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Airfield Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AECOM

Senior Airfield Design Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

As a Senior Airfield Design Manager, you will lead a diverse team of engineers delivering airfield design project from conception to completion. AECOM is recognized as a leader in airfield designs ...

Dar Group

Airfield Planner

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

Airfield layouts * Aircraftparking layout design * Airport Master Plans * Airspace obstacle ... Air Traffic Management, Flight Procedures and Obstacle Evaluation * Aviation Management * Civil ...

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How much do airfield manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for airfield manager in the United States is $31.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $40.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Airfield Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Airfield Manager, you need a solid background in airport operations, safety regulations, and facility management, often supported by a relevant degree and several years of aviation experience. Familiarity with airfield inspection software, safety management systems (SMS), and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations is typically required. Strong leadership, decision-making, and effective communication skills help you coordinate staff and respond to emergencies efficiently. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient airfield operations at all times.

How much does an airfield manager make?

An airfield manager's salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the facility. Higher salaries are common at larger airports or with specialized certifications and management responsibilities.

What is the difference between Airfield Manager vs Airport Operations Coordinator?

AspectAirfield ManagerAirport Operations Coordinator
CertificationsFAA certifications, airfield safety trainingAirport operations, safety, and communication training
Work EnvironmentAirfield, control towers, maintenance areasAirport terminals, control centers, administrative offices
Employer & IndustryAirports, aviation industry, government agenciesAirports, aviation industry, airline companies

The Airfield Manager primarily oversees the safety, maintenance, and operations of the airfield itself, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations. In contrast, the Airport Operations Coordinator handles broader airport activities, including coordinating between departments and managing daily airport functions. Both roles are essential for airport safety and efficiency but focus on different operational levels.

What is the salary of an airport manager?

The salary of an airport manager typically ranges from $60,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on the size of the airport, location, and level of experience. Larger airports and those in high-cost areas tend to offer higher compensation, and the role often requires strong leadership, operational skills, and relevant certifications.

What are Airfield Managers?

Airfield Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations and maintenance of airport runways, taxiways, and related facilities. They ensure that airfield operations comply with federal, state, and local regulations, and coordinate activities such as aircraft movement, runway inspections, and emergency response. Airfield Managers also supervise staff, manage budgets, and work closely with air traffic control and other airport personnel to maintain safe and efficient airport operations.

What is the highest paid position at an airport?

The highest paid position at an airport is typically the airport director or chief executive officer, who oversees all operations and strategic planning. These roles often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and relevant certifications, and they can earn salaries exceeding six figures depending on the airport size and location.

What are some common challenges faced by Airfield Managers in coordinating multiple stakeholders during daily operations?

Airfield Managers often face the challenge of coordinating between various stakeholders such as air traffic control, maintenance crews, airline representatives, and security personnel. Balancing operational efficiency with strict safety and regulatory requirements requires strong communication and problem-solving skills. Unexpected events, like weather disruptions or equipment malfunctions, can further complicate scheduling and resource allocation. Success in this role relies on proactive planning, adaptability, and maintaining clear lines of communication with all parties involved.

What is an airfield manager?

An airfield manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations, safety, and maintenance of an airfield or airport. They coordinate with staff, ensure compliance with aviation regulations, and manage resources to ensure efficient and safe aircraft movements.

What Does an Airfield Manager Do?

As an airfield manager (AFM), you oversee the maintenance of runways, taxiways, lighting, signs, and other airfield systems, ensuring all aircraft can take off and land safely. You work with ground support to inspect and keep runways clear of debris, animals, and other objects, as well as warn aircrew of any potential hazards and guarantee that safety is maintained for every flight. Other duties include working closely with air traffic control and other airport agencies, giving aircrews a pre-flight briefing including airfield status, runway surface condition, and the best taxi route, along with alerting them to any operations hazards. Your responsibilities also include staying updated on information regarding the safe operation of aircraft such as Flight Information Publications, Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), and aircraft parking plan utilization.

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Infographic showing various Airfield Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,659 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Senior Airfield Design Manager

Senior Airfield Design Manager

AECOM

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

AECOM rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 79 rated construction

Job description

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world's most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

AECOM is seeking an experienced Senior Airfield Design Manager to be a technical design leader for engineering design projects. You'll play a key role in delivering major airfield improvements at projects in Chicago, Cleveland, and other hub airports. As a Senior Airfield Design Manager, you will lead a diverse team of engineers delivering airfield design project from conception to completion.

AECOM is recognized as a leader in airfield designs nationally and worldwide. Join AECOM's dynamic aviation business and contribute to high-impact projects in the Great Lakes region, and throughout the U.S. You'll collaborate with a dedicated group of aviation planners and engineers delivering some of the nation's most iconic and innovative airport developments.

How You'll Contribute

  • Develop civil airfield planning, design and construction improvement documents, working with experienced aviation planning and design staff.
  • Ongoing collaboration with planning and design team members, contractors, and subconsultants for ongoing planning, design, and construction projects.
  • Lead the development of airfield design drawings and seal drawings.
  • Performing a wide array of aviation-related civil design, planning, construction support, and client management services for Commercial Air Service Airports.
  • Assist in the planning and monitoring of small and large multi-discipline projects involving design of airport engineering projects including runways, taxiways, aprons, vehicle service roads, airfield lighting and signage installation, navigational aids, drainage improvements, utility relocation and protection, and pavement rehabilitation.
  • Drives projects from inception to final delivery in the planning, design, and construction administration of airports, including grading, drainage, pavement design, specifications, and construction safety plans.
  • Collaborating and/or coordinating delivery teams consisting of multi-discipline design engineers and technicians.
  • AutoCAD and AutoCAD Civil 3D design manager duties.
  • Analyze client as-builts, survey data, geotechnical data, subsurface utility information and data needed for project development.
  • Mentor and develop staff, provide leadership and an environment which encourages teamwork, initiative and growth.
  • Direct and support the production of multiple projects in parallel.
  • Develops and nurtures positive, solution-focused client relationships.
  • Ensure seamless coordination with stakeholders including clients, funding agencies, the FAA, state aviation officials, and permitting authorities.
Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

  • BS Civil Engineering or related field
  • 8 years of airport/airfield planning or civil engineering design experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education
  • Illinois Professional Engineer License or ability to obtain in 12 months.

Preferred:

  • 10 years of airport/airfield planning or civil engineering design experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education
  • Proficient with AutoCAD Civil 3D Design.
  • Experience with the design of airfield projects from planning and construction phase
  • Proficient and experienced in FAA Advisory Circulars and Airport Design and Engineering Standards.
Additional Information
  • Relocation is available for this position
  • Visa sponsorship is not available for this position

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients' complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle - from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2024. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you'll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you've always envisioned. Here, you'll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community-where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. 

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