Fuel Operator / Aviation Refueling Technician

🎯 Role Definition

We are actively recruiting a diligent and reliable Fuel Operator to serve as a cornerstone of our ground support operations. In this critical role, you will be responsible for the safe, timely, and accurate refueling and defueling of various aircraft. As a Fuel Operator, you are the final checkpoint in ensuring that aircraft have the correct type and quantity of fuel to operate safely, making you an essential link in the chain of flight operations. This position requires a sharp focus on safety protocols, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, all-weather outdoor environment. You will operate and maintain sophisticated fueling equipment, conduct rigorous quality control checks, and maintain precise documentation, all while upholding the highest standards of safety and regulatory compliance.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Ramp Agent or Ground Handling Staff
General Laborer or Warehouse Associate
Automotive or Diesel Mechanic Helper

Advancement To:

Lead Fuel Operator / Shift Lead
Fuel Farm Supervisor or Manager
Aviation Quality Control Inspector
Operations Supervisor

Lateral Moves:

Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Mechanic
Ramp Supervisor

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Execute the safe and efficient refueling and defueling of a diverse range of aircraft, adhering strictly to all airline, airport, and company-specific procedures.
Operate specialized fueling vehicles, including hydrant carts and refueler trucks, in a safe and proficient manner within active and often congested ramp environments.
Conduct comprehensive pre-fueling and post-fueling inspections of aircraft fueling points and equipment to ensure integrity and prevent contamination or spills.
Perform daily quality control checks on fuel trucks and fuel farm systems, including filter sump checks, water detection tests, and specific gravity measurements.
Maintain meticulous and accurate records of all fueling transactions, including fuel quantity dispensed, aircraft details, and any required sign-offs, using digital and paper-based systems.
Communicate effectively with flight crews, ground personnel, and dispatch to confirm fuel loads, coordinate service, and ensure on-time departures.
Uphold and promote a culture of safety by strictly following all FAA, TSA, ATA 103, and environmental regulations, as well as local airport authority rules.
Safely handle and dispense various grades of aviation fuel (e.g., Jet A, 100LL), demonstrating a thorough understanding of their properties and handling requirements.
Perform routine preventative maintenance checks on fueling equipment, including trucks, hoses, nozzles, and emergency shut-off systems, reporting any defects immediately.
Respond calmly and effectively to fuel spills or other emergencies, deploying spill containment kits and executing established emergency response protocols.
Calculate and verify fuel loads based on flight plan requirements, making necessary adjustments for factors like fuel density and temperature.
Monitor fuel farm storage tanks and hydrant systems to ensure adequate supply and operational readiness, reporting any anomalies to a supervisor.
Ensure all personal protective equipment (PPE) is properly maintained and worn at all times while performing fueling duties.
Conduct visual inspections of the apron and ramp areas for any potential hazards, debris, or unsafe conditions before and during operations.
Provide exceptional customer service to pilots and airline representatives, projecting a professional and competent image.

Secondary Functions

Assist with monthly and quarterly fuel inventory counts and reconciliation in fuel farm and mobile storage units.
Support senior technicians and mechanics in performing light maintenance and repair on fueling vehicles and stationary equipment.
Participate actively in recurrent safety training, emergency drill exercises, and continuous improvement programs.
Maintain the cleanliness and organization of fueling equipment, work areas, and fuel storage facilities.
Escort and monitor third-party fuel delivery tankers, ensuring all safety and security procedures are followed during offloading.
Support ad-hoc operational needs, such as positioning ground support equipment or assisting other ground handling teams during peak periods.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Proficiency in operating heavy machinery, specifically tanker trucks and hydrant service vehicles.
Strong mathematical skills for calculating fuel volumes, weights, and performing conversions.
Knowledge of ATA 103, FAR Part 139, and other relevant aviation fueling standards and regulations.
Ability to perform basic preventative maintenance and diagnostic checks on mechanical equipment.
Experience with radio communication protocols for communicating with flight crews and ground control.
Competency in using handheld electronic devices and software for recording fuel transactions.
Valid Driver's License, often with the ability to obtain an airfield driving permit.
Understanding of hazardous material handling and spill response procedures.

Soft Skills

Unwavering attention to detail and a commitment to procedural accuracy.
Strong safety consciousness and a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating risks.
Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a dynamic environment.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Self-motivation and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Strong problem-solving skills to troubleshoot minor equipment or operational issues.
Physical fitness, including the ability to lift heavy hoses, work at heights, and withstand various weather conditions.
Teamwork and collaboration skills to coordinate effectively with the broader ground operations team.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Vocational or technical certificate in Aviation Maintenance, Automotive/Diesel Technology, or a related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Aviation Operations
Mechanics and Transportation

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 0-2 years of work experience, preferably in an outdoor or industrial setting.

Preferred: 1+ years of experience in aviation ground handling, FBO (Fixed-Base Operator) services, bulk petroleum/fuel handling, or commercial truck driving (CDL) is highly desirable. Prior experience working on a live airfield is a significant plus.