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Aviation Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Garver's Aviation Planning Team is seeking a Senior Aviation Planner to support our growing team. This position will work within Garver's Aviation Planning team and with engineering teams to lead ...

Garver's Aviation Planning Team is seeking a Senior Aviation Planner to support our growing team. This position will work within Garver's Aviation Planning team and with engineering teams to lead ...

Aviation Planning Analyst

Fort Lauderdale, FL ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Overview Kimley-Horn is looking for Planning graduates to join our Fort Lauderdale, Florida (FL) office focusing on Aviation in 2027! This is not a remote position. Responsibilities * Contribute to ...

Aviation Planning Analyst

Fort Lauderdale, FL ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Overview Kimley-Horn is looking for Planning graduates to join our Fort Lauderdale, Florida (FL) office focusing on Aviation in 2027! This is not a remote position. Responsibilities * Contribute to ...

Planning activities in support of final design projects. * Knowledge of aviation market in Alaska, including client relationships and past project experience. * Perform other duties as required.

Planning activities in support of final design projects. * Knowledge of aviation market in Alaska, including client relationships and past project experience. * Perform other duties as required.

Kimley-Horn is looking for Planning graduates to join our Fort Lauderdale, Florida (FL) office focusing on Aviation in 2027! This is not a remote position. * Contribute to the pre-construction ...

Aviation Planning Analyst

Fort Lauderdale, FL ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Overview Kimley-Horn is looking for Planning graduates to join our Fort Lauderdale, Florida (FL) office focusing on Aviation in 2027! This is not a remote position. Responsibilities * Contribute to ...

In this role, you will play a key part in shaping airport and aviation system planning efforts across the region, partnering with multidisciplinary teams to deliver innovative and sustainable ...

Showing results 41-60

Aviation Planning information

See salary details

$19.5K

$67.1K

$98.5K

How much do aviation planning jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for aviation planning in the United States is $67,056.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $80,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become an aviation planner?

To become an aviation planner, typically a bachelor's degree in urban planning, transportation, or aviation management is required. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level planning roles, developing skills in GIS and data analysis, and obtaining relevant certifications can enhance prospects in this field.

What is the difference between Aviation Planning vs Air Traffic Control?

AspectAviation PlanningAir Traffic Control
Primary RoleDevelops airline routes, schedules, and airport infrastructure plansManages aircraft movements and ensures safe, efficient airspace traffic flow
Required CertificationsTypically a degree in aviation, transportation, or related field; certifications varyAir Traffic Control certification and training from FAA or relevant authority
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, planning departments, airports, or airline officesControl towers, radar rooms, or en-route centers
Industry UsageUsed by airlines, airports, and aviation authorities for strategic planningUsed by air traffic control agencies for operational management

In summary, Aviation Planning focuses on designing and optimizing airline routes and airport infrastructure, while Air Traffic Control manages the real-time movement of aircraft to ensure safety and efficiency. Both roles are essential in the aviation industry but serve different functions within the air transportation system.

What is aviation planning?

Aviation planning involves the process of developing and managing airport facilities, airspace, and aviation systems to ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable air travel. Professionals in this field analyze current and future aviation needs, coordinate with stakeholders, and prepare master plans for airport development and operations. Their work ensures that airports meet regulatory requirements, accommodate growth, and integrate with surrounding communities and transportation networks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in aviation planning, and why are they important?

To excel in Aviation Planning, you need a strong background in urban planning, transportation engineering, or aviation management, often supported by a relevant degree and knowledge of FAA regulations. Familiarity with spatial analysis tools like GIS, AutoCAD, and airport planning software, as well as certifications such as AICP or AAAE, is highly valuable. Exceptional analytical thinking, project management, and communication skills help professionals collaborate effectively with stakeholders and manage complex projects. Mastering these skills ensures safe, efficient, and strategically sound development of airport and airspace infrastructure.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in aviation planning, and how can they be addressed?

Aviation planners often encounter challenges such as balancing regulatory requirements with airport or airspace expansion goals, managing stakeholder expectations, and adapting to rapidly changing technologies or industry trends. Addressing these challenges requires strong communication skills to coordinate with government agencies, airlines, and the public, as well as analytical abilities to develop data-driven solutions. Staying current with industry regulations and fostering collaborative relationships across multidisciplinary teams can help aviation planners navigate these complexities and deliver successful projects.

What do aviation planners do?

Aviation planners develop and coordinate strategies for airport and airspace operations, including capacity planning, infrastructure development, and safety regulations. They analyze data, create forecasts, and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure efficient and safe air travel systems, often using tools like GIS and CAD software. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of aviation regulations are essential for this role.
More about Aviation Planning jobs
What cities are hiring for Aviation Planning jobs? Cities with the most Aviation Planning job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aviation Planning jobs? The most popular types of Aviation Planning jobs are:
What states have the most Aviation Planning jobs? States with the most job openings for Aviation Planning jobs include:
Infographic showing various Aviation Planning job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,056 per year, or $32.2 per hour.

Regional Aviation Planning Manager

McFarland-Johnson Inc

Pittsford, NY โ€ข On-site

$62K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

EOE Statement
Our employee owners come to MJ for the variety of project work and stay for the people they work with on those projects! Our people set MJ apart and drive our success for our clients. MJ provides an inclusive environment and rewards employee owners' hard work. Our culture of innovation and collaboration fosters creativity and encourages employees to do their best work.
MJ is an Equal Opportunity Employer - all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristics protected by law.
Applicants who wish to apply for an open position with MJ who require reasonable accommodation in order to complete the application process may contact MJ's Human Resources Department at employment@mjinc.com to request assistance.
Category
Aviation
Description
At McFarland Johnson (MJ), you'll own your future. We're a 100% employee-owned firm with 80 years of experience delivering innovative engineering, planning, environmental, technology, and construction solutions that make a lasting impact on the clients and communities we serve.
Certified as a Great Place to Work, our employee-owners describe MJ's culture as collaborative, people-focused, and supportive. Join us, and help shape the future of infrastructure, together.
We're looking for a Regional Aviation Planning Manager to join our growing Aviation division in one of our Northeast office locations, including various locations in New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine. This is more than just a job - it's a chance to shape your career, grow alongside a collaborative team, and help design the future of infrastructure solutions across the country.
About the Opportunity:
The Regional Aviation Planning Manager will work closely with a diverse team of airport planners and technicians, as well as airport stakeholders and local, state, and federal agencies, to ensure airport planning and development projects are completed efficiently and effectively based on strategic thinking and technical analyses. MJ is recognized for its innovation and client-focused services, offering a unique environment where employee-owners are empowered to deliver quality solutions.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Independently lead and manage a team of technical staff and project managers working on multiple simultaneous aviation planning assignments.
  • Oversee the execution of various aviation planning projects, including airport master plans and layout plan sets, project definition documents, and facility/terminal planning studies.
  • Manage Airport planning efforts for airside and landside components at airports of all sizes, from general aviation to small/non-hub to large hub commercial service facilities.
  • Identify and interpret regulatory requirements from FAA and state aviation departments related to airport operations and development.
  • Evaluate proposed airport improvements to ensure regulatory compliance and advise clients on best practices and implementation practices.
  • Develop projects scopes, budgets and associated contract/work authorization documents.
  • Support and identify project pursuit and proposal development activities throughout the region.

Desired Skills & Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Urban or Regional Planning, Aviation Management, Architecture or a related field.
  • 10+ years of progressive airport planning experience.
  • 3+ years managing staff delivering aviation projects
  • Experience in managing multiple, simultaneous aviation assignments & technical staff.
  • High proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and experience with AutoCAD AviPlan and/or AirTOPS preferred.
  • Outstanding written and oral communication skills.
  • Possession of an industry-appropriate certification, professional license, or pilot's license is a plus.

Why Join MJ?
  • Be part of an award-winning, employee-owned firm that values innovation and client-focused service.
  • Collaborate with a diverse team of experts committed to delivering sustainable infrastructure solutions.
  • Enjoy a supportive, growth-oriented work environment with opportunities for professional development.
  • Enjoy flexible schedules, generous PTO, and a culture that values balance so you can thrive both professionally and personally.
  • For experienced professionals, MJ offers the chance to mentor emerging talent, share your expertise, and leave a lasting legacy on the industry.

What We Offer:
  • Competitive salary between $120,000 and $165,000 with performance-based incentive payment plan/bonus structure.
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental & vision insurance
  • Generous Paid time off including Paid Parental Leave
  • Fully contributed Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • 401(k) match
  • Technical training and professional development opportunities

Join Us and Make a Difference
Join a team where your work has purpose, your ideas are valued, and your growth is personal. Apply today and become a part of a company where you can #ownyourfuture.
Position Requirements
Full-Time/Part-Time
Full-Time
Shift
-not applicable-
City
State
Keywords
Pay Range
Exempt/Non-Exempt
Non-Exempt
Open Date
7/23/2026
This position is currently accepting applications.