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Airport Operations Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Airport Manager

Bentonville, AR · On-site

$60K - $66K/yr

Airport Operations Management: Oversee daily airport operations, including runway inspections, aircraft parking, fueling services, and maintenance of airport facilities. Ensure compliance with all ...

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Airport Operations Manager information

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$36.5K

$72.9K

$108.5K

How much do airport operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for airport operations manager in the United States is $72,858.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $86,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an operations manager do at the airport?

An airport operations manager oversees daily airport activities, including coordinating security, managing staff, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and maintaining efficient airport operations. They often use management systems and require strong organizational and communication skills to handle emergencies and operational issues.

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 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 sometimes advanced certifications, and they can earn salaries exceeding six figures depending on the airport's size and location.

How much should an operations manager get paid?

An Airport Operations Manager's salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on factors such as experience, location, and the size of the airport. Salaries can be higher with specialized certifications or extensive management experience in the aviation industry.

What is the highest salary of an airport manager?

The highest salary for an airport operations manager can exceed $150,000 annually, especially in large or international airports. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and the size of the airport, with senior managers and those in major hubs earning the most. Certifications and leadership skills can also influence compensation levels.

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 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.

What cities are hiring for Airport Operations Manager jobs? Cities with the most Airport Operations Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Airport Operations jobs? The most popular types of Airport Operations jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Airport Operations Manager jobs? The top employers for Airport Operations Manager jobs are:
What states have the most Airport Operations Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Airport Operations Manager jobs include:
Infographic showing various Airport Operations Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,858 per year, or $35 per hour.

ALB - Airport Operations Supervisor

Avports BIM Ltd.

Albany, NY • On-site

$51K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

POSITION: Airport Operations Supervisor

REPORTS TO: Operations Manager

LOCATION: ALB

AIRPORT: Albany International Airport

SUMMARY

Assists the Operations Manager in the performance of operation and security functions at the Airport.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Supervises the performance of daily inspections of the Air Operations Area (AOA) to ensure compliance with FAR Parts 139 and CFR Part 1542.
  • Ensures compliance with the provisions of the Airport Certification Manual (ACM), Emergency Plan, Vehicle Access Plan, Snow Removal Plan, Airport Rules and Regulations, Security Program and other plans required to comply with FAR Part 139, CFR Part 1542 and other applicable local, State and Federal regulations.
  • Ensures and assists in the coordination and supervision of construction activity on the airport.
  • Enforces Airport Rules and Regulations.
  • Coordinates and assists in snow removal operations, aircraft salvage, and operational emergencies with airlines, tenants, operators and outside agencies.
  • Monitors tenant and operator compliance with noise abatement procedures and other operations constraints.
  • Conducts security inspections and continually monitors airfield security to ensure compliance with FAR Part 139 and CFR Part 1542.
  • Assumes the authority and responsibilities of the Operations Manager in emergency situations until relieved.
  • Enforces CFR Part 1542 regarding access and identification of personnel within the Security Identification Display Area (SIDA).
  • Ensures the monitoring of the Glycol Containment system in accordance with the Best Management Practices guidelines.
  • Assists with noise abatement by receiving and logging complaints.
  • Reports irregularities such as fire or airfield safety hazards and breeches of security.
  • Issues NOTAMS runway condition reports and other NOTAMS as required to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the Airport.
  • Sounds alarm and contacts police or ARFF Department in case of fire or presence of unauthorized persons. Permits authorized persons to enter AOA.
  • Operates paging system to inform management of aircraft codes or other emergencies.
  • Supervises the collection and dissemination of data such as property or personal injury claims, unusual occurrences, and malfunctioning machinery or equipment for use of management staff.
  • In the absence of senior management, this position will represent the Airport Manager in routine operational matters and emergency conditions.
  • When assigned, inspect and monitor airport service levels.
  • Participates in Total Quality Management Programs.

MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Directly supervises two or more non-supervisory employees in the Operations Department.
  • Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws.
    • Responsibilities include training employee; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; addressing complaints resolving problems, participates in subordinate hiring, discipline, goal setting, and performance appraisals.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) from four year college or university with a degree in Aviation Management preferred; or one to two years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of mangers, clients, customers, and the general public.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

Must possess a valid New York State Driver’s License as a condition of employment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; talk; hear; smell; stand; walk; sit; reach with hands and arms. The employee is frequently required to climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to areas trafficked by small and large aircraft and other vehicles; fumes or airborne particles; and outside weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment on the airfield is usually very loud.

EOE DFWP