Airfield Operations Specialists: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 16,640 airfield operations specialists, and they earn a median of $56,750/year. The range runs from $35K to $111K. Washington pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level airfield operations specialists start around $35K. The gap between that and the median ($57K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $111K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | $83K | 160 |
| Arizona | $80K | 150 |
| Alabama | $78K | 120 |
| Texas | $77K | 1,550 |
| Oregon | $76K | 60 |
| Oklahoma | $74K | 60 |
| Alaska | $66K | 160 |
| Maryland | $64K | 50 |
| Florida | $63K | 3,670 |
| Montana | $62K | 40 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a airfield operations specialists make?▼
The median airfield operations specialists salary in the United States is $56,750 per year ($27/hour). Entry-level positions start around $35,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $111,030.
What education do you need to become a airfield operations specialists?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for airfield operations specialists?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for airfield operations specialists.
What are the highest paying states for airfield operations specialists?▼
The highest paying states for airfield operations specialists are Washington ($82,540), Arizona ($80,260), Alabama ($78,270), Texas ($77,460), Oregon ($75,710). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.