At Clay Lacy Aviation, we’ve built a legacy of excellence by combining innovation, safety, and exceptional service. We’re looking for people who share our passion for aviation and our commitment to doing the right thing. Here, curiosity and continuous learning are valued, and teamwork is essential. If you’re ready to contribute your skills in a supportive, high-performing environment where every detail matters, you’ll find opportunities to grow your career and be part of shaping the future of private aviation.

Position Summary

The Valet Attendant is a customer service position that is responsible for providing valet services by safely driving, escorting, parking, and always ensuring vehicle safety to our customers, employees, and guests. The Valet Attendant plays a significant role for customer service as they are the first and last person our clients and customers see upon arrival and departure. Safety is of utmost importance at Clay Lacy Aviation. Operating vehicles in proximity of people, buildings and other aircraft require extreme caution. Procedures must be followed for everyone’s safety and the protection of company and customer property. In addition to valet responsibilities, the Valet Attendant will also assist with spot walking and wing walking of aircraft on the ramp to help ensure safe aircraft movements and positioning.

· Location: Santa Ana, CA

· Compensation: $17.91 - $26.34

· Schedule: Fri - Tue 9:00am - 5:00pm (Wed & Thur - Off)

Job Requirements

· Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license in the state the employee’s work location is based in, restricted licenses are not acceptable.

· Able to drive a manual shift vehicle.

· Drive internal or external customer’s, or company’s vehicle at a posted or safe speed.

· Learn and comply with all safety and operating standards of vehicle and passenger safety.

· Pass pre-employment drug testing and background check.

· Provide excellent customer service to both internal and external clients at all times.

· Complete NATA Safety First, Clay Lacy Aviation and other job-related training.

· Strong interpersonal and communication skills, direct interface, and in writing.

· Ability to make decisions with multiple objectives and implement in a safe, efficient manner.

· Follow oral and written directions; plan and complete assigned duties on a regular schedule; and maintain good working relationships with others.

· Schedules are subject to change. Employees must be available to work flexible hours as changes occur, examples include overtime, holidays, and covering time-off for the team.

· Ability to perform a variety of manual tasks including but not limited to facility cleaning, vehicle washing and vacuuming.

· Ability to work without direct management supervision.

· Must be comfortable with working outdoors, day, night and in all weather conditions.

Job Responsibilities

· Help direct traffic to keep the flow of cars.

· Welcome guests upon arrival and departure.

· Greet all internal and external customers by name, take care of their needs, and develop rapport.

· Open and close doors for every customer upon arrival and departure.

· Assist internal and external customers with luggage to and from vehicle as necessary.

· Turn off each car and remove and place keys in designated areas.

· Photograph all customer vehicles and document any damage.

· Provide each internal and external customer with a valet ticket and explain the vehicle pick up process.

· Park and return cars safely, efficiently, and in a timely manner.

· Assist the Line Service team with spot/wing walking.

· Must be able to work with or without supervision.

· Provide legendary customer service to all external and internal customers.

· Other duties and tasks as assigned.

Essential Physical Functions

The following functions may be performed in variable weather and environmental conditions such as jet engine fumes, dust, or noise.

· Step up and down stairs and vehicles.

· Work effectively while sitting, standing, walking, or running.

· Able to engage safely and effectively in gross and fine motor control movements.

· Reach at or above shoulder level including occasionally waving marshalling wands.

· Execute hand signals to guide aircraft during arrivals and departures.

· Complete tasks safely and effectively that require hand and eye coordination.

· Lift, carry, push, and pull luggage from ground level to waist and overhead, up to 75 lbs.

· Stooping below aircraft wing to chock.

· Ability to occasionally bend, stoop, squat, and lift objects throughout the shift.

· Ability to perform functions that require repetitive motions using hands, wrists, arms knees and/or legs.

· Must be able to reason, analyze, and solve problems.

· Read, write, comprehend, and speak in English.

· Basic computer skills.

· Must have basic math skills.

· Always work safely and effectively.

· Must work well with others.

· Must be able to prioritize and multitask in a distracting environment.

Required Education & Experience

· High School Diploma or GED.

· 0 - 1 years of parking industry experience.

· Valid, unexpired driver's license.

* Must pass Pre-Employment Drug Screening and Background Check.

Benefits

Clay Lacy Aviation offers an excellent benefit package including medical, dental, vision, matching 401(K) and more to employees in full-time positions.

Disclaimer Statement Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice. This job description may not cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all assigned activities, duties, or responsibilities, and may be amended at any time. Employees may be required to perform other job-related assignments as requested.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Statement In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Clay Lacy Aviation provides reasonable accommodation when requested by qualified individuals with disabilities unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. We encourage both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodation with a representative of the Office of Human Resources.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statements Clay Lacy Aviation provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

About the company

Clay Lacy Aviation offers a full range of private aviation services, including private jet charter, aircraft management, maintenance, avionics, interiors, and FBO services. Its aircraft management acts as a private flight department for owners, handling crews, maintenance, financing, and reporting, with charter revenue helping offset ownership costs; it also operates FAA Part 145 repair stations and world-class FBOs at key airports. The company sets itself apart through the founder’s decades of aviation experience, a broad, integrated service network, and strong client relationships that boost charter revenue per hour. Its goal is to provide a seamless, safe, and cost-efficient private air travel ecosystem while expanding leadership in sustainability and luxury travel.

Company Size

501-1,000

Company Stage

N/A

Total Funding

N/A

Headquarters

Los Angeles, California

Founded

1968

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Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

August 7, 2026 deal removes management complexity and lets leadership focus on FBOs.
World Cup 2026 no-fee FBO policy boosts customer goodwill and transient traffic.
September 9, 2026 site updates show active pricing, hiring, and operational continuity.

What critics are saying

Solairus closes the charter-sale by September 30, 2026, stripping Clay Lacy's core revenue.
Ramirez v. Clay Lacy Aviation settlement deadlines run through November 30, 2026.
If FBO and MRO underperform, Clay Lacy becomes a hollow regional operator.

What makes Clay Lacy Aviation unique

Van Nuys, John Wayne, and Oxford give Clay Lacy premium airport control.
24/7 Part 145 repair at Van Nuys supports AOG customers fast.
SAF at Van Nuys and John Wayne backs a visible sustainability pitch.

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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
401(k) Retirement Plan
401(k) Company Match
Paid Time Off
Paid Holidays
Pet Insurance
Wellness Program

Company News

Regional Gateway

Sep 29th, 2026

Van Nuys tenant Clay Lacy Aviation wins two awards.

Van Nuys tenant Clay Lacy Aviation wins two awards. Clay Lacy Aviation has been recognised by Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) with two honours highlighting its commitment to sustainable operations and community partnership at California's Van Nuys Airport (VNY): the VNY Friendly Flyer Award, marking the company's 10th time receiving the recognition, and an inaugural VNY Green Tenant Award. The Friendly Flyer Award recognises jet operators that demonstrate exceptional compliance with voluntary aircraft noise abatement procedures at VNY, going beyond mandatory requirements to reduce noise impacts on surrounding communities. Jacob Haik, Airport Manager, said: "Clay Lacy continues to set a benchmark for what it means to be an exceptional neighbour and partner at Van Nuys Airport. Earning the Fly Friendly Award reflects their ongoing diligence in adhering to our mandatory and voluntary noise abatement procedures, while their recognition as an inaugural Green Tenant Awardee demonstrates real leadership in sustainable aviation. Meaningful progress happens when airport operators proactively invest in the well-being of our local community and the future of our environment, and Clay Lacy's efforts reflect that shared commitment." Friendly Flyer criteria include measures such as increasing southbound jet departures, avoiding overnight flights and achieving 99% or greater compliance with the No Early Turn and Quiet Jet Departure programmes. The new Green Tenant Program recognises VNY tenants demonstrating environmental leadership and sustainable best practices. Clay Lacy was cited specifically for its advancements in zero-emission ground support equipment. Scott Cutshall, President, Real Estate and Sustainability at Clay Lacy Aviation, said: "Being a good neighbour to our communities has always been important to us. These recognitions reflect the intentional work of our team to reduce noise, lower emissions and continually look for practical ways to thoughtfully implement sustainability strategies into all aspects of operations and facilities." Clay Lacy's sustainability practices extend beyond Van Nuys. The company has implemented sustainable practices across its facilities, including electric ground equipment, renewable electricity sourcing, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, comprehensive recycling programs and the availability of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Clay Lacy facilities have also maintained carbon-neutral certification since 2019.

Private Jet Card Comparisons

Sep 10th, 2026

NBAA names 40 Under 40 award winners, for 2026.

NBAA names 40 Under 40 award winners, for 2026. Five members of private aviation flight providers were awarded in the National Business Aviation Association's 40 Under 40 list for 2026. Among the 40 Under 40 awards list for 2026, the NBAA named five members of private aviation flight providers. Below are some highlighted award winners, alongside the full list of awardees for 2026. The 2026 Business Aviation Top 40 Under 40 list recognizes rising leaders in the industry. Other industry members nominate candidates, and the NBAA's Young Professionals Council selects them. Award winners are not ranked; instead, they are organized by category and company. Information is drawn from the NBAA 2026 40 Under 40 awards, or otherwise from LinkedIn. Awardee highlights. Bobby Perez, VP of charter services, Clay Lacy Aviation. Over 20 years ago, Bobby Perez was working as a dog sitter when one of his clients, who owned a charter brokerage, offered him an internship. Years later, after serving as an executive at a large charter brokerage, Perez joined Clay Lacy Aviation to lead charter services from the operator side instead. "There weren't many people who looked like me in leadership," said Perez, regarding when he entered the industry. "So I've made it a priority to mentor and create opportunities for individuals who may not have otherwise found a place in business aviation." Eloy Freitas, VP of safety, quality, and continuous improvement, Clay Lacy Aviation. After studying aeronautical engineering at the University of São Paulo, Brazil, Eloy Freitas joined Embraer's business aviation division and chose to stay in the industry. After living in several countries and moving between companies, he eventually settled in the U.S. and joined Clay Lacy, where he became an executive. In addition to his current responsibilities at Clay Lacy, he oversees operations/management initiatives and contributes to industry boards and committees. "Every day, talented professionals from diverse backgrounds come together to operate some of the most advanced machines in the world," said Freitas, "Delivering exceptional service with an outstanding safety record." Clayton Walters, specialist, competitive intelligence, Wheels UP. After working as an apprentice maintenance technician in high school, where he first discovered business aviation, Clayton Walters enlisted in the Air Force. He served in Washington, DC, in the Air Force Honor Guard, where he became an instructor. After that tour, he enlisted in the Air National Guard, where he still serves. After gaining a private pilot certificate, he became a mission planner with Wheels Up and has continued his career in business aviation ever since. "Our field is becoming increasingly more visible," said Walters, "And that opens the doors to new talent, new ideas and new collaborations across industries." Emily Tobler, sustainability program manager, 4Air. Emily Tobler first started flying lessons at 15, and her interest in business aviation only deepened later in college. There, she volunteered with the Greater St. Louis Business Aviation Association and Wings of Hope, and later interned at the NBAA. While she initially expected to become a pilot, Tobler eventually worked at the NBAA, promoting environmental sustainability initiatives. She now works for 4Air, supporting aviation sustainability, and wants to make environmental progress. "Working with operators who are willing and able to adopt sustainable solutions, like uplifting SAF (sustainable aviation fuel)," said Tobler, "Has been incredibly rewarding because we can see positive change happen now, not years down the road." Ryan Rudolph, strategy and operations, Bark Air. After interning at various technology and finance companies, Ryan Rudolph entered business aviation in 2017 as the first employee of Fly Louie, a boutique Part 380 shuttle service. He then served as president and founder of Edgehill Group, a consultancy firm for private aviation and startups. Now, after joining Bark Air, a subsidiary of pet products marketplace Bark, he helps negotiate suppliers, support operations, and drive cost savings. "It is deeply fulfilling to prove that travel can be reimagined around an underserved passenger (dogs)," said Rudolph. "The most rewarding part of my career is hearing from grateful families who were able to relocate or travel stress-free, knowing business aviation spared their pets from anxiety." Full list of 2026 Business Aviation 40 Under 40 award winners. | Category | Name | Company / Organization | | Airport Business | Bridget Gonchar | Signature Aviation | | Erick Lanier | Tri Cities Airport | | Audrey Myers | Atlantic Aviation | | Ysabella Tetley | Henriksen Jet Center | | Broker/Sales | Michael Barber | jetAVIVA | | Cameron Harris | Textron Aviation | | Bobby Perez, CAM | Clay Lacy Aviation | | Melissa Tarkett | World Fuel Services | | Business Management | Eloy Freitas, CAM | Clay Lacy Aviation | | Jennifer Hoffman | Azure Flight Support | | Joanna Kiel | Embraer | | Amy Karnikian | Crowell & Moring LLP | | Peter Makredes | Sol Aerial Surveys | | KJ McCarter | Aviation Tax Consultants | | Eric Ramsey | Higginbotham | | Ryan Rudolph | BARK Air | | Michael Vanacore-Netz | Global Air Charters | | Clayton Walters | Wheels Up | | Noah Yarborough | Signum Aviation | | Flight/Cabin Attendant | Charli Miro | Part 91 Flight Operation | | Lindsey Savko | LinRose Worldwide | | Innovation and Technology | Eloa Guillotin | Beyond Aero | | Ashley Hanson | Deere & Company | | Sarah Rith | Amazon | | Emily Tobler | 4AIR | | Maintenance | Jake Ansbach | Otter Air Services | | Adam Barron | ACI Jet | | Brandon Doramus | Textron Aviation | | Tom Leone | Duncan Aviation | | Mitch Lutze-Morris | Fargo Jet Center | | Veta Traxler | West Star Aviation | | Marketing | Lindsay Allmon | The Blackhawk Group (Blackhawk Aerospace, AVEX Aviation, Finnoff Aviation Products) | | Carolina Moreira | MedAire, Inc. | | Pilot | Chad Decker | The Whitewind Company | | Jamie Ingall, CAM | Part 91/Part 135 Flight Operation | | Melanie Hight | OpenAir | | Charles Roberts | ENG Aviation | | Michael Smith, CAM | Adam Aviation LTD | | Scheduler/Dispatcher | Susan Aucoin | Dell Technologies |

Aviation International News

Aug 7th, 2026

Solairus Aviation.

Solairus Aviation. Solairus To Acquire Clay Lacy Air Charter Management Biz Combined fleet would top 500 managed aircraft August 7, 2026 Solairus Aviation is acquiring Clay Lacy Aviation's aircraft management and charter divisions, which would push the former's managed fleet beyond 500 aircraft. According to Solairus, this deal - announced today and set to close next month - will make it the world's largest business aircraft management provider. Brian Kirkdoffer, chair of Clay Lacy's board, said the deal will allow Clay Lacy to sharpen its focus on its remaining FBO, maintenance, and real estate operations. The deal is subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions. Financial terms were not disclosed. "With this transaction, Solairus solidifies its position as the leading pure-play aircraft management company in the world," said Solairus founder and CEO Dan Drohan. "It is about people, relationships, trust, and service." The combined company will be "better equipped to enhance the client experience while maintaining the high-touch, personalized management services that have been the hallmark of Solairus and Clay Lacy," he added. The deal stemmed from overlapping values between the two companies around safety and culture, Kirkdoffer said. "We know that we're putting our valued clients in good hands with Solairus." Solairus currently manages roughly 360 aircraft from more than 100 bases across North America, while Clay Lacy manages about 140 aircraft. Once the deal closes, Solairus will run the combined operation out of its Petaluma, California headquarters, as well as offices in Los Angeles and New York.

Private Jet Card Comparisons

Aug 6th, 2026

Solairus agrees to buy Clay Lacy Aviation in mega-deal

The acquisition of Clay Lacy by Solairus creates a charter fleet with nearly 200 aircraft, including 150 large cabin and ultra-long haul jets

Clay Lacy Aviation

Valet Attendant

About the job