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Ground Operations Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

LV8D Solutions

Ground Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

This role requires a strong understanding of ground-based space operations, systems engineering principles, software integration, and operational mission support. The engineer will also play a ...

LV8D Solutions

Ground Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

This role requires a strong understanding of ground-based space operations, systems engineering principles, software integration, and operational mission support. The engineer will also play a ...

SAIC

Ground Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is looking for a Ground Systems Engineer with Space Domain Operations experience in Chantilly, VA to support a very dynamic and innovative space program office in ...

SAIC

Ground Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Description SAIC is looking for a Ground Systems Engineer with Space Domain Operations experience in Chantilly, VA to support a very dynamic and innovative space program office in Chantilly, VA. The ...

SAIC

Ground Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Support verification, validation, and deployment to operations of ground solutions. * Collaborate with key stakeholders on ICDs, interface maturation, inclusion of new interfaces in support of ...

KBR, Inc.

Ground Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Ground Systems Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team ... KBR's work is at the forefront of engineering, logistics, operations, science, program management ...

SAIC

Ground Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$160K - $200K/yr

Support verification, validation, and deployment to operations of ground solutions. * Collaborate with key stakeholders on ICDs, interface maturation, inclusion of new interfaces in support of ...

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Ground Operations information

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$11

$27

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How much do ground operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for ground operations in Washington is $27.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $31.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is ground operations staff a good career option?

Ground operations staff play a vital role in airport and airline functions, handling tasks such as baggage handling, aircraft servicing, and customer assistance. The job often requires physical activity, attention to safety protocols, and may involve shift work, but it can offer stable employment and opportunities for advancement within the aviation industry.

What do ground operations do?

Ground operations staff are responsible for preparing aircraft for flight, including tasks such as baggage handling, fueling, aircraft maintenance, and coordinating with flight crews. They ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulations in the airport environment, often working with tools like radios and safety equipment. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are essential in this role.

What is ground operations?

Ground Operations refer to the activities and personnel responsible for handling aircraft while they are on the ground, rather than in flight. This includes tasks such as aircraft marshaling, baggage loading and unloading, refueling, catering, cleaning, and coordinating with maintenance teams. Ground Operations staff play a crucial role in ensuring that flights run on schedule, safety standards are met, and passengers’ needs are addressed during boarding and deplaning. They often work in fast-paced environments and must coordinate with various departments within the airport. Effective ground operations are essential for the overall efficiency and safety of airline services.

What is the difference between Ground Operations vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectGround OperationsAircraft Maintenance Technician
CertificationsTypically includes airport operations, safety, and ground handling certificationsRequires FAA or equivalent aircraft maintenance certifications
Work EnvironmentAirport tarmacs, ground handling areas, customer service zonesAircraft hangars, maintenance facilities, repair stations
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, ground service providers, airportsAircraft manufacturers, airline maintenance departments, repair shops

Ground Operations and Aircraft Maintenance Technicians both work within the aviation industry but focus on different aspects. Ground Operations handles airport logistics, passenger services, and ground handling, while Aircraft Maintenance Technicians focus on inspecting, repairing, and maintaining aircraft. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ground operations professional, and why are they important?

To thrive in Ground Operations, you need strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and knowledge of aviation safety protocols, often supported by relevant certifications or training in ground handling. Familiarity with ground support equipment, baggage handling systems, and airline operations software is typically required. Excellent teamwork, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help you stand out in coordinating logistics and ensuring safety. These competencies are essential for maintaining efficient flight schedules, ensuring passenger and crew safety, and supporting overall airport operations.

What are some common challenges faced by ground operations staff during irregular operations or flight delays?

Ground Operations staff often encounter significant challenges during irregular operations, such as flight delays or cancellations. These situations require rapid coordination with multiple teams including flight crews, customer service, baggage handlers, and maintenance personnel. Maintaining clear communication, managing passenger expectations, and efficiently reallocating resources are crucial to minimize disruptions. Adapting quickly to changing circumstances and problem-solving under pressure are essential skills for success in these scenarios.
What are the most commonly searched types of Ground Operations jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Ground Operations jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Ground Operations jobs in Washington? For Ground Operations jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ground Operations jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Ground Operations jobs in Washington are:
Ground Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ground Operations job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,901 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

GEOINT Ground Systems Engineering & Operations Thread Engineer

Science Applications International Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 223 rated it services

Job description


SAIC is seeking a GEOINT Ground Systems Engineering & Operations Thread Engineer to join SAIC's Prime SETA program supporting the NRO in Chantilly, VA .
As the GEOINT Ground Systems Engineering & Operations Thread Engineer, you will serve as a mission-thread integrator, ensuring that GEOINT ground capabilities-from tasking to collection to processing to dissemination-operate coherently across programs, contractors, and enterprise stakeholders. You will work daily with senior Government leads, SETA teammates, and development contractors to baseline new capabilities, assess emerging technologies, shape architectural decisions, and ensure readiness of mission-critical ground services.
Key Responsibilities to include:
  • Support end-to-end engineering and analysis across GEOINT ground mission threads, ensuring technical and operational coherence from collection tasking through mission processing and product delivery.
  • Support definition, decomposition, and baseline of GEOINT ground capabilities, including requirements, CONOPS, interfaces, sequencing, and dependency mapping.
  • Provide technical oversight of contractor development, integration, and verification activities to ensure alignment with Government requirements and architectural direction.
  • Analyze operational workflows, identify performance gaps, and recommend enhancements to improve mission throughput, resiliency, and automation.
  • Support technical reviews, test events, readiness milestones, and enterprise integration activities to validate capability delivery and operational suitability.
  • Maintain cognizance of GEOINT mission projects, including baselines, schedules, interdependencies, risks, and cost drivers across the Ground Enterprise.
  • Conduct trade studies, evaluate emerging technologies, and shape future GEOINT ground architectures, including cloud-native modernization and service-based designs.
  • Evaluate impacts to cost, schedule, performance, and risk across mission threads and recommend mitigation strategies.
  • Review contractor proposals, technical reports, design artifacts, and program plans for feasibility, compliance, and alignment with enterprise priorities.
  • Coordinate across Government, SETA, FFRDC, and contractor teams to ensure alignment with strategic priorities, operational needs, and enterprise performance standards.

Qualifications
Required Education & Experience
  • Bachelors and nine (9) years or more experience; Masters and seven (7) years or more experience ; PhD or JD and four (4) years or more experience. Relevant experience to be substituted in lieu of degree.
  • Active Top Secret/SCI with Polygraph.
  • Experience with GEOINT systems, including space/ground architectures, mission control, and mission processing.
  • Knowledge of IC/DoD acquisition processes, roles, and program management.
  • Experience with GEOINT ground processing capabilities.
  • Domain knowledge in ground software, space development programs, or mission operations.
  • Experience supporting Intelligence Community (IC) programs.
  • Ability to operate independently, manage multiple priorities, and deliver high-quality engineering products with minimal guidance.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and analytical skills, able to convey complex information across technical and leadership audiences.

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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