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Entry Level Aerostat Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... entry level Aerostat Operator with experience in supporting line handling operations to support the DHS Customs & Border Protection Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS) program. The TARS program ...

... entry level Aerostat Operator with experience in supporting line handling operations to support the DHS Customs & Border Protection Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS) program. The TARS program ...

TARS General Maintenance Worker C Speed, LLC 316 Commerce Blvd, Liverpool, NY 13088 POSITION TYPE Full - Time LOCATION(s) Marfa, TX OVERVIEW C Speed, LLC is seeking an entry level Aerostat Operator ...

Position Overview QinetiQ US is seeking an entry level Aerostat Operator with experience in supporting line handling operations to support the DHS Customs & Border Protection Tethered Aerostat Radar ...

Entry Level Aerostat Operator information

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$12

$17

$21

How much do entry level aerostat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level aerostat operator in the United States is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level aerostat operators?

Entry level aerostat operators are professionals responsible for launching, operating, and maintaining aerostats, which are large, tethered balloons used for surveillance, communications, or research purposes. They monitor the aerostat’s systems, ensure it remains safely tethered, and collect data or imagery as required by their mission. These operators typically work under the supervision of experienced personnel and must follow strict safety and operational protocols. Entry-level positions often require basic technical skills, attention to detail, and on-the-job training to handle the specialized equipment involved.

What is the difference between Entry Level Aerostat Operator vs Ballonet Technician?

AspectEntry Level Aerostat OperatorBallonet Technician
CertificationsBasic FAA certifications, safety trainingFAA certifications, specialized training in aerostat systems
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, near launch sites, variable weatherIndoor/outdoor, maintenance facilities, field sites
Industry UsageAdvertising, surveillance, researchMaintenance and repair of aerostat systems

Entry Level Aerostat Operators and Ballonet Technicians both work in the aerostat industry, often at the same sites. While operators focus on flying and operating the balloons, technicians handle maintenance and repairs. Both roles require FAA certifications and safety training, but technicians typically need specialized technical skills. The roles are complementary, with operators managing flight operations and technicians ensuring equipment functionality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Aerostat Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Aerostat Operator, you need a basic understanding of aerostat systems, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with ground control stations, navigation tools, and safety protocols is important, and some roles may require specific training or certification in unmanned systems. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork abilities help operators respond effectively to real-time challenges. These skills ensure the safe and efficient operation of aerostats, vital for surveillance, data collection, and mission success.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Entry Level Aerostat Operator, and how do they contribute to team operations?

As an Entry Level Aerostat Operator, your daily tasks typically include launching, monitoring, and recovering the aerostat, as well as performing routine maintenance checks and troubleshooting minor technical issues. You will also be responsible for monitoring sensor data and communicating with team members to relay important information. Collaboration is key, as you often work closely with technical specialists, security personnel, and supervisors to ensure safe and effective aerostat operations. Your role directly supports mission objectives by providing real-time surveillance and situational awareness to the team.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Aerostat Operator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Aerostat Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aerostat Operator jobs? The most popular types of Aerostat Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Aerostat Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,327 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
General Maintenance Worker

General Maintenance Worker

C Speed LLC

Marfa, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
TARS General Maintenance Worker C Speed, LLC
316 Commerce Blvd, Liverpool, NY 13088
POSITION TYPE
Full - Time
LOCATION(s)
Marfa, TX
OVERVIEW
C Speed, LLC is seeking an entry level Aerostat Operator with experience in supporting line handling operations to support the DHS Customs & Border Protection Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS) program. The TARS program leverages aerostat systems to provide persistent surveillance and detection capabilities, to the U.S. Government customer across eight (8) different operational sites along the US Southern border in multiple locations including Puerto Rico, Florida, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.
The successful candidate will have experience supporting aerostat flight operations on platforms similar in size to the TARS aerostats. You will be part of a comprehensive flight crew activity supporting aerostat pre-launch, launch, ascent, transition, station keeping, and recovery. Secondary responsibilities will include performing recurring equipment maintenance on aerostat and radar systems, as well as support functions related to site operations (such as security, landscaping, and logistical functions. A summary of responsibilities are as follows:
POSITION SUMMARY
• Flight Crew Member (pre/post flight, launch/recovery, helium toppings, snubbing, inflations/ deflations, tether inspections, proficiency in all emergency procedures for both moored and airborne flight aerostat operations)
• Under supervision, perform corrective and preventive maintenance activities on the aerostat pressure control subsystems, power subsystems, mechanical and hydraulic subsystems, aerostat hardware and rigging, tether subsystem, and aerostat envelope.
• Assists with all aerostat system pre-flight and post-flight checks and aerostat system inspections as required.
• Maintain, troubleshoot and repair:
o Aerostat structures, hydraulic systems, fiber optic components, avionics, and electrical components.
o Ground systems such as generators, communication, and weather systems
o Maintains cognizance of system performance.
• Operate general purpose and special purpose vehicles to include man lift operations to heights of 150 feet.
• Works in exterior and interior work environments, sometimes in inclement weather.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Secondary Duties include:
• Maintain and understand site documentation such as parts request forms, equipment condition tags, timecards, and flight data and maintenance logs.
• Coordinates resupply and repair logistics activities for the aerostat subsystems.
• Trains and certifies other personnel in selected aerostat subsystem procedures.
• Supports all security, logistics, and site-specific requirements as directed when not in conflict with primary electrical maintenance responsibilities.
SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS
• GED or High School Diploma.
• 1 Year experience in a technical related field.
• Ability to obtain flight operator certification.
• Valid U.S. Driver's license required.
• Strong written and communication skills
• Must be willing to work in a 24/7 shift scenario and be assigned to various shifts as required to meet mission requirements.
• Proof of U.S. residency required.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Experience performing technical maintenance repair operations.
• Prior Aerostat Operator experience of any size Aerostat.
COMPENSATION
• Salary competitive, commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive benefits package
ARE YOU INTERESTED?
Then join the team! We look forward to receiving your online application. For more information about C Speed, LLC and additional job opportunities, please visit our website: https://www.cspeed.com/ .
C Speed provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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About C SPEED

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Liverpool, NY, US

Year founded

2006

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