What is an Airfield Operations Specialist?
An Airfield Operations Specialist is responsible for the safety and efficiency of an airport's airfield. They inspect the runways, taxiways, and ramps for potential hazards, coordinate with air traffic control, and respond to various emergencies, including aircraft incidents and medical emergencies. This role is essential for maintaining compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and ensuring the smooth flow of air traffic.
Typical Education
Most airfield operations specialists hold a bachelor's degree in aviation management, airport administration, or a related field. Some may be able to enter the field with an associate degree or a high school diploma combined with extensive relevant experience, particularly from military service in an aviation-related role.
Salary Range in the United States
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for Airfield Operations Specialists was $68,100 in May 2024. The lowest 10% earned less than $41,400, and the highest 10% earned more than $117,170.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Day in the Life
How to Become an Airfield Operations Specialist
Becoming an airfield operations specialist typically requires a combination of formal education and relevant experience. Start by earning a bachelor's degree in aviation or a related field. While in school, seek out internships at airports to gain practical experience. Many airports also look for candidates with military experience in aviation. Obtaining professional certifications, such as those from the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), can also significantly improve job prospects.
Essential Skills
- Problem-Solving: The ability to quickly and effectively assess and respond to a wide range of issues, from a foreign object debris (FOD) on a runway to a major aircraft emergency.
- Communication: Clear and concise communication is vital, especially when coordinating with air traffic control, pilots, and emergency services.
- Attention to Detail: Meticulous observation is required during airfield inspections to identify even small hazards that could pose a risk to aircraft.
- Knowledge of Regulations: A deep understanding of FAA and other relevant aviation regulations is non-negotiable for ensuring compliance and safety.
- Leadership: The ability to take charge during an emergency and direct a team effectively.
Key Responsibilities
- Conducting daily inspections of runways, taxiways, and aprons for hazards like FOD, pavement damage, or wildlife.
- Coordinating with Air Traffic Control (ATC) to ensure the safety and efficiency of aircraft movement.
- Responding to and managing airport emergencies, including aircraft accidents, medical incidents, and security threats.
- Enforcing airport rules and regulations to ensure compliance with FAA standards.
- Documenting all inspections, incidents, and activities in detailed reports.
Common Interview Questions
Describe your experience with FAA regulations and how you ensure compliance.
- What the interviewer is looking for: This question gauges your knowledge of the core regulatory framework of the job. A good answer will provide specific examples of how you have applied FAA rules in previous roles and your commitment to maintaining safety standards.
- How would you handle a situation where you discover a significant hazard, such as a large piece of debris, on an active runway?
- What the interviewer is looking for: The interviewer wants to assess your quick thinking and ability to follow standard operating procedures under pressure. A strong response will detail the immediate steps you would take, including notifying ATC, closing the runway, and coordinating with maintenance crews.
- Tell me about a time you had to make a critical decision with limited information. (Behavioral)
- What the interviewer is looking for: This behavioral question assesses your judgment and decision-making skills. A good answer will describe a specific situation, the actions you took, the rationale behind your decision, and the outcome.
- What is your experience with emergency response protocols at an airport?
- What the interviewer is looking for: This measures your familiarity with emergency procedures. You should discuss your experience with airport emergency plans (AEPs) and your role in responding to various types of incidents.
- How do you maintain effective communication with multiple parties, such as pilots, air traffic control, and ground crews, during a high-stress situation?
- What the interviewer is looking for: This tests your ability to communicate clearly and calmly under pressure. A good answer will demonstrate an understanding of the importance of concise, accurate information exchange and your ability to use standard aviation phraseology.
Questions?
Have questions about this career? Post in our Career Community!