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Airport Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Inlandgroup

Equipment Operator -PWM

Portland, ME

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

Discover an exciting future at the Airport! Equipment Operator About us: The Inland Group of Companies (IDS and Quantem Aviation Services) is a trusted aviation partner operating at over 50+ airports ...

City of Los Angeles

Equipment Operator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $28/hr

As a Equipment Operator, you will operate a variety of heavy construction equipment in conjunction with airport pavement reconstruction projects, taxiways, runways, service roads, streets and ramp ...

Port of Huntsville

Cargo Equipment Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$51K - $77K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Salary Range ($58,788 - $88,182 ) The Huntsville-Madison County Airport Authority is accepting applications for the position of Cargo Equipment Operator . Primary job duties include operating various ...

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How much do airport equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for airport equipment operator in the United States is $22.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an airport equipment operator?

An Airport Equipment Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining various types of heavy equipment used in airport operations. This may include snowplows, baggage tugs, aircraft tugs, de-icing vehicles, and other specialized machinery. Their duties often involve ensuring runways, taxiways, and other airport areas remain safe and functional in all weather conditions. They must follow strict safety protocols and work closely with airport personnel to support smooth operations.

What does an airport equipment operator do?

A typical day for an Airport Equipment Operator involves operating a range of specialized vehicles and machinery to support airport ground operations, such as moving aircraft, handling baggage, clearing runways, or assisting with snow removal. You’ll work closely with other ground crew members, airline staff, and supervisors to ensure timely and safe execution of assigned tasks, often in a fast-paced, outdoor environment and in varying weather conditions. Schedules can include early mornings, nights, weekends, or holidays, depending on flight timetables and airport activity. While the work can be physically demanding and requires strict adherence to safety protocols, it offers the satisfaction of playing a crucial role in keeping airport operations running smoothly.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an airport equipment operator?

To thrive as an Airport Equipment Operator, you need practical experience operating heavy machinery, a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), and a thorough understanding of airport safety regulations. Familiarity with specialized airport equipment such as tugs, de-icers, snowplows, and baggage handling systems is often required, along with any necessary FAA or OSHA certifications. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication skills help ensure smooth coordination with ground crews and other airport staff. These competencies are vital to maintaining safe, efficient airport operations and minimizing disruptions to flight schedules.

What is the role of an airport equipment operator in an airport?

An airport equipment operator is responsible for operating and maintaining ground support equipment such as baggage loaders, aircraft tugs, and runway maintenance vehicles. They ensure safe and efficient movement of aircraft, luggage, and supplies on the tarmac, often working in shifts and following safety protocols. Certification and knowledge of equipment operation are typically required for this role.

What cities are hiring for Airport Equipment Operator jobs?

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What are the most commonly searched types of Airport Equipment Operator jobs?

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What states have the most Airport Equipment Operator jobs?

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Airport Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Airport Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,279 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Airport Equipment Operator

Monroe County, NY

Rochester, NY • On-site

$48K - $63K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Monroe County (New York) rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

595th of 846 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Location: Rochester, NY
Title: Airport Equipment Operator
Deadline: Until Filled
Salary: $48,010 - $63,587 annually
Agency/Dept.: Aviation
Description of Duties
This is a skilled position located at the Frederick Douglass - Greater Rochester International Airport. The employee is responsible for maintaining safe and efficient operation of special motor equipment and maintaining Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) required standards. The employee must operate small and large trucks including specialized airport maintenance equipment. This position may include exposure to adverse weather conditions, aircraft hazards, moving vehicles and heavy equipment at the job site. Duties also include performing a variety of manual and skilled tasks. This position reports directly to Airport Operations Supervisor or other higher- level employee. The employee may be required to be on twenty-four (24) hour call seven (7) days per week. Does related work as required.
Minimum Qualifications
Graduation from high school or possession of an equivalency diploma plus two (2) years paid full-time or its part-time equivalent experience in the operation of medium and large trucks and heavy motor equipment ORthe operation of heavy equipment and maintenance of grounds, runways, taxiway, ramps and roadways.
Possession of a valid Class *B* New York State Commercial Driver's License (CDL) at the time of appointment.

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