Ruth Haines
There are a variety of federal jobs at airports, each playing a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of aviation operations. These jobs encompass diverse areas of expertise and contribute to the smooth functioning of the aviation industry. From federal air marshals and security officers to air traffic control specialists and electronic technicians, these professionals work diligently to safeguard passengers, crew, and cargo. Federal jobs at airports also extend to management positions, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which administers and enforces federal air regulations, and the Operations Control Center (OCC), which manages flight hours and scheduling. These federal positions are responsible for maintaining the highest standards in aviation safety and efficiency, providing essential services that guide and protect millions of passengers and aircraft personnel.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Salary | $50k-$95k |
| Job Types | IT, Flight Attendant, Cabin Cleaning Agent, Security Officer, Traffic Control, Mechanic, Air Traffic Control Specialist, Aviation Safety Inspector, Electronics Technician, etc. |
| Benefits | Health insurance, low-cost group life insurance, credit union service, compensation and medical care for injury on the job, free or discounted travel, excellent health and retirement plans, vacation and sick pay, etc. |
| Job Requirements | Must be willing to pass a physical, possess the appropriate license, and undergo a Criminal History Records Check (CHRC) and Security Threat Assessment (STA) |
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What You'll Learn
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the organization responsible for managing US skies. With more than a million domestic passengers and tons of cargo in the air daily, the FAA's mission is critical and far-reaching. The FAA has approximately 47,000 employees dedicated to providing the American public with the safest, most efficient, and environmentally responsible civil aviation systems and airspace possible.
The FAA provides pilots with flight information and air traffic control services from flight planning to landing. They usually work out of an Airway Facilities Sector Field Office with other technicians whose work is supervised. The office is often located at an airport, and the equipment for which the office is responsible is within a 30-40 mile radius.
The FAA employs thousands of electronic technicians, who install and maintain electronic equipment required for aerial navigation communications. This includes communications between aircraft and ground services and control of aircraft movements to ensure safety and smoothly flowing air traffic. Electronic technicians work with radar, radio, computers, wire communications systems, and other electronic devices at airports and along the network of federal airways.
The FAA also employs Aviation Safety Inspectors, who oversee airline dispatch and operational control, ensuring compliance with regulations. They monitor dispatch centers and training facilities, provide expertise on policies, investigate incidents, and help certify new airlines. They also conduct regular observations for continuous compliance through planned surveillance and inspection programs.
Additionally, the FAA has an Operations Control Center (OCC) team that manages aircraft flight hours, improves scheduling processes, and increases scheduling efficiency. Mechanics are also on hand to solve problems and ensure the availability of aircraft. The FAA has a safety management system in place to turn safety data into information and targeted training.
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Air traffic control specialists
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has Air Traffic Control Facilities in every state, as well as Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Guam. The FAA employs over 14,000 air traffic control specialists, who receive on-the-job training and pay increases upon completion of each training phase.
The approximate median annual wage for air traffic control specialists is $127,805, with entry-level salaries increasing with each new training phase. As federal employees, these specialists receive a benefits package that includes insurance, retirement, leave, and flexible spending options.
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Airport security screening
One of the key positions within TSA is that of Transportation Security Officers (TSOs). TSOs are the backbone of TSA and serve as the public face of the agency, interacting with millions of travellers each day. They are responsible for screening passengers, carry-on baggage, and checked luggage to prevent prohibited items and other threats from entering sterile areas of the airport. This includes screening approximately 3.3 million carry-on bags daily for explosives and other hazardous materials. TSA also relies on the public to report any suspicious activities, such as unattended bags, individuals with threatening items, or attempts to access restricted areas.
TSA employs a layered approach to security, utilising various screening methods. This includes advanced imaging technology, pat-down procedures, and the Secure Flight passenger prescreening program, which identifies potential risks before passengers arrive at the airport. TSA's procedures are developed based on information about threats to transportation security and are regularly updated to enhance safety.
In addition to TSOs, TSA also hires Federal Air Marshals (FAMs), who serve in law enforcement capacities both in the air and on the ground. FAMs work to detect and deter suspicious activities across various transportation modes, assist local law enforcement, and proactively seek out threats from the Transportation Security Operations Center.
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Aircraft mechanics
The FAA also offers the Aviation Mechanic Certificate, which includes two ratings: the Airframe (A) and the Powerplant (P). Those seeking both ratings can obtain the "A&P Certificate". To be eligible for this certificate, individuals must have 18 months of practical experience with procedures, practices, materials, tools, and equipment related to the specific rating. Alternatively, one can have 30 months of practical experience performing duties for both the airframe and powerplant ratings. The Inspection Authorization (IA) is another certification available to A&P-certified mechanics who meet the necessary requirements. These mechanics are authorized to review and approve major aircraft repairs and alterations.
Avionics technicians may also seek certifications specific to their work. They can obtain the Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) certification through the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) or hold an airframe rating to work on aircraft electronic and flight instrument systems. Technicians who work on communications equipment will need a license from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Aircraft mechanics typically work at Maintenance and Repair Organizations (MROs), airlines, or in commercial, corporate, or general aviation settings. They may also find employment in aviation maintenance schools or with manufacturers and repair stations. The skills learned as an aircraft mechanic are highly transferable, allowing for career opportunities in various industries.
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Flight attendants
The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA) is the largest labor union for flight attendants, representing over 50,000 members from 20 different airlines. Unions like these advocate for their members in contract negotiations and promote their collective interests.
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Frequently asked questions
Federal jobs at airports include:
- Aviation Safety Inspector
- Air Traffic Control Specialists
- Electronic Technician
- Terminal Management
- Security Officer
Aviation Safety Inspectors oversee airline dispatch and operational control, ensuring compliance with regulations. They also help certify new airlines and conduct regular observations for continuous compliance.
Federal airport jobs offer excellent health and retirement plans, as well as vacation and sick pay. They also provide a benefits package that includes insurance and a wide range of other advantages.
