Become an Airport Certification and Safety Inspector with the FAA
Are you ready to take your career to new heights? The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently seeking a motivated and technically proficient professional to fill the role of Airport Certification and Safety Inspector in Queens, New York. This is more than just a job; it is a chance to safeguard the traveling public by ensuring the nation's airports meet the highest safety standards.
Job Responsibilities
As an Airport Certification and Safety Inspector, your primary goal is to oversee compliance with 14 CFR Part 139. Your day-to-day activities will be varied and high-stakes:
- Surveillance and Inspection: Conduct periodic inspections of runways, taxiways, and terminal safety areas to ensure compliance with lighting, marking, and structural standards.
- Regulatory Oversight: Review and approve Airport Certification Manuals and emergency plans to ensure that airport procedures are current and effective.
- Wildlife Management: Collaborate with biologists and stakeholders to review wildlife hazard assessments and management plans, minimizing the risks posed by birds and other wildlife.
- Incident Investigation: Act as a subject matter expert in the event of aircraft accidents, surface incidents, or runway incursions, working to identify factors and prevent future occurrences.
- Construction Safety: Review Construction Safety Phasing Plans to ensure that ongoing airport renovations do not compromise the safety of aircraft or personnel.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must demonstrate a strong background in airport operations or related regulatory fields. Candidates should be aware that:
- This role requires up to 60% travel and significant physical activity, including walking airfields and climbing ladders.
- A valid driver's license is required.
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
- All candidates must pass a drug and background check.
Comparison of Qualification Levels
| Level | Education Substitution | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| FV-G | Bachelor's Degree | 3 years general / 1 year specialized |
| FV-H | PhD or 3 years Graduate Study | 1 year specialized (equivalent to GS-5-9) |
| FV-I | None | 1 year specialized (equivalent to GS-10-12) |
Salary and Benefits
The FAA offers a highly competitive compensation package. The salary range for this position is $73,842 to $165,379 annually. Beyond the base salary, employees benefit from a robust federal benefits package, including comprehensive health coverage, life insurance, and access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Application Tips
- Keep it concise: The FAA limits resumes to two pages. Ensure your most relevant experience is front and center.
- Be specific: When describing your work history, don't just state duties; explain how your actions directly related to airport safety and compliance.
- Upload everything: Ensure all transcripts and certifications are attached before hitting submit. Missing documentation will negatively impact your eligibility.
Working for the FAA as an Airport Certification and Safety Inspector is a rewarding path for those passionate about aviation and public safety. If you have the technical expertise and the drive to make a difference in one of the most critical sectors of our infrastructure, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Why This Airport Certification And Safety Inspector Job Matters
Take flight in your career as a vital guardian of aviation safety at one of the nation's busiest airport hubs.
Airport Certification And Safety Inspector Job Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking a dedicated Airport Certification and Safety Inspector to join the Eastern Regional Airports Division in Queens, New York. In this critical role, you will ensure that certified airports adhere to 14 CFR Part 139 safety standards. From conducting onsite inspections to reviewing complex safety manuals and wildlife management plans, your work will directly contribute to the safety of passengers and aviation personnel. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of regulatory compliance, incident investigation, and operational safety within one of the world's most dynamic aviation environments.
Requirements for Airport Certification And Safety Inspector
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Ability to perform physical inspections of airfield environments, including walking significant distances.
- Must possess a valid driver's license.
- Successful completion of a background investigation and pre-employment drug screening.
- Must be able to lift and carry objects weighing 20 to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work in various environmental/weather conditions and climb ladders.
Preferred Qualifications for Airport Certification And Safety Inspector
- Professional experience conducting airport inspections for compliance with federal safety regulations.
- Demonstrated expertise in reviewing Airport Certification Manuals, emergency plans, and wildlife hazard management plans.
- Background in evaluating airport layout plans, construction drawings, and obstruction charts.
- Experience investigating regulatory violations or surface incidents, including runway incursions.
- Strong technical knowledge of Part 139 certification requirements and FAA directives.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Generous retirement plans (FERS and TSP)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Potential for enhanced annual leave accrual for qualified new hires
💡 How to Apply Airport Certification And Safety Inspector Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Airport Certification And Safety Inspector Job
- Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and highlights specific, relevant work experience.
- Submit your application through the official online portal by the closing date.
- Upload all required supporting documents, such as college transcripts and veteran's preference documentation (DD-214).
- Complete the required online assessment questionnaire to validate your competencies.
- Review your application thoroughly before submission, as resubmission is required for any changes made.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific: Use your work history to provide concrete examples that map directly to the specialized experience requirements.
- Quantify your experience: Always include employer name, job title, and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Upload transcripts early: Don't wait until the last minute; ensure your academic records are properly formatted and attached.
- Address the KSAs through work history: The FAA no longer requires narrative responses to KSA questions; ensure your resume acts as the primary evidence for your skills.
- Check for updates: Monitor your USAJOBS account frequently for status updates regarding your application package.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of an Airport Certification and Safety Inspector?
The primary mission is to ensure that airports remain in compliance with 14 CFR Part 139 safety standards, covering everything from airfield maintenance and rescue fire-fighting capabilities to wildlife management and construction safety.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, this role requires up to 60% travel to various airport sites to perform onsite inspections and safety assessments.
What physical demands should I expect?
You will be expected to traverse large distances on foot on airfields, climb ladders, and lift/carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds, often in challenging weather conditions.
Can I substitute education for experience?
Education substitution is available for the FV-G level (bachelor's degree) and FV-H level (graduate-level degrees), but there is no education substitution for the FV-I level.
Job from Federal Aviation Administration
The FAA, an agency under the Department of Transportation, is tasked with the monumental responsibility of managing the safest and most efficient aerospace system in the world. With over 44,000 employees, the agency is at the forefront of aviation innovation, from traditional air traffic control to the emerging technologies of autonomous and electric aircraft. Joining the FAA means becoming part of a diverse community of experts dedicated to the future of flight.