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Flight Line Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maytag Aircraft

The Driver/System Operator (DSO) will operate refueling and defueling trucks in support of aviation ... DSO's shall pass a base and flight-line familiarization test, a practical equipment/facility ...

Wing

sUAS Flight Operator (FTC)

Dallas, TX

You will be a line sUAS Flight Operator for Wing's Part 135 commercial drone delivery service in the US operating out of our Dallas Fort Worth area operations center. Working with a team of ...

Anduril

Flight Test Operator

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

Flight Test Operator Costa Mesa, California, United States Anduril Industries is a defense ... Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations. Operating in an extremely innovative and fast-paced ...

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Flight Line Operator information

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How much do flight line operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 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 does a flight operator do?

A flight line operator is responsible for the safe and efficient movement, inspection, and maintenance of aircraft on the flight line. They perform tasks such as fueling, towing, and ensuring aircraft are ready for flight, often working with ground support equipment and following safety protocols. Certification and knowledge of aviation safety standards are typically required for this role.

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 is the highest paying flight job?

The highest paying flight jobs are typically airline captains and senior airline pilots, especially those flying large commercial aircraft. These roles require extensive experience, advanced certifications such as an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license, and often involve long hours and irregular schedules. Salaries for these positions can exceed $200,000 annually depending on the airline and region.

What is a flight line agent?

A flight line agent is responsible for guiding aircraft on the tarmac, performing safety checks, fueling, and ensuring proper movement during aircraft turnaround. They typically work outdoors in airport environments and may need certifications such as ground handling or safety training. Attention to detail and communication skills are essential for this role.

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 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.

How much do flight line workers make?

Flight line operators typically earn an average hourly wage ranging from $15 to $25, depending on experience, location, and employer. Salaries can increase with certifications, specialized skills, and overtime work in military or commercial aviation settings.

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.
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Flight Line Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Line Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% 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

Belmont, NC • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 357 rated engineering

Job description

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

Belong, Connect, Grow, with KBR!

KBR, through the AFCAP V Program, assists the U.S. Air Force by offering Southwest Asia Transient Aircraft Services (SWA TAS). These services facilitate essential aircraft arrivals and departures services for 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.

The Transient Aircraft Services (TAS) Technician is responsible for the execution of aircraft ground handling and servicing operations at an assigned installation. Reporting directly to the Supervisor, the TAS Technician performs aircraft arrival, marshaling, parking, servicing, turn-around, and departure tasks in support of mission requirements.

This position ensures all aircraft servicing 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 for maintaining operational 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 PPE at all times.
  • Perform aircraft marshaling, parking, and positioning in accordance with applicable Technical Orders and airfield procedures.
  • Execute aircraft arrival and departure services, including chocking, grounding, and ensuring safe positioning on the flight line.
  • Conduct aircraft servicing operations, including general ground handling tasks required to support aircraft turn-around and mission readiness.
  • Assist in aircraft launch 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 all aircraft servicing operations.
  • Communicate effectively with Supervisors and team members to ensure safe and efficient execution of tasks.
  • Identify and report safety hazards, equipment malfunctions, and operational issues to leadership immediately.
  • Support documentation requirements, including aircraft servicing records, shift logs, and inspection checklists.
  • Assist in maintaining cleanliness and organization of the flight line and work areas.
  • Support training and qualification requirements to maintain mission readiness and compliance with certification standards.
  • Perform duties in austere conditions, including extreme weather, while maintaining safety and operational discipline.
  • Perform additional duties and tasks as assigned by the Supervisor or Site Manager.

Basic Qualifications

  • Must be a U.S. citizen
  • Ability to obtain/maintain a SECRET clearance
  • Ability to maintain operational continuity across rotations and work within Government-led governance rhythms
  • Minimum 3–5 years of experience in aviation operations, aircraft maintenance, or Transient Aircraft Services
  • Hands-on experience working on a flight line or in aircraft ground operations

Basic knowledge of:

  • Aircraft marshaling 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, and aircraft maintenance teams.

KBR Benefits

KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401 K 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.

What KBR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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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

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