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Flight Operations Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The position requires a deep understanding of flight test operations and advanced organization ... Type Inspection Authorization (TIA) activities * Manage external test site logistics, including ...

Program Manager, Flight Test

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$160K - $255K/yr

The position requires a deep understanding of flight test operations and advanced organization ... Type Inspection Authorization (TIA) activities * Manage external test site logistics, including ...

... operations. This position is responsible for the inspection, maintenance, servicing, repair, and accountability of aviation life support systems (ALSS) and flight equipment to ensure aircrew safety ...

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... operations. This position is responsible for the inspection, maintenance, servicing, repair, and accountability of aviation life support systems (ALSS) and flight equipment to ensure aircrew safety ...

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Flight Operations Inspector information

See California salary details

$12

$26

$51

How much do flight operations inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight operations inspector in California is $27.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $31.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Flight Operations Inspector, you need an extensive background in aviation, a commercial or airline transport pilot license, and in-depth knowledge of flight operations and regulatory standards. Familiarity with flight management systems, aviation safety protocols, and regulatory compliance tools such as ICAO and FAA documentation is essential. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication enable inspectors to assess operations and clearly convey safety expectations. These skills and qualifications are critical to ensuring compliance, promoting safety, and maintaining high standards in commercial aviation.

What is the difference between Flight Operations Inspector vs Flight Safety Specialist?

AspectFlight Operations InspectorFlight Safety Specialist
Required CredentialsFAA certifications, aviation safety trainingFAA certifications, safety management training
Work EnvironmentAirlines, regulatory agencies, airportsAirlines, regulatory agencies, safety organizations
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in airline operations and regulatory oversightFocus on safety protocols and incident prevention
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Flight Operations Inspectors and Flight Safety Specialists both work within the aviation industry, focusing on safety and compliance. While Flight Operations Inspectors primarily oversee airline operations and ensure regulatory adherence, Flight Safety Specialists concentrate on developing safety protocols and analyzing incidents. Both roles require FAA certifications and are vital for maintaining aviation safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by Flight Operations Inspectors, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Flight Operations Inspectors often face challenges such as staying current with ever-evolving aviation regulations, handling high-pressure audits, and balancing administrative duties with on-site inspections. New hires can prepare by developing strong organizational skills, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of aviation standards, and building effective communication with airline staff and regulatory bodies. Being proactive about ongoing professional development and fostering a detail-oriented mindset can help navigate these challenges and ensure safe, compliant flight operations.

What are Flight Operations Inspectors?

Flight Operations Inspectors are aviation professionals responsible for ensuring that airlines and other flight operators comply with safety regulations and operational standards set by aviation authorities. They conduct inspections of aircraft, review flight procedures, evaluate crew qualifications, and monitor airline operations to ensure compliance with national and international aviation laws. Their work helps maintain the safety and efficiency of commercial and cargo flight operations. Flight Operations Inspectors often have significant experience as pilots or in other aviation roles before taking on this regulatory position.
What are popular job titles related to Flight Operations Inspector jobs in California? For Flight Operations Inspector jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Flight Operations Inspector jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Operations Inspector jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Flight Operations Inspector jobs? Cities in California with the most Flight Operations Inspector job openings:
Flight Operations Support Specialist II

Flight Operations Support Specialist II

Pivotal

Palo Alto, CA โ€ข On-site

$36.50 - $42.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Pivotal is the leader in the emerging market of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. We design, develop, and manufacture light eVTOL aircraft and are renowned for the BlackFly aircraft the world's first light eVTOL to fly manned missions and enter the consumer market.
Efficient, compact, and simple, Pivotal aircraft are designed for a wide range of consumer, public service, and defense applications. Our distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been flying for over 10 years. Last year we announced our next-generation aircraft, the Helix, which is rapidly progressing toward general release and scalable production in 2026.
Mobility is one of the most highly-valued areas of modern technology investments. This is the right company, in the right space, the right strategy, at the right time. If you are ready for adventure, we invite you to join our amazing team and grow with us.
Responsibilities
  • Responsible for preventative maintenance activities on test equipment and data acquisition systems
  • Use mechanical hand tools and torque wrenches to set up parts on test fixtures
  • Support development tests setup and site organization efforts
  • Self-monitor work progress against efficiency benchmarks and achieve on-time delivery of all work
  • Assemble, preflight, and perform routine inspections to ensure aircraft and equipment meet safety and performance standards
  • Perform basic maintenance tasks, such as tire pressure checks, fluid refills, and battery inspections
  • Track and record daily activities, including maintenance schedules, charging logs, and vehicle readiness
  • Perform routine inspections to ensure they meet safety and performance standards
  • Track and manage inventory for vehicle supplies, spare parts, and maintenance tools
  • Coordinate with flight test manager and flight test engineers for ordering parts or equipment replacements
  • Document and report any mechanical issues or damages to MRO for repair
  • Suggest and/or implement process improvements
  • Travel to flight sites and assist with the setup, operation and teardown of equipment
  • Support equipment movement between flight sites and company headquarters
  • A flexible work schedule may be an option Ex: 10hrs -12 hrs/day for 4 days/week

Qualifications
  • Demonstrated hands-on experience through past work, training and/or personal projects
  • Strong attention to detail and safety-oriented mindset
  • Comfortable managing and manipulating data and documentation
  • Must have a high school diploma, GED or equivalent
  • Must possess a valid state issued driver's license
  • Ability to tow trailers and drive standard box trucks up to 24 ft
  • Ability to travel to flight sites around the Bay Area
  • Ability to stand for extended periods
  • Ability to work outdoors in all temperatures and weather conditions
  • Moderate lifting, Ability to lift 50 lbs to chest height
  • Computer experience for input and retrieval of data

Preferred Qualifications
  • Familiarity with tools and equipment like generators, chargers, trailers and connectivity devices
  • A&P Mechanic or prior experience in field operations a plus
  • Interest in RC planes, quadcopters, or aviation

Attributes aligned with Core Values
  • Demonstrates a proactive safety mindset by embedding safety into daily operations, identifying and mitigating risks through assessments and training, encouraging open dialogue on safety concerns, and continuously improving protocols to ensure a safe work environment.
  • Puts customers at the center of every action by deeply understanding their challenges, delivering exceptional value, and striving to exceed expectations to support their success as our core purpose.
  • Actively seeks and values diverse stakeholder perspectives, builds cross-functional relationships, and fosters trust through empathetic, fact-based communication-committing to shared decisions for the greater good.
  • Drives results with clarity and purpose by focusing on what matters most, adapting to change, taking initiative, and owning outcomes while aligning actions with a clear understanding of success at every level.
  • Navigates ambiguity with resilience and bold thinking, challenges the status quo, and combines innovative ideas with practical best practices to overcome obstacles and drive progress.
  • Fosters a high-performance culture grounded in respect, professionalism, and support-balancing high expectations with a healthy, collaborative environment and being a trusted, dependable teammate.

$36.50 - $42.25 an hour
Applicants must be eligible for employment in the United States and willing to work onsite at our HQ office in Palo Alto, CA.
Pivotal offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and 401k plans.
Pivotal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Pivotal does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.