Working At An Airport: A Beginner's Guide To Takeoff

Working in an airport can be a rewarding career, offering a diverse range of roles and the opportunity to connect with people from all over the world. Airport jobs are available for people with varying levels of experience and qualifications, from entry-level positions to highly skilled roles. The airport itself, airlines, and private vendors provide employment opportunities. While some jobs require specific certifications, degrees, or extensive training, many entry-level positions only necessitate a high school diploma or GED. A wide range of jobs are available, from customer-facing roles such as food service, retail, and passenger assistance, to technical positions like aircraft mechanics and pilots. Additionally, airports offer roles in security, maintenance, and operations, providing something for everyone.

Job requirements

Food Service Worker

• National average salary: $22,930 per year
• Primary duties: Serving passengers throughout the airport as they wait for their flights. Food service employees in airports can work in a variety of settings, such as fast-food stands or sit-down restaurants. They may be responsible for taking orders, preparing food and beverages, serving meals, stocking shelves, bussing tables, processing payments, operating registers, and bartending.
• Requirements: The only requirement for this position is usually a high school diploma or GED, and most training is offered on the job.

Retail Sales Associate

• National average salary: $43,169 per year
• Primary duties: Working in one of the retail shops within the airport, helping customers as they browse goods, operating the cash register, bagging items, cleaning the store, stocking shelves, greeting customers, and arranging displays.
• Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent, and good communication skills.

Transportation Security Officer

• National average salary: $37,823 per year
• Primary duties: Maintaining the safety and security of air travel by screening passengers and their belongings, operating X-ray machines and other advanced screening technology, and communicating directions to passengers.
• Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent, and specific training in safety and security procedures.

Flight Attendant

• National average salary: $55,126 per year
• Primary duties: Ensuring the safety and comfort of airline passengers, helping passengers put away their luggage, get to their seats, and understand safety protocols, securing safety equipment, and providing food, drinks, and other services.
• Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent, and an impressive customer service work history.

Airline Pilot

• National average salary: $59,486 per year
• Primary duties: Operating airplanes that carry passengers and their cargo on commercial flights, making sure everything is in working order, communicating with air traffic control, assessing and adjusting flight paths, and updating passengers on conditions or delays.
• Requirements: A bachelor's degree, a commercial pilot's license, FAA certification, and thousands of hours of flight experience.

Air Traffic Controller

• National average salary: $47,375 per year
• Primary duties: Overseeing air traffic movement, helping pilots maintain a safe distance from other aircraft, using a variety of tools to communicate critical data to pilots, and helping pilots land safely in an emergency.
• Requirements: An associate or bachelor's degree from an approved AT-CTI program, and previous experience as an air traffic controller in the military is common.

Customer service roles

Airports are bustling hubs of activity, offering a wide range of customer service roles that are essential to ensuring smooth travel experiences for passengers from all walks of life. These roles vary in terms of responsibilities, qualifications, and salaries, but they all share a common goal of providing assistance and creating a positive environment for travellers. Here is an overview of some of the key customer service positions found within the exciting ecosystem of an airport:

Passenger Assistant

Passenger assistants, also known as passenger service agents, are the friendly faces that travellers encounter throughout their journey. They are responsible for handling passenger check-ins, assisting with boarding and deplaning, and providing essential travel information. Effective communication and organisational skills are key to their role, as they facilitate a seamless travel experience for passengers. The average national salary for this position is $46,173 per year, and while previous customer service experience is advantageous, the role typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum qualification.

Airline Reservation Agent

Airline reservation agents are the go-to professionals for all things related to flight reservations and travel planning. They are often found at airport counters, information desks, and customer service centres, ready to greet passengers with a smile. Their expertise lies in assisting travellers with flight bookings, providing information on flight dates, schedules, availability, and pricing. Strong interpersonal skills and a customer-centric approach are essential for this role. The national average salary for airline reservation agents is $43,489 per year, and candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with prior experience in customer service.

Customer Service Agent (Car Rental)

For travellers who require ground transportation, customer service agents at car rental agencies are there to help. They assist customers in renting vehicles, providing directions, and offering any necessary support during their rental period. These agents play a crucial role in ensuring that travellers have reliable transportation during their stay. While the salary information for this specific role is not readily available, customer service experience is generally preferred, and a professional appearance is often expected.

Retail Sales Associate

Retail shops within airports rely on sales associates to assist customers in their purchases. From magazines and snacks to clothing and souvenirs, sales associates help travellers find the perfect items to take on their journeys or to gift to their loved ones. They are also responsible for operating cash registers, bagging items, stocking shelves, and maintaining the cleanliness and presentation of the store. The national average salary for this position is $43,169 per year, and while prior experience is not always necessary, a friendly and helpful demeanour is a must.

Food Service Worker

Air travel can be hungry work, and food service workers are there to provide a variety of dining options for travellers. They may work in fast-food stands or sit-down restaurants, taking orders, preparing and serving food and beverages, processing payments, and ensuring a pleasant dining experience for customers. Food service workers also play a role in stocking shelves, bussing tables, and maintaining the overall cleanliness of the dining areas. The national average salary for this position is $22,930 per year, and it typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with most of the necessary training provided on the job.

These roles, and many others within an airport, contribute to the overall efficiency, safety, and satisfaction of travellers. Each position plays a unique part in the intricate dance of airport operations, and together, they create a seamless and enjoyable experience for customers from all walks of life.

Benefits of working at an airport

Working at an airport comes with a wide range of benefits. Firstly, airport employees often receive company benefits such as discounted airfare, car rentals, and other travel-related services. Some employers even offer discounts on healthcare services, shopping, and dining. For those with families, certain airlines provide subsidized childcare, and employees can take advantage of excellent benefit packages. Jobs at airlines also tend to pay higher salaries compared to similar positions outside of the aviation industry.

Working at an airport provides a unique opportunity to connect with people from all over the world. Employees can interact with a diverse range of individuals, allowing them to experience different cultures and broaden their horizons. This can be especially enriching for those who enjoy learning about new cultures and backgrounds.

Airport jobs offer meaningful and rewarding work. Employees play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the airport or airline. Their work enables people to travel to their desired destinations, explore new places, meet with clients, and visit loved ones. The impact of their work is felt across the globe, facilitating connections and supporting the aviation industry.

In addition to the direct benefits, airport jobs provide valuable transferrable skills. Working in a customer-facing role enhances communication and customer service skills, which are highly valued in various other industries. This can open doors to new career paths and opportunities for professional growth.

Lastly, airports often have robust training programs and offer educational assistance to their employees. This includes both internal and external training opportunities, as well as on-the-job training, which can help employees develop new skills and advance in their careers. Overall, working at an airport offers a range of benefits, from enhanced career prospects to enriching personal experiences.

Aviation security jobs

Aviation Security Officer:

Aviation Security Officers are responsible for ensuring the security and safety of airports and complying with aviation security procedures. They may work for private security companies contracted by the airport or directly for the airport's security department. These roles often require a high school diploma or equivalent, a clean criminal record, and the ability to pass a comprehensive background check. Some positions may also require prior security or military experience.

Transportation Security Officer:

Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) are employed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and are responsible for screening passengers and their belongings, operating advanced screening technology, and maintaining the security of air travel. TSOs must be able to effectively communicate with passengers and ensure compliance with security protocols. While prior experience is not always necessary, a strong attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure are crucial for this role.

Aviation Security Analyst:

Aviation Security Analysts develop, implement, and oversee strategic security programs to safeguard aviation operations and ensure compliance with government regulations. They often work for private security companies or large aviation corporations. This role requires strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, as well as a comprehensive understanding of aviation security threats and regulations.

Security Screening Roles:

Various roles are available within the realm of security screening, such as Security Screening Officers or Aircraft Security Screeners. These positions involve inspecting passengers and their belongings, verifying credentials, identifying and denying access to prohibited items, and responding to security incidents. Strong communication and customer service skills are essential, as these roles often involve direct interaction with passengers.

Aviation Security Management:

For those with significant experience in aviation security, management positions are available. These roles involve overseeing security operations, developing and implementing security protocols, and managing a team of security personnel. Management positions typically require extensive industry experience, a strong understanding of security procedures, and excellent leadership and strategic thinking skills.

Additional Aviation Security Roles:

• Security Specialist
• Customs and Border Patrol Agent
• Aviation Security Guard
• Aviation Security Inspector
• Aviation Security Agent
• Terminal Security Manager
• Supervisory Transportation Security Specialist

Aircraft maintenance roles

Aircraft maintenance is a critical aspect of the aviation industry, encompassing a range of inspections, repairs, and overhauls to ensure optimal aircraft functionality and adherence to strict safety standards. There are two primary types of aircraft maintenance: line maintenance and base maintenance.

Line Maintenance

Line maintenance acts as the first line of defence in aviation maintenance and is typically performed daily. It includes routine checks, minor repairs, and inspections before or after each flight. Line maintenance ensures aircraft engines are in top condition, addressing any issues that arose during the previous flight.

Base Maintenance

Base maintenance is more extensive and occurs at predetermined intervals or milestones in an aircraft's life. It involves complex tasks such as major repairs, structural inspections, and component replacements, often conducted in dedicated maintenance facilities.

Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME)

AMEs are certified professionals who play a critical role in aircraft maintenance. They are responsible for inspecting, repairing, and releasing aircraft for flight operations, ensuring compliance with safety regulations. AMEs undergo rigorous training and certification to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge for their demanding responsibilities.

Aviation Maintenance Crew

The aviation maintenance crew consists of skilled aircraft maintenance technicians and aircraft mechanics who work under the supervision of AMEs. Their duties include executing routine maintenance tasks, conducting inspections, and performing repairs as directed by the AMEs. Their collaboration is essential for seamless aircraft maintenance operations.

Ground Service Mechanic

Ground service mechanics maintain, repair, and perform preventive maintenance on aircraft ground support equipment, including motorized and non-motorized, gasoline, and diesel-fuelled vehicles. They troubleshoot, tune-up, modify, and overhaul power-plants, drive-trains, and electrical and hydraulic systems.

Regulatory Framework

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and entities like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the US or the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in Europe closely scrutinize aircraft maintenance. They set and enforce meticulous regulations to guarantee aircraft safety and airworthiness, ensuring compliance by airlines, maintenance providers, and AMEs.

Frequently asked questions