Deputy Director of Airport Operations & Facilities

Pinellas County Government•Clearwater, FL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This executive leadership position oversees the day-to-day operation, safety, maintenance, and long-term development of the airport while leading multiple divisions and teams that support airport operations and customer service excellence. St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) is one of Florida's fastest-growing airports, serving millions of passengers each year and playing a vital role in the region's economy. We are seeking an experienced aviation leader to serve as our Deputy Director of Airport Operations & Facilities, helping guide the airport through continued growth, modernization, and major infrastructure investments.

Requirements

Professional experience at a Commercial Service Airport in Operations or Facilities, including a minimum of four (4) years of progressively responsible supervisory or management experience.
Aviation Management, Aeronautical Science, Aviation Administration, or a closely related field is required.
Must meet one of the following: Nine (9) years of experience as described above; OR A Bachelor's degree as described above and at least five (5) years of experience as described above; OR A Master’s degree as described above and three (3) years of experience as described above; OR An equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience.
Experience in airport operations leadership at a commercial service airport operating under FAA Part 139.
Experience with Airport Emergency Planning (AEP) and emergency response coordination.
Completion of National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS) training, including ICS 100, 200, 300, IS 700, and IS 800.
Knowledge of airport capital improvement programs and project delivery methods, including Design-Build, Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR), and Design-Bid-Build.
Experience overseeing large-scale infrastructure, operational improvement, or modernization projects.
Experience presenting to governing boards, elected officials, community organizations, industry groups, or executive leadership teams.
Ability to communicate complex operational, technical, and financial information clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.
Experience developing and delivering professional presentations using PowerPoint, Keynote, or similar presentation software.
Demonstrated success building, developing, and leading high-performing teams.
Ability to lead effectively in both collaborative and chain-of-command environments.
Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Proficiency with business and operational software applications.

Nice To Haves

AAAE Certified Member (CM) designation.
Possession of, or active progress toward, the AAAE Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) designation.
Completion of AAAE Airport Certified Employee (ACE) training in areas such as Operations, Security, or Airfield Lighting Maintenance.
Private Pilot License (current or expired).

Responsibilities

Provides executive leadership and direction over all Airport Operations, Facilities, Information Technology, Airport Services, ARFF and related divisions, ensuring full compliance with FAA Part 139, TSA, environmental standards, and all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
Oversee safe, efficient, and reliable airport operations across airside, landside, terminal, and facilities environments, including operational readiness, inspections, and compliance programs.
Serves as a key decision maker in planning, prioritizing, and implementing Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects, coordinating with consultants, contractors, regulatory agencies, and internal departments.
Directs facilities maintenance programs for buildings, airfield infrastructure, utilities, systems, and equipment to ensure high reliability, quality, and regulatory compliance.
Provides leadership, guidance, and performance management for supervisory and management staff, including establishing goals, developing Personal Development Plans, conducting evaluations, and administering corrective action when necessary.
Develops, implements, and maintains operational policies, procedures, and standards to promote regulatory compliance, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.
Oversees emergency management planning, incident response coordination, and continuity-of-operations strategies for critical events and operational disruptions.
Develops and administers divisional operating budgets; monitors expenditures, contract performance, and resource allocation to ensure fiscal accountability and alignment with airport priorities.
Directs the development, negotiation, and management of contracts and service agreements, establishing performance expectations and evaluating vendor compliance.
Coordinates operations and facilities activities with airlines, tenants, government agencies, service partners, and County departments to support operational needs and resolve complex issues.
Leads environmental compliance programs, including wildlife hazard management, pavement and lighting programs, sustainability initiatives, and adherence to environmental regulations.
Participates in strategic planning efforts related to long-term airport development, infrastructure investment, operational improvements, and organizational priorities.
Provides oversight of construction activity and its operational impacts, ensuring safety, continuity of service, and coordination between project teams and airport divisions.
Monitors the operating budgets of the departments that report to the successful candidate and assists in the formulation of those operating budgets.
Works closely with the Airport Director and Deputy Director for Finance and Administration to ensure that common goals are being met and that operational needs are being handled in a compliant fiscal manner.
Represents the Airport in meetings, presentations, and communications with regulatory agencies, community groups, airlines, the Board of County Commissioners, and the media on matters related to operations, safety, facilities, and capital programs.
Prepares reports, recommendations, and presentations for County leadership; responds to public inquiries; seeks external funding opportunities.
Performs other related job duties as assigned.