Airport Operations Specialist (Hourly)

Description

Have you ever been interested in working at an airport? This may be your opportunity. We are looking for Airport Operations Specialist to join our team!

The City of Palo Alto's Public Works Department has an exciting opportunity for individuals interested in becoming an Airport Operations Specialist (Hourly) at the Palo Alto Airport. Under general supervision, this position performs a wide range of operations, maintenance, and security activities at the Palo Alto Airport. This position provides assistance and support to the FAA Control Tower for distressed aircraft or during emergency operations. The Operations Specialist renders assistance and service to airport users and performs related work as required.

This is an SEIU Hourly (limited-benefits) position that is budgeted to not exceed 1,000 hours per fiscal year. The number of hours per week and schedule will be determined based on assignment.

Essential Duties

• Make regular inspections and reports on facilities, runways, hangars, fences, and lighting equipment conditions and perform maintenance as needed.
• Maintain overall appearance of airport grounds and facilities, including the removal of obstacles from runways and approaches, controlling weeds and trash pick-up.
• Operate a variety of motor vehicles such as airport maintenance & first response trucks, pickup trucks, sweeping machines, light equipment, and other related equipment.
• Gather and provide information to airport users regarding local traffic procedures, arrival and departure routes, noise abatement procedures, weather conditions, airport facilities and other local services.
• Monitor airport activities, aircraft and fueling operations to ensure safety and compliance and FAA and local regulations.
• Provide group support and assistance to the FAA control tower.
• Provide assistance and support for distressed or disables aircraft and assist in emergency operations by providing first aid, operating rescue equipment, operating radio, providing information, and notifying fire and other emergency services.
• Explain and enforce City's Airport's Rules & Regulations.
• Assign hangar and tie-down spaces and collect rental fees.
• Maintain records on airport supplies, facilities, services, and equipment utilization including traffic, hangar rental, fees, and airport supplies.
• May be on-call in the event of an airport emergency.
• May act as Airport Manager in his/her absence.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

• A combination of previous training or/education equivalent to a high school senior or high school graduate.
• Previous experience in aviation related field.
• Experience performing minor mechanically maintenance.
• Ability to obtain First Aid & CPR Certification within 6 months of hire.
  
• Previous experience with a public agency preferred but not required.
• A valid California Driver's License is required to drive a City vehicle.

Minimum Qualifications

Sufficient education, training and/or work experience to demonstrate possession of the following knowledge, skills, and abilities which would typically be acquired through:

• Requires a high school diploma or its equivalent with 1 year of related experience.

Supplemental Information

Tentative Recruitment Timeline (all dates subject to change):

• Posting Closes: April 22, 2026
• 1st Round Interviews: Week of May 4, 2026
2nd Round Interviews: Week of May 11, 2026