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Airport Ground Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Summary This position is responsible for overseeing and providing operational support to airport Ground Operations/Customer Service (Cross-Utilized) Agents consistent with the requirements of company ...

Summary This position is responsible for overseeing and providing operational support to airport Ground Operations/Customer Service (Cross-Utilized) Agents consistent with the requirements of company ...

Summary This position is responsible for overseeing and providing operational support to airport Ground Operations/Customer Service (Cross-Utilized) Agents consistent with the requirements of company ...

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Airport Ground Operations information

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$9

$24

$49

How much do airport ground operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for airport ground operations in the United States is $24.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive in Airport Ground Operations, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of aviation safety protocols, typically gained through specialized training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with ground handling equipment, baggage systems, and airline operations software is essential for daily tasks. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help professionals respond quickly to dynamic airport environments. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and coordinated ground services that support smooth airport and airline operations.

What is the airport ground staff salary?

Airport ground staff salaries typically range from $25,000 to $45,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and specific responsibilities. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced staff or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Benefits often include shift differentials and overtime pay.

What is the difference between Airport Ground Operations vs Airport Ramp Agent?

AspectAirport Ground OperationsAirport Ramp Agent
CertificationsTypically requires security and safety training, sometimes a valid driver’s licenseRequires security clearance, safety training, and often a valid driver’s license
Work EnvironmentIncludes baggage handling, aircraft servicing, coordinating ground supportPrimarily handles baggage, cargo, and aircraft servicing on the ramp
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly across airlines, ground service providers, airportsPrimarily employed by airlines and ground handling companies

Both roles involve working on the airport tarmac and require safety certifications. Airport Ground Operations is a broader role encompassing various ground services, while Airport Ramp Agents focus specifically on baggage handling and aircraft servicing on the ramp. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right position in airport ground services.

What are some common challenges faced by Airport Ground Operations staff, and how are they typically addressed?

Airport Ground Operations staff often face challenges such as tight turnaround times for aircraft, coordinating with multiple teams (baggage handlers, fueling, catering, etc.), and managing unexpected situations like flight delays or inclement weather. These challenges are addressed through strong communication, adherence to safety protocols, and effective teamwork. Many airports provide ongoing training and use real-time communication tools to help staff handle fast-paced and dynamic environments efficiently.

What are airport ground operations?

Airport ground operations refer to the wide range of activities that occur on the ground to support aircraft arrivals, departures, and maintenance. This includes tasks such as aircraft marshaling, baggage handling, fueling, catering, de-icing, and coordinating with air traffic control. Ground operations staff ensure that planes are serviced, loaded, and ready for safe and timely departures, while also maintaining safety standards and efficient turnaround times. Their work is crucial for the smooth functioning of airport operations and passenger satisfaction.

What is the highest paid position at an airport?

The highest paid positions in airport ground operations are typically airport executives such as airport directors or chief operating officers, who oversee overall airport management and operations. These roles often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and sometimes advanced certifications, and they can earn six-figure salaries. Other high-paying roles related to ground operations include airline executives and specialized safety or security managers.

What are top 3 skills for airport ground staff?

Airport ground staff need strong communication skills to coordinate with team members and passengers, attention to detail for safety checks and baggage handling, and the ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment. Customer service skills are also essential to assist travelers effectively. Proficiency with safety procedures and relevant certifications may further enhance job performance.

What are ground operations in airports?

Ground operations in airports involve tasks performed on the ground to support aircraft movement, safety, and passenger services. This includes aircraft marshalling, baggage handling, fueling, catering, and coordinating with air traffic control. Ground staff must follow safety protocols and often work in shifts to ensure smooth airport functioning.
What cities are hiring for Airport Ground Operations jobs? Cities with the most Airport Ground Operations job openings:
What states have the most Airport Ground Operations jobs? States with the most job openings for Airport Ground Operations jobs include:
Infographic showing various Airport Ground Operations job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,239 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

AIRPORT OPERATIONS CONTROLLER I/II (DELEGATED) - KONA

State of Hawai'i

Honolulu, HI

$4.1K - $5.5K/mo

Other

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Recruitment Information Recruitment Number: DOT-AIR-2026-27 Salary: Airport Operations Controller I: $4,139 to $4,899 per month (SR-12, Steps C to I) - Salary includes shortage category differential. Airport Operations Controller II: $4,499 to $5,311 per month (SR-14, Steps C to I) - Salary includes shortage category differential. Note: Hiring rates will be based on availability of funds, the applicant's qualifications and other relevant factors.

Shift Work: All applicants must be available to work rotating shifts, including evenings, weekends and holidays. This job posting is for the State of Hawaii, Department of Transportation (DOT). If you have any questions regarding this civil service recruitment, contact the DOT Personnel Office at (808) 587-2145, Monday - Friday, 7:45 am - 4:30 pm (HST).

The Department of Human Resources Development- State Recruiting Office will refer all inquiries regarding this recruitment to the DOT Personnel Office. Duties Summary The Airport Operations Controller I receives on-the-job training in airport ground operations control work; participates in orientation and formal training sessions; studies operating policies and procedures; carries out specified instructions; and works with higher level personnel. This is the entry level trainee class in the series.

The Airport Operations Controller II controls aircraft parking and movement, enforces regulations and operates radio communications to maintain safety and operational efficiency in airport ground operations areas; and maintains logs and records, prepares reports and tabulates aircraft revenue landings. Work is subject to periodic review for adherence to instructions and the correctness of decisions in situations requiring tact and forcefulness. To view the Class Specification in its entirety, please CLICK HERE.

Minimum Qualification Requirements To qualify, applicants must meet ALL of the following requirements: General Experience: Two (2) years of work experience which demonstrates the following abilities: (1) meet and deal effectively with people; (2) understand and apply various rules and regulations; (3) prepare reports; and (4) act effectively in emergencies. Specialized Experience: Work experience in airport ground operations control work which included the (1) assignment and control of aircraft parking positions; (2) direction and control of the movement of aircraft and vehicles on the ramp; (3) inspection of runways and (4) inspection of airfields and aircraft parking ramps and (5) enforcement of aircraft and vehicular operational rules and regulations. Airport Operations Controller I: Does not require any Specialized Experience.

Airport Operations Controller II: Requires one (1) year of Specialized Experience Driver's License: Applicants must possess a valid driver's license at the time of appointment. Security Identification Display Area (SIDA) Clearance - Federal Criminal History Records Check: In accordance with Federal regulations, persons who are being considered for employment in positions which require unescorted access to secured areas at the airport must undergo a pre-employment fingerprint-based criminal history record check. In order to be granted the SIDA clearance, prospective employees must not have been convicted, or found "not guilty by reason of insanity," of a disqualifying criminal offense within ten years from the date of the application.

Upon recommendation for hire, prospective employees will be required to successfully undergo the fingerprint-based criminal history record check and be found free of disqualifying convictions during the preceding ten years. The information provided above represents a summary of the complete Minimum Qualification Requirements. To view the Minimum Requirements in their entirety, please CLICK HERE.

LEGAL AUTHORIZATION TO WORK: The State of Hawaii requires all persons seeking employment with the government of the State shall be citizens, nationals, or permanent resident aliens of the United States, or eligible under federal law for unrestricted employment in the United States. Other Information Other Information The State of Hawai'i complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If you require reasonable accommodation in completing an application, any pre-employment testing, or otherwise participating in the selection process, please call the DOT Personnel Office at (808) 587-2145 for assistance.

ELECTRONIC NOTIFICATION TO APPLICANTS The Department of Transportation will use electronic mail (email) to notify applicants of important information relating to the status and processing of their applications. Please ensure that the email address and contact information you provide is current, secure, and readily accessible to you. We will not be responsible in any way if you do not receive our emails or fail to check your email-box in a timely manner.

In addition, please be aware that you may no longer receive notification about applications submitted if you choose to disable the Job Application Emails feature in your Account Settings. TESTING INFORMATION The examination for this recruitment will be conducted on an unassembled basis where the examination score is based on an evaluation and rating of your education and experience. It is therefore important that your employment application provide a clear and detailed description of the duties and responsibilities of each position you held.

In-person interviews and/or further testing in Hawaii may be required at the discretion of the hiring agency. If in-person interviews and/or further testing is a requirement, applicants who meet the minimum qualification requirements and are referred to the vacancy must be available to participate in person and at their own expense in this required phase of the selection process. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible.

In addition to employment availability and score, the referral of qualified applicants may be based upon other factors including date of receipt of application. PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS (PSLF) PROGRAM The PSLF Program is a federal program that is intended to encourage individuals to work in public service by forgiving the balance of their federal student loans. To qualify, the individual must have made 120 qualifying payments while employed by a qualifying employer.

For more information, please click: Public Service Loan Forgiveness | Federal Student Aid CLICK HERE for further information about Equal Employment Opportunity, the Merit Civil Service System, Citizenship and other requirements, Reasonable Accommodation, Veterans Preference, Examination Requirements, and the DOT Personnel Office's Levels of Review.