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Airfield Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Airfield Escort Driver is responsible for safely escorting contractors, vendors, and authorized ... Communicate effectively with Air Traffic Control (ATC), airport operations, and project supervisors

The Airfield Manager will supervise daily airfield operations of the local McMurdo Station and South Pole airfields. *** Deployment to Antarctica is required in this role. Deployment length is ...

Major/Essential Functions Operational Oversight * Direct and coordinate daily aircraft movements, including fixed-wing, rotary-wing, unmanned, and experimental aircraft. * Manage airfield access and ...

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Airfield Operations information

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$31K

$58K

$83K

How much do airfield operations jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for airfield operations in the United States is $57,960.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $63,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do airfield operators do?

Airfield operators are responsible for managing and maintaining airport runways, taxiways, and related facilities to ensure safe and efficient aircraft movement. They perform tasks such as inspecting equipment, coordinating with air traffic control, and adhering to safety protocols, often requiring certifications and knowledge of aviation regulations.

What is the difference between Airfield Operations vs Airport Operations Coordinator?

AspectAirfield OperationsAirport Operations Coordinator
CertificationsFAA certifications, safety trainingFAA certifications, customer service training
Work EnvironmentRunways, taxiways, airside areasTerminal, customer service, administrative areas
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, airports, government agenciesAirports, airline ground services
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on airside safety and operationsFocuses on passenger experience and ground services

While both roles are essential to airport functioning, Airfield Operations primarily manages airside safety and runway activities, whereas Airport Operations Coordinators oversee broader airport activities, including passenger services and ground operations. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right roles in the aviation industry.

What are airfield operations?

Airfield operations refer to the management and coordination of activities on and around airport runways, taxiways, and ramps to ensure the safe, efficient movement of aircraft, vehicles, and personnel. Professionals in this field monitor weather conditions, inspect runways, enforce safety regulations, and coordinate with air traffic control and emergency services. Their duties also include responding to incidents, managing wildlife hazards, and overseeing maintenance work to keep the airfield in compliance with aviation standards.

What are some common challenges faced by Airfield Operations personnel and how are they addressed?

Airfield Operations personnel often encounter challenges such as coordinating aircraft movements during peak traffic times, managing unexpected weather changes, and ensuring compliance with strict safety regulations. To address these, they rely on clear communication with air traffic control, utilize advanced scheduling and monitoring systems, and participate in regular safety drills. Teamwork and adaptability are essential, as situations can change rapidly and require quick, informed decisions to maintain safe and efficient airfield operations.

How much do airfield operations officers make?

Airfield operations officers typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the size of the airport. Salaries can increase with certifications, such as the Airport Certified Employee (ACE) program, and additional responsibilities.

What does an airfield operations officer do?

An airfield operations officer manages the daily activities of an airfield, ensuring safety, security, and efficiency of aircraft movements. They coordinate with air traffic control, oversee ground operations, and ensure compliance with aviation regulations, often using specialized communication and safety protocols.

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

To thrive as an Airfield Operations Specialist, you need knowledge of airfield safety procedures, aviation regulations, and airport operations, often supported by a degree in aviation management or relevant certification. Familiarity with airfield lighting systems, NOTAMs, radio communications, and airport management software is typically required. Strong attention to detail, situational awareness, and effective communication skills help professionals excel in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient airfield operations and compliance with strict regulatory standards.

What is the highest paid job at an airport?

At airports, airline pilots and air traffic controllers are among the highest paid roles, with pilots often earning six-figure salaries due to their extensive training and responsibility. These positions require specialized certifications, experience, and often involve irregular schedules and high levels of responsibility.
More about Airfield Operations jobs
What cities are hiring for Airfield Operations jobs? Cities with the most Airfield Operations job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Airfield Operations jobs? The most popular types of Airfield Operations jobs are:
What states have the most Airfield Operations jobs? States with the most job openings for Airfield Operations jobs include:
Infographic showing various Airfield Operations job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 81% As Needed, 13% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,960 per year, or $27.9 per hour.
AIRFIELD OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

AIRFIELD OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

Army National Guard Units

Guernsey, WY • On-site, Remote

$61K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 3 days ago


Army National Guard rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 45 rated military and defense


Job description

Summary
THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 5 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION.
This National Guard position is for an AIRFIELD OPERATIONS SPECIALIST, Position Description Number PDT7120000 and is part of the WY Army Aviation Support Facility, Wyoming National Guard.
This position is in the Excepted Service "under the authority of Title V, P.L. 114-328, and Sections 932 and 1084 (FY17 NDAA)".
This is a Title 5 Excepted Service position. Military affiliation is not required.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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This position is located at the Wyoming Army National Guard's (ARNG) Army Airfield, located at Camp Guernsey, Wyoming. The primary purpose is to serve as an Airfield Operations Specialist responsible for coordinating and maintaining liaison with military, federal, and local agencies concerning airspace utilization, flying operations, aircraft emergencies, search and rescue operations, and natural disasters.
1. Provides direct support to units and other military and civilian air crews, during scheduled and unscheduled flying and ground activities.
2. Provides air crews with information and assistance, necessary for planning and conducting safe flight operations.
3. Coordinates for Customs, Immigration, Homeland Security, and other inspections and arranges appropriate priority for distinguished visitors (DV), passenger and crew transportation, and special security requirements for airfield arrivals and departures.
4. Performs daily airfield inspections/checks for conditions, physical security, and force protection to ensure a safe airfield environment; and conduct inspections of runways, taxiways, aprons for discrepancies, foreign object debris, runway safety/clear zone violations, runway incursions, flightline driving program compliance, runway surface conditions, security, bird/wildlife hazards, construction activities, pavement conditions, and other items that pose a significant adverse effect to safe aircraft operations.
** This is NOT an all-inclusive list of duties. **
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS:
U.S. Citizenship Required.
Must obtain and maintain a SECRET security clearance.
This position is subject to provisions of the DoD Priority Placement Program.
Employees are paid through Direct Deposit/Electronic Funds Transfer (DD/EFT).
Federal employment suitability as determined by a background investigation.
Veterans' Preference applies (if applicable) to this advertisement.
May be required to successfully complete a two-year trial period.
Recruitment/Relocation Incentives ARE NOT authorized.
PCS costs are not authorized. Must be willing to relocate at own expense if selected.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:
MISSION ESSENTIAL: Subject to call back and work during nights, weekends, holidays, emergencies, and outside normal operating hours. Positions are operationally essential to aviation operations at the assigned airfield. Typically exempt from government shutdown and may be exempt from weather release or other closures as determined by the garrison commander.
DRUG SCREENING: Required to sign DA Form 5019 (Condition of Employment for Certain Civilian Positions Identified as critical under the Department of the Army Drug-Free Federal Workplace Program). Must pass drug screening prior to hiring and subject to periodic and random drug testing, thereafter, in accordance with AR 600-85 and Department of Defense Directive 2010.9.
DRIVER'S LICENSE: Requires a valid state Driver's License to operate vehicles or must be able to obtain and maintain a valid state Driver's License to conduct daily and annual airfield inspections to ensure a safe airfield environment in accordance with Army Regulation 95-2, Air Traffic Control, Airfield/Heliport, and Airspace Operations.
ROTATING SHIFTS: Airfield operating hours range from 16-24 hours per day, 5-7 days per week. May work rotating shift work to support published operational hours as well as occasional operations outside operating hours.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE MISDEMEANOR AMENDMENT of the Gun Control Act (Lautenberg Amendment) of 1968. Individuals convicted of a qualifying crime of domestic violence may not perform the duties of this position.
ESSENTIAL PERSONNEL: May be subject to duty in preparation for, or in response to, a state emergency or disaster declaration. Designation will not exceed 14 calendar days per year unless otherwise approved in advance by TAG.
Qualifications
TITLE 5 POSITION INFORMATION:
Type of Appointment: Permanent
Tenure: Group 1 or 2
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 7:00 am - 4:30 pm
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Telework: The duties of this position require primary physical presence. Situational teleworking may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Para/Line #: 482B / 009
Selecting Official: Mr. Duncan Morton
AREAS OF CONSIDERATION:
Referrals of qualified applicants will be issued in the following order:
Area 2: Permanent and indefinite WYNG Title 5 and T32 DST employees with the Wyoming Air/Army National Guard.
Area 3: Current Federal employees within the Competitive and Excepted Service, and Competitive Service Reinstatement Eligible employees. Former NG T32 Dual Status employees receiving an Honorable or a General Discharge under Honorable Conditions are eligible for reinstatement provided they have been separated for at least one year before applying for reinstatement and received a rating of record of their most recent permanent position of a least fully successful (or equivalent).
Area 4: Currently serving and former Active Guard/Reserve (AGR), and M-Day/Drill Status Guard (DSG) members of the National Guard. This provision is intended to boost the candidate pool to reach more qualified candidates and place DSG/M-Day personnel on par with currently serving civilian personnel.
* Veterans' Preference Rules are mandated by law, and some applicants may receive priority consideration before other applicants without veterans' preference.
* Area 7: U.S. Citizens
Upon acceptance to this position, if selected candidate is a competitive employee, they will convert to Excepted Service and be required to sign a memorandum IAW 5 CFR 302.102. Acceptance of the proposed appointment will take the employee out of the competitive service while s/he occupies the position.
To qualify, you must meet the experience and/or education requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application.
This position DOES NOT require National Guard Military Membership.
Upon acceptance of this position, if selected candidate is a competitive employee, they will convert to Excepted Service and be required to sign a memorandum IAW 5 CFR 302.102. Acceptance of the proposed appointment will take the employee out of the competitive service while s/he occupies the position.
To qualify, you must meet the experience and/or education requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application.
INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade (GS-07) or equivalent. This experience must demonstrate the ability to coordinate and support airfield operations. Examples of specialized experience include:
Processing and coordinating flight plans and providing pre-flight briefings to aircrews on weather, airfield conditions, and Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs).
Assisting in the scheduling of airfield activities and coordinating with various agencies for inspections, VIP arrivals, and special security requirements.
Performing inspections of runways, taxiways, and aprons to ensure a safe environment, identifying and documenting hazards such as foreign object debris (FOD), and coordinating corrective actions.
Utilizing automated systems to manage flight information and relay data to air traffic control, command and control, and other relevant facilities.
OR
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, nautical science, marine affairs, or other fields related to the position. NOTE: You must submit copies of transcripts.
OR
COMBINATION OF EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION: A combination of education and experience may be used to qualify for this position if the computed percentage of the requirements is at least 100%. NOTE: You must submit copies of transcripts.
ADDITIONAL QUALIFYING EXPERIENCE: Must possess knowledge of applicable Department of War (DOW), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) air traffic body of rules, procedures and operations which govern aviation operations, as it relates to local airfield operations/flight management support; knowledge of General Planning Guide and requirements for technical review of proposed flight plans to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable regulations and procedures; and knowledge of terminology used in relation to aircraft, air traffic control data, weather reports, etc.; ability to relate information properly in flight requests; ability to effectively communicate with pilots, of all levels of experience, and other related air traffic facilities; ability to effectively conduct briefings to communicate information required by aviators and airfield personnel; and knowledge of airfield conditions and safety factors that provide a basis for imposing restrictions to aircraft operations, airfield closures, issuance of NOTAMs, etc.
NOTE: You will also be required to provide a Narrative Response that explains how you meet the Specialized Experience and Additional Qualifying Experience requirements above.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
TIME-IN-GRADE: Applicants who are current non-temporary Federal employees and have held a GS grade any time in the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements by the closing date of this announcement. For a GS-9 position you must have served 52 weeks at the GS-7 Level. An SF-50 that shows your time-in-grade eligibility must be submitted with your application materials.
If you are a current non-temporary GS employee applying for a higher grade than the grade you currently hold, provide an SF-50 that shows the required lower grade was held for at least one year. Some SF-50s effective within the last 52 weeks will not demonstrate the required lower grade was held for at least one year (e.g., General Adjustment SF-50 from this year). In many cases, we may need to see two (2) SF-50s to determine time-in-grade and eligibility for promotion. If you are a DoD employee, you may obtain copies of your SF-50(s) from MyBiz (https://compo.dcpds.cpms.osd.mil/)
Ability to operate a motor vehicle.
Education
Refer to Education Requirements above.
You must provide transcripts or other documentation to support your Educational claims. To receive credit for Education, you must provide documentation of proof that you meet the Education requirements for this position.
Additional information
If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/1959 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you be registered, or you are not eligible for appointment in this agency (https://www.sss.gov/register/)
Please do not send/fax/courier/email any applications or resumes to the Wyoming National Guard Human Resource Office, you must apply on-line via www.USAJOBS.gov. The Human Resource can only process materials received through USA Jobs.
Priority Placement Program (PPP) DoD Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technicians:
MR or NG Technicians who will lose or lost military membership through no fault of their own after completing at least 15 years of technician service and a minimum of 20 years of service creditable for non-regular retirement may exercise preference eligibility to DoD positions with the local commuting area in accordance with section 3329(b) of Title 5, U.S.C. This preference eligibility is valid for 1 year after separation.
If meeting this requirement, applicant must submit a copy of the "Military Reserve and National Guard Technician PPP Self-Certification checklist" and copies of appropriate documentation, such as the received notification letter indicating no longer eligible for military or NG membership (through no fault of your own) and you have completed at least 15 years of technician service and at minimum of 20 years of service creditable for non-regular retirement.
PPP DoD Retained Grade Preference Eligible:
If applicant is on retained grade based on receiving a written Reduction in Force (RIF) notification letter of a change to lower grade, or a notific

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The Army National Guard, headquartered in Arlington, VA, is a key constituent of the United States military, falling under the sector of Defense and Public Safety. Since its founding in 1636, it has served dual roles as both a state and federal military force that is activated in response to domestic emergencies and overseas combat missions. The Army National Guard embodies core values, including loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage, intending to uphold peace and serve the nation with unwavering dedication.

Industry

National security and international affairs

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US