Airport Operations Technician

Company Description Waukegan National Airport is a public-use airport serving the Waukegan, IL area and the broader northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin region. The airport supports a variety of general aviation activities, including corporate, recreational, and training flights, and plays a key role in local transportation and commerce. Team members work in an environment focused on safety, reliability, and customer service for pilots, passengers, and tenants. The organization values professionalism, collaboration, and continuous improvement in airport operations and maintenance. Joining Waukegan National Airport offers the opportunity to contribute to essential aviation services and community infrastructure. Job Description – Airport Operations Technician I, II and III Location Waukegan National Airport Reports to Operations Manager Compensation $18-30/hr Hourly plus Overtime, Non-Exempt, Snow Removal On-Call Bonus Summary The Airport Operations Technician 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 and maintaining pavement and lighting systems, and supporting Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) readiness if applicable. Additionally, Airport Operations Technicians perform 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 snowplows, tractors, backhoes, broom trucks, skid steers and other airfield maintenance equipment. This position requires 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. Intern/Seasonal: Entry-level technician receiving structured training in airport operations, airfield inspections, equipment operation, facility maintenance, and regulatory compliance. Class I – Apprentice: Entry-level technician receiving structured training in airport operations, airfield inspections and maintenance, equipment operation, snow removal, and regulatory compliance. Class II – Journeyman: Fully qualified technician capable of independently performing airfield inspections, airfield maintenance, facility maintenance, issuing NOTAMs, coordinating operational responses, and operating all airfield equipment. Class III – Craftsman / Lead: Senior technician responsible for shift leadership, mentoring junior staff, coordinating and supervising operational activities, and minor administrative work by assisting the Operations Manager with training, fuel log tracking, and incident management. Key Job Duties and Responsibilities Conduct daily inspections of runways, taxiways, aprons, lighting, signage, and navigational aids Monitor and report airfield conditions (NOTAMs) including closures, surface conditions, and other safety notices Monitor and control Foreign Object Debris (FOD) to maintain airfield safety Conduct daily perimeter checks and monitor access points to ensure compliance with federal TSA security regulations Gather quarterly outfall water samples in accordance to the airport’s Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Conduct and report wildlife hazard management techniques in accordance with the airport's Wildlife Hazard Management Plan Conduct routine maintenance and repairs on airfield lighting, fences, gates, equipment, pavements, and other airport infrastructure Perform general handyman duties including light carpentry, residential electric, basic plumbing, painting, and minor repairs to airport buildings and facilities as needed Operate a variety of specialized vehicles and heavy equipment including plow trucks, dump trucks, rotary brooms, front-end loaders, tractors, line-stripers, zero-turn mowers, forklifts, and snow blowers Conduct snow removal operations on runways, taxiways, aprons, roadways, and parking lots in accordance with the airport's FAA-approved Snow and Ice Control Plan (SICP) Respond to airport emergencies including aircraft incidents/accidents, medical emergencies, severe weather events, and security incidents in accordance with the Airports Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) Perform routine equipment checks and operator-level preventative maintenance Assist in implementation and compliance with the airport’s TSA-approved Airport Security Program (ASP), including access control monitoring and reporting of suspicious activity. Important Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Ability to operate heavy equipment, power tools, and perform outdoor labor in all weather conditions and terrains Ability to learn how to effectively communicate and safely navigate the airfield under FAA Air Traffic Control radio communications and procedures while maintaining a safe operating environment for aircraft Must be situationally aware of their surroundings at all times. Ability to comprehend and comply with required recurring FAA and inhouse training Must be proficient in the use of electronic equipment, computers, hardware and software for data documentation, inspection reporting, work order generation, wildlife reporting, and equipment operation Effectively work independently and with a team Must possess sufficient vision, hearing, and physical ability to safely operate vehicles, equipment, and perform airfield inspections. Ability to follow direction, think independently and collaborate with supervisors on issues and recommendations affecting the airport Working Conditions Work is performed both indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions May involve physical activity such as lifting (50 lbs or more), climbing, standing, extended driving/equipment operation Must be available for temporary shift changes which may include nights, weekends, and holidays as needed, primarily during the winter season. 24/7 on-call availability required for snow removal efforts during the winter season from November 1 st – April 1 st which periodically requires extended hours. May require travel for material pickups, vehicle maintenance unable to be done on-site, training, or conferences. Required 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 Must be able to pass background check and drug screening Desired Qualifications Airfield driving experience To be considered, please email a copy of your resume to View email address on click.appcast.io #J-18808-Ljbffr