Airport

Summary

Salary: $61,859.20 - $75,920.00 Annually
Location : County of San Diego, CA
Job Type: Regular - Full time
Job Number: 26700108
Department: DPW-Airport Enterprise Fund
Division: Airports
Opening Date: 09/16/2026
Closing Date: Continuous

Job Summary
Excellent Career Opportunity County of San Diego

Department of Public Works - Airports
AIRPORT TECHNICIAN

Practicals and interviews will begin the week of week October 26, 2026

The starting salary for this position will be based on the candidate's qualifications at time of appointment.

Future Salary Increase

** June 2027- 2.90% increase to base pay
The following additional pay incentives and premiums are available
Airport Technicians shall be paid $0.25 per hour premium for operating a motor sweeper.
The County of San Diego is currently accepting job applications for Airport Technician to fill vacancies in the Department of Public Works. The Airport Technician is a journey level job class responsible for performing a wide variety of maintenance, repair, and technical work on airport facilities, grounds, and equipment.
Additional information on the County's Department of Public Works Airports can be found
Hiring Process and Timeline:The timeline for this recruitment is outlined below.
I. Job Offer and Background Process begins: Shortly after the interviews.
Note: Current County employees may be excluded from additional background screening.
II. Pre-employment Medical Screening: Approximately 3 days following successful background investigation results.
III. Anticipated Start Date: Start date will be based upon successful completion of medical screening or other mutually agreed upon date.

If you are not selected for this interview process, you may have the opportunity to compete for future vacancies.
Minimum Qualifications
1. Two (2) years of experience performing general construction work with emphasis on electrical work, structural/facilities repair, and heavy equipment operation with a public or private agency, company, or organization; OR,
2. One (1) year of experience performing maintenance of electrical systems and airport infrastructure on a public or military airfield.

Desirable Experience
Experience in inspecting and maintaining airport lighting systems and pavements at an air traffic-controlled airport.

Driver's Licenses

• A valid California Class B driver's license with a tank endorsement and without transmission or air brake restrictions is required at time of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment in this class.
• A valid California Class A license with a tank endorsement and without transmission or air brake restrictions must be acquired within six (6) months of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment in this class. Employees in this class are subject to random drug testing per DOT guidelines.

Read all about the job classification including minimum qualifications, examples of duties, essential functions, etc.

Practical Examination
The Practical Examination will take place at Gillespie Field, 1960 Joe Crosson Drive, El Cajon, CA 92020. Invited applicants must appear in person to take this exam, which will take approximately two (2) hours to complete.

No make up sessions will be allowed for this examination. Please be prompt as latecomers may not be allowed to take the exam. Please be sure to wear outdoor work clothes including long pants, gloves, and protective boots during this exam.

NOTE: The County of San Diego, Department of Human Resources and the Department of Public Works reserve the right to re-schedule the Practical Examination to different dates, due to varying weather conditions and/or emergency/critical incidents.

The Practical Exam is designed to assess applicants' skills in using the following equipment:
1. Five-yard dump truck
2. Loader
3. Shovels and hand tools
4. Airport Lighting and Electrical Tools
In addition, the practical exam is designed to identify if the candidate possesses a valid California Class B (or higher) driver's license with a tank endorsement and without transmission or air brake restrictions. If you are invited to the practical exam, you must bring your license with you and present it upon request. Persons not possessing a California Class B license or higher with a tank endorsement and without transmission or air brake restrictions at the time of the practical exam will not be allowed to participate in the exam and will not continue.
Blind Applicant Screening
The Department of Human Resources removes personally identifiable information from all new recruitments. This practice, called Blind Applicant Screening, will hide a candidate's personal information that could influence or bias a hiring decision. Personal information includes name, phone number, address, gender, age and race. This process will help contribute to a fair and equitable selection process leading to a more diverse and inclusive workforce.

The most highly qualified candidates, based on the evaluation results, will be referred for an interview. Be sure to include your experience in meeting the minimum requirements in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire section of the Application.

Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application Work History and/or supplemental questionnaire.

Conditions of EmploymentAs part of the County of San Diego's pre-employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check (including fingerprinting) and a pre-employment medical screening prior to beginning County employment. Additional types of background investigations may be conducted based on the job-related activities of the position. Current County employees may be excluded from this process.

Evaluation
The names of qualified applicants will be placed on a six (6) month employment list based upon scores received during the evaluation of information contained in their employment application and supplemental questionnaire.
Please ensure all information is complete and accurate, as the responses you provide on the supplemental application questionnaire will be reviewed using an automated evaluation system. If you are successful in the initial screening process, your application will be reviewed individually to confirm that the information you provide is accurate and qualifying.

Accommodation
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions of the job, on a case-by-case basis.
As an employer of over 19,000 employees, the County of San Diego is an organization committed to veteran hiring, retention, and professional development. We recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by our veterans and value the unique expertise and leadership qualities they bring to our workforce. We strive to provide veterans with the resources and tools necessary to maximize their employment opportunities, and to assist veterans with their transition into civilian life by applying the valuable skills, knowledge and training acquired in service to positions and career paths at all levels within our large organization. Click on the resource links below to learn more about how the County of San Diego supports its veterans.

Veteran's Preference Policy
The County of San Diego offers preferential credits for military service to assist qualified applicants in transitioning from military to civilian careers with the County of San Diego. Please read the Veteran's Preference Policy for additional information.

Military Skills Translator
Do you need assistance translating your military experience into civilian experience? This tool can help! Please read the Military Skills Translator to access the tool.

Strategic Plan
The County of San Diego and its employees embrace the vision of a just, sustainable, and resilient future for all. Our values include integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence, and sustainability. Each of which are infused throughout our operations. While also embracing a mission of strengthening our communities with innovative, inclusive, and data driven services through a skilled and supported workforce. Please see the for more information.
Disaster Service Worker

Under California Government Code Sections 3100 - 3109, public employees are designated as disaster service workers. The term "public employees" includes all persons employed by the state or any county, city, state agency, or public district. Disaster service workers are required to participate in such disaster service activities as may be assigned to them by their employer or by law.
Diversity & InclusionThe County of San Diego is committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion because our diverse workforce is our greatest asset and our customers are our number one priority.
Click here to see the Non-Management Benefits Summary (NMG-NCM)
01

Please be sure to answer the following questions in a thorough, complete and truthful manner, as your responses may be used to determine your overall score. Please do NOT indicate "See Resume," or "See Application," as these are not valid answers. If you are invited to a selection interview(s) by the hiring department, your responses to the following questions may be subject to verification. Please review the minimum qualifications for this position before completing your application. Do you understand this information?

• Yes
• No

02

Please select the box or boxes that accurately describes your work experience.

• I have two (2) years of experience performing general construction work with emphasis on electrical work, structural/facilities repair, and heavy equipment operation with a public or private agency, company, or organization.
• I have one (1) year of experience performing maintenance of electrical systems and airport infrastructure on a public or military airfield.
• None of the above.

03

If you have any of the paid work experience mentioned in the previous question, please provide a description of the experience including:Employer nameYour job titleDates and length of employmentHours worked per weekA description of your job duties including performing electrical workIf you selected "None of the Above" in the previous question, please indicate "N/A".
04

A valid California Class B driver's license with a tank endorsement and without transmission or air brake restrictions is required at time of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment in this class. A valid California Class A license with a tank endorsement and without transmission or air brake restrictions must be acquired within six (6) months of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment in this class. Please check the box pertaining to which valid California license you possess.

• A valid California Class A driver's license with a tank endorsement and without transmission or air brake restrictions
• A valid California Class B driver's license
• A valid California Class B driver's license with tank endorsement and without transmission or air brake restrictions
• A valid California Class C driver's license
• None of the above

05

If you selected that you have a valid California Class A or Class B license in the previous question, please list your license number and date of expiration.If you don't have a valid California Class A or Class B license, please list N/A.
06

Please check the box or boxes that accurately reflect your work experience in maintaining and repairing the any of the following at an air traffic-controlled airport?Note: Please ensure any experience boxes checked here are referenced in the Work Experience section of your application.

• Pavements
• Lighting systems
• Roads
• Grounds
• Commercial buildings
• I do not have any work experience in maintaining and repairing any of the above in an air traffic-controlled airport

07

If you responded "Yes" to the previous question, then please describe your experience in the space below. Your response must include ALL of the following:1. Job title(s)2. Employer name(s)3. Length of experience (number of years and/or months)4. A brief description of your experience in inspecting and maintaining any of the above at an air traffic-controlled airport.If you responded "No" to the previous question, please indicate "NA".
08

Do you have paid work experience directly communicating on an aviation radio system? Note: Your response is subject to verification by the hiring department.

• Yes
• No

09

If you answered YES to the question above, then please indicate below where you gained this experience.

• Public airport
• Private airport
• Military airbase
• General aviation
• Part 139
• I don't have any experience.

10

The working conditions for Airport Technician consist of exposure to all types of weather, including extreme temperatures and inclement weather; and constant exposure to aircraft noise. Are you willing to work under these working conditions?

• Yes
• No

11

Where did you first hear about this job opportunity?

• San Diego County website
• Governmentjobs.com
• Veteran Outreach / FFSC
• AAAE
• Mana de San Diego
• Family, Neighbors, Friends
• County Employee Resources Group
• College/University Career Site
• County Social Media
• Indeed
• Voice and Viewpoint
• Career/Job Fair

Required Question

Job Description

Salary: $61,859.20 - $75,920.00 Annually
Location : County of San Diego, CA
Job Type: Regular - Full time
Job Number: 26700108
Department: DPW-Airport Enterprise Fund
Division: Airports
Opening Date: 09/16/2026
Closing Date: Continuous

Job Summary
Excellent Career Opportunity County of San Diego

Department of Public Works - Airports
AIRPORT TECHNICIAN

Practicals and interviews will begin the week of week October 26, 2026

The starting salary for this position will be based on the candidate's qualifications at time of appointment.

Future Salary Increase

** June 2027- 2.90% increase to base pay
The following additional pay incentives and premiums are available
Airport Technicians shall be paid $0.25 per hour premium for operating a motor sweeper.
The County of San Diego is currently accepting job applications for Airport Technician to fill vacancies in the Department of Public Works. The Airport Technician is a journey level job class responsible for performing a wide variety of maintenance, repair, and technical work on airport facilities, grounds, and equipment.
Additional information on the County's Department of Public Works Airports can be found
Hiring Process and Timeline:The timeline for this recruitment is outlined below.
I. Job Offer and Background Process begins: Shortly after the interviews.
Note: Current County employees may be excluded from additional background screening.
II. Pre-employment Medical Screening: Approximately 3 days following successful background investigation results.
III. Anticipated Start Date: Start date will be based upon successful completion of medical screening or other mutually agreed upon date.

If you are not selected for this interview process, you may have the opportunity to compete for future vacancies.
Minimum Qualifications
1. Two (2) years of experience performing general construction work with emphasis on electrical work, structural/facilities repair, and heavy equipment operation with a public or private agency, company, or organization; OR,
2. One (1) year of experience performing maintenance of electrical systems and airport infrastructure on a public or military airfield.

Desirable Experience
Experience in inspecting and maintaining airport lighting systems and pavements at an air traffic-controlled airport.

Driver's Licenses

• A valid California Class B driver's license with a tank endorsement and without transmission or air brake restrictions is required at time of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment in this class.
• A valid California Class A license with a tank endorsement and without transmission or air brake restrictions must be acquired within six (6) months of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment in this class. Employees in this class are subject to random drug testing per DOT guidelines.

Read all about the job classification including minimum qualifications, examples of duties, essential functions, etc.

Practical Examination
The Practical Examination will take place at Gillespie Field, 1960 Joe Crosson Drive, El Cajon, CA 92020. Invited applicants must appear in person to take this exam, which will take approximately two (2) hours to complete.

No make up sessions will be allowed for this examination. Please be prompt as latecomers may not be allowed to take the exam. Please be sure to wear outdoor work clothes including long pants, gloves, and protective boots during this exam.

NOTE: The County of San Diego, Department of Human Resources and the Department of Public Works reserve the right to re-schedule the Practical Examination to different dates, due to varying weather conditions and/or emergency/critical incidents.

The Practical Exam is designed to assess applicants' skills in using the following equipment:
1. Five-yard dump truck
2. Loader
3. Shovels and hand tools
4. Airport Lighting and Electrical Tools
In addition, the practical exam is designed to identify if the candidate possesses a valid California Class B (or higher) driver's license with a tank endorsement and without transmission or air brake restrictions. If you are invited to the practical exam, you must bring your license with you and present it upon request. Persons not possessing a California Class B license or higher with a tank endorsement and without transmission or air brake restrictions at the time of the practical exam will not be allowed to participate in the exam and will not continue.
Blind Applicant Screening
The Department of Human Resources removes personally identifiable information from all new recruitments. This practice, called Blind Applicant Screening, will hide a candidate's personal information that could influence or bias a hiring decision. Personal information includes name, phone number, address, gender, age and race. This process will help contribute to a fair and equitable selection process leading to a more diverse and inclusive workforce.

The most highly qualified candidates, based on the evaluation results, will be referred for an interview. Be sure to include your experience in meeting the minimum requirements in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire section of the Application.

Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application Work History and/or supplemental questionnaire.

Conditions of EmploymentAs part of the County of San Diego's pre-employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check (including fingerprinting) and a pre-employment medical screening prior to beginning County employment. Additional types of background investigations may be conducted based on the job-related activities of the position. Current County employees may be excluded from this process.

Evaluation
The names of qualified applicants will be placed on a six (6) month employment list based upon scores received during the evaluation of information contained in their employment application and supplemental questionnaire.
Please ensure all information is complete and accurate, as the responses you provide on the supplemental application questionnaire will be reviewed using an automated evaluation system. If you are successful in the initial screening process, your application will be reviewed individually to confirm that the information you provide is accurate and qualifying.

Accommodation
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions of the job, on a case-by-case basis.
As an employer of over 19,000 employees, the County of San Diego is an organization committed to veteran hiring, retention, and professional development. We recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by our veterans and value the unique expertise and leadership qualities they bring to our workforce. We strive to provide veterans with the resources and tools necessary to maximize their employment opportunities, and to assist veterans with their transition into civilian life by applying the valuable skills, knowledge and training acquired in service to positions and career paths at all levels within our large organization. Click on the resource links below to learn more about how the County of San Diego supports its veterans.

Veteran's Preference Policy
The County of San Diego offers preferential credits for military service to assist qualified applicants in transitioning from military to civilian careers with the County of San Diego. Please read the Veteran's Preference Policy for additional information.

Military Skills Translator
Do you need assistance translating your military experience into civilian experience? This tool can help! Please read the Military Skills Translator to access the tool.

Strategic Plan
The County of San Diego and its employees embrace the vision of a just, sustainable, and resilient future for all. Our values include integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence, and sustainability. Each of which are infused throughout our operations. While also embracing a mission of strengthening our communities with innovative, inclusive, and data driven services through a skilled and supported workforce. Please see the for more information.
Disaster Service Worker

Under California Government Code Sections 3100 - 3109, public employees are designated as disaster service workers. The term "public employees" includes all persons employed by the state or any county, city, state agency, or public district. Disaster service workers are required to participate in such disaster service activities as may be assigned to them by their employer or by law.
Diversity & InclusionThe County of San Diego is committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion because our diverse workforce is our greatest asset and our customers are our number one priority.
Click here to see the Non-Management Benefits Summary (NMG-NCM)
01

Please be sure to answer the following questions in a thorough, complete and truthful manner, as your responses may be used to determine your overall score. Please do NOT indicate "See Resume," or "See Application," as these are not valid answers. If you are invited to a selection interview(s) by the hiring department, your responses to the following questions may be subject to verification. Please review the minimum qualifications for this position before completing your application. Do you understand this information?

• Yes
• No

02

Please select the box or boxes that accurately describes your work experience.

• I have two (2) years of experience performing general construction work with emphasis on electrical work, structural/facilities repair, and heavy equipment operation with a public or private agency, company, or organization.
• I have one (1) year of experience performing maintenance of electrical systems and airport infrastructure on a public or military airfield.
• None of the above.

03

If you have any of the paid work experience mentioned in the previous question, please provide a description of the experience including:Employer nameYour job titleDates and length of employmentHours worked per weekA description of your job duties including performing electrical workIf you selected "None of the Above" in the previous question, please indicate "N/A".
04

A valid California Class B driver's license with a tank endorsement and without transmission or air brake restrictions is required at time of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment in this class. A valid California Class A license with a tank endorsement and without transmission or air brake restrictions must be acquired within six (6) months of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment in this class. Please check the box pertaining to which valid California license you possess.

• A valid California Class A driver's license with a tank endorsement and without transmission or air brake restrictions
• A valid California Class B driver's license
• A valid California Class B driver's license with tank endorsement and without transmission or air brake restrictions
• A valid California Class C driver's license
• None of the above

05

If you selected that you have a valid California Class A or Class B license in the previous question, please list your license number and date of expiration.If you don't have a valid California Class A or Class B license, please list N/A.
06

Please check the box or boxes that accurately reflect your work experience in maintaining and repairing the any of the following at an air traffic-controlled airport?Note: Please ensure any experience boxes checked here are referenced in the Work Experience section of your application.

• Pavements
• Lighting systems
• Roads
• Grounds
• Commercial buildings
• I do not have any work experience in maintaining and repairing any of the above in an air traffic-controlled airport

07

If you responded "Yes" to the previous question, then please describe your experience in the space below. Your response must include ALL of the following:1. Job title(s)2. Employer name(s)3. Length of experience (number of years and/or months)4. A brief description of your experience in inspecting and maintaining any of the above at an air traffic-controlled airport.If you responded "No" to the previous question, please indicate "NA".
08

Do you have paid work experience directly communicating on an aviation radio system? Note: Your response is subject to verification by the hiring department.

• Yes
• No

09

If you answered YES to the question above, then please indicate below where you gained this experience.

• Public airport
• Private airport
• Military airbase
• General aviation
• Part 139
• I don't have any experience.

10

The working conditions for Airport Technician consist of exposure to all types of weather, including extreme temperatures and inclement weather; and constant exposure to aircraft noise. Are you willing to work under these working conditions?

• Yes
• No

11

Where did you first hear about this job opportunity?

• San Diego County website
• Governmentjobs.com
• Veteran Outreach / FFSC
• AAAE
• Mana de San Diego
• Family, Neighbors, Friends
• County Employee Resources Group
• College/University Career Site
• County Social Media
• Indeed
• Voice and Viewpoint
• Career/Job Fair

Required Question