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Flight Operations Officer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Air Mobility Command

OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

IL · On-site +1

$76K - $99K/yr

... out by officer and enlisted team members on the operations floor. Learn more about this agency ... Global Flight Controllers and specialists are trained to Combat Mission Ready (CMR) status in ...

PRIESTER HOLDINGS LLC

Junior Accountant

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$49K - $62K/yr

... and flight operations solutions. With decades of experience supporting owner-managed and client ... Priester Aviation and related companies and supports the Director of Finance and CFO in maintaining ...

Mayo Aviation

Junior Accountant

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

... and flight operations solutions. With decades of experience supporting owner-managed and client ... Priester Aviation and related companies and supports the Director of Finance and CFO in maintaining ...

U.S. Navy

Boatswain's Mate

Caseyville, IL · On-site

... flight deck operations, and maritime security, keeping the fleet ready to sail and fight. Key ... officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in law and Navy policy.

U.S. Navy

Boatswain's Mate

Thornton, IL · On-site

... flight deck operations, and maritime security, keeping the fleet ready to sail and fight. Key ... officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in law and Navy policy.

U.S. Navy

Boatswain's Mate

Schiller Park, IL · On-site

... flight deck operations, and maritime security, keeping the fleet ready to sail and fight. Key ... officer positions * Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in law and Navy policy.

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All JobsFlight Operations Officer JobsFlight Operations Officer Jobs in Illinois

Flight Operations Officer information

See Illinois salary details

$30.5K

$74.9K

$132.3K

How much do flight operations officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight operations officer in Illinois is $74,861.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,300.00 and $99,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a flight operations officer?

Flight Operations Officers, also known as flight dispatchers, are aviation professionals responsible for planning and monitoring the progress of flights. They work closely with pilots, air traffic controllers, and airline management to ensure that all flights operate safely, efficiently, and in compliance with regulations. Their duties include preparing flight plans, analyzing weather conditions, calculating fuel requirements, and responding to any in-flight emergencies or changes. This role is critical to the smooth and safe operation of airline flights.

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

To thrive as a Flight Operations Officer, you need strong knowledge of aviation regulations, meteorology, flight planning, and typically a relevant degree or certification such as a Flight Dispatcher License. Familiarity with flight planning software, air traffic control systems, and aviation communication tools is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills to excel in this role. These competencies are essential to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant flight operations in a dynamic and high-stakes environment.

What are some of the typical challenges a flight operations officer faces when coordinating flight schedules?

Flight Operations Officers often encounter challenges such as sudden weather changes, air traffic control restrictions, and last-minute aircraft maintenance issues, all of which can disrupt meticulously planned flight schedules. They must stay adaptable and communicate effectively with pilots, ground staff, and airline management to resolve conflicts and minimize delays. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to prioritize tasks under pressure are essential for navigating these unpredictable situations and ensuring safe, punctual operations.

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

AspectFlight Operations OfficerFlight Dispatcher
Required CertificationsOften requires aviation safety and operations certificationsRequires FAA or relevant authority dispatcher license
Work EnvironmentAirport or airline operations center, on aircraftDispatch centers, airline offices
Industry UsageUsed by airlines, cargo carriers, private operatorsPrimarily airline industry, regulatory bodies
Primary ResponsibilitiesOversees flight safety, compliance, and operational planningPrepares flight plans, monitors weather, ensures regulatory compliance

While both roles are vital in airline operations, the Flight Operations Officer focuses on overall flight safety and operational oversight, whereas the Flight Dispatcher specializes in flight planning and regulatory compliance. Both positions require specific certifications and work closely within airline teams to ensure safe and efficient flights.

How much do flight operations officers make in the US?

Flight operations officers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Salaries can vary based on certifications, such as a commercial pilot license or airline transport pilot certification, and the complexity of the operations managed.

What are popular job titles related to Flight Operations Officer jobs in Illinois?

For Flight Operations Officer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Flight Operations Officer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Flight Operations Officer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Flight Operations Officer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Flight Operations Officer job openings:

Flight Operations Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Operations Officer job openings in Illinois 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 $74,861 per year, or $36 per hour.

NTT Faculty - Assistant Instructor (Chief Flight Instructor)

Carbondale, IL • On-site

Southern Illinois University

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

581st of 627 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

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Learn more about Southern Illinois Universityexternal

$7.9K/mo

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Salary: $7,917.00 Monthly
Location : Carbondale, Illinois
Job Type: Faculty
Job Number: 2600346
Department: School of Aviation-SIUC
Opening Date: 07/21/2026
FLSA:: Exempt
Security/Safety Sensitive:: NA
FTE: 1.0
Description
The School of Aviation, within the College of Health and Human Sciences at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, invites applications for a 12-month, NTT position beginning August 1, 2026. For full consideration, apply before July 24, 2026. Application review will continue until the position is filled. A comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement options and tuition waiver is provided.
Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.
This position is represented by SIU Carbondale Non-Tenure Track Faculty Association/IEA-NEA. For more information regarding salary and other details please visit:
Examples of Duties
Serves as the accountable manager for 14 CFR 141 and TSA Parts 1550 and 1552, and local aviation authorities.
  • Maintain certification of flight simulation training devices (FAR Part 60) and uphold relationships with the FAA FSDO, TSA, and local ATC.
  • Certify student records, tests, and graduation certificates in line with FAR Part 141.
  • Conduct student stage checks and monitor flight progress.
  • Measure flight instructor proficiency and offer TSA annual security training.
  • Assist the Director in the evaluation of flight instructors, including review for conversion to a continuing appointment.
  • Audit and coordinate all flight and ground instructors and serve as instructor of record for all AF courses.
  • Develop and maintain FAA-compliant course materials, academic degree curriculum and syllabi.
  • Manages the executive transportation unit.
  • Assist Aviation Flight Program Coordinator and the School Director with academic, administrative and fiscal matters for the Aviation Flight program.
  • Review safety recommendations and work with the Aviation Flight Safety Officer in accordance with SMS.
  • Support the FAR Part 145 repair station, line service, Part 141 flight operations, FAA testing center, and executive transportation units.
  • Engage in professional service activities related to aviation flight.
  • To engage in duties as assigned by the School Director.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Valid Flight Instructor certificate with ASEL, AMEL, and Instrument ratings
  • Meet the qualifications of 14 CFR 141.35 Chief Instructor Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications:
  • FAR Part 135 or Part 121 flight or/and training experience
  • Experience in a university flight training
  • Interested in performance assessment
  • Interested in project planning and execution

Required Documents: Submit a letter of application, CV/Resume, certificate/licenses, and three references.
Contact: Bryan Harrison,
Southern Illinois University Carbondale is an R1 Opportunity University with a statewide economic impact of $2.7 billion dollars. We offer 200+ undergraduate degrees, minors and specializations, 79 master's degrees, and 40 doctoral degrees. Our main campus is 1,136 acres, with additional acreage in University Farms, Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center, and other facilities. The university is an essential part of the city of Carbondale and an important contributor to the culture of the entire region. While Carbondale includes many of the amenities of urban life, it retains its small-town flavor. Cost of living is considerably lower in the region than similar areas elsewhere, and many employees commute from nearby counties.
The Southern Illinois region is distinct from the rest of the state, boasting considerable natural beauty including the Shawnee National Forest, many state parks, national wildlife areas, and several lakes beloved for recreation. Local foods are readily available in the area, with a variety of eateries and a growing specialized food truck presence. The area is home to the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, an official wine appellation designation. The wineries extend the cultural reach of the community, hosting live music and continual art exhibits. The campus itself is a microcosm of the area, with a lake and forest on campus, as well as traditional collegiate architecture, quad, and residential halls. Students enjoy outdoor study areas as well as specialized computer labs scattered across campus, including in the three million volume Morris Library. To learn about , , and find resources about Carbondale and the Southern Illinois region, visit:
Southern Illinois University Carbondale is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer dedicated to building a community of excellence, equity, and diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, order of protection status, genetic information, marital status, disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation including gender identity, unfavorable discharge from the military or status as a protected veteran. The university will comply with all federal and state nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action laws, orders, and regulations.
University employees may be eligible for a variety of State of Illinois benefits. These benefits are administered through the Illinois Department of Central Management Service (CMS). These benefits include: Health Insurance plans (HMOs, OAPs, QCHP and CDHP), Dental Insurance, Vision Plan, Life Insurance, Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D), Supplemental Long Term Disability (LTD), Flex Spending Accounts, MCAP and DCAP, and 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan.
Eligible employees are required to participate in the State Universities Retirement System (SURS). SURS is the retirement administrator for employees in public higher education in the State of Illinois.
Other benefits available to eligible employees include: Generous paid time-off, 403(b) Supplemental Retirement Plans, and Employee Assistance Program.
SIUC also provides extensive tuition benefits for its employees and their families such as: tuition waiver/application fee waiver for the employee and their dependents, a Legacy tuition rate for children of SIU Alumni, and Civil Service Employee Counsel (CSEC) Education Assistance Program (EAP)
For more information please visit: https://hr.siu.edu/benefits/

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