Airport Maintenance Worker

Ravalli County•Hamilton, MT

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

This temporary airport operations/maintenance worker position will primarily provide weekend coverage for airport operations and maintenance. The Airport Operations and Maintenance Worker performs an equal mix of duties related to airfield safety, facility upkeep, inspections, snow and vegetation control, and general operations. This role is critical to maintaining a safe, compliant, and functional general aviation airport. The role requires physical labor, independent judgment, and the ability to respond quickly and professionally to operational or safety issues, prioritizing hazard prevention to support uninterrupted airport use. This position is a temporary position, it is budgeted for 520 hours in the fiscal year and employment of no more than 12 months.

Requirements

Basic mechanical knowledge (e.g., oil changes, greasing joints, equipment checklists)
Ability to safely operate tractors, mowers, snowplows, and small tools
General understanding of airport safety and security best practices, including FAA guidelines for GA operations
Strong written and verbal communication and documentation skills for reporting safety incidents
High attention to detail and safety awareness
Must be reliable, self-motivated, and capable of independent decision-making in safety-critical situations
Basic knowledge of hazard recognition and mitigation techniques
Must be able to pass a criminal background check.
Work independently in the absence of supervision.
Understand and follow oral and written instructions.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent
Experience or knowledge of general aviation operations, facilities maintenance, grounds keeping, or construction preferred

Responsibilities

Conduct weekend airfield self-inspections for hazards, wildlife, and compliance issues and document findings in logbook
Monitor airport facilities, runways, taxiways, and perimeter fencing for maintenance or safety issues, including potential security breaches or wildlife attractants
Notify the Airport Manager of any operational concerns, tenant complaints, or needed repairs, and escalate urgent safety matters immediately
Perform grounds maintenance: mowing, trimming, weed control on both airside and landside areas to mitigate wildlife hazards and maintain clear sightlines
Perform seasonal snow removal of runway, taxiways, ramps, and parking areas using county equipment to ensure safe surface conditions and prevent operational disruptions
Conduct light equipment maintenance such as changing oil and filters, greasing fittings, cleaning equipment and facilities.
Maintain cleanliness and organization of the airport shop and equipment storage areas to reduce trip hazards and ensure equipment readiness.
Operate county vehicles such as tractors, snowplows, weed whackers, and other light equipment in accordance with safety protocols and operator checklists
Maintain log of maintenance activities and report any supply or material needs.
Interpret and apply airport safety protocols per FAA and Ravalli County policies during all maintenance tasks
Work independently while ensuring airport safety and proactively identifying risks
Assist in basic emergency response, such as alerting authorities to incidents or securing areas post-event