AIRPORT MANAGER

City of Lawrence, KS • Lawrence, KS

65d

About The Position

Ready to soar to new heights and lead the way in shaping the future of aviation in Lawrence, Kansas? We are seeking a dynamic leader to join our Municipal Services & Operations team as the Airport Manager. The Airport Manager serves as both a visionary leader and a hands-on operational executive, guiding the City of Lawrence's Regional Airport into its next era of innovation and growth. This role is responsible for shaping and executing long-term strategies that expand infrastructure, attract new economic opportunities, and strengthen the airport's regional impact. The Airport Manager leads all aspects of airport planning, daily operations, and regulatory compliance, while also managing leases, real estate development, and capital projects. A key ambassador for the airport, the Airport Manager builds trusted relationships with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) partners, the Airport Board, tenants, contractors, and the broader community. This position requires a dynamic leader who thrives on collaboration, delivers results, and inspires excellence, ensuring the airport remains a safe, efficient, and forward-thinking gateway for the region.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in aviation management, business or public administration, or related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years progressively responsible experience in aviation management, public administration, business administration or related field.
• Certification from American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) preferred or the ability to obtain the certification within 24 months.
• FAA certifications such as Pilot Certificates and/or Airplane and Powerplant Certificates are also desirable.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree in public administration or related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manages daily operations and airfield maintenance while supervising operational staff.
• Coordinates emergency preparedness, snow removal, and regulatory compliance.
• Oversees FAA and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) safety programs and ensures all operations meet state and federal standards.
• Drives economic development through partnerships and marketing strategies.
• Pursues funding through federal, state, and private sources, managing the grant lifecycle from research to compliance.
• Leads the airport's long-range infrastructure and capital improvement strategy.
• Oversees project planning, grant compliance, and alignment with the City's CIP and FAA requirements.
• Maintains and updates the Airport Master and Layout Plans to guide sustainable growth.
• Oversees airport leasing, property acquisition, and compliance with all tenant agreements.
• Manages easements and development-related real estate activity, including consultant and contractor coordination.
• Acts as the airport's primary liaison to the Airport Board, FAA, tenants, and the public.
• Prepares reports, manages procurement, and ensures excellent customer service.
• Supports city boards, attends industry meetings, and promotes the airport through outreach and events.
• Develops the annual operating budget in coordination with Municipal Services & Operations Department.
• Ensures alignment with operating objectives and strategic initiatives.
• Coordinates planning, development, and implementation of the Capital Improvement Program.
• Administers and ensures compliance with FAA Programs.

Benefits

• Health/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance: Various coverage levels available; FREE Well Care Clinic through LMH; other wellness benefits/perks.
• Caregiver Leave - 12 weeks paid leave.
• Paid Time Off: 12 Vacation days, 12 Sick days accrued per year; 2 days Personal Leave, 10 Paid Holidays.
• Retirement: Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees