursuing a career in aviation maintenance.

What does an aircraft helper do?

As an Aircraft Helper, your daily responsibilities often include assisting licensed mechanics with routine maintenance, cleaning and organizing tools, moving equipment, and performing basic inspections under supervision. You may also be tasked with preparing aircraft for scheduled maintenance or repairs and ensuring work areas remain safe and compliant with regulations. These tasks are essential, as they help streamline workflows, maintain safety standards, and support the timely completion of aircraft maintenance, directly contributing to the reliability and efficiency of flight operations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an aircraft helper?

To thrive as an Aircraft Helper, you typically need a high school diploma, basic mechanical aptitude, and knowledge of safety procedures related to aircraft handling. Familiarity with ground support equipment, hand tools, and adherence to aviation safety standards are essential, and some positions may require completion of specific safety training or certifications like OSHA. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations and supporting the maintenance crew in a high-stakes environment.

What is the difference between Aircraft Helper vs Aircraft Loader?

AspectAircraft HelperAircraft Loader
CertificationsTypically none required or basic safety trainingOften requires safety and equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentAirports, hangars, aircraft tarmacAirports, cargo facilities, aircraft cargo holds
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with aircraft maintenance, cleaning, and basic supportLoading and unloading cargo, baggage, and freight
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, maintenance companiesFreight carriers, cargo airlines

Aircraft Helper and Aircraft Loader roles often overlap in airport environments. While Aircraft Helpers assist with general aircraft support tasks, Aircraft Loaders focus specifically on cargo handling. Both roles require safety awareness and are essential for smooth airport operations, but they differ mainly in responsibilities and certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Aircraft jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Aircraft jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Aircraft Helper jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Aircraft Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various Aircraft Helper job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,241 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

IAD Aircraft Mechanic Helper

Swissport International AG

Dulles, VA • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Swissport International AG rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 67 rated aviation services


Job description

Are you ready to take flight in a dynamic and fast-paced aviation industry? As a global leader in aviation services, Swissport provides Ground Handling, Cargo Handling, and Passenger Services to over 300 million passengers annually. Our mission is simple – “To provide the aviation industry with consistent and tailor-made solutions around the globe, for a better customer experience.”  

We believe that our people are what differentiates us from our competition. At Swissport, we are driven by our core values of Show You Care, Do the Right Things and Win as a Team, and we are currently seeking dedicated individuals, who align with these values, to join our team at various locations across the globe.   

Job Summary 

Aircraft Mechanic Helper provide assistance to all Aircraft Maintenance staff and contracted customers to include the tasks but not limited to Marshalling of aircraft, push back and towing of aircraft, setting up gates for arrival and departure service, and any other duties assigned.

The expected pay rate is $25/hr. Full-time employees are offered a range of health and wellness benefits as well as 401(k) with company match paid vacation time, sick time, and company paid holidays. 

Your activities 

  • Marshall aircraft during arrival and departure.
  • Drive and operate various ground support equipment to include tow tractor, aircraft tug, maintenance high lifts, trucks and carts, ground power units, air conditioning carts, air starter units, and maintenance vans.
  • Set up gates with cones and chalks for arrival/remove for departure.
  • Assist maintenance staff in all tasks for customers.
  • Inspect equipment before and after use for safety, condition, and serviceability.
  • Ensure Customers satisfaction with services.
  • Comply with and implement company’s established safety policies and practices at all times.
  • Comply with all applicable FAR (station code and manuals).
  • Maintain, and as required, effective and positive contact with customers on issues related to work accomplished or in progress.
  • Keep Supervisory staff advised of work related matters.
  • Help maintain and organize maintenance equipment’s in accordance to RSM (accomplish equipment service cards)
  • Help maintain customer inventor part list in accordance with RSM and customer requirements (if any)

Your profile 

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent
  • At least 2 years of ramp experience
  • Valid drivers license
  • Flexible to work on various shifts (days, nights, weekends, holidays)
  • Good Communication skills
  • Lift heavy object that could reach up to 70lbs

What we offer 

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

At Swissport, we believe in diversity, equal opportunity, and the power of our values to drive our success. We are committed to providing a workplace that fosters inclusion and where all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. 

Visit our website at https://careers.swissport.com to learn more about Life at Swissport. 

Join Swissport today and be part of a team that connects the world of aviation! 


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