Operational Readiness Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a highly motivated and adaptable Aviation Safety, Compliance & Operational Readiness Consultant, based out of the United States, to support the integration of Safety Management System (SMS) practices with Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer (ORAT) activities complementing 14 CFR Part 139 Certification of Airports across airport development and activation programs.

This role is ideal for a self-starter with a strong foundational knowledge in 14 CFR Part 139 compliance, who can apply regulatory knowledge within broader safety, operational, and program delivery environments. The successful candidate will work cross-functionally with teams to support risk management, regulatory alignment, and operational activation efforts-particularly in environments involving active airfield construction and complex operational interfaces.

This is a hybrid role, combining remote work with periodic travel to client sites for assessments, stakeholder coordination, and field-based activities.

Key Competencies

* Self-starter with strong initiative and problem-solving skills

* Effective time management and organizational skills

* Ability to work across multiple teams and disciplines

* Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management capabilities

* Ability to translate regulatory requirements into practical operational solutions

* Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and quality of deliverables

Work Environment

* Hybrid work environment (remote + on-site client support)

* Travel required for client meetings, workshop facilitation, and field coordination

* Exposure to active airfield and construction environments

* Collaborative, fast-paced project environment supporting major airport programs

Key Responsibilities

Safety Management Systems (SMS)

* Support the implementation and integration of SMS practices within ORAT and operational readiness programs

* Facilitate and document Safety Risk Assessments (SRAs) and support ongoing risk management activities

* Develop and maintain hazard tracking tools, risk registers, and supporting documentation

* Assist in monitoring mitigation implementation, tracking safety performance, and conducting safety assurance activities

* Conduct SMS training, create SMS promotion materials, and cultivate safety culture

14 CFR Part 139 Compliance

* Conduct 14 CFR Part 139 compliance assessments and audits of airport operations, including environments with active construction

* Interpret and apply regulatory requirements in operational, safety, and construction-related contexts

* Support clients in aligning procedures, construction phasing, and operational controls with FAA requirements

* Identify compliance gaps and support development of practical, risk-based solutions

ORAT Integration & Operational Readiness

* Support integration of safety processes into ORAT planning and execution

* Identify and evaluate operational risks associated with airfield construction, phasing, and transitions to live operations

* Participate in readiness planning activities, stakeholder coordination, and operational testing phases

* Collaborate with ORAT teams to ensure safe and efficient activation of new or modified facilities

Airfield Construction & Operational Interface

* Provide safety and operational support related to airfield construction activities within active airport environments

* Assess impacts of construction on airfield operations, including movement areas, safety areas, and access controls

* Support development and review of construction safety phasing and risk mitigation strategies

* Coordinate with airport operations, contractors, and project teams to ensure safe continuity of operations

Stakeholder Engagement & Coordination

* Engage with airport operators, project stakeholders, contractors, and operational teams to support program delivery

* Facilitate meetings, risk assessments, and coordination sessions across multiple stakeholder groups

* Build and maintain strong working relationships with client teams and partners

Technical Documentation & Reporting

* Prepare clear, concise, and professional technical reports, risk assessments, and compliance documentation

* Document audit findings, risk assessments, and construction-related safety considerations

* Support development of client deliverables including presentations and executive briefing materials

* Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Airport Management, Aviation Safety, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience

* Demonstrated experience with 14 CFR Part 139 airport certification requirements

* Experience in airfield operations and/or managing airfield construction in active airport environments

* Ability to apply regulatory requirements within operational, safety, and construction contexts

* Familiarity with Safety Management Systems (SMS) principles and processes

* Strong written and verbal communication skills, including technical writing

* Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently in a dynamic environment

* Willingness to travel for client engagements and on-site support

Ideally you'll also have:

* Completion of American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) or Airports Council International (ACI) Operations or SMS training courses

* Experience supporting ORAT, airport activation, or capital development programs

* Experience facilitating risk assessments and multi-stakeholder coordination sessions

* Familiarity with construction safety phasing (CSPP) and operational risk mitigation in airport environments

* Experience with aviation safety or risk management software/tools

Jacobs is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, medical condition, marital or domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression and transgender status, mental disability or physical disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship, low-income status or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable law. Learn more about your rights under Federal EEO laws and supplemental language.