Deputy Director of Airport Development

State of North Carolina • Aviation Building Wake, NC

1d • $87,740 - $171,095 • Hybrid

About The Position

The N.C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Division of Aviation, a recognized leader in air mobility innovation, promotes the economic well-being of North Carolina by developing a safe and robust air transportation system. As the state’s aviation authority, the division manages state and federal airport infrastructure development grant projects, in collaboration with local government owners of the state’s 72 public airports, the integration of advanced air mobility and unmanned aircraft systems for business and government use, airport professional development, aviation workforce development and flight services for state agencies. This position, Deputy Director Development, is responsible for supervising, managing, and coordinating all activities of the Aviation Development Section for the Division of Aviation which manages state and federal grant-funded programs and provides technical assistance to develop and maintain infrastructure at the state’s 72 public use airports.

Requirements

• Ability to consult and use applicable FAA Advisory Circulars, as well as applicable federal, state and local policy and procedures
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with consultants, public officials and other employees
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to multi-task and adjust priorities often
• Experience supervising permanent employees, contractors, consultants
• Experience in writing and presenting technical reports and information is helpful
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering from an appropriately accredited institution and a minimum of six years progressive engineering experience including four years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• May require registration as a professional engineer by the North Carolina Board of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors.

Nice To Haves

• Considerable knowledge of engineering and project management principles and practices related to aviation, planning, transportation, construction, and civil infrastructure development, including fiscal management and regulatory compliance.
• Demonstrated ability to review, evaluate, and approve complex infrastructure and airport development projects to ensure compliance with federal and state standards, funding requirements, and organizational policies, while providing sound technical and administrative guidance to project teams.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate, lead and direct implementation of new policies, procedures and protocols, and effectively coordinate with local, state, and federal partners.
• Experience managing budgets, contracts, and consultant services for engineering and infrastructure projects of varying scope and complexity
• Experience in writing standard operating procedures, technical guidance, and creating efficient workflows with dashboards and clear expectations of timeliness.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage statewide airport development programs funded through state and federal grants, ensuring compliance with FAA and state regulations.
• Direct and mentor a team of Airport Project Managers, a Support Team (Programming, Environmental, and Planning), and a Staff Engineer; provide coaching, performance feedback, and professional development opportunities.
• Promote a high standard of customer service, responding to inquiries from the public, sponsors, and media regarding aviation projects and programs in a timely fashion.
• Ensure timely, efficient and effective implementation of aviation policies and procedures across all programs and staff operations.
• Serve as the primary liaison with the FAA Airports Division, coordinating project eligibility, justification, and engineering reviews.
• Develop, implement, and oversee aviation guidelines in coordination with NCDOT, the FAA, and local governments.
• Review and approve airport project proposals, evaluating funding eligibility, compliance, and project justification.
• Prepare and deliver presentations to the Board of Transportation, local officials, and other key stakeholders on aviation matters, safety, and funding programs.
• Produce administrative and technical written guidance and standard operating procedures for complex engineering projects, applying knowledge of federal and state standards.
• Administer personnel functions such as hiring, promotions, performance management, and training for the Aviation Development Section.
• Provide oversight of external contracts, ensuring scopes, fees, and consultant selections meet state procurement standards.
• Assist in strategic and long-range planning efforts for the Aviation Division, establishing benchmarks and monitoring progress toward goals.
• Represent the Division in meetings with local, state, and federal agencies, consulting firms, elected officials, and aviation stakeholders.

Benefits

• Flexible Work Options: Enjoy the ability to telework one day per week, supporting a healthy work-life balance.
• Meaningful Impact: Play a key role in shaping the future of North Carolina’s aviation infrastructure and transportation system.
• Professional Growth: Lead a talented, mission-driven team with opportunities to mentor, innovate, and make statewide contributions.
• Collaborative Environment: Work closely with state and federal partners, local governments, and aviation industry professionals.

What This Job Offers

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