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Ground Operations Manager Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

CMA CGM

Operations Manager (CL) - Melrose Park, IL

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... ocean, ground, and finished vehicle transport. That is why CEVA Logistics offers a dynamic and ... Lead, direct and manage inbound and/or outbound site operations to ensure that the operations staff ...

IDEAL Industries, Inc.

Operations Supervisor

Sycamore, IL · On-site

$86K - $116K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Ground Support Equipment (GSE) product range. This role will initially focus on launching and operationalizing the US facility, including inventory management, logistics, assembly operations ...

National Express Corp

Operations Supervisor

Mount Vernon, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Manages direct and indirect hours to ensure budget requirements are met and collects and audits ... Some college preferred. * 5 years' work experience required, with 3 years in ground transportation ...

Summit School Services

Operations Supervisor

Mount Vernon, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Manages direct and indirect hours to ensure budget requirements are met and collects and audits ... Some college preferred. * 5+ years' work experience required, with 3 years in ground transportation ...

National Express Corp

Operations Supervisor

Mount Vernon, IL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Manages direct and indirect hours to ensure budget requirements are met and collects and audits ... Some college preferred. * 5+ years' work experience required, with 3 years in ground transportation ...

Common Ground Food Co-op

General Manager

Urbana, IL

$75K - $105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Who We Are At Common Ground Food Cooperative, we support local farmers & producers. We are here to ... Collaborates with the Operations Manager and the Department Heads to develop and implement ...

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All JobsGround Operations JobsGround Operations Manager JobsGround Operations Manager Jobs in Illinois

Ground Operations Manager information

See Illinois salary details

$30K

$61.5K

$114.8K

How much do ground operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for ground operations manager in Illinois is $61,491.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $75,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ground operations manager?

Ground Operations Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing and coordinating all ground handling activities at airports or similar facilities. Their duties include managing baggage handling, aircraft refueling, passenger boarding, and ensuring that safety and regulatory standards are met. They supervise ground staff, address operational issues, and work to ensure efficient and timely turnaround of aircraft. Ground Operations Managers play a crucial role in maintaining smooth airport operations and minimizing delays. Strong organizational and leadership skills are essential for success in this position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ground operations manager?

To thrive as a Ground Operations Manager, you need strong organizational skills, knowledge of airport operations, and relevant experience, often supported by a degree in aviation management or a related field. Familiarity with ground handling software, logistics systems, and safety management tools is typically required, along with certifications such as IATA or OSHA safety training. Leadership, problem-solving, and excellent communication skills help you effectively manage teams and respond to operational challenges. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant ground operations in a demanding airport environment.

What are some common challenges faced by ground operations managers, and how can they be effectively addressed?

Ground Operations Managers often face challenges such as coordinating multiple teams under tight time constraints, managing unexpected delays, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and the ability to adapt quickly are crucial to overcoming these obstacles. Building good relationships with both frontline staff and other departments, such as maintenance and flight crews, can help streamline operations and resolve issues efficiently. Regular training and staying updated on industry best practices also contribute to smoother ground operations.

What is the difference between Ground Operations Manager vs Airport Operations Coordinator?

AspectGround Operations ManagerAirport Operations Coordinator
Required CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; certifications like IATA or FAA are advantageousSimilar credentials; often requires FAA certification and relevant experience
Work EnvironmentManages ground handling, baggage, and aircraft servicing at airportsCoordinates daily airport activities, ensuring smooth operations across departments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by airlines, ground handling companies, and airportsCommonly employed by airports and airline ground services
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare to understand roles, responsibilities, and career paths in ground operationsOften compared to clarify differences in airport operational roles

The Ground Operations Manager oversees all ground handling activities, ensuring safety and efficiency, while the Airport Operations Coordinator focuses on coordinating daily airport functions. Both roles require similar credentials and work within the airport environment, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ground Operations jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Ground Operations jobs in Illinois are:

What job categories do people searching Ground Operations Manager jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Ground Operations Manager jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Ground Operations Manager jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Ground Operations Manager job openings:

Ground Operations Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ground Operations Manager job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,491 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Director of Transportation (Airline Catering)

SkyChefs

Des Plaines, IL

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Director of Transportation (Airline Catering) 
Job Location: Des Plaines-USA-60016 
Work Location Type: On-Site 
 

About us
Since 1942, SkyChefs has taken culinary excellence to new heights. As a trusted partner to the nation’s leading airlines and retailers, we proudly deliver millions of meals and exceptional service experiences every year across 43 sites throughout the United States. Built on a legacy of operational excellence, culinary expertise, and continuous innovation, we are committed to setting the industry standard in aviation culinary, airline services, last-mile logistics, and retail commerce. From the kitchen to the runway, our teams work together to deliver quality, reliability, and service at every altitude. Our people are the heart of everything we do. At SkyChefs, a career is more than a job – it’s an opportunity to grow, lead, and make an impact in a fast-paced, team-driven environment. Join America’s first, foremost, and finest and take your career to new heights.
Job Summary

Keep one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs moving.

We are seeking a strategic, operationally driven Director of Transportation, Airline Catering & Planning to lead transportation, dispatch, airport catering operations, planning and airline service execution for our Chicago operations. This is a high-impact leadership role for an experienced, airline, ground operations, or airline catering transportation professional who thrives in a fast-paced 24/7 environment.

You will serve as the critical link between airline operations, catering production, dispatch teams, transportation resources, and station leadership—ensuring the right products reach the right aircraft at the right time, every time.

Why This Role Matters

Every flight departure depends on flawless coordination. As Director, you will oversee the transportation operations & dispatch planning and execution that drives on-time catering performance, fleet efficiency, safety compliance, and customer satisfaction across a complex airline network.

Location: Our Chicago Hub is located in Des Plaines, IL near Chicago O'Hare International Airport

Benefits: No waiting period, eligible as of Day 1. 

Main Accountabilities
  • Develop the transportation department strategy and lead all transportation operational activities including:  site to aircraft delivery, onboard catering, dispatch, and dock for a 24/7 operation.
    • Align catering logistics plans with airline schedules, flight changes, and operational requirements.
  • Ensure compliance with safety, quality, security, and airline-specific requirements.
  • Partner with airline Operations Control Centers (OCC), station leadership, and catering facilities to ensure seamless execution.
  • Manage operational planning for daily operations, schedule changes, peak periods, and irregular operations (IROPs).
  • Establish processes for fleet utilization, route optimization, and labor efficiency.
  • Manage third-party transportation partners and service agreements where applicable.
Knowledge, Skills and Experience
  • 8-10+ years in airline, airline catering, ground operations, logistics, dispatch,
  • Experience supporting airline operations and understanding flight scheduling dynamics.
  • Strong operational leadership experience in a 24/7 environment.
  • Experience managing dispatch, transportation, routing, and service delivery functions.

SkyChefs is an EEO and Affirmative Action Employer of Women/Minorities/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

SkyChefs is an EEO and Affirmative Action Employer of Women/Minorities/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities. 

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