Airport Operations Technician I

Clay Today; Muskegon, Northern (MI, KY); Hybrid; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The Airport Operations Technician I is an entry-level apprentice role within Clay Today, offering structured training in airport operations, airfield inspections, equipment operation, and regulatory compliance. The position involves daily inspections, NOTAM issuance, wildlife hazard management, and support for ARFF readiness where applicable.

It requires shifting work, physical tasks, and the ability to operate heavy equipment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 1 year of experience in airport operations, facilities maintenance, or a related field preferred.
• Valid driver's license with minimum CDL-B endorsement, or the ability to obtain within 1 year.

Responsibilities

• Perform daily airfield inspections and monitor operational conditions.
• Issue Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Assist with wildlife hazard management, pavement and lighting inspections, and ARFF readiness if applicable.
• Operate specialized vehicles and heavy equipment; communicate with tenants, pilots, and authorities.
• Support emergency response coordination, environmental compliance, snow and ice control, and routine facility maintenance.

Skills

Safety-conscious

Attention to detail

Team player

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

The Airport Operations Technician I is responsible for executing tasks in support of the safety, security, and regulatory compliance of all airside and landside operations in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 139 regulations. This position performs daily airfield inspections, monitors operational conditions, and issues Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) to ensure the airport remains in compliance with all safety standards. The technician plays a key role in identifying and correcting discrepancies, overseeing wildlife hazard management, inspecting pavement and lighting systems, and supporting Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) readiness if applicable. The Airport Operations Technician I is an entry-level apprentice role, requiring 24 months of training to be considered for the Airport Operations Technician II role. This role will receive structured training in airport operations, airfield inspections, equipment operation, and regulatory compliance.

Additionally, Airport Operations Technician performs emergency response coordination, environmental compliance, snow and ice control, and routine maintenance of airport facilities, grounds, and airfield systems. The position requires operation of specialized vehicles and heavy equipment, including snow plows and airfield maintenance equipment, and effective communication with airport tenants, pilots, and regulatory authorities. A strong understanding of FAA Part 139 subparts is essential. This position is safety-sensitive, team-oriented, and critical to the airport's continued certification and operational continuity.

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 1 year of experience in airport operations, facilities maintenance, or a related field preferred
• Valid driver's license with minimum CDL-B endorsement, or the ability to obtain within 1 year

Employees in this role must be in good physical condition such to allow for climbing, standing, and extended driving or equipment operation as well as moving objects weighing fifty (50) pounds or more.

Work is performed both indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions. Employees must be available for shift work including nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call assignments.

EVALUATION CONTENT

The selected candidate must take a post-offer medical examination (including back screen and complete physical) and drug screening test given by a County appointed physician before the first day of employment. An offer of employment is contingent upon the results of the medical examination and drug screening test. Applicants for County employment may be subject to a post-offer criminal background check, depending on the nature and assignment of the position. When such check is conducted, an offer of employment is contingent upon the results of the criminal background check. Appointees must satisfactorily complete a probationary period before the appointment will be considered permanent.

APPLICANT REVIEW PROCEDURE

Any applicant is entitled to a review of any determination or action taken by the County regarding the applicant's employment application. Inquiries should be directed to the County Human Resources Department.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this recruitment is to establish an eligible list from which to fill present and future vacancies in this classification in the County system. For each opening, the Department Head has her/his choice of the candidates who meet the required minimum entrance qualifications. This list remains in effect for three months unless exhausted or extended.

MUSKEGON COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

MUSKEGON COUNTY HAS ADOPTED A VETERANS PREFERENCE POLICY THAT RECOGNIZES QUALIFYING MILITARY SERVICE.