More than a Runway
While pilots often take center stage, the aviation industry offers a variety of professions suitable for individuals with various education levels and backgrounds. The career requirements listed below are for people without prior experience and may vary depending on a person’s educational background. From the meticulous expertise of aviation mechanics to the critical guidance of air traffic controllers, aeronautical career opportunities are limitless. Below is a list of 2024 aviation-based careers from ZipRecruiter.
At the Airport
Anyone who thrives in a fast-paced environment will find opportunities in the many jobs that support pilots in flying around the world. These careers are located at the airport and sometimes can be the faces passengers see when they enter the terminal. Other times, they are the voices over a pilot’s radio.
Airline Customer Service Agent
Education: High School Diploma or GED
These specialists are masters of communication and problem-solving. Airline customer service representatives are often the first point of contact for passengers upon entering the airport. They assist with ticketing, baggage, reservations, and various passenger needs. Their role ensures passengers have a seamless experience from booking their reservations to departing the airport at their destinations.
Photo by Phil Mosley on Unsplash
Airport Managers
Education: Bachelor’s in Aviation Management or Business Management
Airport managers are versatile professionals with diverse skill sets, including effective communication, accounting, problem-solving, and time management. They oversee daily operations, ensure regulatory compliance, and coordinate all aspects of airport functionality. As the main point of contact for airline officials and the public, they represent the airport community and guide its activities. Airport managers work closely with security personnel to implement security measures and coordinate infrastructure maintenance, ensuring both the smooth operation and safety at airports.
Salary $27,814-$87,046
Education: Associate or Bachelor’s Degree, complete a 12-month ATC Certification Program
Other requirements: Must be under 31 to apply
Air Traffic Controllers are responsible for managing the safe and orderly flow of air traffic in the skies and at airports. They use radar, radio communication, and other tools to direct aircraft, ensuring they maintain safe distances from each other and adhere to flight plans. Their job involves coordinating takeoffs, landings, ground movement, and in-flight movement, all while responding swiftly to any changes or emergencies. Precision, quick decision-making, and excellent communication skills are fundamental in this high-stakes role.
Photo by Miguel A Amutio on Unsplash
Flight Dispatchers
Education: High School Diploma or GED, complete a 12-month certification program
Flight dispatchers handle the complex responsibilities of charting flight routes, calculating fuel requirements, and monitoring weather conditions to guarantee the safety of commercial flights. These ground-based professionals create detailed flight plans for pilots before departure and then coordinate with them to assist the pilots’ decision-making processes. Through their careful planning and real-time coordination, flight dispatchers are integral to the smooth and efficient operation of air travel.
In the Workshop
For some, being a voice in the industry isn’t appealing. Many people prefer roles with less communication and more hands-on work. While these positions require meticulous teamwork, individuals often spend their days working at computers, handling greasy components, or carefully inspecting every rivet on an airplane. These professionals find fulfillment in the technical and practical aspects of aviation.
Aircraft Maintenance Technicians
Education: Complete a technical training program
Safety is their core responsibility. Through comprehensive inspections, precision repairs, and adherence to FAA safety protocols, aircraft maintenance technicians are responsible for the safety and reliability of aircraft. They are responsible for maintaining detailed records and conducting scheduled maintenance. Their rigorous attention to detail helps pilots meet FAA airworthiness safety standards. By consistently applying their skills, these experts contribute to the overall safety and reliability of the aviation industry.
Aerospace Engineer
Salary: $42,000-$165,000
Education: Bachelor’s degree in engineering
Aerospace engineers design, develop, and test aircraft and related systems. They work on a wide range of projects, including commercial airplanes, military jets, satellites, and space vehicles. Specializing in areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, materials, and structural analysis, they use their expertise to enhance the aerospace industry. Their innovations lead to advancements in fuel efficiency, aircraft performance, sustainability, and other critical aspects of aerospace technology.
Aviation safety inspector
Education: High school diploma or GED
Aviation safety inspectors ensure that safety regulations and compliance standards are met within the aviation industry. They collaborate with governing agencies like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct inspections, audits, and investigations of aviation operations. By performing detailed inspections and audits, these inspectors help identify potential safety issues and recommend corrective actions. Their work is vital in maintaining the safety and integrity of the aviation system and protecting the lives of passengers and personnel involved in aviation operations.
Photo by Pandu Agus Wismoyo on Unsplash
At the Office
If being surrounded by busy mechanics, roaring jets, and fast-paced movers is not appealing to you, then consider an aerospace career in an office setting. These roles offer the opportunity to be involved with aviation without the hustle and bustle of an airport or workshop.
Aviation Attorneys
Education: J.D degree
Aviation attorneys specialize in aviation law, managing issues such as aviation accidents, liability, and regulatory compliance for pilots, companies, and aviation agencies. They handle insurance claims by assisting clients in negotiations and settlements with insurance companies. Furthermore, they facilitate the sale, purchase, and lease of aircraft within the general aviation community. In addition to transactional matters, aviation lawyers address employment issues, handling labor disputes and contracts to ensure compliance. Their expertise helps maintain the legal integrity and smooth operation of aviation activities.
Photo by Campaign Creators on Unsplash
Aviation Meteorologists
Education: Bachelor’s in aviation meteorology
Aviation meteorologists deliver tailored weather forecasts and advisories specifically for aviation operations. They provide detailed and timely weather information to help pilots make informed decisions while flying. Additionally, they offer decision support to airlines, air traffic control facilities, and other aviation stakeholders. Their work involves the continuous monitoring and research of weather patterns and trends. This research aids in making safe, real-time decisions and contributes to future improvements in weather predictions. Their ongoing efforts ensure enhanced weather monitoring and safer flight conditions.
Aviation Medical Examiner
Education: Doctor of Medicine and FAA training program
Designated medical examiners are responsible for conducting comprehensive medical examinations and issuing medical certificates to pilots and other aviation personnel. Their role extends beyond performing routine medical exams: they also evaluate applicants’ medical histories, assess their overall health, and provide guidance on lifestyle choices that impact an applicant’s fitness to fly. Additionally, they offer counseling on maintaining health and managing medical conditions to ensure that all aviation professionals meet the stringent medical standards for flight safety. Maintaining detailed and accurate medical records, ensuring FAA medical compliance, and contributing to the ongoing well-being of the aviation community are also part of their job.
Photo by Humberto Chávez on Unsplash
On the Road
For the person who thrives on the excitement of travel, enjoys working with numbers, excels in interpersonal communication, and has a knack for negotiation, there are specialized aviation careers that perfectly match their interest. These roles combine elements of travel, finance, and relationship building to create a dynamic aviation-related experience.
Aviation Brokers
Education: High school diploma or GED
Aviation brokers facilitate aircraft transactions, acting as intermediaries between buyers and sellers. They are the primary point of contact for both parties, ensuring smooth transactions for sellers and addressing all of the buyer’s specifications when searching for the ideal aircraft. Moreover, aviation brokers leverage market analysis, coordinate with lenders, and manage the entire process from listing to the purchase or lease of the aircraft. Their expertise in negotiating favorable terms and handling complex details ensures a successful and efficient transaction.
Photo by LinkedIn Sales Solutions on Unsplash
Aviation Claims Adjuster
Education: High school diploma or GED, Adjuster license
Aviation claims adjusters are professionals who manage insurance claims related to aviation accidents. When an event occurs, the involved parties may file claims to seek compensation for covered losses or damages. Aviation claims adjusters work on behalf of the insurance companies to investigate the circumstances of the incident, assess the damage, and evaluate the validity of the claims. Also, they analyze the insurance policies and negotiate fair compensation for the involved parties. Their involvement in the aviation insurance market safeguards the financial interests of aviation parties.
Aircraft sales person
Education: High school diploma or GED
An aviation salesperson specializes in the sale of aviation-related products, including aircraft, avionics, and aeronautical services. Their primary objective is to drive revenue by identifying prospective clients and matching them with the appropriate products or services to meet their needs. This role demands a comprehensive knowledge of the aviation market and the ability to tailor solutions based on client’s requirements. Aviation salespeople frequently collaborate with manufacturers, dealerships, and brokers to facilitate transactions and streamline services. They are also responsible for maintaining strong relationships with clients, staying informed about industry trends, and providing exceptional customer service to support ongoing business growth and client satisfaction.
Conclusion
For more information on any of the careers listed above or other aviation careers, reach out to Chicago’s Leading Edge at chicagosleadingedge@gmail.com. Our mentorship program can help you explore how your specific work experience and education history may modify some of these requirements, help you explore career options, and connect with individuals in the aviation industry.
