Airport Operations Manager Jobs
Airport Operations Manager jobs are open across commercial aviation, cargo carriers, regional airports, and ground handling services, at every level from operations coordinator to director, with specializations in airside safety, terminal management, and emergency response. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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Showing 5 of 121+ Airport Operations Manager jobs
POSITION OVERVIEW
Applications Accepted From: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED
Division/Section: HOU Operations - Airside
Workdays & Hours*: Shift work, will include a Rotating Schedule including weekends and holidays *Subject to change*
PURPOSE OF DIVISION
Airside Operations is responsible for the functionality and safety of the Air Operations Area (AOA) by maintaining compliance with FAA regulations to ensure the airport retains its operating certificate. Airside Operations monitors stakeholders for compliance with federal regulations as well as HAS operating instructions. Through joint coordination and communication with all airport groups and stakeholders, the team effectively responds to, and coordinates incident and emergencies by implementing appropriate procedures, collaboration with first responders, and analyzing and taking appropriate action to assure continuity of service, operations, and airport services during all incidents and emergencies.
PURPOSE OF THE POSITION
The Airport Operations Supervisor - Airside serves as a leader in Airside Operations who maintains a safe and secure airport environment by supervising airside functions to include airport operations and tenant area inspections, managing operational and emergency activities, and facilitate emergency exercises, testing, and Title 14 Code Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 139 (14 CFR Part 139) program training. Maintain efficiencies and safety and help employees to become experts in their job functions. The Airside Operations Supervisor – Airside at HOU maintains a safe and secure airport environment by conducting inspections of Airside operations and coordinating operational and security activities. The Airside Operations team ensures that the airfield meets all FAR 139 requirements to provide a safe and efficient airfield operating environment for aircraft, vehicles and personnel. This position coordinates airfield maintenance and construction activities and participates in various phases of emergency management and irregular operations, while interacting with airlines, federal agencies, and airport management.
"Candidates must be able to obtain all security required badge access including Custom Border Patrol access within 6 months from the hire date.”
The responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:- Provides continuous oversight and direction to the Airside team by identifying daily objectives, scheduling, assigning work, training and evaluation of performance to ensure compliance with 150 series Advisory Circulars (ACs) and 14 CFR Part 139.
- Identifies and anticipates operational and safety concerns by inspecting airport facilities and operating areas and monitoring radio communications.
- Conducts audits of operational activity and airport facilities on and near the AOA (Airport Operation Area) to evaluate team performance in maintaining compliance as it pertains to policy, procedures and regulatory requirements.
- Manages the response to aircraft emergencies, Hazardous Material incidents and medical emergencies in accordance with the Airport Emergency Plan through coordination with other internal divisions and external agencies to ensure compliance with federal, state and local regulations using the National Incident Management System framework.
- Reviews and manages airfield self-inspection records per 14 CFR Part 139.327 and 339. • Initiates and disseminates NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) per AC 150/5200-28 and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) JO (Job Order) 7930.2 to meet federal requirements.
- Oversees wildlife hazard management activities through coordination with the staff United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) wildlife biologist to reduce and mitigate wildlife hazards on and near the airport. Maintains and updates the airports Wildlife Hazard Management Plan per 14 CFR Part 139.337 in coordination with the Airside Operations Division Manager.
- Review, provide feedback and approve airside construction plans, in coordination with management, assuring compliance with FAA regulations, policies and procedures.
- Manages the fuel inspection program and maintains fuel inspection records to ensure compliance with 14 CFR Part 139.321 and 327.
- Manage and maintain the Airport Certification Manual to include updating and ensuring compliance of the regulatory documents per 14 CFR Part 139 subpart C.
- Manage and maintain the Airport Emergency Plan to include updating and ensuring compliance of the regulatory documents per AC 150/5200-31.
- Develops and facilitates periodic tabletop and full-scale emergency exercises and tests the response of resources to ensures compliance with the airport certification manual and airport emergency plan and 14 CFR Part 139.325.
- Manages the airside training program per 14 CFR Part 139.303. Ensures the training covers all FAA required subjects. Identifies individual and organizational needs. Determines appropriate learning methodologies, facilitates, assigns and conducts CBT (Classroom Based Training), OJT (On the Job Training) and practical application training for Houston Airport System, airline, tenant and contract personnel.
- Initiates, manages and oversees various projects to ensure compliance with various federal and local rules, laws and codes.
- Prepares and presents reports and studies for management.
- Approves issuance of NOV’s (Notice of Violation) for airside violations per Operating Instruction (O.I.) 0503 and represents airside operations during contested hearings.
- Keeps abreast of existing and new legislation and ensures compliance to federal, state and local requirements.
The position requires lifting and moving of moderately heavy items, such as barricades, traffic cones, and equipment (up to 40 pounds) and/or very long periods of walking on rough surfaces on a routine basis. There are routine discomforts from exposure to heat, cold, moisture/wetness and unpleasant air conditions. The position may involve routine exposure to soiled materials and chemical substances such as aviation fuel and fluids and cleaning solutions. Requires the ability to make coordinated eye/hand movements within fairly fine tolerance and/or calibration demands; or the ability to make closely coordinated eye/hand movements on a patterned response space within moderate tolerance demands.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
KNOWLEDGE:
Requires an Associate’s degree in Aviation Management, Aeronautics, Airway Science, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field.
A Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Aeronautics, Airway Science, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field may be substituted for up to two years of the experience requirements.
EXPERIENCE:
Six years of progressively responsible experience in airport operations, four of which must be in an airside operations role.
A pilot’s license, Control Tower Operator certificate, industry specific certifications (CM, AAE, IAP, ACE) and/or directly related military experience may also be considered. Prior supervisory experience, either direct or indirect, is required.
LICENSE/CLEARANCE:
Requires a valid Class C Texas driver’s license and compliance with the City of Houston’s policy on driving (AP 2-2).
PREFERENCES
Preference will be given to applicants with considerable knowledge of airport airside operations or other operational areas of aviation. Ability to communicate diplomatically and effectively, often in tense situations, with all levels of internal and external customers. Experience with MS Office suite is a plus. Knowledge of 150 Series ACs, 14 CFR Part 139 and NFPA regulations are highly desired.
**Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6. **
GENERAL INFORMATION
YES - If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Thank you for your interest in a career with the City of Houston. We are committed to providing an accessible, transparent, and positive application experience for every candidate.
To be considered for this position, applications must be submitted online during the active posting period. We are unable to accept paper, emailed, mailed, or faxed applications. To apply, please visit the City of Houston Careers website at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/houston/
Stay Connected Throughout the Process
After submitting your application, you may view your application status at any time by logging into your online profilehttp://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm. If you have questions regarding your application status, please contact Human Resources at 281-233-1858.
Accessibility and Accommodations
The City of Houston is committed to ensuring equal access to employment opportunities. If you require reasonable accommodation or special assistance during the application or hiring process, please contact 281-233-1858 (TTY 7-1-1).
Technical Assistance
If you experience difficulties accessing your account, logging in, or completing your online application, technical support is available by calling 855-524-5627.
What to Expect Next
We carefully review each application received. Due to the high volume of applicants, only candidates selected to move forward in the recruitment process will be contacted directly by the hiring department.
Before You Begin Your Application
To help make your application process as smooth as possible, please gather your educational information and supporting documentation before you begin.
Depending on your qualifications, you may be asked to provide:
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent credential from an accredited institution
- College, university, or technical school information
- Degrees earned, areas of study, and graduation dates
- Official transcripts or other educational documentation from accredited institutions
- Professional licenses, certifications, or other credentials relevant to the position
Having these materials ready in advance will help ensure your application is complete and can be reviewed without unnecessary delays. To learn more, we encourage you visit our How to Verify Education resource.
Please note: Applications requiring educational verification may be considered incomplete if the requested documentation is not submitted.
Pre-Employment Requirements
As part of the hiring process, all new hires and rehires must successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening. Final employment offers may also be contingent upon a physical examination and verification of information provided in the application and supporting documentation.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Houston is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and values the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents of our workforce. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees are treated with dignity and respect.
Employment decisions are made without regard to any legally protected status or characteristic, including race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, pregnancy, or any other status protected by applicable law.
We encourage all qualified individuals to apply and look forward to learning more about you and the experience you can bring to our team.
Thank you for your interest in joining the City of Houston. We appreciate the time and effort you invest in the application process and look forward to reviewing your qualifications.
Houston, Texas, 77002
POSITION OVERVIEW
Applications Accepted From: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED
Division/Section: HOU Operations - Airside
Workdays & Hours*: Shift work, will include a Rotating Schedule including weekends and holidays *Subject to change*
PURPOSE OF DIVISION
Airside Operations is responsible for the functionality and safety of the Air Operations Area (AOA) by maintaining compliance with FAA regulations to ensure the airport retains its operating certificate. Airside Operations monitors stakeholders for compliance with federal regulations as well as HAS operating instructions. Through joint coordination and communication with all airport groups and stakeholders, the team effectively responds to, and coordinates incident and emergencies by implementing appropriate procedures, collaboration with first responders, and analyzing and taking appropriate action to assure continuity of service, operations, and airport services during all incidents and emergencies.
PURPOSE OF THE POSITION
The Airport Operations Supervisor - Airside serves as a leader in Airside Operations who maintains a safe and secure airport environment by supervising airside functions to include airport operations and tenant area inspections, managing operational and emergency activities, and facilitate emergency exercises, testing, and Title 14 Code Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 139 (14 CFR Part 139) program training. Maintain efficiencies and safety and help employees to become experts in their job functions. The Airside Operations Supervisor – Airside at HOU maintains a safe and secure airport environment by conducting inspections of Airside operations and coordinating operational and security activities. The Airside Operations team ensures that the airfield meets all FAR 139 requirements to provide a safe and efficient airfield operating environment for aircraft, vehicles and personnel. This position coordinates airfield maintenance and construction activities and participates in various phases of emergency management and irregular operations, while interacting with airlines, federal agencies, and airport management.
"Candidates must be able to obtain all security required badge access including Custom Border Patrol access within 6 months from the hire date.”
The responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:- Provides continuous oversight and direction to the Airside team by identifying daily objectives, scheduling, assigning work, training and evaluation of performance to ensure compliance with 150 series Advisory Circulars (ACs) and 14 CFR Part 139.
- Identifies and anticipates operational and safety concerns by inspecting airport facilities and operating areas and monitoring radio communications.
- Conducts audits of operational activity and airport facilities on and near the AOA (Airport Operation Area) to evaluate team performance in maintaining compliance as it pertains to policy, procedures and regulatory requirements.
- Manages the response to aircraft emergencies, Hazardous Material incidents and medical emergencies in accordance with the Airport Emergency Plan through coordination with other internal divisions and external agencies to ensure compliance with federal, state and local regulations using the National Incident Management System framework.
- Reviews and manages airfield self-inspection records per 14 CFR Part 139.327 and 339. • Initiates and disseminates NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) per AC 150/5200-28 and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) JO (Job Order) 7930.2 to meet federal requirements.
- Oversees wildlife hazard management activities through coordination with the staff United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) wildlife biologist to reduce and mitigate wildlife hazards on and near the airport. Maintains and updates the airports Wildlife Hazard Management Plan per 14 CFR Part 139.337 in coordination with the Airside Operations Division Manager.
- Review, provide feedback and approve airside construction plans, in coordination with management, assuring compliance with FAA regulations, policies and procedures.
- Manages the fuel inspection program and maintains fuel inspection records to ensure compliance with 14 CFR Part 139.321 and 327.
- Manage and maintain the Airport Certification Manual to include updating and ensuring compliance of the regulatory documents per 14 CFR Part 139 subpart C.
- Manage and maintain the Airport Emergency Plan to include updating and ensuring compliance of the regulatory documents per AC 150/5200-31.
- Develops and facilitates periodic tabletop and full-scale emergency exercises and tests the response of resources to ensures compliance with the airport certification manual and airport emergency plan and 14 CFR Part 139.325.
- Manages the airside training program per 14 CFR Part 139.303. Ensures the training covers all FAA required subjects. Identifies individual and organizational needs. Determines appropriate learning methodologies, facilitates, assigns and conducts CBT (Classroom Based Training), OJT (On the Job Training) and practical application training for Houston Airport System, airline, tenant and contract personnel.
- Initiates, manages and oversees various projects to ensure compliance with various federal and local rules, laws and codes.
- Prepares and presents reports and studies for management.
- Approves issuance of NOV’s (Notice of Violation) for airside violations per Operating Instruction (O.I.) 0503 and represents airside operations during contested hearings.
- Keeps abreast of existing and new legislation and ensures compliance to federal, state and local requirements.
The position requires lifting and moving of moderately heavy items, such as barricades, traffic cones, and equipment (up to 40 pounds) and/or very long periods of walking on rough surfaces on a routine basis. There are routine discomforts from exposure to heat, cold, moisture/wetness and unpleasant air conditions. The position may involve routine exposure to soiled materials and chemical substances such as aviation fuel and fluids and cleaning solutions. Requires the ability to make coordinated eye/hand movements within fairly fine tolerance and/or calibration demands; or the ability to make closely coordinated eye/hand movements on a patterned response space within moderate tolerance demands.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
KNOWLEDGE:
Requires an Associate’s degree in Aviation Management, Aeronautics, Airway Science, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field.
A Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Aeronautics, Airway Science, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field may be substituted for up to two years of the experience requirements.
EXPERIENCE:
Six years of progressively responsible experience in airport operations, four of which must be in an airside operations role.
A pilot’s license, Control Tower Operator certificate, industry specific certifications (CM, AAE, IAP, ACE) and/or directly related military experience may also be considered. Prior supervisory experience, either direct or indirect, is required.
LICENSE/CLEARANCE:
Requires a valid Class C Texas driver’s license and compliance with the City of Houston’s policy on driving (AP 2-2).
PREFERENCES
Preference will be given to applicants with considerable knowledge of airport airside operations or other operational areas of aviation. Ability to communicate diplomatically and effectively, often in tense situations, with all levels of internal and external customers. Experience with MS Office suite is a plus. Knowledge of 150 Series ACs, 14 CFR Part 139 and NFPA regulations are highly desired.
**Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6. **
GENERAL INFORMATION
YES - If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Thank you for your interest in a career with the City of Houston. We are committed to providing an accessible, transparent, and positive application experience for every candidate.
To be considered for this position, applications must be submitted online during the active posting period. We are unable to accept paper, emailed, mailed, or faxed applications. To apply, please visit the City of Houston Careers website at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/houston/
Stay Connected Throughout the Process
After submitting your application, you may view your application status at any time by logging into your online profilehttp://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm. If you have questions regarding your application status, please contact Human Resources at 281-233-1858.
Accessibility and Accommodations
The City of Houston is committed to ensuring equal access to employment opportunities. If you require reasonable accommodation or special assistance during the application or hiring process, please contact 281-233-1858 (TTY 7-1-1).
Technical Assistance
If you experience difficulties accessing your account, logging in, or completing your online application, technical support is available by calling 855-524-5627.
What to Expect Next
We carefully review each application received. Due to the high volume of applicants, only candidates selected to move forward in the recruitment process will be contacted directly by the hiring department.
Before You Begin Your Application
To help make your application process as smooth as possible, please gather your educational information and supporting documentation before you begin.
Depending on your qualifications, you may be asked to provide:
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent credential from an accredited institution
- College, university, or technical school information
- Degrees earned, areas of study, and graduation dates
- Official transcripts or other educational documentation from accredited institutions
- Professional licenses, certifications, or other credentials relevant to the position
Having these materials ready in advance will help ensure your application is complete and can be reviewed without unnecessary delays. To learn more, we encourage you visit our How to Verify Education resource.
Please note: Applications requiring educational verification may be considered incomplete if the requested documentation is not submitted.
Pre-Employment Requirements
As part of the hiring process, all new hires and rehires must successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening. Final employment offers may also be contingent upon a physical examination and verification of information provided in the application and supporting documentation.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Houston is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and values the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents of our workforce. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees are treated with dignity and respect.
Employment decisions are made without regard to any legally protected status or characteristic, including race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, pregnancy, or any other status protected by applicable law.
We encourage all qualified individuals to apply and look forward to learning more about you and the experience you can bring to our team.
Thank you for your interest in joining the City of Houston. We appreciate the time and effort you invest in the application process and look forward to reviewing your qualifications.
Houston, Texas, 77002
Airport Operations Manager Jobs by Experience Level
See All 121+ Airport Operations Manager Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find JobsAirport Operations Manager Job Market
Who's Hiring
- PrimeFlight Aviation11
- Unifi8
- United Airlines5
- Breeze Airways4
- American Airlines4
Top Industries Hiring
- Transportation & Logistics
- Government & Public Sector
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in airport operations manager jobs.
- Bachelor's degree in aviation management, business, or a related field
- Experience with FAR Part 139 compliance and airport self-inspection programs
- AAAE Accredited Airport Executive (ACE) certification preferred or required
- Proficiency with airport operations software and incident reporting systems
- Demonstrated leadership managing cross-functional teams in 24-hour operational environments
- Strong knowledge of airfield safety standards, NOTAM procedures, and emergency response protocols
Tips for Your Airport Operations Manager Job Search
Tailor your resume to airside credentials
Hiring managers scan for specific certifications like AAAE's ACE or FAA safety training before reading anything else. List those credentials above your work history so they appear without scrolling, and spell out each acronym in full at least once.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists airport operations manager openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Quantify your ground delay and incident response outcomes
Airport operations roles are performance-driven. Replace vague bullet points with specific outcomes: on-time departure rates you influenced, emergency drills you led, or TSA audit findings you resolved. Numbers tied to safety and efficiency get attention from operations directors.
Filter openings by hub size before applying
Job titles vary significantly between small regional airports and major commercial hubs. A role at a Class C airport requires different depth in airfield lighting and NOTAM coordination than one at a large commercial facility, so match your application language to the airport's actual complexity.
Prepare scenario answers around FAR Part 139 situations
Interviewers at certificated airports test your knowledge of FAR Part 139 compliance directly. Prepare two or three concrete examples of how you have handled wildlife hazard programs, pavement condition reporting, or self-inspection documentation under those regulations.
Negotiate schedule flexibility, not just base pay
Airport operations managers typically work rotating shifts covering 24-hour operations. During offer negotiations, ask about shift differential rates, rotation schedules, and standby requirements, since these affect your actual quality of life far more than a modest salary difference.
Airport Operations Manager Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most airport operations managers?
The companies hiring the most airport operations managers right now include PrimeFlight Aviation, Unifi, and United Airlines, with the largest share of openings in Florida, Texas, and California, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Ground handling contractors and regional airport authorities tend to post the most consistent volume throughout the year.
How many airport operations manager jobs are remote?
About 0% of airport operations manager openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting the hands-on nature of most airfield and terminal oversight roles. The sub-areas most likely to offer remote or hybrid arrangements include aviation consulting, regulatory compliance analysis, and corporate aviation planning positions that do not require a daily physical presence at an airport.
How do you become an airport operations manager?
Start by earning a degree in aviation management, airport administration, or a closely related field, then build hands-on experience in entry-level airport operations or ground handling roles. Pursue AAAE certification as your experience grows, since it signals credibility to hiring committees. Most managers reach the role after several years progressing through operations coordinator or supervisor positions at a certificated airport.
Can you get hired as an airport operations manager with little experience?
Breaking in with limited experience means targeting smaller regional or general aviation airports, where candidate pools are narrower and employers are more willing to develop talent on the job. Completing an FAA safety training course, volunteering for airport authority committees, or interning through an aviation degree program all demonstrate practical commitment that can offset a shorter work history in this field.
What does the airport operations manager interview process look like?
Most airport operations manager interviews run across two or three rounds, starting with an HR screening call focused on certifications and schedule availability. A subsequent panel interview with operations leadership typically includes scenario-based questions drawn directly from FAR Part 139 compliance situations, emergency response decisions, and interdepartmental coordination challenges. Some employers add a facility walkthrough or a written situational judgment exercise before extending an offer.
Where can I find and apply to airport operations manager jobs?
You can find and apply to airport operations manager jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from airports, ground handling companies, and aviation authorities across the United States. Search the listings to find roles that match your certifications and experience level, then apply directly to each one that fits.
See All 121+ Airport Operations Manager Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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