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Airfield Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State of New Hampshire

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Portsmouth, NH · On-site

$17.81 - $23.39/hr

Education and experience must be in operating and maintaining snow and trail conditioning equipment ... airfield, roads and parking lots. Performs specialized mechanical maintenance and repairs of ...

Rhode Island Airport Corporation

Be Seen First

Airfield Supervisor

Warwick, RI · On-site

$25.13 - $35.47/hr

... operating and overseeing the operation of medium and heavy motorized equipment used in airfield and snow operations. · Ability to identify safety hazards, operational deficiencies, and compliance ...

Rhode Island Airport Corp.

Airfield Supervisor

Warwick, RI · On-site

$25.13 - $35.47/hr

... in operating and overseeing the operation of medium and heavy motorized equipment used in airfield and snow operations. • Ability to identify safety hazards, operational deficiencies, and ...

City & Borough of Juneau

Equipment Operator II

Juneau, AK · On-site

$34.65 - $37/hr

Employees must apply appropriate guidelines, such as safe equipment operating procedures, and established airfield standards for operations, maintenance and security. Minimum Qualifications Education:

Pae

Heavy Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

Position Responsibilities All Heavy Equipment Operators: * Implements and maintains a safe ... airfield construction and maintenance, loading/unloading of shipping containers. * Performs ...

V2X

... operating procedures established by the Senior Airfield Authority; to cite legal violations ... Employee use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for some situations. PPE includes ...

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Airfield Equipment Operator information

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$12

$19

$27

How much do airfield equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for airfield equipment operator in the United States is $19.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an airfield equipment operator?

Airfield Equipment Operators are professionals responsible for operating and maintaining heavy machinery used to keep airport runways, taxiways, and surrounding areas safe and operational. Their duties often include removing snow, mowing grass, repairing pavement, and handling other airfield maintenance tasks. They play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of airport operations by keeping airfield surfaces clear and in good condition.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an airfield equipment operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Airfield Equipment Operator, you need a solid understanding of airfield maintenance procedures, equipment operation, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL). Familiarity with heavy machinery such as snow plows, sweepers, loaders, and radio communication systems is crucial. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective teamwork are important soft skills in this position. These skills ensure the safe and efficient upkeep of runways and taxiways, minimizing hazards and supporting continuous airport operations.

What are some common challenges faced by airfield equipment operators on a daily basis?

Airfield Equipment Operators often work in dynamic environments where weather conditions, tight schedules, and strict safety regulations present daily challenges. Coordinating with air traffic control and other airport staff requires clear communication to ensure that maintenance and operational tasks do not interfere with flight schedules. Additionally, operators must remain vigilant when handling heavy machinery around active runways to prevent accidents and maintain airport efficiency. Adapting to changing priorities and handling emergency situations—such as snow removal or debris clearance—are also integral parts of the role.

What is the difference between Airfield Equipment Operator vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectAirfield Equipment OperatorAircraft Maintenance Technician
CredentialsDriver's license, equipment operation certificationsA&P certification, FAA licenses
Work EnvironmentAirports, airfields, outdoor equipment areasAircraft hangars, maintenance facilities
Employer & IndustryAirports, military bases, aviation servicesAirlines, maintenance repair organizations
Common Search/ComparisonOperational roles, equipment handlingAircraft repair, technical skills

The main difference is that Airfield Equipment Operators focus on operating and maintaining ground support equipment at airports, while Aircraft Maintenance Technicians specialize in repairing and maintaining aircraft. Both roles are essential in aviation operations but serve different functions within the industry.

What cities are hiring for Airfield Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Airfield Equipment Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Airfield Equipment Operator jobs?

For Airfield Equipment Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Airfield Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,463 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Airfield Operations Specialist

Palmetto, FL • On-site

Hi-Lite Airfield Services, LLC
51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Hi-Lite Airfield Services, LLCexternal

$22/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Key responsibilities

  • Operate specialized construction and airport maintenance equipment, including forklifts, skid steers, and grinders.

  • Assist with pavement marking installation, removal, and surface preparation for painting and maintenance.

  • Travel across the United States to work on various airport projects, supporting airport safety and maintenance activities.

Job description

Airfield Operations Specialist

Travel the Country. Build a Career. Work Where Millions of People Travel.

Starting at $22/hour + Paid Travel + Per Diem + Hotel + Benefits

We hire nationwide.

Build Something Bigger Than a Job

At Hi-Lite Airfield Services, we don't build houses or office buildingswe help keep America's airports operating safely.

From major international airports to military installations, our crews perform specialized pavement marking, rubber removal, surface preparation, and pavement maintenance work that few people ever get the opportunity to do.

If you're looking for a career that offers travel, teamwork, hands-on work, and the opportunity to learn specialized equipment and skills, we'd like to meet you.

Why Join Hi-Lite?

We Invest in Our People

Starting pay of $22/hour

Higher starting pay available for experienced equipment operators

Paid airfare to and from projects

Company-paid hotel accommodations

Daily per diem for meals

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid holidays

Paid time off

Paid training and certifications

Opportunities for advancement

Many of our Foremen, Superintendents, Project Managers, and Operations leaders started in entry-level positions and built successful careers with Hi-Lite.

What You'll Do

No two weeks are the same.

One project may have you removing runway rubber at a major international airport. The next may involve installing precision pavement markings or supporting maintenance work at a military airfield.

You will:

  • Operate specialized construction and airport maintenance equipment
  • Assist with pavement marking installation and removal
  • Prepare airport surfaces for painting and maintenance
  • Operate forklifts, skid steers, grinders, and other equipment
  • Load, unload, and transport materials
  • Maintain equipment and a safe work environment
  • Work as part of a highly skilled team that takes pride in quality workmanship

Every project directly contributes to the safety of pilots, passengers, and airport personnel.

Travel Is Part of the Adventure

  • Our crews travel throughout the United States, working on some of the busiest commercial and military airports in the country.
  • Typical travel assignments range from 46 weeks, with all airfare, hotels, and per diem provided by Hi-Lite.
  • You bring the work ethicwe take care of the logistics.

Schedule

  • Full-time
  • Day, night, weekend, and overnight shifts as required by airport operations
  • Overtime opportunities available

Qualifications

  • Valid Real ID driver's license with a good driving record
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Ability to travel extensively
  • Pass pre-employment drug screening
  • Must be over 21
  • Meet airport and military base badging requirements, including a 10-year criminal background review

"Last year, our crews worked at hundreds of airports across North America, helping keep millions of passengers moving safely."

Other Duties: Please note that this job description is an overview of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Hi?Lite is an Equal Opportunity Employer and fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We are committed to providing a workplace that values diversity, ensures equal access, and prohibits discrimination of any kind.

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