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Airline Operations Agent Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Southwest Airlines

Operations Agent - SAN

San Diego, CA · On-site

$21.01/hr

For external applicants only: (1.) Southwest Airlines will consider your interest for this position ... See what a day as an Operations Agent looks like: swa.is/DayWithOpsAgent Additional details * This ...

Menzies Aviation

Operations Agent

Sacramento, CA · On-site

Role Purpose The Operations Agent is responsible for supporting the safe, efficient, and on-time ... Coordinate with airline personnel, dispatchers, ramp agents, fueling teams, catering, cabin ...

Menzies Aviation

Operations Agent

Sacramento, CA

Role Purpose The Operations Agent is responsible for supporting the safe, efficient, and on-time ... Coordinate with airline personnel, dispatchers, ramp agents, fueling teams, catering, cabin ...

Southwest Airlines

Ramp Agent - SFO

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22.51/hr

Ground Operations Our Company Promise We are committed to provide our Employees a stable work ... For external applicants only: (1.) Southwest Airlines will consider your interest for this position ...

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Airline Operations Agent information

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$13

$24

$39

How much do airline operations agent jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for airline operations agent in California is $24.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an airline operations agent?

Airline Operations Agents, sometimes called flight dispatchers or load controllers, are responsible for coordinating and overseeing various ground operations to ensure flights run smoothly and safely. Their duties include preparing flight paperwork, calculating aircraft weight and balance, communicating with flight crews, and ensuring timely boarding and departure. They act as a key liaison between the airline, ground staff, and flight crew, making sure all regulatory and safety requirements are met before takeoff.

How does an airline operations agent typically interact with other airport staff to ensure smooth flight operations?

Airline Operations Agents play a central role in coordinating between various airport teams, including ramp agents, gate agents, pilots, and ground crew. They are responsible for relaying real-time information about flight status, weather, and passenger or cargo updates to ensure efficient aircraft turnaround. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as the Operations Agent must quickly troubleshoot and resolve issues that could delay departures. This collaborative environment offers opportunities to build strong relationships across departments and develop problem-solving skills valuable for career advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an airline operations agent, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Airline Operations Agent, you need strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of airline procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or aviation-related coursework. Familiarity with airline operations systems, flight management software, and communication tools like radios and dispatch platforms is typically required. Excellent problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help manage flight schedules and resolve operational issues efficiently. These skills ensure the safe, timely, and coordinated movement of flights, which is critical for airline reliability and customer satisfaction.

What is the difference between Airline Operations Agent vs Ticketing Agent?

AspectAirline Operations AgentTicketing Agent
CredentialsCustomer service certification, airline-specific trainingCustomer service certification, airline-specific training
Work EnvironmentAirports, airline offices, operational areasTicket counters, airline offices, customer service desks
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, airport ground servicesAirlines, travel agencies, ticketing offices
Primary ResponsibilitiesCoordinate flight operations, handle passenger issues, ensure safety complianceSell tickets, assist with reservations, manage passenger check-in

While both roles involve customer service within the airline industry, Airline Operations Agents focus on flight coordination and safety, whereas Ticketing Agents primarily handle ticket sales and passenger check-in. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position aligned with their skills and career goals.

How to get a job as an airline operations agent?

To become an airline operations agent, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong communication and organizational skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Relevant experience in customer service or logistics, along with knowledge of airline procedures and safety regulations, can improve chances. Some positions may require certification or training provided by the airline or industry organizations.

What does an airline operations agent do?

An airline operations agent is responsible for coordinating daily flight activities, including scheduling, communication with crew and ground staff, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. They handle tasks such as monitoring flight status, managing documentation, and resolving operational issues to ensure smooth airline operations.

What are popular job titles related to Airline Operations Agent jobs in California?

For Airline Operations Agent jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Airline Operations Agent jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Airline Operations Agent jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Airline Operations Agent jobs?

Cities in California with the most Airline Operations Agent job openings:

Airline Operations Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Airline Operations Agent job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,742 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Operations Agent - SAN

Southwest Airlines

San Diego, CA • On-site

$21.01/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Southwest Airlines rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 252 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 26 rated airlines

Job description

Department:
Ground Operations
Our Company Promise
We are committed to provide our Employees a stable work environment with equal opportunity for learning and personal growth. Creativity and innovation are encouraged for improving the effectiveness of Southwest Airlines. Above all, Employees will be provided the same concern, respect, and caring attitude within the organization that they are expected to share externally with every Southwest Customer.
Job Description:
*** For external applicants only:
(1.) Southwest Airlines will consider your interest for this position if you are currently a resident of the State of California.
(2.) Southwest Airlines will not consider your interest for this position if you have been interviewed by phone, virtually, and/or in person and not selected for the Operations Agent position at SAN within the last 12 months.***
Pay & Benefits:
Pay of $21.01 per hour*, with the opportunity for future increase per applicable collective bargaining agreement wage scale based on time in position. Opportunities for overtime and shift premiums.
Benefits you'll love:
  • Fly for free, as a privilege, on any open seat on all Southwest flights (your eligible dependents too)
  • Southwest will help fund your Retirement Savings Plan, which includes a dollar-for-dollar 401(k) Company match contribution up to 10% of your eligible earnings**
  • Potential for annual profit-sharing contribution in the Southwest Retirement Savings Plan-when Southwest profits, you profit***
  • Competitive health insurance for you and your eligible dependents. Southwest offers health plan coverage options that start from the first day of employment. You'll have 30 days to select and enroll in your health plan, and coverage will be retroactively available to your first day of employment.
  • Explore more benefits you'll love: https://careers.southwestair.com/benefits

Looking for a role where you help flights take off safely and on time? Join our Operations Agents at the gate and be the reason flights run smoothly. You'll help Customers board, check flight details like weight and balance, and talk with other airport Teams to keep things running smoothly. Every day, you'll help our flights stay on schedule and make sure our Customers feel cared for and our Crews have what they need. Whether you're new to aviation or looking to grow, this role gives you the chance to learn and be part of something big. See what a day as an Operations Agent looks like: swa.is/DayWithOpsAgent
Additional details
  • This role is part of a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which means pay, schedules, and other job details are set through an agreement with the labor union.
  • Work schedules are based on seniority and may include early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays. There may be times when mandatory overtime is required to support flight operations, but there are also opportunities to trade shifts and find a schedule that works for you.
  • U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. required and no current or future work authorization sponsorship available.
  • Learn more about becoming an Operations Agent and check out the FAQs: careers.southwestair.com/operations-agent-workgroup

We're committed to fair hiring practices and to making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, military or veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other legally protected characteristics.
Responsibilities
  • Provides friendly service to and maintains positive relationships with all internal and external Customers
  • Works in a cooperative spirit to ensure the success of our Company
  • Responsible for providing legendary Customer Service to people boarding the aircraft by coordinating Ramp, Operations, Provisioning and servicing aircraft to ensure on-time departures and quick turnarounds and to make up time on delayed flights
  • Works in airport operation office, gate area, jetways and air freight facilities. May be exposed to a wide variety of weather conditions and jet and machinery noise and fumes. Opens and closes the stations, advising Dispatch of same
  • Handles Station AMS and radio communications traffic as needed
  • Coordinates loading and unloading of aircraft by monitoring ramp activities
  • Answers station operations' telephones
  • Advises Gate Agents when boarding will begin
  • Prepares dispatch release forms and collects weather reports from Ops Suite for the Crew
  • Arranges for fueling of aircraft as required
  • Prepares weight and balance forms. Advises Dispatch, FLIFO and Stations of flight departures / arrivals
  • Closes out flights; files and maintains accurate flight papers. Ascertains that aircraft are properly cleaned and provisioned prior to departure
  • Coordinates special services needed on aircraft such as servicing lavatories, cabin grooming, wheelchairs for Customers and special emergency cleaning
  • Operates boarding bridge, coordinates boarding and deplaning Customers
  • Works with Gate Agents in expediting the check-in process, collects boarding passes and/or electronic boarding data, and verifies boarding counts
  • Checks baggage, when necessary. Uses jetway stairs frequently to carry items from jetway to ramp
  • Writes and submits irregularity reports as required. Checks cargo on hand to see that it is properly logged and accounted for. Checks that all board mail and Company material is dispatched and sent to indicated Stations
  • Receives, refers, or makes paging calls and makes paging announcements, as appropriate. Keeps other station personnel advised of flight movements, weather conditions, and irregular operations
  • Prepares statistical reports to record information from trip papers. Operates equipment for flight information display systems and updates system when operationally necessary
  • Properly maintains and wears the uniform by Company regulations and presents a neat and professional appearance while on duty
  • Provides friendly service to all co-workers and Customers. Performs special task or assignments as delegated by Supervisor or Station Management personnel
  • Responsible for ground security and assuring operations follow security procedures
  • May perform the duties of a Freight Agent. Further information can be found in the Freight Agent PAQ
  • Must be able to meet any physical ability requirements listed on this description
  • May perform other job duties as directed by Employee's Leaders

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Ability to work well with others as part of a team, meet the public, and work under stressful situations
  • Must be GSC qualified
  • Must comply with DOT drug and alcohol testing program
  • Ability to read documents, follow instructions, learn and understand ramp operations procedures, rules and regulations
  • Ability to type and/or use a computer keyboard with sufficient speed to meet demands of the job
  • Must successfully complete Operations Agent training program with a 90% or greater average and evaluation / probationary period
  • Must be aware of hazardous situations and be able to handle emergencies as needed
  • Able to work under pressure and handle many functions at once with many different offices and/or groups of people
  • Must work under tight time constraints to accomplish quick turns of aircraft
  • Must possess good written and oral skills
  • Must present a well-groomed appearance in accordance with the Ground Operations Employee Handbook and Labor Agreement
  • Must be able to effectively communicate verbally by telephone, face to face and public address systems
  • Must be able to be alert to moving vehicles or aircraft and use radio equipment
  • Must be able to communicate information and instructions verbally or via radio equipment

Education
  • No education requirement

Experience
  • Preferred: Two years of airline/military related work experience in ramp/operations/provisioning functions

Licensing/Certification
  • Must be able to obtain a SIDA badge and meet all local airport requirements
  • Must possess a valid state motor vehicle operator's license
  • May be required by Station Leadership to obtain a Customs Seal and meet all requirements to work international flights

Physical Abilities
  • Must be able to lift and move items of 70 pounds and/or more
  • Must be able to climb, bend, kneel and stand on a frequent basis and for extended periods
  • Must be able to carry heavy items up and down jetway stairs
  • Must maintain the ability to wear prescribed uniforms

Other Qualifications
  • Must maintain a well-groomed appearance per Company appearance standards as described in established guidelines
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Must be able to comply with Company attendance standards as described in established guidelines
  • Ability to work shift work and/or overtime
  • Foreign language skills are desirable, but not required

*The pay amount doesn't guarantee employment for any particular period.
**401(k) Company match contributions are subject to the plan's vesting schedule. Match
contributions may vary based on the position.
***Profit-sharing contributions are subject to the Retirement Savings Plan vesting
schedule and are made at the discretion of the Company.
Pay Rate:
$21.01
Southwest Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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