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Airport Communications Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rhode Island Airport Corp.

Dispatcher

Warwick, RI · On-site

$47K - $69K/yr

Airport police department in the terminal. Office environment with multiple consoles and communications devices which are operating simultaneously. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable ...

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Airport Communications Operator information

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$10

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How much do airport communications operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for airport communications operator in the United States is $23.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an airport communications operator?

Airport Communications Operators are professionals responsible for managing and coordinating communication between different airport departments, airlines, emergency services, and air traffic control. Their duties often include monitoring radio transmissions, relaying critical information, dispatching personnel, and handling emergency calls to ensure airport operations run smoothly and safely. They play a crucial role in crisis situations by facilitating clear and timely communication. These operators typically work in airport operations centers and must be able to stay calm under pressure, multitask, and use specialized communication equipment.

What is the difference between Airport Communications Operator vs Airport Security Officer?

AspectAirport Communications OperatorAirport Security Officer
Required CredentialsFCC radio operator license, basic security trainingSecurity certification, background check
Work EnvironmentAirports, control towers, communication centersAirport terminals, security checkpoints, patrol areas
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, airport authorities, communication service providersAirport authorities, security firms, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The primary difference between an Airport Communications Operator and an Airport Security Officer lies in their roles. Communications operators focus on managing radio and communication systems within airports, requiring licenses and technical skills. Security officers are responsible for maintaining safety and security, requiring security certifications and conducting patrols. Both roles are essential for airport operations but serve distinct functions within the aviation industry.

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

To thrive as an Airport Communications Operator, you need strong verbal communication skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with radio communication systems, emergency response protocols, and airport management software is typically required. Calmness under pressure, multitasking, and sound judgment are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure accurate, timely information flow and effective coordination during routine operations and emergencies at the airport.

How does an airport communications operator typically collaborate with other airport departments during emergencies?

As an Airport Communications Operator, you play a vital role in coordinating responses during emergencies by acting as the central point of contact between various airport departments, such as security, fire, police, and operations teams. You are responsible for accurately relaying critical information, dispatching appropriate personnel, and ensuring clear, timely communication to facilitate a swift and organized response. This collaboration often requires remaining calm under pressure and following established protocols to minimize confusion and keep all teams informed, making your role essential for maintaining airport safety and security.
What cities are hiring for Airport Communications Operator jobs? Cities with the most Airport Communications Operator job openings:
What job categories do people searching Airport Communications Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Airport Communications Operator jobs are:
Airport Communications Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Airport Communications Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,481 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Dispatcher

Rhode Island Airport Corp.

Warwick, RI • On-site

$47K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description
SUMMARY
Airport Communication Dispatchers provide the communication link for security and emergency services at the airport. They direct the response of Airport Police relative to all incidents involving passengers and visitors.
SHIFT: Rotating schedule. TBD
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.
  • Answers 911 and emergency calls from within the terminal.
  • Dispatches police officers to respond to emergency calls.
  • Coordinates with RIAC Crash Rescue and Warwick Fire Department as necessary.
  • Monitors radio communications between the tower, RIAC Operations, and RIAC Crash Rescue.
  • Arranges for RIAC Operations to provide escort vehicles for airlines upon request.
  • Dispatches police officers or other assistance to vehicle accidents within the AOA.
  • Monitors security video cameras and dispatches officers to appropriate locations as required by the situation.
  • Causes officers to respond to unusual situations involving security doors.
  • Runs background checks on new employees.
  • Maintains typewritten logs of all important incidents.
  • Coordinates the airport Lost and Found.
  • Provides records and logs as needed.
  • Operates the RILETS System.
  • Uses the terminal paging system as needed.
  • Maintains contact with other police departments as appropriate.
  • Directs Building Maintenance personnel to problems within the terminal.
  • Monitors all mechanical and equipment alarms; responds according of standard procedures when alarms are sounded.
  • Managing departmental overtime hours.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBITILES: None
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Routine knowledge of airport operations, including security. The ability to think quickly and react to emergency situation. Sound judgment and the ability to communicate clearly with police officers and emergency units.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
  • High school education.
  • Experience as a dispatcher or emergency responder. Work in security operations in an airport setting.
  • Or, any combination of education and experience that shall be substantially equivalent to the above education and experience.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, AND REGISTARTIONS: None
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Prolonged sitting and monitoring consoles. Typing required. Standing to place files in filing cabinets. Frequent pressure from stressful emergency situations.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
  • The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Airport police department in the terminal. Office environment with multiple consoles and communications devices which are operating simultaneously.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
The Rhode Island Airport Corporation is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. Rhode Island Airport Corporation makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.

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