Transportation Service Attendants earn $36,330 median salary – what that means for you
Transportation Service Attendants earned a median salary of $36,330 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $17 an hour. The typical worker falls between $29,050 (10th percentile) and $48,450 (90th percentile).
This occupation covers workers who service vehicles like buses, trains, and aircraft between trips – cleaning, refueling, and restocking. Unlike many transportation jobs, it doesn't require a commercial driver's license. About 133,300 people held these roles nationally.
How much Transportation Service Attendants earn
The median annual wage for Transportation Service Attendants is $36,330, and the mean wage is $38,320. That's about $17 an hour on average.
Earnings vary by experience and location. The bottom 10% earn $29,050 or less, while the top 10% earn $48,450 or more. Pay often increases with seniority or by moving to higher-paying employers like major airlines or transit agencies.
Pay by state
BLS doesn't release state-level data for this specific occupation, but wages typically align with local cost of living and union presence. In general, states with major transit hubs (New York, California, Texas) tend to pay above the national median. Rural areas and states with lower union density often pay near the bottom of the range.
How to become Transportation Service Attendant
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is standard, lasting a few weeks to a month. Clean driving record and drug test are typical requirements.
Certifications can help: FAA-compliant security training for airport roles, HAZMAT endorsement for fuel handling, or a CDL if the job involves driving service vehicles. Advancement opportunities include supervisor, dispatcher, or specialized technician roles.
- Earn high school diploma or GED
- Apply with airlines, bus depots, rail yards, or rental car companies
- Pass background check, drug test, and physical
- Complete employer-provided training (cleaning protocols, safety procedures)
- Optional: obtain CDL or HAZMAT endorsement for better pay
Job outlook
BLS does not provide a specific growth projection for Transportation Service Attendants from 2024 to 2034. However, the broader category of transportation and material moving occupations is expected to grow about 4% over that period, roughly as fast as average. Demand will be driven by ongoing need for vehicle cleaning and maintenance, especially in airports and public transit.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Transportation Service Attendant do?
Transportation Service Attendants clean, refuel, and restock vehicles such as buses, trains, and aircraft. They may also check tire pressure, fluid levels, and report mechanical issues.
Do I need a degree to become a Transportation Service Attendant?
No, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. On-the-job training is provided.
What is the highest-paying industry for Transportation Service Attendants?
Airlines and scheduled air transportation generally pay above the median, while bus service and vehicle rental companies may pay near the lower end.
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 Transportation Service Attendants data.