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Airport Operation Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Overview The Duty Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing all day-to-day airport ... Ensure that all records of all transactions relating to the operation are maintained * Ensure that ...

$38 - $44/hr

In this position you will have the opportunity to learn all about airfield management and airport operations, with additional responsibilities and potential growth. Key Responsibilities will include ...

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The Airport Operations Manager is responsible for providing assigned airport services and for ... Experience managing an operation with responsible for upkeep and improvement of facilities. * A ...

General Definition of Work Under the general direction of the Airport Manager, the Operations Manager plans, directs, and inspects the overall Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF), Operations, and ...

$38 - $44/hr

In this position you will have the opportunity to learn all about airfield management and airport operations, with additional responsibilities and potential growth. Key Responsibilities will include ...

New

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Airport Operation Manager information

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$23K

$61.4K

$102.5K

How much do airport operation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for airport operation manager in the United States is $61,351.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectAirport Operation ManagerAirport Operations Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in aviation, logistics, or related field; certifications like AOA or FAA licenses are commonOften requires a high school diploma or associate degree; certifications may include airport safety or customer service training
Work EnvironmentLeads airport operations, manages staff, oversees safety and complianceSupports daily operations, coordinates between departments, handles customer service
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by airports, airlines, and aviation authorities for managerial rolesCommon in airport administration, used by airlines and airport authorities for operational support

The Airport Operation Manager holds a higher-level managerial role, overseeing overall airport operations, safety, and staff management. The Airport Operations Coordinator focuses on supporting daily activities, coordinating between teams, and ensuring smooth operations. Both roles are essential but differ in responsibility level and scope.

What are some common challenges faced by airport operation managers and how can they be addressed?

Airport Operation Managers often face challenges such as coordinating between various departments (security, baggage handling, airlines), handling irregular operations like flight delays or weather disruptions, and ensuring compliance with strict safety regulations. Effective communication, adaptability, and strong problem-solving skills are essential to address these issues. Building strong relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders, as well as staying updated on regulatory changes, helps managers respond proactively and ensure smooth airport operations.

What does an airport operation manager do?

An Airport Operation Manager oversees the daily operations of an airport, ensuring that all activities run smoothly and safely. Their responsibilities include coordinating with airlines, security, maintenance, and other airport departments to ensure compliance with regulations and efficient passenger flow. They also manage staff, handle emergencies, and work to improve airport services and customer satisfaction. The role requires strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

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

To thrive as an Airport Operation Manager, you need comprehensive knowledge of airport operations, regulatory compliance, safety protocols, and typically a degree in aviation management or a related field. Familiarity with airport management systems, scheduling software, and certifications like AAAE’s Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) are often required. Exceptional leadership, crisis management, and communication skills help manage teams and coordinate with multiple stakeholders. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and compliant airport operations while maintaining excellent service and quick response to incidents.
What cities are hiring for Airport Operation Manager jobs? Cities with the most Airport Operation Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Airport Operation jobs? The most popular types of Airport Operation jobs are:
What states have the most Airport Operation Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Airport Operation Manager jobs include:
Infographic showing various Airport Operation Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,351 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Aviation Operations Manager Needed - DEN Airport

NAS - National Aviation Services

Mooresville, NC • On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Location: Denver International Airport (DEN) – Denver, CO

Company: National Aviation Services (NAS)

Department: Operations

Reports To: Director of Operations

Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt

Position Summary

National Aviation Services (NAS), a leader in aviation ground support services, is seeking an experienced and motivated Operations Manager to oversee our Aircraft Services operation at Denver International Airport (DEN). This leadership role is responsible for managing all day-to-day operational activities, ensuring exceptional service delivery, maintaining regulatory and company compliance, and leading a team of Supervisors, Leads, and Aircraft Cleaning Agents.

The Operations Manager plays a critical role in maintaining operational excellence by driving safety, quality, productivity, employee engagement, and customer satisfaction in a fast-paced airport environment that operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Essential Responsibilities
  • Lead the daily operation of the aircraft cleaning department, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality service delivery.
  • Recruit, interview, hire, onboard, coach, and develop frontline employees and operational leadership.
  • Maintain appropriate staffing levels while managing labor costs and scheduling.
  • Conduct performance evaluations, employee coaching, corrective actions, and recognition programs.
  • Ensure compliance with all company policies, airport regulations, OSHA requirements, TSA security standards, and customer operating procedures.
  • Foster a strong culture of safety by conducting daily safety briefings and ensuring compliance with all required safety training.
  • Monitor operational performance through quality audits, productivity metrics, and customer feedback.
  • Partner with airport customers and station leadership to resolve operational issues and ensure service expectations are consistently met.
  • Oversee employee training, recurrent certifications, airport badging, and required operational documentation.
  • Manage station budgets, labor expenses, supplies, equipment inventory, and operating costs.
  • Review and approve employee timecards, attendance, payroll, and scheduling within ADP.
  • Ensure aircraft reports, operational reports, expense reports, and required documentation are completed accurately and submitted on time.
  • Monitor the condition and maintenance of company vehicles, equipment, uniforms, and facilities.
  • Maintain accurate employee records, schedules, and compliance documentation.
  • Lead investigations into operational concerns, employee issues, and customer complaints while partnering with Human Resources as appropriate.
  • Maintain regular communication with Corporate Operations, General Manager, Human Resources, and customer representatives.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Minimum 3 years of management experience in aviation, airport operations, ground handling, aircraft services, logistics, transportation, or a related operational environment.
  • Demonstrated experience leading large frontline teams in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong leadership, coaching, and employee development skills.
  • Experience managing staffing, scheduling, payroll, budgets, and operational performance.
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to make sound decisions in a fast-paced operational environment.
  • Strong customer service and relationship management skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous airline, aviation, aircraft cleaning, ground handling, or airport operations experience.
  • Experience working in a union or non-union operational environment.
  • Knowledge of FAA, TSA, OSHA, and airport operational requirements.
  • Experience using ADP Workforce Now or similar HRIS/payroll systems.
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.
Technical Skills
  • Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word, Teams, PowerPoint)
  • ADP Workforce Now or similar payroll/timekeeping systems
  • Ability to analyze operational reports and performance metrics
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the airport environment.
  • Frequently lift up to 25 pounds and occasionally up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to safely navigate aircraft ramps and operational work areas.
Schedule

This position supports a 24/7 airport operation. Candidates must be available to work flexible schedules, including:

  • Days
  • Evenings
  • Overnight shifts
  • Weekends
  • Holidays

The Operations Manager is expected to maintain a minimum on-site presence of 40 hours per week while remaining available to support operational needs outside of scheduled hours when necessary.

Why Join National Aviation Services?

National Aviation Services is committed to operational excellence, safety, and providing exceptional service to our airline partners. We invest in our leaders by offering opportunities for professional development, career growth, and advancement within one of the nation's leading aviation services organizations.

If you are a results-driven leader who thrives in a fast-paced operational environment and enjoys building high-performing teams, we encourage you to apply.