Airport utility workers work as members of the crews that service aircraft between flights. These workers perform a number of different jobs. They may direct incoming and outgoing aircraft near the terminal area, using hand or light signals. When the aircraft is stationary, airport utility workers operate the service vehicles that fill the fuel and water tanks. They also replace waste system chemicals and remove liquid waste.
Members of the utility crews are responsible for checking tires for specified air pressure and for adding water and cooling system fluids to batteries and radiators of the aircraft. They also fill landing gear struts with hydraulic fluid.
Airport utility workers clean the insides of aircraft. They also use portable platforms, ladders, and water brushes to clean the outside of the aircraft. During the winter the utility workers remove ice and prevent ice buildup on the wings of aircraft by applying antifreeze chemicals.
Airport utility workers with some airlines may also work as baggage handlers. They unload and load luggage and cargo from aircraft, using conveyor belts and luggage carts.
Education and Training
You generally need a high school diploma to be hired as an airport utility worker. Workers receive on-the-job training, and most jobs can be learned quickly.
Getting the Job
You can apply directly to the hiring offices of the airlines. The Air Transport Association of America will send you a list of airline addresses on request.
Employment Outlook
With experience some airport utility workers move into supervisory positions. With further training they can become mechanics or ramp and cargo service managers.
Currently, there is a surplus of people wanting jobs as airport utility workers. However, the job outlook for airport utility workers is fair. As the population increases and incomes grow, the demand for air transportation is expected to increase.
Working Conditions
Because airlines come and go throughout the day and night, airport utility workers work in shifts, including night, week-end, and holiday work. Airport utility workers generally work 40 hours a week. These workers have to be outside in all weather conditions. They must take safety precautions against noise from jet engines and protect themselves against spills of aviation fuels and chemicals used in the deicing and cleaning of the airplanes.
Earnings and Benefits
Most employers pay airport utility workers an hourly wage. Earnings range from $14 to $18 an hour. Airlines generally provide good benefits. These usually include some free travel with the airline in addition to paid holidays and vacations and health and pension plans. Some airport utility workers are members of unions.
Nature of the Work
Fleet managers are responsible for a group of automobiles owned by major corporations; nonprofit organizations; local, state, and federal government agencies; or service organizations such as law enforcement agencies and educational institutions. Managers may be responsible for fleets ranging in size from several hundred to more than 1,000 vehicles. Fleet managers are sometimes referred to as directors of fleet operations or administrators of corporate fleets.
Fleet managers often direct a fleet administration staff and report to a transportation director, vice president, or other administrative director. Responsibilities generally include the development of fleet administration standards and vehicle operating policies; preparation of an annual budget and periodic reports on operating costs; purchase or lease of vehicles and equipment; and control over maintenance, repair, replacement, and disposal of vehicles.
In addition, managers may direct fleet-related risk management training, such as safety and accident prevention programs, and negotiate insurance matters. Some fleet managers create a driver's manual or newsletter to keep employees informed about the fleet program.
Education and Training
Although a college degree is not necessary, many employers do require a bachelor's degree, preferably in science, marketing, or a technical field; some employers even require a master's degree. Fleet managers must have several years of experience working with the operation, maintenance, or administration of a fleet of cars and supervisory experience. In addition, they need in-depth knowledge of auto rental and leasing programs, strong interpersonal skills, and excellent oral and written communication skills. Computer ability is also an essential requirement.
Getting the Job
Workers must gain experience in the field before they can become fleet managers. Many fleet managers have had several years of experience on a fleet administration staff or with a car rental or leasing agency. People who are interested in obtaining entry-level positions in the field can check help-wanted ads or Internet job banks or contact companies directly.
Employment Outlook
Fleet managers can advance by becoming managers of larger fleets. They can also become administrative directors, transportation directors, or vice presidents of companies.
Job openings for fleet managers are expected to increase as fast as the average through the year 2006. However, some companies will contract with leasing firms to handle all aspects of fleet administration, thereby limiting the number of new openings for fleet managers.
Working Conditions
Most fleet managers work for corporations or government agencies. About 50 percent of all fleet managers direct fleet administration staffs, which may range in size from 2 to more than 11 employees. Fleet managers generally work in comfortable office surroundings, although they spend some time checking vehicles.
Earnings and Benefits
Salaries for fleet managers vary, depending on the type of employer or geographic region. Overall, salaries range from less than $25,000 a year to more than $60,000 a year. Experienced fleet managers employed by government agencies average $40,000 to $50,000 a year.
Fleet managers usually receive benefits such as health insurance, a pension plan, and paid vacations and holidays. Many fleet managers are also provided with a company car.
