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Airport Operations Manager Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

SSP Group

Restaurant Operations Manager

Dulles, VA · On-site

$95K - $100K/yr

SSP America is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee multiple restaurant concepts at Dulles International Airport (IAD). This is a high-visibility, hands-on leadership role focused on coaching ...

CLEAR - Field

Operations Manager (DCA)

Arlington, VA · On-site

$70K - $87K/yr

Whether it's at the airport, stadium, or throughout your everyday life, CLEAR unlocks the magic of frictionless experiences. The Operations Manager will be a part of our airport leadership team ...

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All JobsAirport Operations JobsAirport Operations Manager JobsAirport Operations Manager Jobs in Reston, VA

Airport Operations Manager information

See Reston, VA salary details

$38K

$75.8K

$112.9K

How much do airport operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for airport operations manager in Reston, VA is $75,798.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,900.00 and $89,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Airport Operations Manager Do?

An airport operations manager plans and coordinates airport operations and safety programs. As an airport operations manager, your duties are to assist in maintaining compliance with local, state, and federal regulations; developing and implementing airport operational policies and procedures for efficient and safe operations; and managing noise abatement programs. You work directly with air traffic control, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), command posts, and other airport personnel to ensure efficiency throughout airport operations. Airport operations managers also oversee inspections of the runways and work with civil engineers to maintain safety and operations.

What does an operations manager do at an airport?

An airport operations manager oversees daily airport activities, ensuring safety, security, and efficiency. They coordinate between departments such as security, maintenance, and customer service, and often manage staff schedules and compliance with regulations. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential for this role.

What is the highest paid position at an airport?

The highest paid position at an airport is typically the Airport Director or Airport CEO, who oversees all operations and strategic planning. These roles often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and advanced certifications, and they can earn salaries exceeding six figures depending on the airport's size and location.

How much does an airline operations manager make?

An airline operations manager typically earns between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the airline. They oversee daily airport and airline activities, requiring strong organizational and communication skills, often supported by relevant certifications.

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

To thrive as an Airport Operations Manager, you need strong leadership skills, in-depth knowledge of airport procedures, safety regulations, and a relevant degree, often in aviation management or a related field. Familiarity with airport management systems, FAA regulations, and certifications such as AAAE accreditation are highly valuable. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and crisis management skills help you handle emergencies and coordinate teams effectively. These skills ensure smooth airport operations, compliance with safety standards, and the ability to respond swiftly to operational challenges.

What are some common challenges faced by Airport Operations Managers on a daily basis?

Airport Operations Managers often encounter challenges such as coordinating multiple teams to ensure smooth daily airport functions, managing unexpected situations like flight delays or weather disruptions, and maintaining compliance with strict safety and security regulations. They must also balance passenger experience with operational efficiency, which can involve quick decision-making and effective communication across departments. Additionally, adapting to evolving technology and regulatory requirements keeps the role dynamic and requires continuous learning.

What is the salary of an airport operations manager?

The average salary of an airport operations manager typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the airport. Senior managers or those at major airports may earn higher salaries, often supplemented with benefits and bonuses.

What does an Airport Operations Manager do?

An Airport Operations Manager oversees the daily functioning of airport facilities to ensure safety, security, and efficiency. Their responsibilities include coordinating ground staff, managing emergency responses, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations, and maintaining communication between airlines, security personnel, and airport authorities. They play a crucial role in handling disruptions, such as weather delays or security incidents, and work to provide a seamless experience for passengers and staff.

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

AspectAirport Operations ManagerAirport Supervisor
ResponsibilitiesOversees overall airport operations, manages staff, ensures safety compliance, and coordinates with airlines and vendors.Supervises daily ground operations, assists in staff management, and enforces safety procedures.
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in aviation, transportation, or related field; certifications like Airport Certified Employee (ACE) are common.Often requires relevant experience in airport operations; certifications may include safety or ground handling training.
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with frequent site visits; interacts with multiple departments and external agencies.Primarily on-site, overseeing ground operations and staff directly.

The Airport Operations Manager holds a broader, strategic role overseeing entire airport functions, while the Airport Supervisor focuses on daily ground operations and staff supervision. Both roles require safety certifications and industry experience, but the manager typically has more responsibilities and a higher level of oversight.

More about Airport Operations Manager jobs
What are popular job titles related to Airport Operations Manager jobs in Reston, VA? For Airport Operations Manager jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Airport Operations Manager jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Airport Operations Manager jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Airport Operations Manager jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Airport Operations Manager job openings:
Airport Operations Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Airport Operations Manager job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,798 per year, or $36.4 per hour.

Airport Operations Supervisor- IAD

GLOBAL SECURITY CONSULTING GROUP IN

Dulles, VA

$21.36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Airport Operations Supervisor - Aviation Security Company

Dulles International Airport- Dulles, VA

Global Elite Group- Providing world-class aviation security through innovation and people committed to excellence.

Global Elite Group is a highly specialized aviation security company, comprised of a diverse and collaborative team of committed professionals, industry leaders, and subject matter experts who rely on optimized processes and tools to deliver quality services.

Our team members are at the forefront of homeland security, safeguarding infrastructure and ensuring seamless and secure operations in many of the largest and busiest airports in the country.

Global is an equal-opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

Benefits:

  • $21.36 per hour- Full-time
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, AFLAC, Paid time off
  • 401(k)
  • Employee engagement, professional development, and opportunities for advancement
  • Nurturing and challenging work setting that allows you to identify and hone your strengths while growing your skill set
  • Opportunities for community service projects, civic engagement, and advancement in your career

The successful candidate will be:

  • Security minded with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Able to communicate effectively with employees, colleagues, clients, and members of law enforcement or government agencies
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment under pressure and posses' extensive knowledge of security protocol and procedures
  • Skilled in providing management and supervisory oversight of a secure operation

Our supervisors have a positive outlook and lead with compassion.

Responsibilities:

  • Supervises all security personnel in the security operation as outlined below
  • Takes proactive steps to provide a safe and security working environment for staff and other service provider personnel
  • Conducts regular walk-throughs and security inspections for assigned locations and facilities
  • Provides training and corrective action to team members as needed

Security Operation:

  • Reporting actual or potential breach of Airport Security
  • Alarm and emergency response including communicating with necessary airport community stakeholders and first responders to ensure timely response to all reported incidents
  • Maintaining access control to secured areas within the airport
  • Verify personal identification and access badge of person/people requesting entrance to secured areas
  • Vehicle inspection and access control in designated areas
  • Patrolling airside and landside areas of the airport; including parking lots, aviation department offices, construction sites, and providing traffic management in designated areas
  • Providing crowd control and interacting with traveling public in a professional and courteous manner
  • Prepare written reports and records of all events, i.e., discrepancies, security incidents or breaches.

Qualifications

  • A proactive thinker with an outgoing personality who is comfortable speaking in front of groups and interacting with company colleagues and employees.
  • HS Diploma or G.E.D
  • Must be at least 21 years old
  • Must have a valid drivers license with a clean driving record
  • Must have a valid State Security License
  • Ability to effectively speak, write, and understand the English language
  • Must be able to pass all initial and recurrent training classes and exams as administered by Global Security and Airport Authority
  • Must have access to reliable transportation

Why Join Us?

At Global Elite Group, we offer a challenging and rewarding environment where you'll play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our airport operations. We value innovation, safety, and customer satisfaction, and we are committed to supporting your professional growth and development.

Apply