Airfield Operations Specialists
Airfield Operations Specialists ensure the safe takeoff and landing of aircraft at commercial and military airports. They coordinate between air-traffic control and maintenance personnel, dispatch vehicles, monitor flight records, and implement safety procedures. The work takes place in control towers, operations centers, and across airport grounds.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against airfield operations specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves monitoring aircraft movements, communicating with pilots and maintenance crews, and managing ground equipment. Specialists track flight schedules, update records, and respond to operational changes. They may coordinate runway preparations, oversee de-icing operations, or direct ground vehicles. Tasks require constant attention to safety protocols and coordination with multiple airport departments across shifts that often include early mornings, evenings, and weekends.
Who this work suits
Holland code CRE. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this role if you prefer structured, rule-based work and enjoy hands-on coordination of physical operations. You're comfortable with mechanical systems, pay close attention to detail, and work effectively in fast-paced environments where following procedures keeps people safe.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Openings right now
- Airfield Operations Specialist · United States Army Installation Management Command · Fort Campbell, Kentucky · $61722–$80243
- Supervisory Airfield Operations Specialist · United States Army Installation Management Command · Fort Bliss, Texas · $89505–$116362
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $61,650 | $123,290 | $159,490 | 290 |
| Washington | $79,510 | $84,050 | $106,380 | 150 |
| Alabama | $76,400 | $78,590 | $80,540 | — |
| Arizona | $62,140 | $77,570 | $88,420 | 160 |
| Colorado | $66,670 | $77,500 | $85,810 | 70 |
| Oregon | $63,440 | $75,130 | $81,470 | 50 |
| Virginia | $40,160 | $72,250 | $104,500 | 280 |
| Alaska | $50,340 | $71,510 | $87,210 | 160 |
| New Mexico | $53,500 | $69,090 | $81,830 | 50 |
| Georgia | $32,580 | $66,790 | $78,920 | 340 |
| California | $54,580 | $62,600 | $86,320 | 1,660 |
| Idaho | $49,090 | $62,510 | $75,030 | 40 |
All 35 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Airport Certified Employee - Airfield Operations (ACE-AO) — American Association of Airport Executives
- Airport Certified Employee - Airfield Lighting Maintenance (ACE-ALM) — American Association of Airport Executives
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against airfield operations specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 53-2022.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.