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Pushback Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Factory

Partner Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... pushback on roadmap tradeoffs, and driving accountability against agreed success metrics. * Establish and manage partner operating cadence including business reviews, planning sessions, issue ...

The TCW Group

Product/Channel Marketing Lead

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$165K/yr

Provide thoughtful pushback when needed to maintain focus, quality, and effectiveness Partnership ... Increase transparency and operating discipline across marketing workflows in a resource-constrained ...

Worldwide Flight Services

$17.75/hr

... operating safely and securely. We perform at the highest level for our customers every day, and ... Perform aircraft pushback, wing walking and related guide man functions. * Maintain a secure work ...

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Pushback Operator information

What is the difference between Pushback Operator vs Forklift Operator?

AspectPushback OperatorForklift Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a valid driver’s license and safety trainingRequires forklift certification and safety training
Work EnvironmentAirport ground operations, aircraft pushbackWarehouses, manufacturing plants, shipping docks
Industry UsageAirline and airport logisticsLogistics, manufacturing, retail warehouses
Common TasksGuiding aircraft during pushback, safety checksMoving pallets, loading/unloading goods

While both roles involve vehicle operation and safety protocols, Pushback Operators focus on aircraft ground handling at airports, whereas Forklift Operators handle material movement within warehouses and industrial settings. Understanding these differences helps clarify job expectations and required skills in logistics and transportation industries.

What is the role of a pushback operator?

A pushback operator is responsible for guiding aircraft during ground operations, specifically maneuvering aircraft using specialized equipment to push back from the gate or parking position. They ensure safe and efficient movement on the tarmac, often working with ground crew and using radio communication and safety protocols. Certification and knowledge of airport safety procedures are typically required for this role.

What are Pushback Operators?

Pushback Operators are trained ground crew members at airports responsible for safely moving aircraft backwards away from the gate using specialized vehicles called pushback tractors or tugs. They play a critical role in ensuring that planes can depart safely without using their own engines, which helps prevent accidents and damage on the ramp. Pushback Operators must communicate closely with pilots and ground control to coordinate movements and follow strict safety procedures. Their work is essential to efficient airport operations and the safe handling of aircraft on the ground.

What are some common challenges faced by Pushback Operators during aircraft towing operations?

Pushback Operators often encounter challenges such as coordinating closely with ground crew and flight deck personnel to ensure clear communication, especially in busy or low-visibility conditions. Navigating tight spaces on the ramp while adhering to strict safety protocols requires constant attention and precision. Additionally, operators must be prepared to handle unexpected mechanical issues with towing equipment and adapt to rapidly changing weather conditions, all while minimizing turnaround times to keep flight schedules on track.

How much does a pushback operator make?

A pushback operator typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and airline or airport employer. The role often requires knowledge of aircraft ground handling and safety procedures, with some positions offering overtime or shift differentials.

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

To excel as a Pushback Operator, you need a valid driver's license, knowledge of ground handling procedures, and familiarity with airport safety regulations. Experience with specialized ground support equipment, such as tugs and tow bars, and certifications like an Airport Movement Area Access permit are typically required. Strong attention to detail, situational awareness, and effective communication help ensure safe and efficient aircraft movements. These skills and qualifications are vital for preventing accidents, minimizing delays, and maintaining operational safety on the airfield.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Jobs that can pay $500,000 or more annually include executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions, as well as successful entrepreneurs, high-level investment bankers, and certain specialized medical professionals like surgeons. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and often involve significant responsibilities or ownership stakes.

How to become a pushback operator?

To become a pushback operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must complete on-the-job training or certification programs. Strong communication skills, the ability to operate specialized airport ground equipment, and adherence to safety protocols are essential for this role.
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Pushback Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pushback Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Service Capacity and Automation Program Manager

Service Capacity and Automation Program Manager

Waymo

San Diego, CA

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Waymo Operations exists to deliver the Waymo Driver to the world. We are a global team building and scaling the world's first and leading autonomous fleet and operations platform. From component sourcing to end customer management, we enable and create value for Waymo through scaled and orchestrated deployment of the Waymo Driver. At Waymo, we are dedicated to building a culture that promotes collaboration and celebration. We value our team members' unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences and support and encourage all team members to share their ideas to help Waymo better serve the communities in which we operate.

In this hybrid role, you will report to the Program Manager- RO Operations and Vendor Performance

You will:

  • Lead the investigation of garage KPIs and operational metrics to pinpoint systemic bottlenecks across the global network.
  • Partner with Product and Engineering on the design, field rollout, and continuous performance monitoring of new garage automations and technology solutions.
  • Drive capacity planning and footprint modeling initiatives to establish a highly scalable operational framework for our depots.
  • Champion the success of New Product Introductions (NPI) and facility bring-ups from early deployment through regional scaling, ensuring the garage ecosystem is prepared to support new platforms efficiently.
  • Own cross-functional reporting and executive communication, presenting clear roadmaps, performance updates, and strategic recommendations to leadership on scaling the garage ecosystem.

You have:

  • 10+ years of experience leading technical or operations program management for complex deployment, logistics, or operational infrastructure systems.
  • Proven track record of managing multiple vehicle platforms and complex New Product Introduction (NPI) programs simultaneously through early-stage scaling.
  • Extensive experience owning metric investigations, operational triage, and process change management inside live footprint environments (like garages, service hubs, or depots).
  • Strong roadmap management experience, with the ability to prioritize and defend operational requirements against engineering or product pushback.
  • Excellent cross-functional mediation skills, with a track record of acting as a strategic bridge between frontline operators, product managers, and engineering teams.
  • Strong data acumen, with experience establishing performance tracking telemetry and communicating operational roadmaps directly to executive leadership.

We prefer:

  • Background in autonomous vehicle operations, automotive service tech ecosystems, or advanced fleet maintenance environments.
  • Advanced data analytics skills (including SQL querying) to independently extract and translate depot performance data into actionable product requirements and design-for-serviceability feedback.
  • Clear understanding of structured program management frameworks for scaling facility bring-up lifecycles and managing new platform rollouts past the commercial transition gate.

Apply