Career Opportunities

With a membership base of more than 413,000, or two thirds of all pilots in the United States, AOPA is the largest, most influential aviation association in the world. AOPA has achieved its prominent position through effective advocacy, enlightened leadership, technical competence, and hard work. Providing member services that range from representation at the federal, state, and local levels to legal services, advice, and other assistance, AOPA has built a service organization that far exceeds any other in the aviation community.

Established in 1939 and located in Frederick since 1983, AOPA is an established and stable employer for Frederick County.

Where is AOPA located?

We are conveniently located approximately 50 miles from Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, Maryland, in Frederick, Maryland. Our Legislative Affairs office is located in Washington, D.C.

How many employees work at AOPA?

We currently have 200 full and part-time employees.

What is the Air Safety Foundation?

The AOPA Air Safety Foundation is a wholly owned subsidiary of AOPA. Founded in 1950, the AOPA Air Safety Foundation is the nation's largest 501(c) 3 organization dedicated exclusively to providing aviation education and safety programs for general aviation. The mission of the Foundation is to save lives and promote General Aviation Safety.

Do you affiliate with any one college or university?

AOPA has a professional affiliation with Embry Riddle Aviation University and we are strong supporters of their programs. Each year we employ interns from ERAU in various departments throughout the association. However, many other aviation programs are represented such as UND and Daniel Webster. As a Frederick, Maryland based employer, most of our graduates come from the University of Maryland, Mount Saint Mary's and Frederick Community College.

What are the career opportunities at AOPA?

We have career opportunities in marketing, accounting & finance, statistical analysis, communications, publications, training & development, customer services (technical & non-technical), advocacy & government relations, human resources and information & technology.

Do you have to be a pilot to work at AOPA?

No, as a matter of fact more than 60% of employees are not actually pilots. We welcome individuals from every background and career. Being a pilot or a member is certainly a plus but performance on the job is the true measure.

New to General Aviation?

Learn more about it at www.gaservingamerica.org.

What are AOPA's work hours?

Most of our employees work from 8:30 am until 5:00 pm with an hour for lunch. We also offer flexible work hours for many positions.

What are housing costs and property taxes in Frederick, Maryland?

From the historic district to the mountainside, Frederick County offers a wide variety of options for living. Visit the Frederick County Office of Economic Development at www.discoverfrederickmd.com to learn more.

How are the schools?

Frederick County Public School students have scored higher than the national average on their combined Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SAT). Frederick County Public Schools has been a recipient of the U.S. Department of Education's prestigious national Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence Award for many years. Visit www.fcps.org to find out more.


Marsha Mason-Thies
Director, Membership Marketing

"I've worked at AOPA for the past 14 years, having started here as a temporary employee. After many years of commuting down I-270 to Washington, D.C., it's great to be able to get to work in only 10 minutes.

I think AOPA is a wonderful organization that's on top of its game. It's a company with enough employees to provide excellent benefits and opportunities for growth, yet small enough to provide a personal touch."