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Entry Level Apron Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Apron Controller information

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$20

$28

$32

How much do entry level apron controller jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level apron controller in the United States is $28.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.20 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can a 35 year old become an air traffic controller?

Entry Level Apron Controller roles are typically related to airport ground operations and do not have strict age limits, but becoming an air traffic controller generally requires meeting specific eligibility criteria, including age restrictions that vary by country. In many regions, applicants must be under a certain age, often 30 or 31, at the time of training enrollment, so a 35-year-old may not qualify for traditional air traffic controller training programs. However, ground operations roles like apron controllers are accessible to a wider age range and focus on coordination and safety procedures.

What are Entry Level Apron Controllers?

Entry Level Apron Controllers are aviation professionals responsible for managing and coordinating aircraft movements on the airport apron, which is the area where aircraft are parked, loaded, unloaded, refueled, or boarded. They ensure that aircraft, vehicles, and personnel move safely and efficiently within this area, preventing collisions and minimizing delays. At the entry level, apron controllers work under supervision and gradually gain experience with the complexities of apron operations. Their role is essential to maintaining the overall safety and efficiency of airport ground operations.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Apron Controller, you need strong situational awareness, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of airport operations, often supported by completion of relevant aviation or air traffic control training. Familiarity with radio communication systems, airport movement area guidance, and airside safety protocols is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help you coordinate efficiently with pilots, ground staff, and other controllers. These competencies are vital to ensure safe, orderly, and efficient aircraft movements on the apron, minimizing risks and delays.

How to become an apron controller?

To become an apron controller, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have good communication and organizational skills. Training is usually provided on the job, and familiarity with airport operations and safety procedures is beneficial. Some positions may require certification or experience in aviation or logistics environments.

What is the difference between Entry Level Apron Controller vs Ramp Agent?

AspectEntry Level Apron ControllerRamp Agent
CertificationsTypically requires basic airport operations trainingUsually requires safety and equipment handling training
Work EnvironmentControls aircraft movements on the apron, coordinating with ground staffAssists with baggage handling, aircraft servicing, and loading
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, airports, ground handling companiesAirlines, ground services, airports

Entry Level Apron Controllers focus on managing aircraft movements on the apron, ensuring safety and coordination. Ramp Agents handle baggage, cargo, and aircraft servicing tasks. While both roles work in airport ground operations, the Apron Controller primarily oversees aircraft positioning, whereas Ramp Agents perform hands-on ground support activities.

Can you be an air traffic controller with no experience?

Entry level air traffic controllers typically need to complete specialized training and obtain certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or relevant authority. Prior experience in aviation or related fields is not usually required, but candidates must pass rigorous exams, background checks, and medical evaluations before starting training programs.

Did air traffic controllers get paid $10,000?

Entry level air traffic controllers typically do not earn $10,000 per month; their salaries usually start around $40,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on experience and location. As they gain experience and certifications, their pay increases significantly, often exceeding $100,000 annually. The job requires specialized training and certification through the Federal Aviation Administration or relevant authorities.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level apron controllers, and how can they be effectively managed?

Entry level apron controllers often face challenges such as managing multiple aircraft movements simultaneously, ensuring clear communication with pilots and ground staff, and adapting quickly to rapidly changing conditions on the apron. Effective time management, attention to detail, and maintaining situational awareness are crucial for success in this role. New controllers can benefit from mentorship, ongoing training, and regularly reviewing standard operating procedures to build confidence and competence in high-pressure situations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Apron Controller jobs? The most popular types of Apron Controller jobs are:
Entry Level Apron Controller jobs near you
Aerospace Production Worker - Entry Level 1st & 2nd Shifts

Aerospace Production Worker - Entry Level 1st & 2nd Shifts

SEKISUI Aerospace

Sumner, WA • On-site

$22.25 - $26.25/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Are you ready to launch your career in manufacturing? An exciting aerospace career awaits you in our Sumner, WA facility!


We are currently hiring for both 1st and 2nd shifts! 2nd shift receives a 10% shift differential.

1st Shift Schedule: 4:30 am – 3:00pm, Monday - Thursday

Pay: $22.25 - $26.25/hour, full-time non-exempt (DOE)

2nd Shift Schedule: 3:00pm - 1:30am, Monday - Thursday

Pay: $22.25 - $26.25/hour, full-time non-exempt (DOE) + 10% shift differential

About Us:

For over 30 years SEKISUI Aerospace has been designing, testing, and manufacturing composite products for the aerospace industry. With complete customer satisfaction as our focus and through the relentless efforts of our skilled employees, SEKISUI Aerospace has achieved and continues to maintain an unequaled level of performance.


Our consistent delivery of high-quality products demonstrates our intent, integrity, and dedication to our customers and to our reputation as a manufacturer. We will continue to insert intelligent automation into our manufacturing facilities, which will continue to drive the future of flight well into the next century.

Benefits:

  • Medical (free employee only coverage and low-cost options available)
  • Dental, Vision, Prescription
  • Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Company Sponsored 401k with Employer Match
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellness Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Discounts
  • 8 Paid Holidays plus closed (with pay) for a week during the winter break!
  • 15 days per year accrued Vacation/Sick time. Accrued time is available to use immediately!
  • Uncapped Employee Referral Program of up to $700 per qualified referral


What You'll Bring:

  • A strong work ethic and willingness to learn — no prior manufacturing experience required.
  • Ability to follow instructions and pay close attention to detail.
  • Comfort working on your feet and handling repetitive tasks.
  • A team-first attitude and reliability in attendance.
  • Safety first mentality


Why You'll Love It Here:

  • Paid, hands-on training to help you build your skills from day one.
  • Opportunities for advancement — many of our supervisors started in this role.
  • Competitive hourly pay, overtime opportunities, and shift differentials.
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance, plus a 401(k) with company match.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Ability to read and understand detailed instruction.
  • 0-2 years of relevant experience in a similar environment
  • Capability to use hand and power tools applicable to trade.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; verbal and written.


Experience:

  • One year of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities in a manufacturing (or similar) environment preferred.

Working Conditions:

While performing the typical duties of this job, employees will experience the conditions noted below. PPE is provided to protect employees against physical harm or hazards in the workplace environment.

  • Usually work indoors. These sites may not be temperature controlled
  • Exposure to loud sounds and distracting noise levels
  • Exposure to hazardous equipment
  • Exposure to contaminants
  • Shared workspaces with other employees
  • Requires handling objects of up to 30 lbs.
  • Lifting, pushing, pulling, and bending
  • Standing and/or walking for 8 to 12 or more hours per day (varies based on role, shift, and overtime)

Required PPE (Personal Protective Equipment):

Required PPE provided by SEKISUI Aerospace based on the employee’s position and exposure. Below are typical PPE used on the production floor. Appropriate PPE must be worn by all employees when on the production floor.

  • Ear Plugs - Earmuffs
  • Full Face Shield
  • Gloves (Latex, Rubber, Chemical Resistant, General Duty)
  • Protective Apron
  • Respirator
  • Safety Glasses - Safety Goggles

Other Duties:

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Pre-Employment Drug and Background Screenings:

SEKISUI Aerospace is a Drug-Free workplace. Pre-employment drug screen required.

Any applicant selected for this position will be required to submit to a background screening.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

SEKISUI Aerospace 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. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

People with Disabilities:

SEKISUI Aerospace is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact the human resources department at the appropriate SEKISUI Aerospace manufacturing site.

Please call if you need an accommodation:

Renton Operations, Corporate Headquarters: 425-235-2750

Sumner Operations: 253-863-7868

E-Verify Statement:

SEKISUI Aerospace is a federal contractor and is required to participate in the federal government’s E-Verify program. E-Verify allows us to confirm the employment authorization of newly hired employees through an electronic database maintained by the Social Security Administration and Department of Homeland Security. With respect to new hires, the E-Verify process must be completed in conjunction with a new hire’s completion of the Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, within three days of starting employment. For information regarding E-Verify, visit the E-Verify site.

Export Control Requirements:

This position must meet (ITAR) export control compliance requirements. To meet export control compliance requirements, a “U.S. Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.15 is required. “U.S. Person” includes U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.

Pay:

SEKISUI Aerospace is required by Washington law to include the pay for this role when hiring a Washington resident. Pay may be higher or lower for non-resident WA employees, based on the market data for their region, allowing us to pay employees competitively in different geographic markets.

Please note that the pay rate shown above is a general guideline only. Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Our Values:

The employees of SEKISUI Aerospace enjoy what we do and are dedicated to our seven corporate values. We promise to hold ourselves to these high standards and seek co-workers who are willing to join us in this task.

Learn more about us here: https://www.sekisuiaerospace.com/about

View all our job postings here: https://www.sekisuiaerospace.com/careers