Hiring Process

If you're traveling for an interview, we'd like to share a reminder that the REAL ID Act is effective May 7, 2025, and requires all U.S. travelers to present a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification (passport, DHS trusted traveler card, etc.) at the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) checkpoint to travel. You may visit TSA’s webpage to view acceptable identification at the TSA checkpoint.

Wanna land a career with Heart?

Check out our open opportunities

Your resources have arrived.
We love our Candidates and want to provide transparency in our hiring process. Review what to expect as a Candidate, how to prepare for your interview, and learn more about what it's like to work at Southwest Airlines®. 

A job built on partnership
It’s more than just a paycheck. A career at Southwest Airlines includes several benefits and perks, from our legendary Culture to travel privileges for Employees and their eligible dependents.
Explore our benefits
A Culture of caring
Our Company Culture speaks for itself. It's something you must experience to believe. ​​​​​​​

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Immerse yourself in our Culture
Join our Talent Community
Sign up for job alert notifications, opt-in for SMS, and receive job awareness email campaigns.​​​​​​
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Stay in the loop
Explore Employee stories
People are, and always have been, the heartbeat of Southwest. Take in their personal perspectives on life, work, and what it means to have a career with Heart.
Check out our blog

Applying for a position
Review the job description
Read and save the job description to reference while you’re preparing for an interview.
Prepare your resume
After reviewing the job description, confirm your resume is updated. Include your contact information, include relevant experience, and job-specific skills that qualify you for the position.  

Submit an application
After you've prepared your resume and found an open Southwest position, apply online. You should hear back from a Recruiter in the following business days as they review applications.

Applicants may be ineligible for positions that create a Reporting or Power-differentiated Relationship with a Southwest Airlines Employee they live with or have a Close Personal Relationship with. 
Check out our open opportunities

Completing the interview steps
Depending on the role, you may participate in multiple styles of interviews or assessments, which could include, but aren't limited to, a phone screen, a virtual interview, or an in-person interview. If selected to move forward, you'll receive details from your Recruiter on what to expect. ​​​​​​​
1
Get Organized
Keep a close eye on your email for communication regarding your interview. Make the most of the resources shared above to learn about landing a career at Southwest.  
2
Schedule your interview

Congratulations—you're invited to an interview! You'll hear from a Recruiter about interview scheduling. Please make sure to schedule an interview time slot at your earliest convenience.  
3
Complete your interview
Here’s your opportunity to land a career with Heart! Prepare to share relevant work examples and accomplishments. For questions about joining our winning Team, ask your Recruiter.

Receiving your offer
Receive your offer
It’s almost official—we've selected you for the role, and your career is about to take flight! Your next step is to review and accept your offer.
Offer details
Your offer letter will provide additional details about compensation, timeline, start date, and next steps. Depending on your position, there's eligibility for a relocation package. If applicable, this information will be included in your offer letter. 

Going through pre-employment screening
Once you receive and accept an offer, you’ll move forward to the employment screening process. This process consists of various steps to clear a background check. While advance preparation isn't required, promptly act when you receive instructions via email.

You may complete additional steps as required depending on the role. These may include, but aren't limited to, a Motor Vehicle Report, education verification, Safety-sensitive items, or SIDA-related screenings. 

Starting your first day


Congratulations—you've landed a career with Heart! We’re excited to welcome you to our Southwest Family and can’t wait to see all you accomplish.
 
Check your email for information about what to expect on your first day. You'll also receive communication on visiting our Corporate Campus in Dallas to learn about our benefits and experience our vibrant Culture firsthand. In addition to this onboarding experience, you’ll receive training. Training can vary by role and may consist of on-the-job training and/or a formal training program. 

Our Heart starts with our People.

The sky is the limit
"To anyone who has a dream like mine, never give up and cultivate a strong support system."

- Nofal B., First Officer
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Nofal's story

From avgeek to
difference-maker
"Anything I want to do with my career is possible."

 - Mike O., Sr Ops Performance & Design Analyst
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Mike's story

Turning my passion into practice.
“Southwest has proven to be the perfect place for me—they equip me to reach my goals, find my best fit, and allow me to help others.” 

- Jimmy B., Technology Jr. Associate
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Jimmy's story

A trip to the beach, anyone?

Check out our Southwest Airlines destination map to plan your first nonrevenue, space-available trip for you and your eligible travelers. Take advantage of this unlimited benefit! 
Plan your next adventure

Please note: While this page provides an overview of our Candidate journey, Candidates aren’t guaranteed to advance through every step. Additionally, the hiring process steps may vary depending on the role. 
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