1

Airfield Operations Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$43K - $59K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

Backs up Airport Operations department during airfield closures by placing barricades and lighted equipment as necessary. * Conducts basic maintenance on vehicles and small engines. * Preforms minor ...

Equipment Operator

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$43K - $59K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

Backs up Airport Operations department during airfield closures by placing barricades and lighted equipment as necessary. * Conducts basic maintenance on vehicles and small engines. * Preforms minor ...

Also follow proper protocol for motor vehicle operations on an airfield; * Gain and apply technical knowledge of airport environment and design as well as understanding of FAA Advisory Circulars to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Airfield Operations information

See Tennessee salary details

$28.1K

$52.6K

$75.3K

How much do airfield operations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for airfield operations in Tennessee is $52,605.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,900.00 and $57,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is airfield operations?

Airfield operations refer to the management and coordination of activities on and around airport runways, taxiways, and ramps to ensure the safe, efficient movement of aircraft, vehicles, and personnel. Professionals in this field monitor weather conditions, inspect runways, enforce safety regulations, and coordinate with air traffic control and emergency services. Their duties also include responding to incidents, managing wildlife hazards, and overseeing maintenance work to keep the airfield in compliance with aviation standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an airfield operations specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Airfield Operations Specialist, you need knowledge of airfield safety procedures, aviation regulations, and airport operations, often supported by a degree in aviation management or relevant certification. Familiarity with airfield lighting systems, NOTAMs, radio communications, and airport management software is typically required. Strong attention to detail, situational awareness, and effective communication skills help professionals excel in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient airfield operations and compliance with strict regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by airfield operations personnel and how are they addressed?

Airfield Operations personnel often encounter challenges such as coordinating aircraft movements during peak traffic times, managing unexpected weather changes, and ensuring compliance with strict safety regulations. To address these, they rely on clear communication with air traffic control, utilize advanced scheduling and monitoring systems, and participate in regular safety drills. Teamwork and adaptability are essential, as situations can change rapidly and require quick, informed decisions to maintain safe and efficient airfield operations.

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

AspectAirfield OperationsAirport Operations Coordinator
CertificationsFAA certifications, safety trainingFAA certifications, customer service training
Work EnvironmentRunways, taxiways, airside areasTerminal, customer service, administrative areas
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, airports, government agenciesAirports, airline ground services
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on airside safety and operationsFocuses on passenger experience and ground services

While both roles are essential to airport functioning, Airfield Operations primarily manages airside safety and runway activities, whereas Airport Operations Coordinators oversee broader airport activities, including passenger services and ground operations. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right roles in the aviation industry.

What does an airfield operations officer do?

An airfield operations officer manages the daily activities of an airfield, ensuring safety, security, and efficiency of aircraft movements. They coordinate with air traffic control, oversee ground operations, and ensure compliance with aviation regulations, often using specialized communication and safety protocols.

What are popular job titles related to Airfield Operations jobs in Tennessee?

For Airfield Operations jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Airfield Operations jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Airfield Operations job openings:

Infographic showing various Airfield Operations job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,605 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

AVP, Airside Operations, Airport Operations Center & Security

Metro Nashville Airport Authority

Nashville, TN โ€ข On-site

$150K - $258K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

As infrastructure critical to the region’s growth and prosperity, Nashville International Airport ® (BNA®) is a vital asset for Middle Tennessee and serves as a gateway to Music City and beyond. The State of Tennessee’s 2025 Economic Impact Study reports that in 2024 alone, BNA generated $13.8 billion in total economic impact, supported 80,000 jobs and contributed to $2.1 billion in federal, state and local taxes. BNA receives no local tax dollars. For more information, visit flynashville.com. Follow us on Facebook: @NashvilleInternationalAirport, X: @Fly_Nashville and Instagram: @FlyNashville. Learn more about New Horizon, our $3 billion growth and expansion plan for the airport, at BNANewHorizon.com.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities/Drug Free Workplace.


Hiring Process:

  • Apply online
  • Interview
  • Offer
  • Ten (10) year background check, including criminal history check, motor vehicle check, pre-employment drug screen, credit check, and breath alcohol test
  • Onboarding

Benefits:

  • Deferred compensation plans
  • Educational Assistance
  • Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability Insurance
  • Health Screenings
  • Paid Holidays
  • Annual/Bereavement/Military Leave


Accepting Applications Until Filled

Salary Range: $150,426 - $258,897

*Final salary offer will be based on relevant skills and experience to the position.


Job Summary: The Assistant Vice President, Airside Operations, Airport Operations Center (AOC), and Security reports to the Vice President, Operations and Facilities and is responsible for leading and supporting airfield operations and maintenance, Transportation Security Administration Part 1542 security operations, emergency management, and the AOC. This role drives the leadership and strategic direction for the primary lines of business it supports and ensures continuity, consistency, and engagement across the Operations and Facilities team.


Essential Responsibilities:

  • Fosters a collaborative culture across Operations, Maintenance, as well as internal and external stakeholders that prioritizes safety, compliance, and customer service.
  • Leads, develops and monitors strategic plans, operating budgets, and capital planning for all assigned divisions.
  • Provides exemplary leadership and works with staff to create a high performance, service-oriented work environment that supports the Nashville airport experience and the mission of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority.
  • Oversees the day to day operations of the Airport Communications Center, Emergency Management, Airside Operations and Maintenance, and Security/Badging.
  • Prepares, trains, and supports the operation of the Emergency Operations Center and Joint Information Center in the event of a crisis or emergency situation.
  • Ensures compliance with FAA Part 139 regulations, Transportation Security Administration (TSA )1542 regulatory requirements, and all applicable federal, state, and local laws.
  • Oversees the airport’s airfield inspection, self-audit, and reporting programs, ensuring timely resolution of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 139 discrepancies.
  • Directs the maintenance and reliability of runways, taxiways, lighting, electrical, and navigational support systems.
  • Manages snow and ice removal programs, grounds maintenance, and wildlife hazard management.
  • Oversees the staffing, training, and certification of airside and public safety dispatch personnel.
  • Serves as the senior liaison with FAA Air Traffic Control, TSA, airlines, tenants, and mutual aid partners for airside and emergency operations.
  • Coaches and develops a large, diverse team of managers, supervisors, and frontline staff.
  • Promotes accountability and performance excellence through clear goals, metrics, and professional development.
  • Carries out supervisory and leadership responsibilities in accordance with the Authority's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include but is not limited to interviewing, hiring, coaching/mentoring staff, planning and directing work, appraising performance and resolving problems, while ensuring robust and effective interdepartmental and external partnership and relationships.
  • Follows all safety regulations.
  • Supports MNAA’s commitment to its culture and values, including Respect, Integrity, Service and Excellence (RISE).
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics:

  • Communication: Ability to communicate written and orally to staff, MNAA Leadership, MNAA Board, stakeholders, and public.
  • Airport Operations: Knowledge of materials, methods, and equipment used in the operation and improvement of Part 139 certified and general aviation airports.
  • Ground Transportation Services: Knowledge of the operating methods and business standards related to ground transportation services.
  • Safety and Security: Knowledge of equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote safety and security.
  • Office Management: Knowledge of general office management practices and procedures.
  • Aviation Law: Knowledge of laws, concepts, rules, regulations, and practices in the aviation industry.
  • OSHA Regulations: Knowledge of state and federal OSHA regulations.
  • Driving: Skill in operating a motor vehicle.
  • Computer Use: Skill in using a personal computer, the internet, and other software to perform job-related functions.
  • Relationship Building: Skill in establishing and maintaining effective and professional working relationships with others.
  • Plan Interpretation: Skill in reading and interpreting plans and specifications.
  • Reporting: Skill in preparing and producing timely and accurate oral and written reports.
  • Project Management: Skill in conceptualizing and managing complex projects, and managing multiple projects using established project management principles.
  • Supervision of Personnel: Skill in supervising and managing others, including planning work, providing direction, motivating workers, and identifying the best workers for the job.
  • Written Comprehension: Ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  • Attention to Detail: Is careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Security Identification Display Area (SIDA) badge.

Qualifications:

Required:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Aviation Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or related field.
  • 4-7 years of progressively responsible airport or airline operations, including 4 years in a senior management role at a medium or large hub airport.
  • 7-10 years of demonstrated success in managing multi-disciplinary teams and large-scale budgets.
  • 7-10 years of strong communication and leadership skills with proven ability to collaborate across departments and with external agencies.
  • Certified Member of the American Association of Airport Executives

Preferred:

  • Master's Degree in Aviation Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or related field.
  • 4-7 years of progressive experience in airport operations, airside operations, emergency management, airport maintenance, or Airport Operations Center
  • Accredited Airport Executive American Association of Airport Executives.