For 2017's round of hiring, the company received 150,000 applications for around 1,200 positions. Of the 150,000 applicants, 35,000 were chosen to complete video interviews, and from there only 6,000 people got in-person interviews. In all, fewer than 1% of all applicants were chosen to become flight attendants.
Given how selective Delta's hiring process is for those who want to become ambassadors for the airline, you would think new hirees would be offered competitive pay, right? Delta apparently thinks otherwise. According to CNN Money, average entry-level flight attendants earn around $25,000 per year, which can vary depending on a flight attendant's work schedule. Other benefits include 401(k) with a company match and profit-sharing program, plus travel benefits for themselves and family members.
If the less-than-ideal pay and daunting task of applying haven't turned you away yet, here's what you'll need to know about what exactly Delta is looking for. You must have a high school degree or GED, the ability to work in the US, speak fluent English and be at least 21 years old by January 1, 2018. You must also have a flexible schedule. According to Delta, the best résumés will include:
- More than one year of work experience in a personalized customer service, patient care or similar role
- Experience in a role ensuring the safety and/or care of others (teacher, military, EMT, firefighter, coach, law enforcement, lifeguard, nurse, etc.)
- Education beyond high school
- Fluency in a language other than English: These applicants are considered for "Language of Destination" flight attendant roles, which offer additional pay as well as special responsibilities.
If you are one of the more than 1,000 chosen to become a Delta flight attendant in 2018, the training process will be grueling. The top priority for Delta flight attendants is to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers, so you'll learn how to put out fires, perform CPR and more in order to keep the flight safe. Plus, there's the fun stuff, like learning how to properly present a Delta One meal.
Flight attendants have many responsibilities — and sometimes have to deal with rude passengers. So, in that sense, it's a shame that Delta doesn't pay its flight attendants a competitive salary. On the other hand, however, if you have a flexible schedule and a history in the service industry, this could be a job that will allow you to see the world.
