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Airport Operations Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Work with the Station's Controller to ensure quick effective communication for all IROP's * In ... Safe operation of equipment required to move luggage/cargo, tow planes between gates and direct ...

Work with the Station's Controller to ensure quick effective communication for all IROP's * In ... Safe operation of equipment required to move luggage/cargo, tow planes between gates and direct ...

... and computer-controlled mechanical and utility systems. * Perform scheduled preventative ... Drive company vehicles as required to support FBO and airport operations. * Maintain accurate ...

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... controlled systems, sensors, and associated controls • Respond to equipment failures impacting gate availability and airport operations • Document work performed and corrective actions using a ...

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Airport Operations Controller information

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$35.5K

$107K

$161K

How much do airport operations controller jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for airport operations controller in the United States is $107,027.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,500.00 and $126,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job in an airport?

In airport operations, senior management roles such as Airport Director or Chief Operating Officer tend to be the highest paid positions, often earning six-figure salaries. These roles require extensive experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of airport regulations and operations.

How much does an airport controller earn?

An airport operations controller typically earns a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can increase with seniority and specialized skills such as radar or air traffic control training.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Airport Operations Controller?

Airport Operations Controllers are responsible for monitoring and coordinating airport activities to ensure efficient and safe operations on a daily basis. This includes managing aircraft and vehicle movements, responding to and reporting incidents, coordinating with airlines, ground staff, and air traffic control, and implementing emergency procedures when needed. You will also conduct regular inspections of runways and taxiways, oversee compliance with safety regulations, and maintain thorough records of events and operations. The work environment is fast-paced and demands constant attention to detail, teamwork, and quick decision-making. It's a highly collaborative role requiring coordination across multiple airport departments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Airport Operations Controller position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Airport Operations Controller, you need a solid understanding of airport operations, safety regulations, and incident management, often supported by a relevant degree or aviation industry experience. Familiarity with airport management systems, scheduling tools, and communication protocols such as NOTAMs and radio-based communication is essential. Strong decision-making, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication are vital soft skills for coordinating activities and responding to dynamic situations. These skills ensure the smooth, safe, and efficient operation of airport functions, even during times of high pressure or unexpected disruptions.

What is the highest paid position at an airport?

The highest paid positions at airports are typically executive roles such as Airport Director or Chief Operating Officer, who oversee overall airport operations and strategic planning. These roles often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and sometimes advanced certifications, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the airport size and location.

What is an airport operations controller?

An airport operations controller is responsible for coordinating and monitoring daily airport activities to ensure safety, security, and efficiency. They communicate with airline staff, ground crews, and air traffic control, often using radio and computer systems, and typically require certification and knowledge of aviation regulations.

What is an Airport Operations Controller job?

An Airport Operations Controller is responsible for monitoring and coordinating various airport activities to ensure safe and efficient operations. They oversee airfield and terminal conditions, communicate with airlines and air traffic control, and respond to emergencies or disruptions. Their role involves ensuring compliance with airport regulations, coordinating ground services, and assisting in scheduling and resource management. This position requires strong problem-solving skills, communication abilities, and knowledge of aviation regulations.

What cities are hiring for Airport Operations Controller jobs? Cities with the most Airport Operations Controller job openings:
What states have the most Airport Operations Controller jobs? States with the most job openings for Airport Operations Controller jobs include:
Supervisor - Catering Operations & Logistics

Supervisor - Catering Operations & Logistics

United Airlines, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


United Airlines rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 337 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 26 rated airlines


Job description

Description
Why Inflight Services?
Our customers choose United because of our dedication to safety and passion for service. United's Inflight Services team is made up of diverse, driven individuals working together to Connect People and Unite the World. From operational leadership and crew planning to safety and service procedures, our Inflight Services team provides the innovative approaches, tools, training and guidance needed for our flight attendants to deliver the best possible customer experience, and aid in our mission to become the best airline in the history of aviation.
Job overview and responsibilitie
The Catering Operations Supervisor serves as Manager on Duty (MOD), providing frontline oversight of catering kitchen operations during assigned shifts. This role ensures safe, timely, and high-quality execution of meal production and aircraft departures while coordinating real-time operational changes. This is a hands-on leadership role suited for an early-career operations professional with 2-3 years of experience in a fast-paced, shift-based environment.
  • Shift Leadership & Operational Execution
    • Embedded in caterer operation to monitor daily performance and address delays, service issues, and safety incidents to mitigate risk to United's operation
    • Serve as MOD, overseeing vendor kitchen operations during assigned shifts, with routine driving between catering facilities and on-airport presence
    • Ensure production readiness, food safety and safety compliance, quality standards, and on-time departures
    • Develop clear communication channels with vendor caterer and United operational teams
    • Coordinate IRROPS event response in real time
    • Complete required reporting and escalate operational risks as needed
  • Performance, Auditing & Regulatory Compliance
    • Lead root cause reviews and support corrective actions in partnership with corporate and catering safety & food safety teams
    • Conduct regular audits ensuring compliance with Catering Operations Business Manual, United Airlines Safety Standards, and other regulatory requirements
    • Support investigations into safety incidents including corrective action planning
    • Facilitate partnership with United Airlines Food Safety and operational Safety/Security teams
    • Promote safety awareness and ensure regulatory and food safety compliance
  • Cross-functional Collaboration
    • Serve as a supporting liaison between Catering vendor and local airport personnel including Inflight, Airport Operations and other similar groups
    • Support meetings, channels of communication and other forums for robust information sharing and planning at the local level
    • Serve as point of escalation and support for Catering vendors
    • Serve as consultant and subject matter expert as needed providing guidance and advice to catering partners and local operating groups
    • Coach frontline teams on processes and catering technology systems
    • Regularly interface with field and CSC-based Catering leadership teams, to provide for adequate situational awareness and obtain support as needed
  • Change Management
    • Provide direct support to catering partners on-site in the kitchens for new initiatives such as technology enhancements, changes to United's performance management system, new process adoption, etc
    • Partner with CSC and leadership teams to support change management and communication plans for initiatives
    • Provide on-site support and monitoring of adoption and success for new initiatives
    • Coordinate execution of new menu concepts and service enhancements

Qualifications
What's needed to succeed (Minimum Qualifications):
  • Bachelor's degree or 4 years of relevant work experience
  • Business, Operations, Engineering or Related Fields
  • Minimum 2 years equivalent or similar work experience
  • Strong decision-making and communication skills
  • Ability to work flexible schedule to cover operationally critical days of week, rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays
  • Advanced skills in Microsoft Office suite
  • Must possess exceptional planning and organizational skills, along with strong written and oral communication skills
  • Proven track record to work independently, in controlled and uncontrolled operation environments, and in a team environment
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship
  • Successful completion of interview required to meet job qualification
  • Reliable, punctual attendance is an essential function of the position

What will help you propel from the pack (Preferred Qualifications):
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Safety Management systems
  • HACCP, PCQI or equivalent food safety certificates
  • 2+ years of vendor management, airline catering, airport operations
  • Prior team lead or supervisory experience preferred

What United Airlines employees say

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United Airlines logo

About United Airlines

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

United Airlines is embarking on an exciting journey to become the best airline in aviation history. Our purpose, "Connecting People, Uniting the World," extends beyond transportation, emphasizing our commitment to uplift and create opportunities in the places we serve. With a global presence and diverse workforce, we value inclusivity and are dedicated to hiring tens of thousands of individuals across various roles. Our comprehensive benefits package, including perks like space available travel, parental leave, and 401k, aims to support your well-being and growth.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1926

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