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Jet Bridge Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Avionics Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

... jet engine and aircraft. Your work at Astro Mechanica will bridge hardware and software in a ... Develop and maintain software controllers and configuration for operating hardware systems.

Jet Bridge Operator information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$49.5K

$67.6K

How much do jet bridge operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for jet bridge operator in California is $49,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,400.00 and $56,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a jet bridge technician?

A jet bridge technician is a worker responsible for inspecting, maintaining, and repairing jet bridges, which are the movable walkways that connect aircraft to terminals. They ensure the equipment operates safely and efficiently, often requiring technical skills and safety certifications. The role involves working in airport environments and may require adherence to strict safety protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Jet Bridge Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Jet Bridge Operator, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong attention to safety protocols, and basic mechanical aptitude. Familiarity with airport operations systems, jet bridge controls, and completion of relevant on-the-job training or certification are typically required. Dependability, situational awareness, and effective communication with ground and flight crews are crucial soft skills. These abilities ensure the safe and efficient boarding and deplaning of passengers while minimizing operational delays and maintaining high safety standards.

What is the most paid job in the airport?

In airports, airline pilots and air traffic controllers tend to be the highest-paid positions, often earning six-figure salaries due to their specialized skills and responsibilities. Jet Bridge Operators typically earn lower wages compared to these roles, with salaries varying based on experience and location.

How much do jet bridge operators make?

Jet bridge operators typically earn an average hourly wage between $12 and $20, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $25,000 to $40,000. Compensation can vary based on experience, location, and airline or airport policies, and the job often requires safety training and certification.

How to become a drawbridge operator?

A drawbridge operator typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn operating procedures and safety protocols. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the jurisdiction, and strong mechanical and communication skills are important for safely managing bridge operations, often involving the use of control systems and safety equipment.

What are some common challenges Jet Bridge Operators face during their shifts and how can they be managed?

Jet Bridge Operators often encounter challenges such as coordinating with tight flight schedules, adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions, and ensuring the safety of both passengers and ground crew. Communication with pilots, gate agents, and ramp personnel is critical to avoid delays and mishaps. To manage these challenges, operators rely on thorough training, adherence to safety protocols, and proactive teamwork, all of which help maintain smooth operations and minimize risks throughout each shift.

What is the difference between Jet Bridge Operator vs Baggage Handler?

AspectJet Bridge OperatorBaggage Handler
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety trainingHigh school diploma, safety training
Work EnvironmentAirport tarmac, jet bridgesAirport tarmac, baggage areas
Industry UsageAirlines, airportsAirlines, airports
Primary ResponsibilitiesOperate jet bridges, assist passengersHandle luggage, load/unload baggage

While both Jet Bridge Operators and Baggage Handlers work at airports and require safety training, Jet Bridge Operators focus on operating jet bridges and assisting passengers, whereas Baggage Handlers manage luggage loading and unloading. Both roles are essential for smooth airport operations but differ in daily tasks and responsibilities.

What are Jet Bridge Operators?

Jet Bridge Operators are airport personnel responsible for operating the jet bridge, which is the movable connector that links the airport terminal to an aircraft. Their main duties include safely aligning and moving the jet bridge to enable passengers to board and deplane efficiently. Jet Bridge Operators must follow strict safety protocols to prevent damage to the aircraft and ensure passenger safety. They often work closely with flight crews, ground staff, and airport operations teams. Proper training and certification are usually required for this position.
What are popular job titles related to Jet Bridge Operator jobs in California? For Jet Bridge Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Jet Bridge Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Jet Bridge Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Jet Bridge Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Jet Bridge Operator job openings:

Avionics Engineer

Astro Mechanica

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

ABOUT US:
Astro Mechanica is a vertically integrated aerospace company building a faster, more connected future. Our mission is to democratize high-speed flight by making supersonic travel flexible, accessible, and sustainable. We believe that rapid, on-demand, point-to-point global mobility will become the new standard for moving people and goods across the planet. To achieve this, we are integrating our advanced airframe and engine technologies-which include Duality™, our proprietary dual-use propulsion system-with a new flight operations model to make supersonic transport as efficient and economical as commercial air travel is today. In the near term, we are developing adaptable, high-speed systems to close aircraft performance gaps for the United States government.
WHO WE ARE:
We're a team of passionate engineers dedicated to advancing aerospace. We're generalists with specialist depth, united by a flat structure and a shared obsession with building things that work well. We move fast, stay pragmatic, and let engineering excellence speak louder than hierarchy.
WHO YOU ARE
Astro Mechanica is looking for an Avionics Engineer to join our growing team. The ideal candidate is someone who is capable of architecting, designing, configuring, and continuously improving the electrical subsystems for our innovative jet engine and aircraft. Your work at Astro Mechanica will bridge hardware and software in a formative stage of development, and require frequent cross-discipline problem solving.
In this role, your mission will be to implement robust avionics designs from initial concept, design, validation, and flight operations. You will have direct responsibility to build out avionics interfacing with other systems while maintaining reliability through fault-tolerant methodology. This will be implemented and proven through rigorous subsystem and aircraft level integration testing before leaving the ground. You embody the test-like-you-fly philosophy.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Architect avionics systems for flight hardware and corresponding ground-based test infrastructure including hardware-in-the-loop test beds.
  • Collaborate with other engineering disciplines on system trades and implementation of solutions.
  • Own avionics component selection, analysis, and integration.
  • Draft engineering drawings, electrical schematics, and wiring pinout diagrams
  • Develop and maintain software controllers and configuration for operating hardware systems.
  • Troubleshoot, root cause, and resolve problems in a rapid hardware iteration environment

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR:
  • Experience with wire harnesses and associated sub-components
  • Familiarity with installing and troubleshooting various electronic sensors and components.
  • Competence with electrical test equipment (multimeters, oscilloscopes, power supplies, etc.)
  • Experience with 3D CAD software
  • Software fluency, enabling automation of test or analysis tasks.
  • Flexibility to work in fast-paced environment
  • Attentive to detail and maintain a high level of quality in all work

PERKS & BENEFITS:
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • 401(k) program and transparent stock option plan
  • Self-managed and flexible time-off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time
  • Flexible work environment

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
At Astro Mechanica, we highly value in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen our company culture. We consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role.
Astro Mechanica is an equal opportunity employer. We proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.