Airfield Operations Specialists Salary Guide 2025: $56,850 Median, Fast Growth
Airfield Operations Specialists earn a median annual salary of $56,850, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2023 data). The mean wage is $63,610, or roughly $27 per hour. The bottom 10% make about $35,870, while the top 10% take home over $102,120.
How much Airfield Operations Specialists earn
The typical Airfield Operations Specialist earns $56,850 per year. That's the national median — half of workers make more, half make less. The top earners, usually in senior or supervisory roles at major airports, can exceed $102,120 annually. Entry-level positions start around $35,870.
Pay varies significantly by experience, employer, and location. The mean hourly wage of $27.30 reflects a mix of part-time and full-time positions. Many specialists work irregular hours, including nights and weekends, which can boost earnings through shift differentials.
Pay by state
Where you work strongly influences your paycheck. Kentucky tops the list at $123,290 average annual wage, followed by Washington ($84,050), Alabama ($78,590), Arizona ($77,570), and Colorado ($77,500). These states often have major military bases or large civilian airports that pay premium salaries.
On the lower end, Montana ($33,990), South Carolina ($33,590), and West Virginia ($28,670) report the lowest average wages. These figures reflect smaller airports or fewer high-paying positions.
How to become Airfield Operations Specialist
The typical path starts with a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers prefer or require an associate's or bachelor's degree in aviation management, airport operations, or a related field. On-the-job training is common.
Certification can improve your chances: the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) offers the Certified Member (CM) and Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) designations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also provides training programs. Prior experience in aviation, such as in the military, is a major plus.
- Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Consider an associate's or bachelor's degree in aviation or airport management.
- Gain experience through internships or entry-level jobs at airports.
- Pursue certification through AAAE (CM or AAE) or FAA training programs.
- Pass background checks and drug screenings required for airport security.
Job outlook
Employment for Airfield Operations Specialists is projected to grow 4.2% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 1,600 job openings each year, mostly due to workers retiring or leaving the field. Current employment stands at 15,190.
Demand will come from increasing air travel and the need to maintain safety at airports of all sizes. Military bases also hire these specialists, providing another steady source of jobs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for Airfield Operations Specialists?
The national median salary is $56,850 per year, with a mean of $63,610. Pay ranges from $35,870 (10th percentile) to $102,120 (90th percentile), according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How can I become an Airfield Operations Specialist?
You typically need a high school diploma, though an associate's or bachelor's degree in aviation management helps. On-the-job training and certifications like the AAAE's Certified Member (CM) can boost your prospects.
What is the job growth for Airfield Operations Specialists?
The BLS projects 4.2% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, with about 1,600 openings per year. This is driven by increased air travel and retirements.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Airfield Operations Specialists data.