Become an FAA Airport Certification and Safety Inspector: A Career in Aviation Excellence
Are you looking to make a tangible impact on the safety of the national airspace? The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently hiring an Airport Certification and Safety Inspector for their Eastern Regional Airports Division. This is an exceptional opportunity for aviation professionals to join a prestigious team in Queens, New York, and help maintain the highest safety standards in the industry.
Job Responsibilities
As an Airport Certification and Safety Inspector, you will:
- Conduct periodic surveillance and inspections at Part 139 certified airports.
- Review Airport Certification Manuals and emergency plans.
- Evaluate wildlife hazard assessments to reduce risks on airfield grounds.
- Investigate regulatory violations and potential aircraft accidents or incidents.
- Collaborate with Runway Safety Action Teams to prevent runway incursions.
Requirements
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Experience: Demonstrated specialized experience in aviation inspection or regulatory compliance.
- Physical: Ability to climb ladders, lift up to 50 lbs, and work in varied weather.
- Training: Must successfully complete the Basic Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) Training.
Grade Comparison
| Grade Level | Requirements Overview |
|---|---|
| FV-G | Requires bachelor's degree or 3 years of general experience. |
| FV-H | Requires 1 year of specialized experience or graduate education. |
| FV-I | Requires 1 year of specialized experience at the FV-H level. |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary structure ranging from $73,842 to $165,379 per year, depending on experience and the assigned grade level.
Benefits
Employees enjoy a robust benefits package including health and life insurance, generous leave programs, and comprehensive retirement contributions.
Application Tips
- Keep your resume concise (two-page limit).
- Detail your specific contributions in your work history.
- Ensure all transcripts and certification documents are uploaded before the deadline.
Join the FAA today and help secure the future of aviation. With competitive pay and the chance to work on critical infrastructure, this is the perfect role for a motivated aviation safety professional.
Why This Airport Certification And Safety Inspector Job Matters
Elevate your career in aviation safety with the FAA: Take charge as an Airport Certification and Safety Inspector in Queens, NY.
Airport Certification And Safety Inspector Job Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking a dedicated Airport Certification and Safety Inspector to ensure the highest standards of operational safety at certified airports. In this role, you will be a vital part of the Eastern Regional Airports Division, conducting complex inspections and ensuring compliance with 14 CFR Part 139 regulations. From reviewing emergency plans and wildlife hazard assessments to collaborating with runway safety teams, your work will directly impact the security and efficiency of the national airspace system.
Requirements for Airport Certification And Safety Inspector
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level
- Must possess a valid driver's license
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening as part of the DOT Drug and Alcohol Testing Program
- Must be able to perform physical tasks including lifting/carrying 20-50 lbs, climbing ladders, and working in varied environmental conditions
- Must successfully complete a Basic Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) Training Course
Preferred Qualifications for Airport Certification And Safety Inspector
- Proven experience conducting airport inspections for compliance with FAA standards
- Technical expertise in reviewing Airport Certification Manuals and emergency plans
- Experience in wildlife hazard assessment and mitigation strategies
- Strong background in analyzing airport layout plans, obstruction charts, and safety construction documentation
- Ability to investigate regulatory violations and manage enforcement actions
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS
- ✓Generous paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Potential for enhanced annual leave accrual based on prior service
- ✓Professional training and career development opportunities
- ✓Paid federal holidays
💡 How to Apply Airport Certification And Safety Inspector Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Airport Certification And Safety Inspector Job
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages
- Gather supporting documents such as transcripts and SF-50 forms
- Complete the online application through the FAA portal
- Substantiate your experience by detailing specific work history examples for each KSA requirement
- Submit your application before the closing date of October 29, 2026
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes the job title, series, grade, and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Do not write narrative responses for KSA questions; instead, embed evidence of your skills directly into your work history.
- Double-check your application for errors; an incomplete submission may lead to an ineligible rating.
- If you are a veteran, include your DD Form 214 to qualify for specific hiring preferences.
- Always resubmit your application if you make any post-submission edits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of an Airport Certification and Safety Inspector?
The inspector is responsible for ensuring that certified airports comply with 14 CFR Part 139 standards, which govern areas like fire safety, pavement conditions, wildlife management, and emergency response procedures.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, this position requires up to 60% travel, as inspectors must visit various airports to conduct hands-on site evaluations.
Can I substitute education for experience?
At the FV-G level, a 4-year bachelor's degree may be substituted for experience. At the FV-H level, advanced degrees or graduate education may qualify. There is no education substitution for the FV-I level.
Is this a travel-heavy role?
Yes, expect to travel up to 60% of the time.
Will I need to undergo drug testing?
This is a testing-designated position; pre-employment and random drug/alcohol screening is required.
Job from Federal Aviation Administration
The FAA is the primary governing body for civil aviation in the United States. With over 44,000 employees nationwide, the agency is at the forefront of aerospace innovation. From regulating autonomous vehicles to advancing electric aircraft technology, the FAA provides the most efficient and safest aerospace system globally.