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Flight Operations Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Key Responsibilities Support aircraft launch and recovery operations in operational environments; assist with aircraft handling, movement, spotting, and securing of aircraft and equipment on flight ...

Key Responsibilities Support aircraft launch and recovery operations in operational environments; assist with aircraft handling, movement, spotting, and securing of aircraft and equipment on flight ...

Key Responsibilities Support aircraft launch and recovery operations in operational environments; assist with aircraft handling, movement, spotting, and securing of aircraft and equipment on flight ...

Key Responsibilities Support aircraft launch and recovery operations in operational environments; assist with aircraft handling, movement, spotting, and securing of aircraft and equipment on flight ...

Key Responsibilities Support aircraft launch and recovery operations in operational environments; assist with aircraft handling, movement, spotting, and securing of aircraft and equipment on flight ...

Key Responsibilities Support aircraft launch and recovery operations in operational environments; assist with aircraft handling, movement, spotting, and securing of aircraft and equipment on flight ...

Key Responsibilities Support aircraft launch and recovery operations in operational environments; assist with aircraft handling, movement, spotting, and securing of aircraft and equipment on flight ...

Key Responsibilities Support aircraft launch and recovery operations in operational environments; assist with aircraft handling, movement, spotting, and securing of aircraft and equipment on flight ...

Key Responsibilities Support aircraft launch and recovery operations in operational environments; assist with aircraft handling, movement, spotting, and securing of aircraft and equipment on flight ...

Key Responsibilities Support aircraft launch and recovery operations in operational environments; assist with aircraft handling, movement, spotting, and securing of aircraft and equipment on flight ...

Key Responsibilities Support aircraft launch and recovery operations in operational environments; assist with aircraft handling, movement, spotting, and securing of aircraft and equipment on flight ...

Key Responsibilities Support aircraft launch and recovery operations in operational environments; assist with aircraft handling, movement, spotting, and securing of aircraft and equipment on flight ...

Key Responsibilities Support aircraft launch and recovery operations in operational environments; assist with aircraft handling, movement, spotting, and securing of aircraft and equipment on flight ...

Key Responsibilities Support aircraft launch and recovery operations in operational environments; assist with aircraft handling, movement, spotting, and securing of aircraft and equipment on flight ...

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Flight Operations Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$20

$31

How much do flight operations assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight operations assistant in Chicago, IL is $20.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $22.60 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 does a flight operations assistant get paid?

The average salary for a flight operations assistant ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 per year, 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 travel discounts and opportunities for career advancement.

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 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 does a flight operations assistant do?

A flight operations assistant supports airline or aviation company operations by coordinating flight schedules, preparing documentation, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. They often handle communication between pilots, ground staff, and air traffic control, and may use airline management software. Attention to detail and knowledge of aviation procedures are essential for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Operations jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Flight Operations jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Flight Operations Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL? For Flight Operations Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Flight Operations Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Operations Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Flight Operations Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,636 per year, or $20 per hour.

$70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


California Conservation Corps rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

543rd of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Serves as an Air Traffic Assistant/Flight Data Communications Team Lead at an Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) and is responsible for providing flight data processing and communications service for the National Airspace System (NAS).

Qualifications:

Candidates must have at least 1 year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade or pay band (FV-F or FG/GS-7/8) that demonstrates knowledge of and skill in the use of FAA Air Traffic Control procedures.

Specialized experience includes experience using NAS computer systems such as the En Route Automation Modernization (ERAM) system, Flight Data Input/Output (FDIO) system, and Digital Altimeter Setting Indicator (DASI) system; experience operating air traffic control operational computer and flight data equipment; experience amending proposed flight plans for flow control restrictions, Severe Weather Avoidance Plan (SWAP), and Expect Departure Clearance Time (EDCT) restrictions/changes; or experience in positions such as a military or civilian air traffic controller, flight instructor, instrument rated pilot, command center operators (base ops), dispatcher for an air carrier, or as Flight Services Specialist.

Qualifying specialized experience may have been gained in work involving: (1) Civilian or military aircraft operations work, such as flight instructor, instrument rated pilot, flight engineer or air transport pilot; (2) FAA Certified Dispatcher for an air carrier; (3) Flight Information Expediter involved in determining flight times of airplanes and transmitting information to flight operations and command centers; (4) Civilian or Military Air Traffic Controller; and (5) Flight Data Processor.

Qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement.

Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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