Careers at LAX: An Overview of Job Opportunities
So you want to work at LAX, huh? As the third busiest airport in the world, LAX offers a ton of exciting career opportunities. But where do you start looking for jobs at such a huge place? What kinds of positions are available? And how do you stand out when applying? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
As someone who has worked at LAX for over 10 years, I’ve seen all kinds of jobs come and go. From customer service roles to highly technical positions, the airport is like a little city that needs people to keep things running smoothly. And with new terminals, transportation projects, and stores opening all the time, LAX is constantly growing and adding new positions.
Getting Your Foot in the Door
For many people, working at the airport starts with customer service. These are the folks manning the check-in counters, bag drop, gates, and information desks – interacting with passengers all day long. It can be a demanding job, but also rewarding if you like helping travelers in a fast-paced environment.
Jane got her start as a ticket agent right out of college. On any given day, she might check hundreds of passengers in for their flights, answer questions about luggage policies, and calm down the occasional angry flyer. “It’s not an easy job, but I love being the first face that passengers see when they arrive at LAX,” she says.
Other entry-level jobs are in airport retail, like working at newsstands, gift shops, and restaurants. Just like the barista at your local Starbucks, retail employees serve customers with food, drinks, and last-minute travel essentials.
Sam remembers his first job at LAX being at a busy cafe near the Bradley terminal. “I learned how to make coffee drinks quickly and manage impatient travelers,” he laughs. “But I also got to meet interesting people from all over the world each day.”
Behind-the-Scenes Opportunities
Of course, it takes an army of people to keep LAX running behind the scenes too. Maintenance workers ensure everything from baggage systems to runways operate properly 24/7. Warehouse employees manage inventory for retail stores and airline catering.custodial staff keep the airport clean around the clock.
Vanessa worked in airport operations as a dispatcher: “I coordinated between maintenance crews, public safety, and central command. It was like being the conductor of a busy orchestra!” she explains.
There are also many driving jobs, like operating airside buses that transport passengers between terminals or moving aircraft on the tarmac. You need a special license, but for gearheads, it’s a thrill seeing planes up close all day.
Career Growth Opportunities
Starting in an entry-level role is often just the beginning. Many LAX employees move up into management, training, or administrative positions over time. With promotions, pay raises, and increased responsibilities, the sky’s the limit for career growth.
After two years as a barista, Sam became a shift manager. “I got to help open new locations and train new hires – it was very rewarding,” he says. After another promotion to district manager, he now oversees airport cafes across the whole western U.S.
The same goes for higher-skilled jobs like finance, IT, engineering, and law enforcement. Whether you’re an accountant tallying revenues or a software developer upgrading airport systems, there are always new projects and room to advance.
Working for an Airline, Agency, or Contractor
It’s worth noting that not all LAX jobs are directly with the airport authority. Many employees work for airlines, government agencies like TSA and Customs, or private contractors operating retail shops and facilities.
“I worked in communications for Delta at LAX,” explains Rebecca. “I got to liaise between our corporate team and airport staff for things like gate changes, VIP guests, and crisis management.”
So when searching for jobs, don’t limit yourself to the airport operator alone. Expand your search to airlines operating out of LAX plus the myriad contractors and agencies on-site.
Tips for Getting Hired
Given how many opportunities there are, you may be wondering: how do I get hired at LAX? Here are some of my best tips:
- Highlight previous customer service experience. Dealing with travelers is key.
- Get certifications needed for specialized roles like driving or IT.
- Consider part-time or hourly positions to get your foot in the door.
- Emphasize your reliability – showing up on time matters in airport ops.
- Apply directly on company websites and check the airport job board.
- Network with people who work at LAX already to learn about openings.
Working at LAX isn’t like any other job – it’s a vibrant world of its own. With a mix of customer service roles, technical positions, management opportunities, airline jobs, and more, the sky’s the limit for starting your career at one of the world’s busiest airports.
Customer Service Jobs at LAX: Interacting with Travelers
As we discussed earlier, customer service roles are a popular starting point for many LAX careers. Let’s dive deeper into what these jobs entail and what it takes to thrive in a busy airport environment.
When most people think of airport customer service, ticket and gate agents come to mind first. These are frontline employees who check passengers in, assign seats, tag luggage, answer questions, and process boarding passes. It’s a demanding job requiring patience, organization, and grace under pressure. As Sarah, a ticket agent for over 5 years, describes it: “One minute I’m helping an anxious mom with three kids check their bags, the next I’m rebooking a furious passenger who missed their flight. Every day brings new challenges!”
That said, Sarah loves being the first person passengers interact with when beginning their journey. “I try to make each traveler feel welcomed and set them up for a smooth trip,” she explains. That mindset is key – looking at hectic interactions as opportunities to turn someone’s day around rather than sources of stress.
Information booth attendants have a similar role, but focus more on guiding travelers around the airport. As Abdi, who has worked an LAX info booth for 2 years, puts it: “I’m like a walking map and FAQ guide! I get asked everything – where’s the best restaurant, how to get to baggage claim, even how to use the hand dryers in the bathrooms.” He enjoys solving problems and knowing the airport inside and out to help passengers.
For those interested in customer service jobs, retail and food/beverage openings are another option. These roles involve serving travelers quick bites and last-minute essentials when they’re on the go. Maria’s first job at LAX was at a convenience kiosk. As she recalls: “One minute I’d be recommending neck pillows to weary flyers, the next I’d be whipping up egg sandwiches at 5am for passengers racing to early flights.” It was hectic but rewarding helping customers in those final moments before takeoff.
In all cases, the ability to remain friendly and solution-oriented during stressful situations is crucial. A passion for travel and interacting with diverse groups of people day in and day out is also important. While customer service jobs can be challenging, they provide the chance to make a difference for harried travelers every day.
As Jane, a 25-year LAX employee, sums it up: “When a passenger thanks me for turning their airport nightmare into a dream vacation, it makes all the stress worthwhile. This is an industry built on moments and memories – I’m proud to play a small role in that magic.”
LAX Careers in Retail: Working at Shops and Restaurants
Beyond frontline customer service roles, LAX offers a huge variety of retail jobs from stores to restaurants. For those who enjoy serving travelers on the go, it’s a fast-paced environment filled with perks.
Walk through any LAX terminal, and you’ll see everything from souvenir shops to upscale dining. Brands like Fred Segal, Kitson, and Ink by Hudson are go-to spots for celebrity sightings and luxury shopping. Meanwhile, food options range from Starbucks and Chick-fil-A to celebrity chef restaurants. With new concessions opening every year, retail is a big part of the airport experience.
For Sasha, working at an LAX newsstand is the perfect fit. “I get to talk to travelers from around the world while providing snacks, magazines, and essentials they need before flying,” she explains. While every day is busy, she meets amazing people from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
James enjoys the fast pace of airport eateries. As a line cook at a trendy LAX restaurant, he prepares hundreds of meals each shift. “It’s high volume, but I love crafting dishes that give travelers a positive lasting impression amid the chaos of travel,” he says.
While retail jobs require energy and patience, the perks are appealing. Many positions come with flight benefits, allowing employees to fly at discounted rates during time off. Karla, a 10-year barista at an LAX cafĂ©, takes full advantage: “The flight benefits let me visit family back home or take weekend trips on my days off. It’s an awesome perk.”
For those interested in a taste of luxury, high-end shops also hire knowledgeable salespeople. Tina worked at an LAX clothing boutique and loved outfitting travelers with stylish pieces for their trips. “I learned so much about fashion while getting to interact with interesting travelers every day,” she recalls.
No matter your interest – food, retail, hospitality – LAX has no shortage of options. As Javier, an airport dining manager, sums up: “Each person who comes through LAX has a different story and reason for traveling. Being able to make their journey a little brighter through service is an honor.”
Behind-the-Scenes LAX Jobs: Maintenance and Facilities
While customer-facing roles get much of the spotlight, it’s the behind-the-scenes employees that keep LAX running smoothly each day. From maintenance to facilities management, these critical jobs require technical skills and a problem-solving attitude.
With nine terminals, two airfields, miles of roads, and billions of passengers per year, LAX needs constant upkeep. Maintenance teams handle everything from repairing baggage systems and runway lights to servicing aircraft and vehicles.
“No two days are the same for us,” notes Ravi, an LAX maintenance technician. “One day I may be troubleshooting an issue with a jet bridge, the next I could be changing air filters or fixing a leaky sink.” While the work is hands-on, Ravi enjoys the constant challenges and keeping infrastructure in good shape.
Facilities roles focus more on the physical buildings and grounds.HVAC technicians like Gary keep air circulation systems running properly year-round. “With the sheer size of LAX, temperature and air quality have to be monitored 24/7,” he explains. Meanwhile, plumbers, electricians, and carpenters conduct preventative maintenance and repairs across terminals.
Outdoors, landscaping crews care for the sprawling airport grounds. “Whether it’s pruning trees, planting flowers, or keeping sidewalks clean, we take pride in the curb appeal and cleanliness of the airport,” notes Monica, a long-time LAX gardener. Her team hand-waters plants daily and tackles special projects like holiday decor.
Coordinating all the maintenance activity happens in the facilities department. Managers oversee work orders, plan preventative upkeep, purchase supplies, and handle emergencies. “We’re conductors of the maintenance orchestra, ensuring all the technicians have what they need,” explains Dennis, a facilities manager. He enjoys making order from chaos and problem-solving complex issues.
Whether you prefer working with your hands, coordinating teams, or overseeing large systems, LAX offers great backstage roles. As Pablo, an airport HVAC leader sums it up: “Behind every smooth flight is an army of folks keeping this airport in tip-top shape 24/7.”
Here is a detailed continuation of the article on LAX careers focused on warehouse and logistics roles:
Warehouse and Logistics Jobs at LAX: Managing Inventory and Freight
With over 2 million tons of cargo passing through LAX annually, logistics roles are crucial to airport operations. From supply chain to warehouse work, these jobs keep inventory moving smoothly.
Behind the scenes, massive warehouse facilities store everything from retail merchandise to airplane parts. Forklift operators like Wendy deftly maneuver heavy pallets, while stockers maintain organization. “It’s like a giant puzzle – making sure supplies are accessible when needed but also maximizing space,” she explains.
Coordinating inbound and outbound freight are logistics positions like Carlos’. “I take pride in ensuring luggage, cargo, and shipments all arrive at the right place at the right time across this huge airport.” Customer service and computer skills are key for managing shipping manifests and communications.
Supply chain analysts like myself focus more on the big picture. We analyze data to predict inventory needs, identify bottlenecks, and streamline flows. I work with other airport teams to make processes as smooth as possible.
Some inventory roles actually take place on the airfield. Baggage handlers carefully load and unload suitcases on tight timetables, while cargo agents secure freight inside aircraft. “People are amazed how quickly we can turn a plane around,” notes baggage handler Akira. “It’s all about organization and hustle.”
No matter your expertise – stocking, shipping, systems analysis – LAX likely has a logistics or warehouse role for you. As operations manager Jasmine sums up, “We keep LAX fully stocked and synchronized so pilots, flight crews, and passengers can focus on travel. It’s not glamorous work but it keeps this airport humming.”
Next time you pick up a snack at an LAX shop or watch bags come down the conveyor, take a moment to appreciate the behind-the-scenes logistics employees that got it there!
Here is a detailed continuation of the article on LAX careers focused on ground transportation and driving roles:
LAX Ground Transportation and Driving Jobs: Navigating the Airport
With 4 terminals, 9 parking garages, and over 100 aircraft gates, getting around LAX requires an army of transportation employees behind the wheel. For those who love driving, it’s an engaging career navigating this bustling airport daily.
Buses transport passengers between terminals, parking areas, and rental car facilities. Operators like Tiana enjoy meeting travelers from around the world while keeping LAX traffic flowing. “There’s never a dull moment driving at LAX – every day brings new people and experiences,” she says.
Shuttles also carry flight crews and airline staff to remote gates and buildings. Drivers must navigate congested ramps and tarmacs to reach airline operations areas. “Maneuvering a shuttle full of pilots and flight attendants through chaotic ramp traffic gets your adrenaline going,” notes driver Matt. “But I love the behind-the-scenes aspect.”
Taxi queues full of eager passengers keep drivers like Gary hustling. “I’ve given rides to everyone from harried business travelers to families headed to Disneyland,” he says. Patience and top-notch navigation skills are a must.
For aviation enthusiasts, operating tugs that move aircraft around gates provides an up-close view of jumbo jets. “I grew up obsessed with planes – now I get to drive them to runways for takeoff,” marvels tug operator Sabina. A commercial driver’s license and clean record are required.
No matter your specialty, driving at LAX means adapting to ever-changing traffic patterns, construction reroutes, and busy travelers. As Jorge, a 10-year bus driver sums up: “Things move fast here, but using your expertise behind the wheel to help passengers get where they need to go is extremely rewarding.”
Airline Careers at LAX: Customer Service, Pilots and Flight Crew
With nearly 100 airlines operating out of LAX, aviation roles make up a huge portion of airport jobs. From customer-facing to technical positions, LAX offers unique airline opportunities.
Customer service agents work directly with passengers – checking bags, assigning seats, handling ticketing issues, and more. “No two days are the same,” notes ticket agent Aisha. “I meet travelers from all walks of life and get them ready for their journeys.” Problem-solving skills and optimism are key in this fast-paced role.
Gate agents manage the boarding process, coordinate standby passengers and upgrades, and make important pre-flight announcements. “I’m the last airline person passengers see before takeoff,” explains gate agent Vijay. “It’s my job to start their trip off smoothly and comfortably.”
For those interested in marketing, many airlines have LAX-based communications teams that manage partnerships, promotions, and events. Mark enjoyed doing PR for an airline: “I pitched news stories, worked with VIP travelers, and helped plan cool activations – all while being steps from the tarmac!”
Of course pilots and flight crews are integral, flying tens of thousands of trips in and out of LAX annually. Pilots require extensive training and flight hours, while flight attendants must complete airline-specific training on service, procedures and safety.
Maintenance technicians have demanding roles keeping the airline fleet in top shape. A&P mechanic Ana explains, “We conduct repairs, install parts, and perform routine checks so planes are 100% flight-ready. It’s a big responsibility but I love the hands-on work.”
No matter your specialty – customer service, marketing, maintenance – airlines need a wide variety of skillsets and personalities. As 25-year flight attendant Madhu explains, “Every employee and flier has a different story but we’re united by travel. Being part of that journey is an honor.”
Here is a detailed continuation of the article on LAX careers focused on security and law enforcement roles:
Jobs in Security and Law Enforcement at LAX: Keeping Travelers Safe
With over 200,000 passengers daily, safety and security are paramount at LAX. A dedicated team maintains airport protection through roles in law enforcement, security, emergency response, and more.
The LA Airport Police provides 24/7 patrols both on foot and in vehicles. Officers like Daniel respond to calls, make arrests, provide K-9 explosive detection, and monitor surveillance systems airport-wide. “This is one of the most dynamic police agencies – every day brings new challenges,” he says.
TSA employees are the frontline of travel security, screening passengers and bags at checkpoints. Officers like Maria inspect X-ray images, perform pat-downs as needed, and keep prohibited items off planes. “It’s fast-paced work but critical for protecting the flying public,” she notes.
Badging officers like Tyree conduct fingerprinting and background checks for the 100,000+ LAX employees requiring secure ID badges to access facilities. Meticulous record-keeping and interviewing skills help ensure only authorized people get badges.
Behind the scenes, emergency management coordinators plan trainings and simulations for crises from fires to active shooters. “We prepare airport responders to handle any emergency safely and efficiently,” explains coordinator Aisha. She finds the work meaningful and engaging.
No matter your expertise, protecting LAX’s millions of travelers and employees takes teamwork. As airport police chief Doug reflects, “When passengers board planes safely without second thought, our mission is accomplished. We’re united in maintaining a secure environment.”
Administrative and Office Jobs at LAX: Supporting Airport Operations
Behind every smooth airport operation is a team of administrative and office professionals managing the paperwork, systems, and planning. From data entry to event coordination, these jobs keep LAX running efficiently.
Administrative assistants provide invaluable support across airport departments. They manage calendars, schedule meetings, file paperwork, prepare reports and more. “I interact with every division at LAX to help keep operations streamlined,” notes assistant Susan. Organization and adaptability are key skills.
HR professionals recruit and onboard new employees airport-wide. They also maintain personnel files, consult on labor issues, and coordinate benefits programs. “With over 60,000 badged employees, LAX is like a small city that needs dedicated HR support,” explains recruiter Amanda.
Purchasing analysts ensure inventory is well-stocked by procuring equipment, retail merchandise, janitorial supplies, and more. Place purchase orders, comparing suppliers and negotiating contracts. Budget management and number-crunching skills are vital.
Event planners arrange employee recognition ceremonies, community outreach initiatives, VIP happenings and more. “I get to combine creativity with logistics for large events that support the LAX mission,” says planner Tricia. Flexibility and vendor relationships help success.
No matter your administrative specialty, attention to detail and passion for organization benefit airport ops. As office manager Rhode notes, “We’re the glue keeping LAX teams connected and equipped for success. It’s rewarding supporting such a complex operation.”
Information Technology and Technical Jobs at LAX: Working Behind the Scenes
With complex systems across 9 terminals, LAX relies on skilled IT and technical professionals to keep operations humming. These critical jobs maintain the tech infrastructure enabling airport function.
Network engineers design, integrate, and administer the wireless networks, servers, and systems supporting airport and airline operations. “Keeping WiFi, point-of-sale systems, and more running smoothly for passengers is an endless task,” notes engineer Priya. “But I love the constant troubleshooting.”
Database administrators like Ajay manage the vast databases essential for coordinating flights, inventory, employee records, and more. “I ensure data integrity and accessibility across LAX’s many departments and partners,” he explains. Careful data modeling and SQL skills are key.
Developers design and code the custom software solutions used airport-wide, from operations dashboards to inventory trackers. “Turning needs into efficient programs is so rewarding,” says dev Ling. “And there’s always new projects and languages to learn.”
Cybersecurity analysts safeguard systems and data from increasingly sophisticated threats. Rohan enjoys “being on the digital frontlines – fortifying LAX’s defenses and responding to attacks.” Current security best practices and vigilance are vital.
No matter your tech specialization, LAX offers great opportunities to use your skills in service of smooth operations. As CTO Pamela reflects, “We work behind the scenes enabling communication, coordination and efficiency across this tech-driven airport.”
Here is a detailed continuation of the article on LAX careers focused on financial and accounting roles:
Financial and Accounting Jobs at LAX: Managing Airport Finances
With an annual operating budget of over $1.5 billion, LAX relies on finance and accounting professionals to manage the airport’s complex money flows and reporting.
Accountants compile financial statements, maintain records, analyze costs, and prepare budgets across departments. “We help divisions understand their spending and forecast future needs,” explains accountant Isaac. “My number-crunching supports smooth operations.”
Payroll administrators like Malia process paychecks, address inquiries, submit taxes and more for LAX’s massive employee base. “Making sure 60,000 employees receive accurate, on-time compensation is an important task,” she notes.
Pricing analysts evaluate rates and fees charged to airlines, concession tenants, parking/ground transport providers and passengers. Analyst Trent describes “optimizing revenues through competitive yet fair pricing given costs.”
Grant managers like Lillian find and administer government and nonprofit funding for expansion projects. “Grants help fund new terminals, roadways, security systems, and more to improve the travel experience,” Lillian explains.
Procurement officers purchase necessary equipment, supplies, and services while achieving cost savings for the airport. Negotiation skills and vendor relationships are invaluable to succeed.
No matter your finance background, LAX offers meaningful roles supporting airport operations through numbers. As CFO Amir reflects, “We ensure funding, fuel LAX’s growth, and provide transparency – enabling travel to occur smoothly.”
Government Agency Careers at LAX: Working for the City and Federal Jobs
In addition to jobs with the airport authority, LAX also offers opportunities with government agencies managing airport regulation, security, customs and more.
The FAA oversees aviation safety and infrastructure. Positions like air traffic controller manage LAX arrivals and departures from the tower. “Coordinating planes in the air and on runways is a big responsibility,” notes controller Samira. Technical skills and unflappable focus are vital.
TSA employees ensure traveler and baggage screening, as detailed earlier. TSOs, managers and support personnel all collaborate to protect airport security.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers welcome international travelers, inspect passports, enforce regulations and prevent contraband. “We facilitate legal trade and travel at one of America’s busiest airports,” describes CBP officer Esteban.
Quarantine inspectors with the CDC minimize public health risks from infectious diseases. They inspect animals and cargo, prepare emergency protocols, and enforce safe processes.
The LA Airport Police Department provides comprehensive law enforcement services, as discussed earlier. Officers, dispatchers, administrators and more work together to protect and serve.
Across agencies, government careers at LAX involve specialized skills applied to facilitating airport function. As FAA manager Riya notes, “We get to support travel and trade while also protecting citizens – it’s a public service we take pride in.”
Transportation Engineering Jobs at LAX: Planning Airport Infrastructure
With $14 billion in renovations underway, engineers play a critical role planning LAX’s infrastructure and technological systems for smooth, efficient function.
Civil engineers design new terminals, gates, runways, and roadways. Tasks involve computer modeling, drafting plans, calculating load capacities, and overseeing construction. “Seeing new LAX facilities come to life from my designs is incredibly rewarding,” says engineer Amar.
Construction managers like Wendy turn designs into reality. They coordinate contractors, troubleshoot issues, monitor budgets and timelines, and ensure building standards are met. Strong project management skills are essential.
Traffic engineers analyze passenger flows and develop solutions to move travelers efficiently. Enhancing airport wayfinding, coordinating ground transport, and planning curbside check-in are examples. “Optimizing traffic at LAX takes data, creativity and vision,” notes engineer Jose.
Systems engineers integrate and implement technologies like security scanners, WiFi networks, baggage handling, and aircraft communications systems. Combining infrastructure know-how with the latest innovations keeps LAX on the cutting edge.
No matter your engineering specialty, LAX offers the chance to keep this world-class airport at the forefront of design, technology, and traveler experience. As chief engineer Lakshmi describes, “When you engineer an airport, you shape how millions travel. That’s profoundly impactful work.”
Construction and Skilled Trades Jobs at LAX: Building and Maintaining Facilities
From electricians to carpenters, skilled tradespeople help build, renovate, and maintain LAX’s infrastructure across 9 terminals and beyond.
Electricians like Ty install and repair lighting, power, control, and communications systems. “Every gate, runway light, and airport display relies on electricity,” he notes. He enjoys the hands-on troubleshooting.
Plumbers like Marco install and maintain the vast plumbing systems for restrooms, drinking fountains, kitchens, and more. Marco says, “Airport plumbing is complex, from sewage to fresh water distribution. It’s challenging yet satisfying work.”
HVAC technicians ensure heating, ventilation and air conditioning operate optimally. They balance temperature, humidity, and air quality in spaces from ticket counters to server rooms.
Carpenters build and repair counters, desks, fences, and interior finishes. “I’ve helped build gorgeous new spaces from terminal renovations,” notes carpenter Jada. “It’s rewarding seeing your craftsmanship benefit passengers.”
General construction workers help renovate terminals and build new airport projects. The work is physically demanding yet offers great camaraderie.
No matter your specialty, skilled trades make an impact. As Ty notes, “We build and maintain the infrastructure enabling 87,000 travelers daily. LAX wouldn’t function without our crews.”
Health Careers at LAX: Keeping Travelers Healthy and Safe
With thousands of global travelers daily, health and medical personnel provide critical services at LAX. Positions range from public health to emergency response.
Nurses at the airport clinics treat ill and injured passengers. “I care for everything from nausea to injuries from falls,” explains nurse practitioner Lynn. “Providing compassionate care helps travelers feel supported.” Multilingual skills are valued for serving diverse visitors.
First responders include EMTs and paramedics who rapid respond to medical emergencies across LAX’s thousands of acres. Steven, a paramedic, relies on specialized training to care for issues from heart attacks to accidents. “Saving lives at such a busy airport is challenging but deeply meaningful,” he notes.
Public health workers monitor infectious disease risks, quickly isolate sick travelers, and report outbreaks. Social worker Rachel notes, “Preventing spread of illness at LAX helps protect public safety locally and globally.”
Mental health counselors help travelers manage anxiety, claustrophobia, emotional issues, and other concerns. They provide support services from therapy dogs to quiet rooms. “Travel can be stressful. We try to make the experience calmer,” says counselor Marco.
No matter your health specialty, your expertise prevents emergencies while making travel safe. As Lynn reflects, “This job allows me to make a difference whether it’s comforting an anxious passenger or treating medical issues. That’s why I love working at LAX.”