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Flight Operations Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Mission Operations Technical Writer will assist in developing, maintaining, and controlling all ... This role works closely with Flight Controllers, Systems Engineers, Mission Directors, Training ...

The Mission Operations Technical Writer will assist in developing, maintaining, and controlling all ... This role works closely with Flight Controllers, Systems Engineers, Mission Directors, Training ...

You will pilot UAVs, assist in test event planning, manage flight readiness of aircraft, and ensure all operations comply with rigorous safety and regulatory standards. You'll be a key contributor to ...

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Flight Operations Assistant information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$30

How much do flight operations assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight operations assistant in California is $19.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a flight operations assistant?

Flight Operations Assistants are support professionals who help ensure the smooth and efficient running of an airline’s flight operations. Their duties typically include assisting with flight planning, preparing flight documentation, communicating with flight crews, coordinating schedules, and monitoring flight statuses. They act as a crucial link between flight crews, ground staff, and air traffic control to help maintain safe and timely flight operations. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flight operations assistant?

To thrive as a Flight Operations Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a background in aviation operations or a related field, often supported by relevant certifications. Familiarity with flight planning software, scheduling systems, and communication tools like NOTAMs and weather briefing platforms is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to work well under pressure help you stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient flight scheduling and smooth coordination between crews, ground staff, and regulatory authorities.

What are some typical challenges faced by flight operations assistants, and how can they effectively manage them?

Flight Operations Assistants often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing flight schedules, last-minute crew adjustments, and coordinating with multiple departments under tight deadlines. Effective time management, attention to detail, and strong communication skills are essential for handling these situations. Building solid relationships with pilots, ground staff, and dispatch teams can help streamline coordination and resolve issues quickly, ensuring smooth flight operations.

What is the difference between Flight Operations Assistant vs Flight Dispatcher?

AspectFlight Operations AssistantFlight Dispatcher
CredentialsOften requires FAA or equivalent certifications, basic aviation knowledgeRequires FAA dispatcher certification, knowledge of regulations and flight planning
Work EnvironmentAirport offices, airline support centers, flight planning departmentsAirline or charter company offices, involved in flight planning and coordination
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, private jet operators, cargo carriersCommercial airlines, cargo carriers, private aviation
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding support roles in flight operationsFocus on flight planning and regulatory compliance

Flight Operations Assistants support flight crews and coordinate logistical details, while Flight Dispatchers focus on flight planning, weather analysis, and regulatory compliance. Both roles are essential in aviation but differ in responsibilities and certifications required.

What does a flight operations assistant get paid?

The salary for a flight operations assistant typically ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and flight privileges.

What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Operations jobs in California?

The most popular types of Flight Operations jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Flight Operations Assistant jobs in California?

For Flight Operations Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Flight Operations Assistant jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Flight Operations Assistant jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Flight Operations Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Flight Operations Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Flight Operations Assistant job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,682 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Mission Operations Technical Writer

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Astrolab is The Lunar Operations Company. We design and build the systems and hardware the lunar economy will come to depend on - rovers, power, and data networks for sustained operations on the Moon. We are focused on the problems that must be solved before the next chapter of human exploration can scale. The Moon does not forgive untested assumptions. The people who work here know that, and they wouldn't have it any other way.
The Mission Operations Technical Writer will assist in developing, maintaining, and controlling all mission operations documentation required to safely and effectively conduct operations throughout the mission lifecycle. This role works closely with Flight Controllers, Systems Engineers, Mission Directors, Training Leads, Software Developers, and Program Management to create clear, accurate, and configuration-controlled operational products. 
The successful candidate will translate complex technical concepts into concise, actionable documentation, including operational procedures, flight rules, console handbooks, mission operations manuals, contingency response guides, training materials, and mission readiness documentation. The position requires exceptional technical writing skills, systems thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to function effectively in a dynamic space operations environment. 
The ideal candidate brings a strong system-thinking mindset, experience in flight operations or aerospace systems, and the ability to operate in high-tempo, mission-critical environments. This position reports to Sr. Director of Mission Systems & Operations. 
  • Develop, edit, maintain, and validate mission operations documentation, including operational procedures, flight rules, contingency procedures, and operational guides 
  • Create and maintain mission timelines, operational workflows, and other documentation supporting mission planning and execution 
  • Ensure operational documentation aligns with mission requirements, design specifications, system architecture, verification data, and applicable program requirements 
  • Support mission rehearsals, integrated simulations, certification activities, and operational readiness by updating documentation based on test results and lessons learned 
  • Collaborate with engineers, mission planners, flight operations personnel, cybersecurity teams, and other technical subject matter experts to develop and maintain accurate technical documentation 
  • Manage document lifecycle activities, including document reviews, approvals, publication, version control, configuration management, and compliance with organizational quality standards 
  • Evaluate documentation processes and recommend improvements to enhance consistency, operational efficiency, and knowledge management 
  • Develop technical illustrations, annotated graphics, templates, and standardized documentation to improve usability and support operational execution 
Basic Qualifications 
  • 3+ years of professional experience in technical writing, process planning, technical documentation, or a related field  
  • Experience developing technical documentation (e.g., operational procedures, technical manuals, work instructions, or mission documentation) and collaborating with technical subject matter experts to produce and maintain documentation
  • Experience with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook) 
Preferred Qualifications 
  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM, Communications, English, Journalism, Marketing, or Writing field OR a minimum of 5 years of directly relevant professional experience in lieu of a degree
  • 5+ more years of professional technical writing experience supporting aerospace, defense, satellite operations, mission operations, or another highly regulated technical environment  
  • Experience using document management systems, configuration management tools, or electronic procedure software  
  • Experience supporting spacecraft, satellite, launch vehicle, human spaceflight, or defense space programs  
  • Experience with mission operations centers and real-time spacecraft operations.  
  • Knowledge of spacecraft subsystems, including power, thermal, command and data handling (C&DH), communications, guidance, navigation and control (GNC), and flight software.  
  • Experience developing flight rules, contingency procedures, operational constraints, console handbooks, or similar operational documentation  
  • Experience with NASA, DoD, NOAA, commercial spaceflight, or international spaceflight standards and documentation practices
  • Join a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
  • Equity ownership in the company
  • Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support
  • 401(k) plan with company match
  • Flexible PTO and parental leave
  • Home office set up reimbursement
  • Weekly lunch stipend, plus complimentary snacks and beverages on-site
  • Once a month social hour on-site with food and drinks