ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Director Airport Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jsx

Director of Airport Operations

Dallas, TX · On-site

About the Role The Director of Airport Operations provides strategic leadership for airport operations across the JSX network, ensuring stations consistently deliver safe, reliable, and hospitality ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDirector Airport Operations Jobs

Director Airport Operations information

See salary details

$34K

$107.7K

$179.5K

How much do director airport operations jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for director airport operations in the United States is $107,680.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $135,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a Director of Airport Operations, and how can they be addressed?

A Director of Airport Operations often encounters challenges such as coordinating multiple departments, ensuring regulatory compliance, and managing unexpected disruptions like severe weather or security incidents. Effective communication and strong leadership are key to addressing these issues, as is staying updated on industry regulations and best practices. Building strong relationships with airlines, government agencies, and airport staff helps foster a collaborative environment, which is essential for smooth operations and effective problem-solving.

What are Director Airport Operations?

A Director of Airport Operations is a senior management professional responsible for overseeing the daily functioning and strategic planning of airport activities. Their duties often include ensuring compliance with safety regulations, coordinating with airlines and governmental agencies, managing staff, and optimizing passenger and cargo flows. They strive to maintain efficient airport operations while enhancing the customer experience and responding to emergencies or operational disruptions. Directors also play a key role in budget management and implementing new technologies or processes to improve airport services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Airport Operations, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Airport Operations, you need extensive knowledge of airport management, regulatory compliance, and safety standards, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in aviation management or a related field. Familiarity with airport operations management systems (AOMS), FAA regulations, and incident response protocols is crucial, and professional certifications such as AAAE's Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) are often preferred. Strong leadership, decision-making, and stakeholder communication skills help manage teams and coordinate with airlines, government agencies, and service providers. These competencies are vital to ensure smooth, safe, and efficient airport operations while meeting regulatory requirements and maintaining operational excellence.

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

AspectDirector Airport OperationsAirport Operations Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees overall airport operations, strategic planning, and policy implementationManages daily airport activities, staff, and operational procedures
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in aviation, transportation, or related field; extensive experience in airport operationsUsually requires a bachelor's degree and experience in airport or transportation operations
Work EnvironmentExecutive-level setting, overseeing multiple departmentsOperational setting, managing teams and daily activities
Industry UsageCommonly used in large airports and organizationsUsed across various airport sizes for operational management

The main difference between a Director Airport Operations and an Airport Operations Manager lies in scope and seniority. The director focuses on strategic oversight and policy, while the manager handles daily operations. Both roles require relevant experience and credentials, but the director's role is broader and more strategic.

What cities are hiring for Director Airport Operations jobs? Cities with the most Director Airport Operations job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Airport Operations jobs? The most popular types of Airport Operations jobs are:
What states have the most Director Airport Operations jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Airport Operations jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Director Airport Operations jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Director Airport Operations jobs are:
Director Airport Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Airport Operations job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,680 per year, or $51.8 per hour.

Director of Airport Operations

Easterwood Airport

College Station, TX • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Director of Airport Operations

Director of Airport Operations is responsible for leading and overseeing all daily operational functions across airside, terminal, and landside environments at a commercial service airport. This role serves as the senior on-site authority, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant operations in accordance with FAA Part 139 and related regulatory requirements. In addition to providing strategic leadership, the Director is expected to actively engage in day-to-day operational activities, maintaining a visible presence in the field and supporting frontline teams. Responsibilities include directing operational teams, managing safety programs, coordinating with airlines and government agencies, and leading response efforts during irregular operations and emergencies. The position also oversees inspections, reporting, staffing, and operational performance, while fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and customer service. Requires strong leadership, regulatory expertise, and the ability to execute strategic priorities in a complex, fast-paced, and hands-on environment.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide senior-level leadership for all airport operations, including airside, terminal, and landside functions, while maintaining an active, hands-on presence in daily operations.
  • Execute operational strategies set by executive leadership and ensure alignment with regulatory requirements and organizational objectives.
  • Serve as the senior on-site authority during routine operations, irregular events, weather incidents, and emergencies, including direct involvement in operational response and field coordination.
  • Supervise and manage Airport Operations personnel, including performance management, staffing, and workforce oversight, while mentoring and supporting staff in the field.
  • Ensure compliance with FAA Part 139, TSA regulations, and all applicable safety, security, and environmental programs; maintain Airport Certification Manual and inspection readiness.
  • Participate in and personally conduct airfield inspections, condition reporting, NOTAM issuance, and oversight of operational programs such as passenger flow, gate coordination, and ground transportation.
  • Coordinate with FAA, TSA, airlines, tenants, and local/state agencies to ensure seamless operational integration.
  • Support budget planning and ensure 24/7 operational readiness, including staffing adjustments and overtime authorization.
  • Lead emergency response efforts in accordance with NIMS/ICS protocols, including on-scene coordination and operational decision-making during significant events.
  • Success in this role depends on your ability to manage high-priority projects simultaneously and deliver results under tight deadlines.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Business, Public Administration, or related field.
  • Minimum 5 years of progressive airport operations experience at a Part 139 commercial airport, including leadership experience.
  • Strong knowledge of FAA regulations and airport operations across airside, terminal, and landside environments.
  • Demonstrated leadership, decision-making, and communication skills, with the ability to perform in high-pressure environments and respond to emergencies.
  • AAAE ACE Operations or Certified Member preferred.

Easterwood Airport Management is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Apply