Airline Career Options for Retirees
The airline industry has a multitude of job opportunities, including many that retirees may qualify for and enjoy. Some jobs may require relevant experience and/or a college degree and involve part-time work with minimal physical activities.
| Job Title | Median Salary (2020)* | Estimated Job Growth (2019-2029)* |
|---|---|---|
| Concierges | $32,380 | 6% |
| Purchasing Agents and Buyers | $66,690 | -8.8% |
| Radio Operators | $36,770 | -5.3% |
| Reservation and Transportation Ticket Agents and Travel Clerks | $39,430 | -2.9% |
| Security Guards | $31,050 | 2.8% |
| Transportation Security Screeners | $44,300 | -3.1% |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Airline Career Information for Retirees
Concierges
Concierges assist clients with a variety of services and transactions, such as arranging transportation, ensuring guest satisfaction, and initiating maintenance and housekeeping requests. Airlines may hire part-time and full-time concierges as needed, typically requiring candidates to have qualifying experience. In general, a high school diploma is the minimum education for these positions, though some college coursework could also be required. Retirees may enjoy these positions if they enjoy maintaining customer satisfaction and minimally physical work.
Purchasing Agents
Airlines may hire part-time or full-time workers to track and manage inventory of certain products used in airline operations. For example, a retiree with inventory-related experience and a four-year degree may qualify to work as a purchasing agent for wine, peanuts, and other products given to customers during flights. These positions may involve working with suppliers and distributors, tracking inventory, reviewing and updating financial reports, and ensuring compliance for products purchased.
Radio Operators
Radio operators transmit and receive communications through radiotelephone equipment and may also be responsible for repairing equipment. These positions aren't typically physically demanding, and may require a 2-year degree or vocational training. Employers typically require candidates to have related experience. A retiree who previously worked in communications or a related occupation may qualify.
Reservation and Transportation Ticket Agents and Travel Clerks
Reservation and transportation ticket agents and travel clerks who work within the airline industry may work under titles such as airport sales agent, customer service agent, reservation agent, and airline ticket agent. Employers typically require applicants to have a high school diploma and related experience; good customer service skills would also be beneficial. Retirees who enjoy working with the public may find these positions to be a good fit. Duties differ with position, but may require selling tickets, checking in luggage, reviewing passenger documentation, and notifying customers of arrivals and departures.
Security Guards
Retirees who don't mind a more physical position and have experience in protection or law enforcement may qualify for security guard roles. These positions generally require a high school diploma and related work experience and consist primarily of work indoors. Security guards secure buildings, respond to alarms, monitor employees and visitors, and write reports of incidents and daily activities.
Transportation Security Screeners
Transportation security screeners are typically responsible for screening passengers and luggage to maintain safely and regulation compliance. Employers typically require a high school diploma and related work experience. Transportation security screeners may stand for long periods of time and lift baggage throughout the day. Retirees who have relevant experience in a field such as security or law enforcement and are able to identify and address issues critically may enjoy these positions.
