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Director Airport Operations Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Director ensures compliance with all applicable Federal Aviation Administration (FAA ... Manages airport operations: Directs daily airfield and terminal operations, oversees aircraft ...

Wendover Airport Director

Wendover, UT · On-site

$120 - $200/hr

The Director ensures compliance with all applicable Federal Aviation Administration (FAA ... Manages airport operations: Directs daily airfield and terminal operations, oversees aircraft ...

$68K - $91K/yr

Airport Operations plays a central role in keeping DEN safe, secure, compliant, prepared, and ... Two or more years administratively supporting a manager or director. * Experience with process ...

$68K - $91K/yr

Airport Operations plays a central role in keeping DEN safe, secure, compliant, prepared, and ... Two or more years administratively supporting a manager or director. * Experience with process ...

Discover an exciting future at the Airport! Operations Manager - DCA Airport Inland Deicing ... Director on investigations of any security issues, accident reviews and be a part of the review and ...

$18/hr

Job Summary An Agent in Airport Operations oversees inbound and outbound flight activity, updates schedules, and manages gate assignments to ensure smooth airport operations. Responsibilities include ...

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Director Airport Operations Manager information

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$107.7K

$179.5K

How much do director airport operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for director airport operations manager 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director airport operations manager?

To thrive as a Director Airport Operations Manager, you need in-depth knowledge of airport operations, regulatory compliance, and extensive leadership experience, often supported by a degree in aviation management or a related field. Familiarity with airport management systems, safety management software, and certifications such as AAAE accreditation are commonly required. Strong communication, strategic planning, and crisis management skills set exceptional leaders apart in this role. These capabilities are critical for ensuring safe, efficient airport operations and effective coordination among diverse teams and stakeholders.

What does a director airport operations manager do?

A Director Airport Operations Manager oversees the day-to-day operations of an airport, ensuring safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. They coordinate with airlines, security, maintenance, and other airport stakeholders to manage airport facilities and respond to emergencies. Their responsibilities also include developing operational policies, managing staff, and overseeing budgets to ensure smooth and safe airport operations.

What are some common challenges faced by a director airport operations manager, and how are they typically addressed?

A Director Airport Operations Manager often encounters challenges such as coordinating multiple teams during irregular operations, managing compliance with strict aviation regulations, and ensuring passenger safety and satisfaction amid disruptions. These challenges are typically addressed through strong communication, robust contingency planning, and close collaboration with airlines, ground staff, emergency services, and regulatory authorities. Building a proactive team culture and staying updated on industry best practices also help in effectively navigating daily and unexpected operational hurdles.
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Operations Manager - MSP Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport - Full-time

Smarte Carte

Saint Paul, MN

$57K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

OPERATIONS MANAGER – MSP Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport - Full-time

$55000 - $57000 / year

(salary based on experience)

Full-time Benefits and Bonus Eligible!

BENEFITS

Smarte Carte Inc. offers competitive pay, and outstanding benefits including; Group Health Insurance; Medical & Dental, Company Paid Life Insurance, Company Paid Short-Term Disability, Matching 401k, Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, Company Outings, Wellness Reimbursement Program and More!

Weekends and holidays required as needed.

COMPANY BACKGROUND:

Smarte Carte is a global provider of travel and leisure infrastructure solutions, serving major airports, transportation hubs, entertainment destinations, retail locations, resorts, and fitness centers across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific. For more than 50 years, we have partnered with over 3,500 world-class venues to deliver convenient, reliable services used by millions of people each year.

Our portfolio includes luggage carts, smart locker systems, mobility rentals (ECVs, wheelchairs, and strollers), massage chairs, medallion collectibles, and a variety of guest and passenger services designed to enhance the visitor experience.

 

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Operations Manager directs airport operations by building and developing a strong team of front-line staff. The Operations Manager is responsible for increasing levels of customer satisfaction and employee engagement while building a culture of accountability, performance and integrity. The Operations Manager is responsible for the P&L, achieving annual revenue and EBITDA goals as well as improving the efficiency of labor, materials, and equipment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Overall responsibility for a multi-million-dollar P&L, with the expectation to deliver revenue growth vs. annual and budgeted plans.
  • Lead business unit consisting of multiple terminals and a workforce of 3+
  • Coach staff to ensure daily operational performance goals are met through labor force management and applying proven continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean and Six Sigma to improve productivity and vend
  • This hands-on position requires the Operations Manager to direct, manage and execute repairs, maintain and clean equipment as needed.
  • Daily reporting of results, human resource functions to include payroll, hiring and training.
  • Seek and develop new business opportunities, g. airport services, other vending opportunities.
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders within the airport community as well as peers within Smarte Carte.
  • Participate in the development and implementation of corporate strategic initiatives to grow revenue and earnings.
  • Effectively translate strategic initiatives into meaningful and actionable goals for direct reports.
  • Other duties as assigned.

EXPERIENCE:

  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in operational function such as manufacturing, logistics, distribution, process improvement, etc.
  • Demonstrated P&L management experience is required.
  • Minimum of 2 years of direct management experience and the ability to manage across a wide range of capabilities and personalities

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: 

  • Possess strategic leadership, planning and thinking skills along with a value chain mind-set.
  • Demonstrated success working in a cross-functional team environment.
  • Ability to successfully manage the institutional complexity within assigned airports.
  • Demonstrated business acumen as defined by a proven track record of success in an operational environment.
  • Must demonstrate experience and ability to lead large scale process implementation with measurable improvements in financial and/or performance metrics.
  • Ability to forge positive relationships with external constituents e.g., customers, clients, supplier partners, etc., and manage across a wide range of capabilities and personalities.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Some financial and analytical skills; must be proficient in reading, interpreting, and analyzing financial statements, and understand how operational KPI’s affect financial outcomes.
  • Organized and able to manage multiple priorities effectively.
  • Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office/Suite.
  • Excellent management skills; ability to influence and engage direct and indirect reports and peers.
  • Strong knowledge of leading teams through significant change in a large organization.

LEADERSHIP CHARACTERISTICS:

The successful candidate will be expected to be a high-energy, creative, and resourceful self-starter who demonstrates leadership skills and instincts. This leader is highly intelligent and enthusiastic with a commitment to excellence. In terms of personal competencies, the successful candidate must be hands-on and possess the best combination of strategic thinking and ability to translate strategic priorities into that also leads to actual results. This is a practical versus a theoretical thinker who should demonstrate the following competencies:

  • Leadership: A confident, mature person with the ability to connect and inspire others. A proven track record of leadership that leads to concrete results that drive key performance indicators. Able to articulate what a successful culture looks like and develop a detailed roadmap for building that culture.
  • Results Oriented: A leader who possess the ability to take actions and implement effective solutions in a timely manner.
  • Problem Solver: A creative yet pragmatic problem solver. Methodical and hands-on, as well as detail oriented.
  • Analytical Thinking and Decision-Making: Decisive and logical at thoroughly evaluating issues. Excellent planning, execution, and project-management skills.
  • Teamwork and Interpersonal Skills: A team player and builder, receptive to ideas from others. Shares information and keeps team members and partners informed. Works effectively with others to identify and resolve issues. Excellent interpersonal skills and an ability to interact successfully with all levels of management as well as a diverse work force.
  • Ethics: Highest level of professional integrity and honesty as well as personal credibility

EDUCATION:

  • Bachelor's degree in a related field, and experience in an operationally oriented role is preferred.

 

Licenses & Certifications:

  • Ability to get an Airport Badge is required
  • Valid Driver's License is required
  • Ability to get USPS badge required (background check, drug screen)

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Walk and stand for duration of shift
  • Lift 40 lbs. to waist height
  • Push/pull 75-100 lbs.; move up to 15 carts simultaneously

TRAVEL REQUIRED:

  • Some travel required to assigned locations.

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