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Airport Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Airport Manager I The Department of Airports is recruiting for an Airport Manager I to oversee the direction and administration of the day-to-day operations of the Apple Valley Airport and assist ...

The Airport Manager reports to the Assistant Director of Airports. For a detailed description of duties, refer to the Airport Manager I . ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT San Bernardino County is the largest ...

Job Summary Under the direction of the Airport Commission and the Mayor, the Municipal Airport Manager is responsible for the administration, operations, maintenance, and development of the City ...

The Airport Manager reports to the Assistant Director of Airports. For a detailed description of duties, refer to the Airport Manager I . ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT San Bernardino County is the largest ...

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Airport information

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How much do airport jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for airport in the United States is $17.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Are Different Types of Airport Jobs?

Airport jobs include customer service and coordinating positions (such as ticketing agents), manual labor work (such as being a baggage handler), technical positions (such as maintenance workers), and numerous security roles. Your duties vary depending on the job. For example, an airport security agent’s responsibilities are to ensure that passengers do not try to board a plane with unauthorized materials in their luggage. Air traffic control workers direct planes to take off and land. Ticketing agents help customers check baggage and prepare their itineraries.

What are some common challenges faced by airport operations staff in their daily work?

Airport operations staff often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable flight schedules, ensuring passenger safety, and coordinating with multiple teams like security, ground crew, and airline staff. They must also handle rapidly changing weather conditions and respond quickly to emergencies or disruptions. Strong communication, adaptability, and problem-solving skills are essential to keep airport operations running smoothly and efficiently.

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

To thrive as an Airport Operations Manager, you need a solid background in airport management, regulatory compliance, safety procedures, and typically a relevant degree in aviation management or a related field. Familiarity with airport management systems, scheduling software, and safety management systems (SMS) is crucial for daily operations. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help manage staff, coordinate with stakeholders, and respond to emergencies effectively. These competencies are vital to ensure efficient airport operations, safety, and a positive experience for passengers and airlines.

What is the difference between Airport vs Airport Security Officer?

AspectAirportAirport Security Officer
CredentialsVaries; often includes general airport operations trainingRequires security-specific certifications, such as TSA training
Work EnvironmentEncompasses all airport areas: terminals, runways, baggage claimPrimarily security checkpoints, screening areas, and perimeter security
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, airport authorities, ground handling companiesAirport security agencies, TSA, private security firms
Common Search & ComparisonGeneral airport rolesSecurity screening and safety roles

While both roles operate within airports, an Airport is a broad term covering all airport operations, whereas an Airport Security Officer specializes in security screening and safety procedures. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right positions in the aviation industry.

What are airport jobs?

Airport jobs refer to the various roles and positions that support the daily operations of an airport. These jobs can include customer service agents, baggage handlers, security personnel, air traffic controllers, maintenance workers, and airport management staff. Employees in these positions help ensure the safe, efficient, and smooth functioning of airport facilities and services for travelers and airlines. Depending on the role, requirements may range from customer service skills to technical expertise or security training.
What cities are hiring for Airport jobs? Cities with the most Airport job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Airport jobs? The most popular types of Airport jobs are:
What states have the most Airport jobs? States with the most job openings for Airport jobs include:
Infographic showing various Airport job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,490 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
Airport Planner

$119K - $172K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Compensation Grade:

S22

Salary Range:

$119,280.00-$172,955.00

Opening Date:

May 15, 2026

Closing Date:

Please Note: All job announcements close at 11:59 p.m. of the day before the posted closing date.

Airport Planner
As an Airport Planner for the Airports Authority, you will provide advanced technical expertise and direction for near-, mid-, and long-term airport and transportation planning initiatives for Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), Dulles Toll Road (DTR), and the Dulles International Airport Access Highway. You will perform advanced evaluation and analysis of land use proposals, airspace impacts, airport compatibility, and airport development initiatives to ensure compatibility with airport operations, navigable airspace, safety surfaces, and long-term airport capacity. Leading coordination with federal, state, regional, and local agencies, municipalities, and community stakeholders regarding airport planning and development initiatives. Performs related functions.
Serves in the Planning Department of the Office of Engineering at Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD).

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Conducts and prepares airspace planning and analysis considering critical navigational surfaces such as FAR Part 77, Terminal Instrument Procedures (TERPS), One-Engine Inoperative (OEI), obstacle-free areas and zones, runway protection zones, runway safety areas, and other critical navigational surfaces.

Conduct planning studies that identify scope, schedule, and cost based on stakeholder requirements. Studies include airfields and the evaluation of various facilities such as buildings, concourses, airfields, roads, parking, rental cars, utility plants, and other support facilities.

Provides technical advice and project management for the preparation and updating of Master Plans, Airport Layout Plans, and comprehensive planning studies and reports.

Provides technical analysis and advice regarding airfield issues such as (Federal Aviation Administration) FAA airfield planning and design standards, Aircraft Design Group, runway/taxiway/taxi lane design standards, apron layouts, and airfield geometry. Subject matter expert regarding A/C 150/5300- Airport Design.

Translates general goals, plans, and concepts of the Master Plan for the modernization and improvement of DCA and IAD into specific programs and concept design guidelines and requirements.

Develops policy recommendations, from both engineering and comprehensive planning perspectives, for the operation and master planning of DCA and IAD, and predesign data for Capital Construction Program (CCP) projects.

Collects, analyzes, and interprets data for use in formulating plans. Uses computer simulations to analyze passenger, vehicle, and aircraft activity patterns.

Prepares site development standards for consultants and reviews studies, planning projects, site plans, and program statements to ensure conformity with the Airport Authority plans.

Uses aircraft activity and passenger forecasts, cost and revenue projections, customer needs, and marketing information to determine project feasibility and desirability.

Annually prepares and reviews the Airports Authority's proposed budgets for the Capital Construction Program (CCP) and Capital Operating and Maintenance Investment Program (COMIP). Recommends future projects and ensures compatibility with plans. Represents facility engineering in developing the Planning Department's Work Plan and annual budget for studies and CCP and COMIP projects.

Works with inter-jurisdictional partners regarding land use planning, airport compatibility planning, and aerotropolis initiatives. Evaluates county/city development proposals for compatibility with airport operations, navigable airspace, safety surfaces, and long-term airport capacity. Coordinates with local governments, planning agencies, and community stakeholders and attends public meetings as a representative of the Airports Authority.

Monitors and advises on issues related to the airport's roadways, including public and commercial curbs, based on forecast ground transportation traffic. Issues include capacity, safety, wayfinding, and master planning.

Monitors plans and advises on issues related to public and employee parking, as well as staging areas for other ground transportation, such as taxis, shuttles, and other ground transportation providers, based on forecast demands. Issues include facility expansions, new facilities, and master planning.

Monitors, plans, and advises on issues related to the Dulles Toll Road, including capacity, safety, tolling, and programming of capital improvements for both the short and long term.

Prepares position papers and reports on air and ground transportation and physical facility planning.

Assists in preparing pre-design documents; identifies and resolves issues related to design, construction, costs, scheduling, and environmental and building code compliance. Reviews construction documents and assists in developing construction change orders.

Serves as a Contracting Officer's Technical Representative (COTR). Assists in developing design statements of work and selecting an architect/engineering firm.

Supports the organization in cross-functional collaboration on projects and performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Seven years of progressively responsible experience in airport planning, airspace analysis, or land use planning. A master's degree may substitute for two years of experience.

Advanced knowledge of airport planning principles and practices, airspace analysis and obstruction evaluation processes, land use compatibility planning, and applicable FAA regulations, advisory circulars, and planning guidance.

Ability to perform complex technical analyses, integrate airspace and land use considerations into planning decisions, and manage multiple projects and priorities effectively.

Ability to coordinate effectively with federal, state, regional, and local jurisdictions, including planning agencies, municipalities, and community stakeholders.

Ability to synthesize complex airspace and land use data to support planning and development decisions.

Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, along with proficiency in GIS, AutoCAD, or MicroStation, and data analysis tools used to support planning and decision-making processes.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Experience leading or supporting Airport Master Plans and Airport Layout Plan approvals for large commercial service airports

.

Demonstrated expertise in FAA airspace evaluations, including the Obstruction Evaluation/ Airport Airspace Analysis (OE/AAA) process.

Experience coordinating National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) environmental documentation and capital program development, including CCP, ACIP, or CIP processes, is highly desirable.

Professional certifications such as American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), Professional Engineer (PE), or Engineer-in-Training (EIT).

EDUCATION

A Bachelor's Degree in Aviation Planning, Urban or Regional Planning, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES REQUIRED

A valid state driver's license in good standing.

NECESSARY SPECIAL FACTORS

Is subject to adverse weather conditions and exposed to dirt, odors, hazardous substances, and loud noise when visiting outdoor sites. Wears personal protective equipment as required.

WHAT WE OFFER

A career with the Airports Authority comes with more than just a paycheck; it offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family's health, financial security, and professional growth. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; well-being resources; health savings and flexible spending accounts; pension and retirement plans; and ongoing training and development opportunities. Discover more about our benefits packagehere.

A background security investigation will be required for all new hires.

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer.| Follow us on Twitter @MWAAcareers.