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Flight Line Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aircraft Mechanic I (Flight Line)

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$30.50 - $40/hr

... operating condition, specialize in work, repair and modification of structural, precision, and ... Previously certified Collateral Duty Inspector (CDI) for Line and/or Power Plants * Completed NATEC ...

Aircraft Mechanic I (H-1 Flight Line)

Yuma, AZ · On-site

$28.50 - $37.50/hr

Job Title: Aircraft Mechanic I (H-1 Flight Line) Location: VMX-1 Yuma, AZ Task Description ... operating condition, specialize in work, repair and modification of structural, precision, and ...

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Flight Line Operator information

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$11

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$22

How much do flight line operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight line operator in the United States is $18.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Flight Line Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flight Line Operator, you need a good understanding of aircraft operations, safety protocols, and basic mechanical knowledge, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant aviation certifications. Familiarity with ground support equipment, fueling systems, and radio communication tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong teamwork, and effective communication skills help operators manage fast-paced environments and coordinate with pilots and ground staff. These skills ensure the safe, efficient handling of aircraft and contribute to the overall safety and reliability of airfield operations.

What are some typical challenges Flight Line Operators face during daily operations?

Flight Line Operators often work in dynamic and sometimes fast-paced environments, where they must balance multiple tasks such as marshaling aircraft, refueling, and performing safety checks. Common challenges include adapting to changing weather conditions, maintaining clear communication with pilots and ground crew, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Staying vigilant and organized is essential to ensure smooth operations and prevent accidents. Collaboration with other team members and flexibility in handling unexpected situations are key to success in this role.

What are Flight Line Operators?

Flight Line Operators are specialized personnel responsible for the daily operations and safety of aircraft on the ground at airports or airfields. Their duties typically include marshaling aircraft, fueling, towing, performing safety inspections, and assisting pilots and crew with pre-flight and post-flight procedures. They play a crucial role in ensuring that aircraft are properly maintained and ready for safe departures and arrivals. Flight Line Operators must follow strict safety protocols and often work in varying weather conditions. Their work is essential for the smooth and efficient operation of airport ground services.

What is the difference between Flight Line Operator vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectFlight Line OperatorAircraft Maintenance Technician
CertificationsTypically requires FAA certifications or equivalentRequires FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, airport tarmac, aircraft rampIndoor hangars, maintenance facilities
Job FocusAircraft movement, safety checks, ground operationsRepair, inspection, and maintenance of aircraft
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, military, cargo carriersAircraft repair stations, airlines, military

While both roles involve working with aircraft, Flight Line Operators focus on ground operations and aircraft movement, whereas Aircraft Maintenance Technicians handle repairs and maintenance. The certifications and work environments differ, but both are essential in aviation safety and operations.

More about Flight Line Operator jobs
Infographic showing various Flight Line Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 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 $37,697 per year, or $18.1 per hour.
AFCAP V: Kuwait SWA Transient Aircraft Services Technician (Secret Clearance)

AFCAP V: Kuwait SWA Transient Aircraft Services Technician (Secret Clearance)

KBR

Michigan City, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


KBR rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 351 rated engineering


Job description

Title:

AFCAP V: Kuwait SWA Transient Aircraft Services Technician (Secret Clearance)

Belong, Connect, Grow, withKBR!

Program Summary

KBR, through the AFCAP V Program,assiststhe U.S. Air Force by offering Southwest Asia Transient Aircraft Services (SWA TAS). These servicesfacilitateessentialaircraftarrivals and departuresservicesfor United States and Coalition Forces. Alongside SWA Transient Aircraft Services, KBR delivers Engineering Support, NTV Leasing, LAMS, Power Production, BOS-I, and a range of quality-of-life solutions that help sustain base operations.

Job Summary

The Transient Aircraft Services (TAS) Technicianis responsible forthe execution ofaircraftground handling and servicing operations at an assigned installation. Reporting directly to the Supervisor, the TAS Technician performsaircraftarrival, marshaling, parking, servicing, turn-around, and departure tasks in support of mission requirements.

This position ensures allaircraftservicing activities are conducted safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with the Performance Work Statement (PWS), applicable Technical Orders, airfield safety standards, and U.S. Government/U.S. Air Force directives. The TAS Technician is accountable formaintainingoperational readiness, adhering to strict safety protocols, and supporting continuous 24/7/365 flight line operations in a high-tempo, austere environment.

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Maintain a ZERO Harm workplace by strictly adhering to all flight line safety requirements, including FOD prevention, tool control, and proper use of PPEat all times.

  • Performaircraftmarshaling, parking, and positioningin accordance withapplicable Technical Orders and airfield procedures.

  • Executeaircraftarrival and departure services, includingchocking, grounding, and ensuring safe positioning on the flight line.

  • Conductaircraftservicing operations, including general ground handling tasks required to supportaircraftturn-around and mission readiness.

  • Assistinaircraftlaunch and recovery operations in coordination with Supervisors and Airfield Management.

  • Perform operator-level inspections and servicing of assigned equipment, including vehicles and support equipment used in TAS operations.

  • Maintain strict accountability of tools and equipment;ensure compliance with tool control programs at all times.

  • Participate in FOD prevention activities, including routine flight line inspections and immediate removal of foreign objects.

  • Follow all applicable Technical Orders, safety directives, and standard operating procedures during allaircraftservicing operations.

  • Communicate effectively with Supervisors and team members to ensure safe and efficient execution of tasks.

  • Identifyand report safety hazards, equipment malfunctions, and operational issues to leadershipimmediately.

  • Support documentation requirements, includingaircraftservicing records, shift logs, and inspection checklists.

  • Assistinmaintainingcleanliness and organization of the flight line and work areas.

  • Support training and qualification requirements tomaintainmission readiness and compliance with certification standards.

  • Perform duties in austere conditions, including extreme weather, whilemaintainingsafety and operational discipline.

  • Performadditionalduties andtasks asassigned by the Supervisor or Site Manager.

Basic Qualifications

  • Must be a U.S. citizen

  • Ability to obtain/maintaina SECRET clearance

  • Ability tomaintainoperational continuity across rotations and work within Government-led governance rhythms

  • Minimum 3-5 years of experience in aviation operations,aircraftmaintenance, or Transient Aircraft Services

  • Hands-on experience working on a flight line or inaircraftground operations

Basic knowledge of:

  • Aircraftmarshaling and ground handling procedures

  • Flight line safety requirements

  • Use of ground support equipment

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior experience supporting U.S. Air Force TAS operations

  • FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification or equivalent military experience

  • Familiarity with FOD programs, tool control, and flight line safety compliance

  • Experience coordinating with MOC, Airfield Management, andaircraftmaintenance teams.

KBR Benefits

KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.


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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998