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Air Operations Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

A-Perfect Climate

HVAC Operations Manager

Addison, IL · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Vision insurance Operations Manager - A-Perfect Climate Inc. | Addison, IL At A-Perfect Climate Inc., we believe companies are built by people. We are a growing HVAC company focused on delivering an ...

Amazon

Sr. Operations Manager

Markham, IL · On-site

... not air-conditioned • Able to access all areas of building (ascending and descending ladders ... Operations and Area Managers. Measures performance, provides feedback, and holds Ops Managers ...

WeDriveU

Operations Manager

Niles, IL · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

The Operations Manager (OM) will report to the General Manager and assist with all supervisory ... Licensed Class B driver (Passenger and Air brakes endorsement) a bonus but not required * Must be ...

BCS Placement

International Operations Manager

Itasca, IL

$54K - $58K/yr

Oversee operations for air/ocean, import/export for overall growth Looking for a business leader who can step in and originate, inspire, set goals and manage. we need engagement and development of ...

WeDriveU

Operations Manager

Niles, IL

$70K - $75K/yr

Licensed Class B driver (Passenger and Air brakes endorsement) a bonus but not required * Must be ... Hard Requirements: * 3+ years' experience in Operations Management Preferred Requirements: * Work ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Hammond, IN · On-site

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... RESPONSIBILITIES The successful operation of a flight deck on an aircraft carrier is one of the ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Aurora, IL · On-site

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... RESPONSIBILITIES The successful operation of a flight deck on an aircraft carrier is one of the ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Chicago, IL · On-site

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... RESPONSIBILITIES The successful operation of a flight deck on an aircraft carrier is one of the ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Gary, IN · On-site

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... RESPONSIBILITIES The successful operation of a flight deck on an aircraft carrier is one of the ...

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All JobsAir Operations JobsAir Operations Manager JobsAir Operations Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Air Operations Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$37.6K

$75.1K

$111.8K

How much do air operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for air operations manager in Chicago, IL is $75,054.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,300.00 and $88,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an air operations manager?

Air Operations Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing and coordinating the daily operations of airline or airport activities. Their duties include managing staff, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations, optimizing flight schedules, and maintaining safety standards. They work closely with pilots, air traffic controllers, ground staff, and other departments to ensure smooth and efficient air operations. Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an air operations manager?

To thrive as an Air Operations Manager, you need strong knowledge of aviation regulations, operational logistics, and safety procedures, often supported by a relevant degree or pilot’s license. Familiarity with air traffic control systems, flight management software, and scheduling tools is typically required. Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills are crucial for coordinating teams and responding to dynamic situations. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and compliant air operations in a high-stakes environment.

What are some common challenges faced by air operations managers and how can they be addressed?

Air Operations Managers frequently encounter challenges such as coordinating flight schedules, managing safety protocols, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Balancing these responsibilities requires strong organizational skills and the ability to respond quickly to unexpected events like weather disruptions or technical issues. Effective communication with pilots, ground crew, and regulatory agencies is essential to resolve conflicts and maintain smooth operations. Staying current with industry regulations and investing in ongoing team training can help address these challenges proactively.

What is the difference between Air Operations Manager vs Flight Operations Coordinator?

AspectAir Operations ManagerFlight Operations Coordinator
CredentialsFAA certifications, aviation management experienceFAA certifications, flight operation knowledge
Work EnvironmentAirports, airline offices, aviation companiesAirports, airline operations centers
Industry UsageAirlines, cargo carriers, private aviationAirlines, charter services, corporate flight departments
Primary FocusOverseeing overall air operations, safety, complianceCoordinating flight schedules, logistics, and communication

The Air Operations Manager typically oversees the entire air operations, ensuring safety and compliance across flights, while the Flight Operations Coordinator handles daily flight scheduling and logistics. Both roles require aviation certifications and work within similar environments, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

How much do airline operations managers make?

Airline operations managers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, location, and the size of the airline. They oversee daily flight operations, coordinate staff, and ensure safety compliance, often requiring certifications such as an FAA dispatch license or related credentials.

What are the most commonly searched types of Air Operations jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Air Operations jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Air Operations Manager jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Air Operations Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Air Operations Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Air Operations Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Air Operations Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Air Operations Manager job openings:

Air Operations Manager jobs near you

Air Department Manager

Mayflower Cruises and Tours

Lisle, IL • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Lead Air Operations for a Global Travel Company
Mayflower Cruises & Tours, a premier escorted tour operator and division of Scenic Group, is seeking an experienced Air Department Manager to oversee our Air Department from our Lisle, Illinois office.
Reporting directly to the Vice President of Operations, you will lead a team of Air Coordinators while managing all aspects of domestic and international air operations. This role is ideal for a travel professional with strong airline ticketing expertise, GDS proficiency, and a passion for delivering exceptional service to travelers.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead, coach, and support the Air Department team to ensure efficient daily operations and exceptional customer service.
  • Manage group air contracts.
  • Oversee the booking, ticketing, reissuance, exchanges, refunds, and cancellations for domestic and international travel.
  • Serve as the primary liaison with Sabre and Amadeus regarding GDS functionality, troubleshooting, and system enhancements.
  • Prepare and submit weekly ARC reports while ensuring compliance with ARC regulations and airline policies.
  • Coordinate airline seat assignments, upgrades, and special service requests.
  • Partner closely with Sales, Operations, and Customer Service teams to communicate flight schedules, itinerary updates, and traveler requests.
  • Monitor air pricing, schedule changes, and airline policies to optimize travel arrangements and operational efficiency.
  • Ensure compliance with industry regulations, company procedures, and quality standards.
  • Identify opportunities to improve workflows, increase productivity, and enhance the customer experience.
Qualifications
  • Minimum 3-5 years of experience in airline reservations, ticketing, or travel operations, with prior leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
  • Proficiency in Sabre GDS is required.
  • Experience with Amadeus GDS is preferred; training can be provided.
  • Strong knowledge of domestic and international airfare construction, ticketing, exchanges, refunds, reissues, and airline fare rules.
  • Experience managing group air bookings and contracts is highly desirable.
  • Working knowledge of ARC reporting and travel industry regulations.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Word.
  • Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with strong attention to detail.
  • Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative travel environment while managing multiple priorities.

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