Airport Operations Manager

City of Lynchburg • Lynchburg, VA

21h

About The Position

The Lynchburg Regional Airport is seeking a dynamic, results-driven Airport Operations Manager to help lead airport operations, safety, and emergency response. Under the general direction of the Deputy Airport Director, this position ensures compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations and supports safe, efficient airport operations. The manager conducts airfield and facility inspections, manages wildlife hazard activities, responds to incidents and emergencies, coordinates construction activities, maintains airport compliance and emergency documents, and coordinates training for airport personnel. The role also supports Safety Management System initiatives, snow removal, special events, aircraft parking and gate assignments, and oversight of janitorial staff. The position may regularly oversee employees and contractors. The manager must be able to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, and may receive special assignments during emergencies.

Requirements

• Training and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in Airport Management, Aviation Safety, Emergency Management, or a related field.
• Three years of relevant experience and one year in a supervisory role or lead capacity.
• Thorough understanding of commercial service airport operations.
• At least one year of aviation experience; Part 139 airport experience is preferred.
• Completion of FEMA ICS courses ICS-100, ICS-200, ICS-700, and ICS-800.
• Working knowledge of FAA Part 139 regulations, ARFF protocols, and airport safety procedures.
• Strong organizational skills, ability to work independently, and ability to prioritize workload effectively.
• Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to think critically, remain calm under pressure, and make sound decisions in dynamic environments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and airport operations software, such as NOTAM Manager, Part 139 inspection and work-order solutions, weather software, flight-tracking software, or similar platforms.
• Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain airport movement area certification.
• Maintain an acceptable driving record according to City criteria.
• Successfully complete IS100 and IS700 National Incident Management training within 90 days of employment.
• Obtain NIMS/ICS-300 and ICS-400 certifications within one year of hire; higher levels of NIMS training may also be required.
• Obtain a 40-hour ARFF training certification within six months of hire.

Nice To Haves

• Part 139 airport experience.
• Private Pilot’s License with an Instrument Rating.
• ACE-Operations certification.
• Certified Member (C.M.) certification.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate day-to-day airport operations to ensure compliance with FAA and TSA regulations.
• Inspect airfield pavements, navigation aids, safety areas, nearby airspace, landside roadways, public parking, and airport facilities.
• Maintain Part 139 records, compliance documents, manuals, plans, checklists, and operational reports.
• Coordinate communications with airport tenants, stakeholders, and staff about construction projects and special activities.
• Attend construction meetings, issue NOTAMs, provide construction escorts, and administer and monitor construction safety training.
• Issue, monitor, and follow through on safety corrective actions.
• Assist with emergency tabletop exercises, full-scale triennial drills, and after-exercise debriefings in accordance with the Airport Emergency Plan.
• Monitor and analyze operational metrics, incidents, and trends to support data-driven decisions.
• Coordinate with airlines, tenants, air traffic control, maintenance, and public safety to support operational continuity.
• Ensure compliance with the airport’s Safety Management System and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Coordinate and administer department-specific compliance training and maintain accurate training records.
• Prepare and maintain the Airport Certification Manual, Airport Emergency Plan, Airport Security Manual, Airport Snow and Ice Control Plan, and related documents.
• Assist with airport snow removal operations.
• Support Safety Management System requirements, including tasks, safety committees, and working groups.
• Review incident reports, wildlife hazard events, logs, and procedures for continuous improvement and quality assurance.
• Support the Airport’s Wildlife Hazard Management Program.
• Enforce applicable federal, state, and local regulations, airport rules, procedures, and policies, and initiate corrective actions.
• Act as a liaison between airport administration and the FAA, TSA, NTSB, ATCT, and airport tenants; report and disseminate information about construction, emergencies, incidents, and airfield conditions.
• Coordinate special events and projects, including airport tours and VIP arrivals.
• Coordinate aircraft parking and gate assignments for diversions, emergencies, and normal operations.
• Oversee janitorial staff and scheduling.
• Regularly oversee employees and contractors as assigned.
• Perform other duties as required and accept special assignments during unusual situations or declared emergencies.
• Operate specialized firefighting equipment.

Benefits

• Professional development, advanced training, and opportunities for upward mobility.
• Continuing education, certification support, and leadership development programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager