Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Aircraft Fueler
💰 $35,000 - $55,000
AviationGround OperationsFuel ManagementSafetyAirport Services
🎯 Role Definition
An Aircraft Fueler is responsible for safely and efficiently fueling aircraft in compliance with aviation safety standards, regulatory requirements, and company procedures. This role ensures aircraft receive accurate fuel quantities, monitors fuel system operations, and coordinates closely with ground crews, pilots, and maintenance teams. Aircraft Fuelers play a critical role in flight safety, operational reliability, and on-time departures while adhering to strict environmental and safety protocols.
📈 Career Progression
Typical Career Path
Entry Point From:
- Ground Support Equipment Operator
- Airport Ramp Agent
- Fuel Truck Driver
Advancement To:
- Fuel Operations Supervisor
- Ground Operations Coordinator
- Airport Fuel Manager
Lateral Moves:
- Aircraft Maintenance Technician
- Ground Handling Agent
Core Responsibilities
Primary Functions
- Safely operate fuel trucks, hydrant systems, and refueling equipment to deliver precise fuel quantities to aircraft.
- Inspect fuel delivery equipment, hoses, pumps, and meters before and after fueling operations.
- Coordinate with flight crew to verify aircraft type, fuel requirements, and fueling procedures.
- Monitor fuel levels, flow rates, and pressure to ensure safe and accurate delivery.
- Adhere to airline and airport fueling procedures, including grounding and bonding requirements.
- Maintain strict compliance with FAA, TSA, and environmental regulations regarding fuel handling and storage.
- Record fuel delivery amounts, aircraft fuel logs, and operational reports accurately.
- Conduct pre-fueling checks of aircraft fuel tanks, ports, and valves to detect leaks or defects.
- Respond promptly to fuel spills, leaks, or other hazardous situations using established emergency procedures.
- Coordinate with ramp agents, ground operations, and maintenance personnel to schedule fueling operations efficiently.
- Monitor weather and environmental conditions to ensure safe fueling operations, particularly during thunderstorms or extreme temperatures.
- Load, transport, and unload fuel safely from storage tanks to fueling trucks or hydrant systems.
- Maintain fueling area cleanliness, safety barriers, and spill containment equipment.
- Conduct daily maintenance inspections of fueling vehicles and report mechanical issues.
- Verify fuel quality and contamination checks before delivery to aircraft.
- Assist in emergency refueling procedures during aircraft diversions or operational delays.
- Support the development and implementation of fuel safety programs and operational improvements.
- Train new fuel handling staff on proper procedures, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance.
- Operate fuel management software and recordkeeping systems accurately.
- Ensure all fueling activities are performed with a strong focus on passenger safety, aircraft integrity, and operational efficiency.
Secondary Functions
- Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis.
- Contribute to the organization's data strategy and roadmap.
- Collaborate with business units to translate data needs into engineering requirements.
- Participate in sprint planning and agile ceremonies within the data engineering team.
Required Skills & Competencies
Hard Skills (Technical)
- Knowledge of aircraft fuel types, fuel systems, and refueling procedures.
- Proficiency in operating fuel trucks, hydrant carts, and mobile refueling equipment.
- Familiarity with FAA, TSA, and local airport fueling regulations.
- Ability to perform fuel quantity calculations and flow rate monitoring.
- Competence in handling fuel contamination and quality assurance procedures.
- Skilled in emergency spill response and hazardous materials handling.
- Knowledge of grounding and bonding procedures to prevent static discharge.
- Proficiency in fuel recordkeeping software and manual logbooks.
- Ability to inspect fueling equipment for safety and mechanical issues.
- Understanding of environmental and safety compliance standards for fuel operations.
Soft Skills
- Strong attention to detail and operational accuracy.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills for coordination with pilots and ground crews.
- Ability to work under pressure in fast-paced airport environments.
- Problem-solving skills for emergency or unexpected fueling issues.
- Reliability and punctuality to meet tight flight schedules.
- Physical stamina and ability to handle outdoor work conditions.
- Focus on safety and adherence to strict protocols.
- Adaptability to changing operational priorities or flight schedules.
- Professional demeanor and customer-service orientation.
- Commitment to continuous learning and procedural improvement.
Education & Experience
Educational Background
Minimum Education:
High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
Preferred Education:
Associate degree or vocational certification in Aviation, Logistics, or Safety Management.
Relevant Fields of Study:
- Aviation Operations
- Safety and Environmental Management
- Logistics and Transportation
- Mechanical or Technical Studies
Experience Requirements
Typical Experience Range:
1–3 years of experience in fuel handling, airport ground operations, or logistics roles.
Preferred:
2+ years of experience in aircraft fueling operations with demonstrated knowledge of safety procedures, regulatory compliance, and fuel system handling.