Airfield Operations Specialists
O*NET 53-2022.00 · SOC 53-2022
Airfield Operations Specialist is a solid career choice. Median pay is $57k a year with +7.8% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 1,500 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Coordinate aircraft arrivals and departures on the airfield
- →Issue parking instructions to pilots via radio
- →Inspect runways and taxiways for hazards or debris
- →Relay weather and NOTAMs to flight crews
- →Direct ground vehicles operating near active runways
Education & How to Get In
Most Airfield Operations Specialist positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
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Work Environment
Structured, offices, data centers, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Airfield Operations Specialist involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Airfield Operations Specialist?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Airfield Operations Specialist Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Airfield Operations Specialists is projected to grow 7.8% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·40% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·25% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Airfield Operations Specialist make?
The median Airfield Operations Specialist earns $57k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Airfield Operations Specialist jobs?
Our model puts Airfield Operations Specialist at 43 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 40% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 25% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Airfield Operations Specialist a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 7.8% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 1,500 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Airfield Operations Specialist?
Most Airfield Operations Specialist roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become an Airfield Operations Specialist?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Airfield Operations Specialist career right for you?
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