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Airport Commissioner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PMO Analyst

Miami, FL · On-site

$125K - $126K/yr

Reporting: Prepare progress updates and presentations for airport leadership, County Commissioners, and key stakeholders. * Stakeholder Coordination: Join meetings with MDAD leadership, tenants ...

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Public Works Director

Independence, CA · On-site

$166K - $215K/yr

... Commissioner. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a diverse organization responsible for transportation infrastructure, engineering, airports, public facilities, water systems, and major ...

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Airport Commissioner information

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$174K

$233.9K

$317.5K

How much do airport commissioner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for airport commissioner in the United States is $233,912.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $204,500.00 and $258,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an airport commissioner?

Airport Commissioners are appointed or elected officials responsible for overseeing the management, development, and operations of airports within their jurisdiction. They help set policies, approve budgets, and ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. Commissioners often work closely with airport management, government agencies, and the community to promote safe, efficient, and sustainable airport operations. Their decisions can impact airport expansion, economic development, and community relations.

What are some common challenges airport commissioners face when balancing public interests with airport operations?

Airport Commissioners often navigate complex situations that require balancing the needs of the traveling public, local communities, airport tenants, and regulatory agencies. They must address issues such as noise complaints, environmental concerns, and economic impacts, all while ensuring efficient airport operations and safety compliance. Commissioners regularly collaborate with city officials, aviation professionals, and community groups to create policies that support growth while maintaining public trust. This role requires strong communication and negotiation skills, as well as a strategic approach to managing diverse stakeholder interests.

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

To thrive as an Airport Commissioner, you need expertise in airport operations, regulatory compliance, strategic planning, and often a background in public administration or transportation management. Familiarity with aviation regulations, budgeting software, and airport management systems is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills are crucial for building consensus and addressing diverse interests. These competencies are vital for ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable airport operations while balancing the needs of the community and regulatory bodies.

What is the difference between Airport Commissioner vs Airport Operations Manager?

AspectAirport CommissionerAirport Operations Manager
Primary RoleOversees airport policies, strategic planning, and high-level administrationManages daily airport operations, staff, and operational procedures
Required CredentialsOften requires experience in aviation management, public administration, or related fieldsTypically requires experience in airport operations, logistics, or management
Work EnvironmentExecutive offices, boardrooms, and strategic planning meetingsAirports, control towers, and operational facilities
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, airport authorities, and public sectorAirlines, airport authorities, and private management firms

The Airport Commissioner focuses on high-level oversight and strategic decisions for the airport, while the Airport Operations Manager handles daily operational activities. Both roles are essential but differ in scope and responsibilities.

Infographic showing various Airport Commissioner job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $233,912 per year, or $112.5 per hour.

Executive Manager - Airport Operations - TMS - Marco Island

Naples, FL

$91K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Job Summary Collier County strives to be an employer of choice, and many of our employees build long-term careers with us. The salary listed in the job description reflects the full pay range for this position, from entry level through advanced career stages. NEW EMPLOYEES ARE HIRED AT, OR NEAR THE ENTRY POINT SHOWN, DEPENDING ON QUALIFICATIONS AND RELEVANT EXPERIENCE.

Lead the future of Collier County's general aviation airport system. The Executive Manager - Airport Operations provides strategic and hands-on leadership for Marco Island Executive Airport, Immokalee Regional Airport, and Everglades Airpark. This position directs the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and development of the airport system and manages day-to-day general aviation airport and Fixed Base Operation activities.

The Executive Manager leads staff; administers budgets, grants, leases, contracts, and capital projects; ensures compliance with local, state, and federal requirements; and advises Airport Authority and County leadership on operational and development priorities. Success in this role requires sound judgment, strong leadership, business acumen, and the ability to build productive relationships with tenants, regulators, consultants, contractors, and community partners. Essential Functions Leads, develops, and evaluates assigned staff; establishes priorities, directs work, addresses employee concerns, and completes counseling, disciplinary, and performance management processes.

Directs day-to-day airport and Fixed Base Operation activities, including airfield operations, runway and taxiway systems, emergency readiness, safety inspections, fuel quality assurance, and required operational reporting. Develops, updates, and implements airport operating policies, procedures, and emergency plans consistent with the direction of the Board of County Commissioners and the Airport Authority. Researches and prepares recommendations, agenda materials, policies, rules, regulations, directives, programs, agreements, leases, contracts, and other documents for consideration or approval by the Airport Authority/Board of County Commissioners.

Administers airport leases and contracts; oversees tenant negotiations; and monitors compliance with lease terms, minimum standards, and leasehold development requirements. Develops and administers annual operating budgets; monitors expenditures; and assists the Division Director in identifying capital improvement needs and establishing project priorities. Prepares and administers the Five-Year Master Plan, annual work programs, and annual reports; develops and implements airport development, grant funding, and Foreign Trade Zone programs.

Builds and manages relationships with FAA, FDOT, environmental and wildlife agencies, and other federal, state, and local partners; ensures compliance with applicable aviation safety, environmental, fuel storage, and fueling regulations. Coordinates requests for proposals, bid packages, and other solicitations with the Procurement Division for airport goods and services. Plans and coordinates airfield construction, development, and other special projects; reviews engineering plans and works with project teams to maintain safe and efficient airport operations during construction.

Oversees consultants, contractors, and service providers; monitors contract performance, project schedules, progress reports, change orders, purchase orders, work orders, invoices, and payment requests. Manages airport projects during design and coordinates with construction project managers during construction; participates in progress meetings and helps resolve scope, schedule, and operational issues. Develops and implements marketing and promotional initiatives to enhance airport services and visibility.

Serves as liaison to regulatory agencies, tenants, community organizations, and other stakeholders; presents and briefs airport matters to civic groups, the Board of County Commissioners, the Division Director, Department Head, and County Manager. Maintains accurate airport files, records, reports, and published operational information. ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree in airport management, business management, or a closely related field. Four (4) years of related professional experience. Fingerprinting required.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATES Must obtain and maintain the Certified Member (C.M.) credential through the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) - or higher professional designation - within six (6) months of hire. Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver's License and any endorsement(s) required to operate a County vehicle in accordance with CMA 5805. Supplemental information Salary offers above the minimum of the pay grade may be considered based on qualifications

Essential Employees may be required to work during an undeclared emergency and/or declared emergency. On an incident-by-incident basis, the County's Administrative Office will make the determination as to who will be required to work. This job posting is not intended to be all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills or working conditions associated with the position.