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Director Airport Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operations Managers have the responsibility for establishing safety policies, procedures and ... Direct and coordinate activities to provide a safe environment for employees while maintaining fast ...

Operations Managers have the responsibility for establishing safety policies, procedures and ... Direct and coordinate activities to provide a safe environment for employees while maintaining fast ...

Airport Operations Specialist

Key Largo, FL · On-site

$48K - $61K/yr

The Airport Operations Specialist serves as the primary ground support resource for all airport ... Attends classes, training, conferences, workshops and meetings as directed to maintain job ...

Operations Managers have the responsibility for establishing safety policies, procedures and ... Direct and coordinate activities to provide a safe environment for employees while maintaining fast ...

Operations Managers have the responsibility for establishing safety policies, procedures and ... Direct and coordinate activities to provide a safe environment for employees while maintaining fast ...

Showing results 41-60

Director Airport Operations information

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$34K

$107.7K

$179.5K

How much do director airport operations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 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 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 is a 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 airport operations?

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:

Infographic showing various Director Airport Operations job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,680 per year, or $51.8 per hour.

Airport Operations Officer Trainee,I,II - Aviation

cityofabilene

Abilene, TX

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Under the immediate supervision of the Airport Operations Officer III and Division Manager – Airport Operations, responsible for training for and performing Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) duties, assisting in the overall operation of airside, landside, and terminal areas on an assigned shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays. This position ensures compliance with 14 Code of Federal Regulations FAR Parts 77 and 139, CFR Part 1542, and all other applicable statutes, regulations, and requirements.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Airport Operations Officer Trainee and I exercise no direct supervision.

Airport Operations Officer II – In the absence of more senior leadership, takes the lead and participates in Airport Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) operations, responding to all emergencies occurring within the confines of, and adjacent to, the Airport and other response areas as authorized by the Director of Transportation Services.

IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Identifies and anticipates operational, safety, and security concerns by inspecting all areas of the airport, including airside, landside, and terminal facilities, to ensure compliance with 14 CFR §139 and the Airport Certification Manual.

Maintains satisfactory conditions of airside, landside, and terminal facilities by creating work orders, maintaining NOTAMs, and performing light maintenance duties such as changing lightbulbs, air filters, etc. 

Performs airside operations activities, including, but not limited to: identifying, preventing, responding to, and/or removing all hazards to aviation, including FOD, wildlife, AOA incursions, unauthorized vehicles, pedestrian entry, and disabled aircraft.

Inspects and maintains a record of all aeronautical areas, including pavement, markings, lighting, safety areas, wildlife, construction, emergency equipment, and fueling practices to comply with 14 CFR §139 and NFPA 407.

Coordinates construction and maintenance on or near the airport to ensure minimum interference with airport operations.

Conducts AOA Drivers, Airport Security, and Authorized Signatory Training.

Carries out responsibilities outlined in the Airport Emergency Plan (AEP) and occasionally performs Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) duties.

Performs duties and trains for Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting, including operating emergency vehicles and related firefighting equipment necessary for public safety and emergency response.

Conducts thorough terminal inspections, assists passengers and tenants to resolve issues, and may occasionally perform janitorial duties as needed.

Conducts Airport Security-related functions, including monitoring phones, radios, security cameras, gate systems, sterile/secure area doors, performing patrols and security badge checks, and other duties listed in the Airport Security Program.

Responsible for maintaining passenger and tenant contacts through positive lines of communication by professionally representing the Airport and City of Abilene through frequent and meaningful contact.

Operate a variety of emergency and rescue vehicles, equipment, and tools, including ARFF vehicles, self-contained breathing apparatus, gas-powered saw, generator, minor hand tools, and two-way radios.

OTHER JOB-RELATED DUTIES

Assists with and participates in mutual aid efforts with the City of Abilene Police and Fire Departments, as well as other responding agencies, to ensure compliance with the Airport Emergency Plan.

Assists with snow/ice removal operations, including runway friction testing as needed/directed, and operating snow/ice removal equipment.

Perform other job-related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of:

Occupational safety/safe driving principles and practices for light equipment operation.

All applicable CFRs and Advisory Circulars.

State and Federal Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting regulations.     

Airport emergency and security procedures.

Skill to:

Operate heavy equipment, including but not limited to snow removal vehicles, mowing equipment, and forklifts.

Effectively utilize programs such as Google Earth, Google Workspace, and Microsoft 365, and be able to learn new programs as they are introduced.

Ability to:

Perform Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting duties.

Respond to airport emergencies and determine the proper course of action.

Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.

Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work, both internally and externally.

Follow and embrace the City of Abilene Core Values – Respect, Integrity, Service Above Self, and Excellence in All We Do.

Perform as a team member in a manner that accomplishes the Division’s mission and treats team members with dignity, courtesy, and respect.

Experience and Training Guidelines:

For positions with more than one level, all requirements listed at lower levels are also required at higher levels. Any combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be qualifying.  Knowledge, skills, and abilities may be obtained through:

Airport Operations Officer Trainee:

Experience:

Airport Operation Officer Trainee is an entry-level position, and no previous experience is required. 

Education/Training:

A High School diploma or GED is required.

License or Certificate:

A valid Texas Class B – Exempt driver's license to operate all ARFF equipment is required within 90 days of employment.

An Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) 80-Hour Certification is required within 180 days of employment.

A Basic Structural Fire Certificate from the TEXAS Commission of Fire Protection Standards, which includes 40 hours of Emergency Medical Training is required. This certification is not provided by the City of Abilene. Please visit this website for more information: www.tcfp.state.tx.us

Airport Operations Officer I

Experience:

One (1) year of relevant, previous experience is required.

Must possess and maintain these required Texas Commission of Fire Protection Certifications:

  • Basic Firefighter Certification that includes 40-Hour Emergency Medical training
  • Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) Certification

Prior work experience in civil or military airports, airline, and/or FBO operations is preferred.

Education/Training:

A High School diploma or GED is required.

License or Certificate:

A valid Texas Class B – Exempt driver's license to operate all ARFF equipment is required.

An Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting ARFF 80-Hour Certification is required.

Basic Structural Firefighter Certificate from the Texas Commission of Fire Protection is required. 

Airport Operations Officer II

Experience:

Two (2) years of relevant or equivalent previous experience as an Airport Operations Officer I is required.

Must possess and maintain these required Texas Commission of Fire Protection Certifications:

  • Basic Firefighter Certification that includes 40-Hour Emergency Medical training
  • Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) Certification

Prior related work experience at a civil or military airport is preferred.

Education/Training:

A High School diploma or GED is required.       

License or Certificate:

A valid Texas Class B – Exempt driver's license to operate all ARFF equipment is required.

An Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting ARFF 80-Hour Certification is required.

A Basic Structural Firefighter Certificate from the Texas Commission of Fire Protection is required. 

Special Requirements:

Essential duties require the following physical skills and work environment:

Bloodborne Pathogens training and HazCom training are required within sixty (60) days of employment.

Ability to pass a Criminal History Records Check is required.

Exposure to cold, heat, noise, inclement weather, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, explosive materials, mechanical hazards, and electrical hazards.

Must be available for shift work, on-call work, and stand-by duty.

Considered Essential Personnel in the event of City Offices closure and reports to work as assigned by the Director of Transportation Services.

With or without accommodation, the “X” indicates the overall strength demand of the position during a typical workday:

___     Sedentary – lifting of no more than 10 pounds

___     Light – lifting no more than 20 pounds; carrying up to 10 pounds

___     Medium – lifting no more than 50 pounds; carrying up to 25 pounds

_X_     Heavy – lifting no more than 100 pounds; carrying up to 50 pounds

___     Very Heavy – team lifting over 100 pounds; carrying more than 50 pounds

Physical Demand Codes:  The following describes whether or not the position is expected to exert the physical demands listed during a typical workday as well as the overall frequency of the task:

Codes for how often:

N         =          No

E         =          Extensive (100 – 70% of the time)

M         =          Moderate (60 – 30% of the time)

I           =          Infrequent (20 – 10% of the time)

A         =          Almost Never (<10% of the time)

Code / Task

_E_     Standing

_M_    Sitting

_E_     Walking

_M_    Lifting

_I_      Carrying

_I_      Pushing/Pulling

_I_      Overhead Work

_I_      Fine Dexterity

_I_      Kneeling

_I_      Crouching

_A_     Crawling

_I_      Bending

_I_      Twisting

_I_      Climbing

_I_      Balancing

_E_     Vision

_E_     Hearing

_E_     Talking

___     Other:  _____________________