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Flight Operations Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ITnova

... 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 ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Arcata, CA

... and flight lines; operate aviation support equipment and systems used in aircraft operations; perform inspections and operational checks before and after equipment use; conduct preventive and ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Arnold, CA

... and flight lines; operate aviation support equipment and systems used in aircraft operations; perform inspections and operational checks before and after equipment use; conduct preventive and ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Tahoma, CA

... and flight lines; operate aviation support equipment and systems used in aircraft operations; perform inspections and operational checks before and after equipment use; conduct preventive and ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Prunedale, CA

... and flight lines; operate aviation support equipment and systems used in aircraft operations; perform inspections and operational checks before and after equipment use; conduct preventive and ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Salida, CA

... and flight lines; operate aviation support equipment and systems used in aircraft operations; perform inspections and operational checks before and after equipment use; conduct preventive and ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

La Puente, CA

... and flight lines; operate aviation support equipment and systems used in aircraft operations; perform inspections and operational checks before and after equipment use; conduct preventive and ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Clearlake, CA

... and flight lines; operate aviation support equipment and systems used in aircraft operations; perform inspections and operational checks before and after equipment use; conduct preventive and ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Penryn, CA

... and flight lines; operate aviation support equipment and systems used in aircraft operations; perform inspections and operational checks before and after equipment use; conduct preventive and ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Pajaro, CA

... and flight lines; operate aviation support equipment and systems used in aircraft operations; perform inspections and operational checks before and after equipment use; conduct preventive and ...

US Navy

... and flight lines; operate aviation support equipment and systems used in aircraft operations; perform inspections and operational checks before and after equipment use; conduct preventive and ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Brisbane, CA

... and flight lines; operate aviation support equipment and systems used in aircraft operations; perform inspections and operational checks before and after equipment use; conduct preventive and ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Felton, CA

... and flight lines; operate aviation support equipment and systems used in aircraft operations; perform inspections and operational checks before and after equipment use; conduct preventive and ...

US Navy

... and flight lines; operate aviation support equipment and systems used in aircraft operations; perform inspections and operational checks before and after equipment use; conduct preventive and ...

US Navy

... and flight lines; operate aviation support equipment and systems used in aircraft operations; perform inspections and operational checks before and after equipment use; conduct preventive and ...

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All JobsFlight Operations Inspector JobsFlight Operations Inspector Jobs in California

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 Inspector jobs near you
Staff Technician, Unmanned Systems Test Operator (R5214)

Staff Technician, Unmanned Systems Test Operator (R5214)

Shield AI

San Diego, CA • On-site

$34 - $51/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software and V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI's technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Job Description:

The HMS UAS Operations Technician is responsible for the execution of surrogate flight test operations supporting the Hivemind portfolio. This role conducts day-to-day flight activities, aircraft preparation, system configuration, field operations, and operational support for autonomy testing.

The HMS UAS Operations Technician serves as the primary operator and technical lead for Group 1/2 UAS test assets, ensuring aircraft, payloads, ground control systems, and supporting equipment are mission-ready and operated in accordance with established procedures, safety requirements, and operational standards.

This position works closely with software, systems, and flight operations teams to support the integration, validation, and operational assessment of autonomy capabilities in laboratory, ground, and flight environments.

What you'll do:
  • Operate flight test platforms in support of daily fly-fix-fly verification activities
  • Serve as a primary operator for Group 1/2 UAS platforms during developmental and operational testing.
  • Configure, inspect, maintain, and troubleshoot aircraft, payloads, autopilot systems, and ground control stations.
  • Coordinate aircraft readiness, pre-flight inspections, launch and recovery operations, and post-flight maintenance activities.
  • Execute operational test procedures and mission plans while ensuring compliance with established safety and operational requirements.
  • Support development, refinement, and enforcement of standard operating procedures (SOPs), checklists, and operational best practices.
  • Ensure compliance with FAA regulations, airspace requirements, range procedures, and company flight operations standards.
  • Assist in flight planning, airspace coordination, mission scheduling, and operational risk assessments.
Required qualifications:
  • 5+ years of experience operating and maintaining Group 1/2 UAS platforms in test, military, commercial, or operational environments.
  • Strong knowledge of COTS UAS hardware, autopilot systems, ground control stations, communications systems, and payload integration.
  • Experience developing, implementing, and executing standard operating procedures (SOPs), checklists, and operational processes.
  • Working knowledge of FAA regulations, National Airspace System (NAS) operations, airspace coordination, and flight authorization requirements.
  • Experience conducting flight operations in dynamic and complex test environments.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and mission planning skills.
  • Ability to coordinate effectively with software, systems, safety, and flight operations personnel.
  • FAA Part 107 certification or equivalent UAS operational experience.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a SECRET clearance; U.S. citizenship required.
Preferred qualifications:
  • Experience supporting autonomy, AI-enabled systems, or developmental flight test programs, particularly with multi-aircraft or distributed UAS operations.
  • Fabrication experience with design, build of mechanical and electrical systems
  • Familiarity with standard control and autopilot elements such as QGC, Mission Planner, Ardupilot, Px4
  • Military UAS operations or test experience.
$34 - $51 an hour
#LI-LD1
#LD

Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 
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.
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