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Airport Ramp Tower Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Robinson Aviation

Ramp Controller

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$40.17/hr

... of the airport, utilizing surveillance radar-like targets and camera imagery. Dimensions of Position Incumbent works under the general supervision of the Ramp Tower Manager who relies on the ...

Robinson Aviation

Ramp Controller

Kansas City, MO · On-site

... of the airport, utilizing surveillance radar-like targets and camera imagery. Dimensions of Position Incumbent works under the general supervision of the Ramp Tower Manager who relies on the ...

Dynamic Science Inc

Ramp Controller Amazon

Hebron, KY · On-site

Maintains a daily log on operation of the Airports Authority Ramp Tower facilities; uses radios and telephones to determine priority for aircraft gate snow removal operation, control snow removal ...

Dynamic Science Inc

Ramp Controller Amazon

Hebron, KY · On-site

Maintains a daily log on operation of the Airports Authority Ramp Tower facilities; uses radios and telephones to determine priority for aircraft gate snow removal operation, control snow removal ...

Denver Int'l. Airport

$68K - $91K/yr

... Ramp Tower, Operations Administration, and close coordination with airport safety, maintenance, technical operations, airlines, federal partners, public safety agencies, contractors, and tenants. At ...

New

Denver

$68K - $91K/yr

... Ramp Tower, Operations Administration, and close coordination with airport safety, maintenance, technical operations, airlines, federal partners, public safety agencies, contractors, and tenants. At ...

New

City of Midland

Airport Operations Agent

Midland, TX

$58K/yr

Coordinates with the air traffic control tower in order to escort personnel and equipment on the ... temporary ramp permits. Issues notices to airmen (NOTAMS) on airfield conditions. Responds to ...

City of Midland, TX

Airport Operations Agent

Midland, TX · On-site

$58K/yr

Coordinates with the air traffic control tower in order to escort personnel and equipment on the ... ramp permits. * Issues notices to airmen (NOTAMS) on airfield conditions. * Responds to questions ...

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How much do airport ramp tower jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for airport ramp tower in the United States is $16.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Airport Ramp Tower vs Airport Ground Controller?

AspectAirport Ramp TowerAirport Ground Controller
CertificationsFAA Tower Certification, Ramp Safety TrainingFAA Ground Control Certification, Airport Operations Training
Work EnvironmentAirport ramp area, aircraft marshalling, vehicle coordinationAirport apron, taxiways, ground movement coordination
Job FocusAircraft movement on ramp, marshalling, safetyGround traffic, aircraft pushback, taxi clearance

Both roles involve airport ground operations but differ in focus. Airport Ramp Tower primarily manages aircraft on the ramp, ensuring safe marshalling and movement. Airport Ground Controller oversees broader ground traffic, including taxiways and pushback procedures. While certifications and work environments overlap, their specific responsibilities distinguish them within airport operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Airport Ramp Tower Controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Airport Ramp Tower Controller, you need strong situational awareness, attention to detail, and a background in aviation operations, often supported by relevant certifications or on-the-job training. Familiarity with radio communication systems, airport ground movement software, and standard operating procedures is essential. Exceptional communication, teamwork, and decision-making skills are crucial for coordinating with pilots, ground crews, and other controllers. These abilities are vital for ensuring the safe, efficient, and timely movement of aircraft on the ramp, minimizing delays and preventing accidents.

What is the highest paid position at an airport?

The highest paid positions at airports are typically executive roles such as airport directors or chief operating officers, who oversee 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.

Do ramp agents make a lot of money?

Ramp agents at airports typically earn hourly wages that are close to minimum wage or slightly above, with annual salaries often ranging from $25,000 to $40,000 depending on experience and location. They may receive benefits such as health insurance and overtime pay, but overall, the position is considered an entry-level job with moderate pay. Advancement opportunities and additional certifications can lead to higher earnings.

What are some typical challenges faced by an Airport Ramp Tower Controller, and how can they be managed effectively?

Airport Ramp Tower Controllers often face challenges such as managing high volumes of aircraft during peak times, coordinating with multiple teams (pilots, ground crews, air traffic control), and responding quickly to unexpected changes like weather delays or equipment issues. Effective communication and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential skills in this environment. Regular collaboration with other airport departments and ongoing training in safety protocols also help ensure efficient and safe ramp operations.

What is an Airport Ramp Tower?

An Airport Ramp Tower is a facility located at airports, typically on or near the apron (ramp) area, where personnel oversee and coordinate the movement of aircraft on the ground, specifically between the terminal gates and the taxiways. Ramp tower controllers help ensure safe and efficient ground operations by managing aircraft pushbacks, parking, and ground traffic flow to prevent collisions or delays. They work in close communication with air traffic control and ground crews. This role is crucial for maintaining safety and efficiency during busy periods and in complex airport layouts.

How to become an airport tower operator?

To become an airport tower operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training provided by the Federal Aviation Administration or relevant authority. They must pass written and practical exams, gain certification, and often have prior experience in air traffic control or related fields. Strong communication, decision-making skills, and the ability to work under pressure are essential in this role.

Is an airport ramp agent a hard job?

Airport ramp agents perform physically demanding tasks such as loading and unloading luggage, operating ground equipment, and working outdoors in various weather conditions. The job requires good physical stamina, attention to safety procedures, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, which can make it challenging for some individuals.
What are the most commonly searched types of Airport Ramp Tower jobs? The most popular types of Airport Ramp Tower jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Airport Ramp Tower jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Airport Ramp Tower jobs are:
Airport Ramp Tower jobs near you
Infographic showing various Airport Ramp Tower 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 $34,748 per year, or $16.7 per hour.
Ramp Controller

Ramp Controller

Robinson Aviation

Fort Lauderdale, FL • On-site

$40.17/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Air Traffic Controller

Incumbent is responsible for the safe, orderly and expeditious flow of air traffic on the non-movement areas of the airport, utilizing surveillance radar-like targets and camera imagery.

Dimensions of Position

Incumbent works under the general supervision of the Ramp Tower Manager who relies on the incumbent to perform established duties independently. On new or revised procedures, the manager gives detailed instructions and observes and checks work during or immediately after completion according to complexity of the task or until satisfied the incumbent is able to perform the procedure independently.

Accountability

  1. Makes decisions involving:
    1. The sequence and separation of gate traffic ready for pushback and engine start.
    2. Plans the sequence of arriving traffic, using provided electronic aids, prior to arrival at the airport.
    3. The merging of arriving and pushback traffic that will assure all aircraft equitable treatment and provide for minimum delays.
  2. Determines the usability of and resolves problems with:
    1. Communications equipment
    2. Video Camera displays (radar and imagery)
    3. STARS (radar) display
    4. ASDE-X (radar) display
    5. Gate Management computer programs
  3. The Ramp Tower is a positive control facility. Incumbent will be required to instruct aircraft how and when to push-back, instruct aircraft when to taxi, who to follow, taxi route, intermediate hold points, route clearance limit, and frequency transfer points.
  4. Incumbent will initiate, and respond to, necessary coordination with the FAA ATCT Ground Control Position concerning the movements of inbound and outbound aircraft.
  5. Execute procedures required of the local Surface Movement Guidance and Control System Plan (SMGCS) during periods of reduced visibility, execution of the local Ice Threat Management Plan during periods of aircraft anti-icing, and the local Gate Hold program when initiated by the ATCT.
  6. Provide flight crews with, when required, field conditions, altimeter settings, weather conditions, operating status of navigational aids and NOTAMS. Provide the ATCT with pilot reported adverse weather, bird activity and unsafe or unusual airport activities or conditions.
  7. Determine whether a given situation is or may develop into an emergency; and notifies, via "Crash Phone", emergency services.
  8. Performs lower grade level duties as necessary to meet operational requirements and for proficiency maintenance.
  9. Provides OJT training to others.

Requirements

Education: High School Graduate

Experience: Previous aviation experience is desired as a minimum i.e. airline dispatcher, pilot, air traffic controller, experience handling aircraft on the airport ramp. Position is subject to drug and/or alcohol testing per RVA's non-DOT policy (pre-employment, random, reasonable cause/suspicion, post-accident).

Pay: $40.17

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