Aviation Security Operations Administrator - Denver International Airport

City and County of Denver•Denver, CO

18h•$86,634 - $125,000•Onsite

About The Position

This position is within the Airport Security section of the Airport Operations Division at Denver International Airport (DEN). The Aviation Security Operations Administrator reports to the Compliance & Enforcement (C&E) team and is responsible for overseeing contract security guard operations, enforcing compliance with federal regulations (CFR 1542), DEN Airport Security Program, and Security Directives/National Amendments. The role involves managing vendor performance, enhancing DEN's security posture, and fostering strong partnerships with airport stakeholders and the TSA. The ideal candidate will possess knowledge of TSA regulations, strong contract management, leadership, and operational skills to ensure contracted security services meet regulatory and contractual obligations. This role requires anticipating risks, using data for accountability, and leading with professionalism and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Management, Aviation, or a related field.
Three (3) years of professional experience conducting moderately complex analysis in an Airport, Airline, or Military setting on a variety of issues as needed including but not limited to Airport Operations, Emergency Management, Regulatory Security, Contract Administration or a related industry.
One (1) year of the appropriate type and level of experience may be substituted for each required year of post high school education.
A combination of appropriate education and experience may be substituted for the minimum education and experience requirements.
Valid Driver's License at the time of application.
FBI criminal background check is required.
Ability to report any felony convictions and/or moving violations to maintain clearance.
Valid work authorization that does not require sponsorship of a visa for employment authorization in the U.S.

Nice To Haves

Airport Certified Employee (ACE) Security certified and/or a AAAE Certified Member
Experience managing service or security contracts, including vendor performance, contract compliance, service level agreements (SLAs), procurement and budget oversight.
Experience developing and analyzing performance metrics, dashboards, and reports to support operational and strategic decision-making.
Experience interpreting and administering regulations, contract requirements, and procurement policies.
Experience managing operational and capital budgets, including forecasting, invoice review, and fiscal reporting.
Experience leading continuous process improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, compliance, and customer service.
Attention to detail, bringing high level precision and organization while ensuring accuracy and consistency across all responsibilities.
Strong attention to detail with excellent attendance, excellent time management and decision-making skills.
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively, build relationships, and resolve conflict professionally.

Responsibilities

Oversees day-to-day operational delivery of contract security guard services by coordinating with contractor management, monitoring staffing and deployment, resolving operational issues, evaluating service quality, and ensuring compliance with TSA regulations.
Performs complex administrative and operational management functions by providing technical expertise, strategic leadership, and long- and short-term planning to support the goals, objectives, and priorities of the security guard contracts.
Develops, implements, and administers contract performance standards, service level agreements (SLAs), and key performance indicators (KPIs), and evaluates contractor performance against established goals, contractual requirements, and operational objectives.
Develops and implements strategies to ensure security guard contract compliance with applicable regulations and requirements, monitors and assesses compliance, and recommends improvements.
Administers the financial operations of the security guard contracts, including developing the annual operating budget, monitoring financial activities, auditing contract invoicing, preparing required budget reports, and producing fiscal reports for departmental management review.
Directs contract procurement and administration activities, including developing Requests for Proposals (RFPs), evaluating proposals, recommending contract awards, administering contracts and incentive programs, and monitoring contractor compliance, expenditures, and deliverables.
Coordinates security guard coverage for electrical shutdowns, construction projects, and other operational activities by conducting site walks, and ensuring appropriate staffing.
Ensures compliance with Aviation Worker Screening requirements by coordinating screening schedules, implementing updates to TSA requirements, and communicating operational changes to stakeholders.
Promotes a high-performing and engaged team culture through regular interaction with direct reports, supervisors, and staff, reinforcing accountability, open communication, operational alignment, shared ownership, and continuous feedback.
Performs supervisory or lead work, as assigned, including planning, assigning, instructing, and reviewing work; addressing grievances and disciplinary matters; supporting hiring and separation processes; and evaluating employee performance.
Responds to local and federal security-related data and records requests, including Colorado Open Records Act (CORA) requests, while ensuring the protection of Sensitive Security Information (SSI) and Personally Identifiable Information (PII).
Ensures compliance with CFR 1542, security directives, National Amendments, the Airport Security Program, DEN Rules and Regulations, airport policies, Operating Instructions (OIs), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and personnel requirements by interpreting and applying regulatory and operational guidance.
Serves as an alternate Airport Security Coordinator (ASC) and liaison with TSA and other federal and local law enforcement agencies to support regulatory coordination and incident response.

Benefits

Four (4) Medical Plans, Dental, Vision Insurance
Pension Plan for Life (Employee contributes 8.45%, Employer matches at 17.95%) and 457 (b) Retirement Plan
PTO (over 3 weeks in your first year)
12 paid holidays
Yearly Merit Increase
STD, LTD, HSA, FSA, Life Insurance
CARE Bank, Family Leave Benefits
Employee Assistance Program, Employee Volunteer Program
Tuition Reimbursement (up to $2000/year)
Student Loan Forgiveness Program
Learning and Development Opportunities; Courses and Career Development Resources
EcoPass (unlimited free RTD bus/train rides)