Day in the life
A Day in the Life of an Airfield Operations Specialist
What airfield operations specialists actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for an airfield operations specialist?
Morning runway inspection. From there, the day usually includes inspect runways and taxiways, check airfield lighting, and manage wildlife hazards. Shifts cover 24/7 airport operations.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for an airfield operations specialist working full time.
- Morning runway inspection.
- Remove FOD.
- Haze birds near the runway.
- Escort a construction crew.
- Issue a NOTAM for a closed taxiway.
- Check lights.
- Brief the next shift.
Where airfield operations specialists work
Specialists work outdoors on airfields and in operations centers.
Hours and schedule
Shifts cover 24/7 airport operations.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Inspect runways and taxiways
- Check airfield lighting
- Manage wildlife hazards
- Coordinate snow removal
- Respond to emergencies
- Issue NOTAMs
- Escort construction crews
Tools you’ll use every day
- Airport radios
- Operations vehicles
- Friction testers
- Wildlife hazing tools
- NOTAM systems
- Airfield lighting controls
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Faster-than-average growth
- Aviation career without flying
- Varied work
- Public safety role
What’s hard
- All weather
- Shift work
- Emergencies
- High responsibility
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I love aviation
- I notice small hazards
- I stay calm in emergencies
- I don’t mind weather
- I can work shifts
- I want growing work
Not sure? Take the free Airfield Operations Specialist fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Get clearance to enter runways
- Prevent runway incursions
- Wear high-visibility gear
- Follow ARFF coordination