Launch Your Career: Aviation Safety Assistant with the FAA

Are you looking to pivot your administrative skills toward a mission-critical role? The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently seeking a dedicated individual to serve as an Aviation Safety Assistant at the Greater Chicago Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) in Des Plaines, Illinois. This position offers a unique chance to work behind the scenes in one of the most vital sectors of the U.S. government: aerospace safety.

Job Responsibilities

As an Aviation Safety Assistant, you are the backbone of the FSDO office. You will be responsible for:

Technical Program Support: Processing certificates for mechanics, repairmen, and flight instructors.
Data Management: Inputting critical information into automated systems like the Program Tracking and Reporting Subsystems (PTRS).
Office Coordination: Managing schedules for Aviation Safety Inspectors, preparing reports, and maintaining an extensive technical library of FARs and advisory circulars.
Fiscal Support: Managing impress funds and validating employee travel expenses.

Qualifications Comparison

Requirement	FG-6 Level	FG-7 Level
Experience Level	1 year at GS-5 equivalent	1 year at GS-6 equivalent
Scope	General administrative/clerical	Technical administrative/analysis
Complexity	Routine correspondence	Complex technical reporting

Requirements

To be considered, candidates must be U.S. citizens and have one year of specialized experience. This experience must clearly demonstrate your ability to manage files, research technical data, and interact effectively with the public. All applicants are required to submit a two-page resume and must provide a copy of their most recent SF-50 if they have prior federal experience.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $50,762 to $73,333 annually. Beyond the paycheck, the FAA provides an excellent federal benefits package, including robust health insurance, a federal pension, and the potential for long-term career growth within the agency.

Application Tips

Be Precise: Your resume must contain detailed work history including job titles, series, grades, and specific duties.
Evidence-Based: When answering assessment questions, ensure your work history explicitly mirrors the skills you claim to have.
Stay Current: If you update your profile on USAJOBS, remember to re-submit your application before the closing date.

Serving as an Aviation Safety Assistant at the FAA is more than a clerical role; it is an opportunity to keep the skies safe. If you have the administrative rigor and a passion for aviation, apply today to join the Greater Chicago FSDO team.

Why This Aviation Safety Assistant, Greater Chicago Fsdo, Glsd07 (Office Automation) Job Matters

Launch your career at the heart of aviation safety with the FAA in the Greater Chicago area—where your administrative expertise helps ensure the safety of the skies.

Aviation Safety Assistant, Greater Chicago Fsdo, Glsd07 (Office Automation) Job Overview

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking a detail-oriented professional to join the Greater Chicago Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) as an Aviation Safety Assistant. In this role, you will provide critical administrative and technical support to Aviation Safety Inspectors and office leadership. You will manage essential safety documentation, process airman certificates, and maintain technical files, playing a key part in the FAA's mission to maintain a safe and efficient national aerospace system.

Requirements for Aviation Safety Assistant, Greater Chicago Fsdo, Glsd07 (Office Automation)

Must be a U.S. citizen.
One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level (FG/GS-5 for FG-6; FG/GS-6 for FG-7).
Proficiency in office automation tools and software.
Ability to provide specific work history examples matching the position's KSA requirements.
Must be able to pass a background investigation.
Commitment to maintaining agency directives and safety standards.

Preferred Qualifications for Aviation Safety Assistant, Greater Chicago Fsdo, Glsd07 (Office Automation)

Experience with FAA data systems such as PTRS, OPSS, or VIS.
Proven track record in managing technical records and administrative files.
Experience in fiscal tracking, such as managing impress funds or travel validation.
Strong communication skills for interacting with internal staff and the public.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS).
✓Paid vacation and sick leave.
✓Opportunities for federal career progression.
✓Flexible work environments, including telework eligibility.

💡 How to Apply Aviation Safety Assistant, Greater Chicago Fsdo, Glsd07 (Office Automation) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Aviation Safety Assistant, Greater Chicago Fsdo, Glsd07 (Office Automation) Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume limited to two pages.
Upload your most recent SF-50 (if currently or previously a federal employee).
Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
Submit your application by 11:59 PM ET on August 12, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes official job titles, series, grades, and specific start/end dates.
Quantify your experience; specify hours worked per week and provide examples of your accomplishments.
Do not just answer the assessment questions; substantiate your answers with detailed work history in your resume.
Double-check your submission after any changes; remember to hit resubmit.
Follow formatting instructions strictly to avoid being disqualified for an incomplete application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can education substitute for experience in this role?

No, education is not qualifying for this position and cannot be substituted for the required specialized experience.

Is this position eligible for telework?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework, subject to supervisor approval and agency policy.

What documentation is required for current FAA employees?

FAA employees must provide a copy of their most recent SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action) to verify their current status, series, and grade.

Job from Federal Aviation Administration

The Federal Aviation Administration is the primary authority for the safety of civil aviation in the United States. With a workforce of over 44,000, the FAA manages everything from air traffic control to the certification of repair stations and new aircraft technology. Joining the FAA means contributing to a mission that impacts millions of travelers and the integrity of the national airspace.