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Aviation General Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

General Manager

Rifle, CO

$160K - $180K/yr

Vantage Aviation is a private equity-backed, fully integrated business aviation firm pursuing FBO ... The General Manager (GM) is expected to be an exceptional relationship builder, dedicated to ...

General Manager

Rifle, CO

$160K - $180K/yr

Vantage Aviation is a private equity-backed, fully integrated business aviation firm pursuing FBO ... The General Manager (GM) is expected to be an exceptional relationship builder, dedicated to ...

The General Manager oversees all aspects of the private aviation terminal (PAT) focusing on operational excellence and creating exceptional guest experiences. This leadership role offers the ...

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Aviation General Manager information

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$30K

$65K

$110K

How much do aviation general manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for aviation general manager in the United States is $65,026.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $74,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Aviation General Manager vs Airport Operations Manager?

AspectAviation General ManagerAirport Operations Manager
CredentialsTypically requires aviation management experience, relevant certifications, and sometimes a degree in aviation or businessRequires airport operations experience, certifications like Airport Security or Safety, and relevant degrees
Work EnvironmentOversees entire airline or aviation company operations, including staff, safety, and complianceManages daily airport activities, security, customer service, and operational logistics
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, aviation companies, and large airportsAirports, airport authorities, and ground service providers

The Aviation General Manager focuses on overall airline or aviation company management, while the Airport Operations Manager handles daily airport activities. Both roles require aviation-related credentials and are vital in the aviation industry, but they differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by Aviation General Managers, and how can they prepare to address them?

Aviation General Managers often face challenges such as managing strict regulatory compliance, ensuring operational efficiency, and responding to unexpected disruptions like weather events or technical issues. They must balance the needs of various departments including maintenance, flight operations, and customer service, often under tight timelines. Preparing for these challenges involves staying up-to-date with industry regulations, fostering strong communication across teams, and implementing robust contingency plans to maintain safety and service quality. Developing strong leadership and problem-solving skills is also crucial for success in this role.

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

To thrive as an Aviation General Manager, you need a solid background in aviation management, business administration, and regulatory compliance, often supported by a relevant degree and several years of industry experience. Familiarity with aviation management software, safety management systems (SMS), and certifications such as an FAA license or ICAO accreditation are typically required. Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills help in managing diverse teams and complex operations. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and profitable management of aviation facilities while maintaining compliance with industry standards.

What does an Aviation General Manager do?

An Aviation General Manager oversees the daily operations of an airport, airline, or aviation facility. Their responsibilities typically include managing staff, ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards, budgeting, and coordinating with various departments such as maintenance, operations, and customer service. They play a key role in strategic planning, improving efficiency, and maintaining high service standards for passengers and clients. Aviation General Managers also handle crisis management, stakeholder relations, and may be involved in marketing and business development initiatives.
More about Aviation General Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Aviation General Manager jobs? Cities with the most Aviation General Manager job openings:
What states have the most Aviation General Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Aviation General Manager jobs include:
Infographic showing various Aviation General Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,026 per year, or $31.3 per hour.
Assistant General Manager - MKC

Assistant General Manager - MKC

Signature Aviation

Kansas City, MO

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Signature Aviation rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 52 rated aviation services


Job description

As an Assistant General Manager, you are a vital member of the base leadership team, helping guide a cross-functional staff in delivering safe, seamless, and hospitality-driven service to guests, residents, and flight crews in a private aviation setting. Whether coordinating ramp operations, guest services, or team performance, your leadership ensures every aspect of the terminal runs smoothly.

In addition to overseeing daily functions, you'll lead the private aviation terminal in the General Manager's absence, upholding Signature Aviation's gold standard of service. You use expert knowledge of operational procedures to ensure an efficient and elevated guest experience, while also modeling a hands-on, approachable leadership style that motivates your team.

This role requires flexibility, with scheduling that may include nights, holidays, and weekends. You must also be comfortable working in indoor and outdoor environments, near active aircraft and ground service equipment, and in varying weather conditions.

If you're passionate about both operational excellence and creating exceptional guest experiences, this leadership role offers the opportunity to drive meaningful impact every day.

With more than 225 locations worldwide, Signature Aviation is the largest global network of private aviation terminals, delivering safe, convenient, and elevated experiences to those we serve. As a premier hospitality organization and a certified Great Place to Work, we are committed to redefining private air travel. Our nearly 6,000-strong team of aviation experts and enthusiasts is dedicated to delivering excellence to our guests and communities, and it starts with taking care of our team. Signature provides a variety of benefits, programs, and resources to support our team members' overall well-being and professional development. We proudly volunteer and give back, focusing on elevating the neighborhoods where we operate, empowering the next generation of aviation professionals, and supporting our veterans. 

From your health to your financial wellness, there are several benefits for you and your family when joining Signature Aviation.

     Our Benefits:

  • Medical/prescription drug, dental, and vision Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Life Insurance
  • Disability Insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity and Accident Insurance
  • Identity Theft and Legal Services
  • Paid time off
  • Paid Maternity Leave
  • Tuition reimbursement 
  • Training and Development
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) & Perks

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or other protected characteristics.

Minimum Education and/or Experience:

  • Bachelor's Degree from a four-year college or university or three (3) to five (5) years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.      One (1) to two (2) years of experience and/or training in aviation or cargo operations or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required.  One (1) to two (2) years of experience in managing a team is required.
  • Trained and approved to perform required certifications (e.g., towing, deicing) as required by base-specific operations is preferred. Ability to become approved is required.  Consideration will also be given to external candidates with experience in these areas.
  • Minimum of 18 years of age.
  • Ability to pass company background checks (criminal and motor vehicle), drug tests, meet airport background check requirements to receive and maintain an airport security badge, and be insurable by the Company's applicable insurance policies.
  • Excellent vision and coordination to move and/or direct aircraft and visually inspect aircraft fuel.
  • Ability to pass a color vision test for purposes of inspecting aviation fuel.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the jurisdiction of employment.
  • Must possess a valid state driver's license.  Certain PATs require a commercial driver's license (CDL) as dictated by local regulations and business needs.

Additional essential knowledge and skills:

  • Leadership Skills: Ability to assign tasks wisely, provide feedback to improve performance, administer corrective action, and motivate others.
  • Hospitality Skills: Excellent guest service skills with an energetic, outgoing, and guest-obsessed personality. Must be able to anticipate guest needs and prioritize guest requests and job responsibilities by exhibiting a keen ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment. Must be able to maintain professionalism and confidentiality. Experience with conflict resolution in a hospitality environment is preferred.
  • Language Skills:  Ability to read and comprehend documents such as safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals, and for safety-sensitive tasks, in English. Clearly communicate in English with others in person, via telephone, radio communicators, and in writing. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
  • Financial Skills:  Basic knowledge of operation budget and P&L and an understanding of how margin, revenue, and cost impact the business.  Ability to enact responsible changes to base processes to maximize financial performance.
  • Communication Skills: Able to use telephone, fax, two-way radio, email, or text messaging to contact guests, crew members, team members, or emergency personnel. Ability to speak effectively before groups of guests or team members and present information and respond to inquiries.
  • Physical Ability: Must be able to physically enter/exit and operate motor vehicles and ground support equipment such as fuel trucks, vans, tugs, freight handling equipment, and cars.
  • Critical Thinking / Reasoning Ability: Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.  Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule format.
  • Interpersonal Skills: Ability to get along and work well with others.  Excellent interpersonal skills for consistent effective collaboration with team members and service to guests. 
  • Multitasking: Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail. High level of concentration is required to ensure accuracy in a busy setting.
  • Computer Skills: Ability to use a computer, including pass computer-based training modules. Proficient in Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook) and ability to learn company software. 
  • Task Management: Excellent time/project management and organizational skills.  Ability to successfully and timely complete Signature's training programs.

(Other duties may be assigned)

  • Oversee all business functions of the PAT including proper delivery of services, equipment and maintenance, condition of facilities, and staffing. 
  • Collaborate with General Manager in maintaining existing business and developing new business.
  • Responsible for compliance with all rules, regulations, and policies as issued by the company and local, state, federal, and airport authorities.
  • Act as company liaison in matters related to the airport community.  
  • Manage and direct activities of subordinate leaders and team members at the location.  This includes scheduling, coordinating and assigning duties to qualified team members, conducting shift and team member meetings and managing special events.
  • Perform tasks such as time and attendance administration and processing of new team members.
  • Lead a team conducting base operations safely and efficiently in accordance with established policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs) ensuring efficient and accurate communication through various methods to accomplish operational tasks.
  • Manage the performance of team members to ensure technical accuracy, demeanor, and adherence to company policies and procedures. Correct performance deficiencies and administer corrective action as needed.
  • Interview, onboard, train, and manage team members ensuring their engagement and development.
  • Ensure all airline-required training is administered and completed by team members.
  • Serve as a resource on guest service matters and as an escalation point for guest inquiries. 
  • Provide onsite business development support and relationship management with residents.
  • Maintain a working knowledge of Signature's facilities, services, website, surrounding areas, and other information commonly asked about by guests.
  • Collaborate, cooperate, and work closely with all team members, guests, and other visitors to ensure services are promptly and correctly handled in a professional and courteous manner. This includes ensuring an efficient and accurate transfer of information through various methods between and among guests, the PAT, other Company departments, and external parties.
  • Perform ramp operations as needed to ensure service needs are met for our guests, clients, vendors, and aircraft crew. 
  • Ensure team members are proactively preparing for arriving/departing aircraft, identify and perform open job tasks, and immediately correct observed safety concerns to all stakeholders. Conduct safety observations and document accordingly.
  • Assist and/or manage any regulatory compliance, audits, and/or reporting for airport or government parties if requested.
  • Manage inventory of base supplies, uniforms, and equipment in compliance with procurement and expensing procedures.
  • Maintain security of premises to include monitoring street-side, parking lots, terminal, hangars, and AOA. 
  • Oversight of GSE and facility maintenance operations.
  • Maintain safe, clean, and secure ramps and operations.
  • Conduct accident investigations to determine root causes, including all reporting involved with the incident.
  • Administration of Health, Safety, Security, and Environmental (HSSE) software.
  • Oversee fuel quality control activities.
  • Understand, comply with, and enforce all operational, safety, and guest service requirements for all aspects of the job.
  • Stop work when an unsafe condition or act is likely to cause harm to people, the environment, Company or guest assets, or the Company's reputation if the work continues. 
  • Follow emergency response procedures during critical events.
  • Understand, comply with, and enforce all security (physical, cyber and data) protocols as dictated by both the Company and the airport.
  • Maintain accurate records pertaining to time worked by team members, activities and services performed. May be responsible for payroll oversight and compliance.

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