Imagine yourself working in an environment where growth, teamwork, and global impact are part of the everyday experience. That is exactly what you get with SFO jobs. When it comes to finding a rewarding career in aviation, San Francisco International Airport stands out as one of the most prominent employers in the United States. Known for its extensive operations, international reach, and lively workplace, SFO offers a wide variety of career opportunities for individuals wanting to be a part of the aviation sector.
With SFO careers, they aim to accommodate individuals with a number of professional needs, whether they are seeking full-time stability or part-time flexibility. Some positions at the airport require an on-site presence, but there are also occasional work-from-home opportunities within administrative and technical support roles. Moreover, hiring events organized by SFO and its partners serve as an opportunity for candidates to engage directly with hiring managers. This speeds up the recruitment process for motivated job seekers. So apply now!
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Company Name: | SFO |
Job Locations: | United States |
Last Updated on: | August 15th, 2025 |
SFO Jobs 2025 Announced Newest Job Vacancies
About San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
San Francisco International Airport has a long history that dates back to 1927, when it first opened as Mills Field Municipal Airport. Over the decades, it has grown from a modest airfield into one of the most significant transportation hubs in the world. Today, SFO is not only an entry point to the Pacific but also an important link in global aviation. It serves as the main connection point between the United States and destinations across Asia, Europe, and beyond. The airport has played a prominent role in the economic and social development of the San Francisco Bay Area.
It fuels commerce, tourism, and new ideas while connecting millions of travelers to new opportunities. The scale of operations at San Francisco International Airport is nothing short of impressive. In a typical year, SFO welcomes more than 57 million passengers and manages close to half a million flight operations. It hosts over 50 international and domestic airlines while offering nonstop flights to hundreds of cities worldwide. The airport’s expansive campus includes four terminals and seven concourses. It is supported by thousands of employees who work tirelessly to ensure efficient operations around the clock.
Why Choose a Career at SFO?
Choosing a career at San Francisco International Airport gives you access to a number of opportunities few employers can match. As one of the most notable airports in the United States, it offers an environment where employees are encouraged to grow professionally while contributing to a global hub for transportation and progress. Careers at SFO are designed to offer not just a job but a lasting, stable future, with many individuals enjoying long and fulfilling careers within the airport’s wide range of opportunities. Growth is prioritized through a variety of training programs, mentorship opportunities, and leadership development courses.
Another strong reason to consider joining SFO is the organization’s dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The airport takes pride in building a workforce that reflects the global community it serves. Employees from all backgrounds find an environment that respects their differences and celebrates their individual perspectives. The focus on creating a welcoming workplace goes beyond policies and is reflected in the everyday culture, which makes SFO a place where individuals feel seen, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential. The following are some other reasons people prefer working here:
- Employees at SFO have the chance to work on exciting projects like sustainable airport design, renewable energy programs, and modern security technologies, offering a forward-thinking and rewarding career path.
- The airport operates around the clock, which means flexible scheduling options are available for those seeking different work-life balance opportunities, including early morning, evening, and overnight shifts.
- Career development at San Francisco International Airport often includes cross-training in multiple departments, allowing employees to develop an extensive skill set that enhances long-term employability.
- SFO’s numerous employee wellness initiatives, including fitness programs and mental health resources, reflect its dedication to the overall well-being of its workforce.
- Being employed at SFO means having access to a wide professional network, as employees often collaborate with local government agencies, international airlines, and major corporations, creating access to future opportunities.
Types of Jobs Available at SFO
There are now a number of SFO jobs available to keep the airport running efficiently. The career opportunities here are as wide-ranging as the millions of travelers who pass through the airport every year. Whether individuals are interested in public sector roles that serve the overall needs of the city or private sector positions focused on airline and retail operations, SFO offers many possibilities for professional growth.
City & County of San Francisco Jobs (Public Sector)
The public sector roles at San Francisco International Airport are operated by the City and County of San Francisco’s civil service system. These positions are usually full-time, offering excellent benefits, competitive pay, and long-term job stability. Roles in this category include everything from airport operations coordinators to engineers and administrative specialists. City jobs often come with strict eligibility requirements, which include civil service examinations, but they offer some of the most secure and desirable opportunities at the airport.
Airport Tenant Jobs (Private Companies)
Tenant jobs refer to positions offered by private businesses that operate within the SFO, such as airlines, restaurants, retail stores, security companies, and service providers. These roles are extensive, with different companies hiring directly through their own HR departments. Tenant jobs can range from airline ticket agents and baggage handlers to chefs, sales associates, and baristas. Since these employers are private, application processes and benefits packages can be quite different, which provides flexibility for job seekers with different needs and career goals.
Operations
Operations staff at SFO are the unnoticed heroes who ensure the successful operation of terminals, airfields, and all supporting infrastructure. These positions include airfield operations officers, ramp supervisors, facilities maintenance workers, and flight scheduling coordinators. Operations teams work closely with both government agencies and private tenants to uphold safety regulations and maintain efficiency.
Security
Security roles at SFO are necessary for maintaining the safety and protection of travelers, employees, and airport facilities. Opportunities in this category range from Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers to private security contractors working for airlines or retail tenants. Security agents are responsible for everything from screening passengers and luggage to monitoring access points and ensuring the observance of federal and state security standards.
Customer Service
Customer service positions are key to creating a welcoming and helpful environment for travelers at San Francisco International Airport. Roles include information desk attendants, airline customer service agents, concierge staff, and hospitality ambassadors. These employees often serve as the first point of contact for visitors by offering assistance with directions, ticketing issues, and general inquiries.
Administrative Roles
Administrative positions at SFO involve secretarial work that keeps the airport’s operations ethical, financially stable, and organizationally sound. These roles include human resources specialists, finance analysts, marketing coordinators, and IT support staff. Administrative careers provide a more traditional office environment but are still very much connected to the ever-changing nature of airport life.
Salaries and Benefits
Salaries offered by SFO jobs depend on the type of employment and employer. City and County of San Francisco employees usually receive high standard salaries that are in accordance with union agreements and public sector pay scales. For example, operations coordinators and airport maintenance roles can start with salaries upwards of $70,000 annually. Security officers, especially those hired through the city system often enjoy higher pay above national averages, with additional overtime compensation. Concession and retail roles hired through private tenants might offer different salary structures, usually starting with hourly wages that reflect the nature of part-time and entry-level positions.
Additionally, benefits at San Francisco International Airport are an important attraction for job seekers. City employees often enjoy comprehensive packages that include healthcare, dental, vision insurance, and generous retirement plan contributions. Paid time off is plentiful, including vacation days, sick leave, and personal holidays. Many roles also come with tuition assistance for continuing education, helping employees progress in their careers while on the job. Even tenant employers frequently offer competitive benefits like employee discounts and incentive bonuses, especially in more senior positions.
- Entry-level concession or food service workers at tenant companies often start at hourly wages between $18 and $22, reflecting the Bay Area’s cost-of-living adjustment.
- Skilled trades and maintenance workers employed by the City and County can earn mid-range salaries between $80,000 and $95,000 annually, especially in specialized technical roles.
- Tenant companies operating luxury retail brands within the airport often offer commission-based sales roles where employees have the potential to significantly boost their income through performance.
- City employees benefit from participation in the San Francisco Employees’ Retirement System (SFERS), a defined-benefit pension plan that supports financial security after retirement.
- Some SFO employers provide tuition reimbursement programs of up to $5,250 per year. This enables workers to pursue postgraduate degrees or professional certifications without bearing the full financial burden.
Eligibility Criteria
In order to be eligible for SFO jobs, candidates must meet specific eligibility standards designed to maintain the highest levels of competence, safety, and efficiency. Applicants must be at least 18 years old for most positions. However, some jobs, such as those involving heavy equipment or security responsibilities, may require candidates to be 21 or older. Legal work authorization is non-negotiable, as all employees must be eligible to work in the United States without restrictions. These basic criteria ensure that all new hires are prepared to contribute responsibly to one of the busiest airports in the nation.
Background checks, drug screenings, and fingerprinting are standard parts of the recruitment process for both public sector and tenant jobs at San Francisco International Airport. These checks are conducted carefully to uphold the safety standards that the airport is known for worldwide. For positions that involve access to restricted areas, transportation security protocols demand an even higher level of scrutiny. These security measures help maintain a safe and secure environment for travelers and employees alike.
In addition to general eligibility, specific roles at San Francisco International Airport may require specialized qualifications. Jobs in airport operations, engineering, and security often require professional licenses, certifications, or an academic degree. For instance, engineering roles may demand a state-recognized Professional Engineer (PE) license, while security management positions could demand aviation security certifications or experience in law enforcement. Having the right qualifications not only increases a candidate’s chances of being hired but also opens up more fulfilling job opportunities at the airport.
- Candidates seeking city jobs at SFO must often pass a competitive civil service examination as part of the qualification process.
- International students or visa holders are generally not eligible unless they hold unrestricted work authorization through programs like Optional Practical Training (OPT) or possess a green card.
- Specialized maintenance roles, such as electricians or HVAC technicians, require valid California state certifications and documented hours of prior experience.
- Individuals applying for customer service or concession jobs must often possess excellent verbal communication skills and may be required to pass customer service aptitude tests during the hiring procedure.
- Applicants for positions involving driving on the airfield must present a clean driving record along with a valid California driver’s license, and in some cases, a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
Application Process for SFO Jobs
When applying for SFO jobs directly with the City and County of San Francisco, candidates must access the official job portal. It lists available public sector roles at SFO. The process usually starts by creating an account on the City’s careers site, followed by submitting applications for specific open positions. Civil service positions often require applicants to meet minimum qualifications, pass written or performance examinations, and undergo a series of interviews before receiving a formal offer. It is important for applicants to pay close attention to job postings, as many roles have strict application deadlines and mandatory exam schedules.
For those interested in working with private businesses operating within SFO, the application process is more direct. Jobs offered by airlines, restaurants, retail stores, and other tenant companies are posted through the airport’s tenant job portal or on the employers’ individual websites. Applications usually involve submitting a resume, attending personal interviews, and in some cases, participating in hiring events hosted at the airport. These events can be especially beneficial, as they sometimes allow applicants to secure job offers on the spot after brief interviews and skills evaluations. To maximize success, candidates are encouraged to customize their resumes for each role. Additionally, they should showcase relevant experience, and maintain a professional but approachable attitude throughout the application process.
Summary
Individuals who apply for SFO jobs will join a successful and long-term growing company. Whether someone is just starting out or seeking the next big step in their professional career, San Francisco International Airport presents a wide selection of roles that support personal development and career growth. With an environment based on community values, operational excellence, and responsibility, SFO remains a top choice for anyone passionate about making a meaningful impact. Now is the perfect time to explore the range of opportunities available and take that first step toward a future at one of America’s premier airports.