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Director Of Airport Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are a leading airport management company committed to ensuring safe and efficient airport operations. As part of our team, you will have the opportunity to learn and grow in a dynamic environment ...

As an Airport Operations Concierge Supervisor, you will oversee day-to-day airport operations and lead a team responsible for delivering exceptional service while maintaining the highest levels of ...

Airport Operations Maint Tech

Loveland, CO · On-site

$25.42 - $34.32/hr

Under the direction of the Airport Operations Manager, the Airport Operations Technician ensures the airport's operational safety, regulatory compliance, and airfield readiness. This role performs ...

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Director Of Airport Operations information

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$34K

$107.7K

$179.5K

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

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of 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 does a director of airport operations do?

A Director of Airport Operations oversees the daily functions of an airport to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operations. This role involves managing staff, coordinating with airlines and government agencies, and implementing procedures related to security, maintenance, and emergency response. They also ensure that the airport adheres to federal, state, and local regulations, and often lead initiatives to improve customer service and operational efficiency. The director may be responsible for budgeting, strategic planning, and handling disruptions such as severe weather or emergencies.

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 protocols, typically backed by a degree in aviation management or a related field and significant industry experience. Familiarity with airport management systems, FAA regulations, and certifications such as Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) are commonly required. Strong leadership, crisis management, and effective communication skills are essential for coordinating teams and responding to emergencies. These skills ensure smooth, safe, and compliant airport operations, safeguarding passengers, staff, and assets.

What are some common challenges faced by a director of airport operations, and how can candidates prepare to address them?

Directors of Airport Operations often encounter challenges such as ensuring regulatory compliance, managing large-scale emergencies, and coordinating diverse teams across various airport functions. Keeping up with evolving security standards and balancing operational efficiency with customer satisfaction are also key concerns. Candidates can prepare by gaining strong leadership experience, staying updated on industry regulations, and developing excellent crisis management skills. Building solid relationships with regulatory agencies and internal departments is essential for effective collaboration and smooth airport operations.

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

AspectDirector Of Airport OperationsAirport Operations Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees overall airport operations, strategic planning, compliance, and coordination with multiple departmentsManages daily airport activities, staff, and operational procedures at a specific airport or terminal
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in aviation, transportation, or related field; experience in airport management; certifications like AAE or AAAERequires similar credentials, often a bachelor's degree and airport operations experience; certifications may include AAAE credentials
Work EnvironmentExecutive-level environment, overseeing multiple departments and strategic initiativesOperational environment, focusing on daily airport functions and staff supervision

The main difference between a Director Of Airport Operations and an Airport Operations Manager lies in scope and level of responsibility. The director handles strategic planning and overall airport oversight, while the manager focuses on daily operations. Both roles require relevant credentials and experience, but the director's role is more senior and broad in scope.

How much does a director of airport operations make?

A director of airport operations typically earns between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on the size of the airport, location, and experience. They oversee daily airport functions, coordinate with airlines and security, and often require leadership skills and relevant certifications.

What cities are hiring for Director Of Airport Operations jobs?

Cities with the most Director Of Airport Operations job openings:

What states have the most Director Of Airport Operations jobs?

States with the most job openings for Director Of Airport Operations jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Director Of Airport Operations jobs?

For Director Of Airport Operations jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Director Of Airport Operations job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,680 per year, or $51.8 per hour.

Assistant Director of Operations

Orlando, FL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Assistant Director of Airport Operations
Reports To: Director of Airport Operations
Status: Exempt
Department: Operations
Date: May 2025
Salary:
Broad Functions: Support the Director in overseeing airport operations business, focusing on delivering exceptional results, contributing to a great culture, developing future leaders, and maintaining strong client relationships. Assist in achieving financial, operational, and guest service objectives while fostering a best-in-class work environment.(The Assistant Director of Airport Operations supports the Director in overseeing all aspects of food and beverage operations within the airport. This leadership role is responsible for helping drive financial performance, strengthen operational efficiency, support team development, and enhance client and guest satisfaction. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who thrives in a fastpaced, complex environment and is committed to creating a best-in-class work culture that inspires excellence at every level)
Main Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Support the achievement of business unit expectations in financial performance, people
management, client satisfaction, and business partner relationships.
2. Assist in implementing strategies to create a best-in-class culture where team members
are valued, appreciated, and driven to provide an exceptional guest experience.
3. Help identify and mentor potential future leaders, contributing to a strong leadership
pipeline.
4. Maintain high standards of food safety and brand compliance across operations.
5. Assist in managing and optimizing budgets to ensure financial targets are met or
exceeded.
6. Help ensure adherence to brand standards across all locations.
7. Actively participate in daily floor operations to reinforce operational standards and support
team performance
8. Support the creation and execution of action plans to address retention, turnover, and
overall employee satisfaction.
9. Collaborate with the Director to implement business strategies aligned with organizational
goals and objectives.
10. Assist in overseeing staffing requirements and budget guidelines in conjunction with annual
financial statements.
11. Support compliance with airport badging requirements through daily termination
notifications.
12. Help optimize schedules and ensure payroll compliance while using the workforce
management tool.
13. Work with team members to maintain high-quality storefronts and ensure timely store
openings.
14. Maintain and support excellent relationships with clients, vendors, airport authorities, and
business partners)
15. Participate in public relations activities representing the company appropriately as needed.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
1. Assist in leading and mentoring the leadership team, including Concept Managers.
2. Help set clear goals and support accountability for delivering results.
3. Participate in regular performance evaluations and provide feedback to team members.
4. Assist in addressing and resolving associate relations matters.
Skills and Qualifications:
1. Bachelor's degree in business administration, Hospitality, or related field.
2. 5+ years of experience in management of food, beverage, and retail operations, handling
multiple locations (10+).
3. Proven track record of contributing to the success of a multi-million-dollar business.
4. Strong financial acumen and ability to analyze business performance.
5. Excellent leadership skills with a focus on team development and motivation.
6. Ability to contribute to a positive, high-performance culture.
7. Strong client relationship management skills.
8. Proficient in Microsoft Office suite and relevant business software.
9. Strong strategic planning and execution abilities.
10. Excellent oral and written communication skills.
11. Strong analytical skills for budget management and business analysis.
12. Exceptional time management, organization, and project management skills.
13. Commitment to maintaining high standards of guest relations, diplomacy, and
professionalism.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an
associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable
accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential
functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the associate is regularly required to stand for long
periods of time, use hands and fingers, communicate verbally, and hear. The associate is
frequently required to reach with hands and arms, climb, balance, taste, and smell. The
associate is also occasionally required to walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and either lift or
move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision,
distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
EEOC Statement:
We are an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse team and fostering an inclusive environment where employees feel empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability status, or veteran status.