Director of Aviation

Silver Maple•New Haven, VT

45d•$110,000 - $130,000

About The Position

At Silver Maple, every day is another opportunity to surpass our clients’ expectations. We are a collective of experienced artisans and talented builders offering a progressive approach to aviation construction—and we are seeking an Aviation Division Director to lead this exciting expansion. Vermont is home to skilled creators, and there are many construction companies to choose from. We believe we are different. Our values, work ethic, attention to detail, and most importantly, the people we employ, reflect the best of Vermont and beyond. Now, we are bringing that same commitment to excellence to the aviation sector, developing cutting-edge airport infrastructure projects where exceptional craftsmanship meets singular solutions. The right candidate will have the unique opportunity to build and shape this division from the ground up, leveraging our reputation for outstanding leadership, innovation, and expertise while exceeding client expectations through high standards and adaptive thinking.

Requirements

Aviation Construction + Project Management Expertise
5+ years of project management experience in the aviation sector with demonstrated equivalency of knowledge and/or education
10+ years of construction management experience, at least some in aviation
Deep knowledge of FAA regulations, airport design standards, and aviation construction codes
Understanding of specialized aviation equipment installation, testing, and security protocols
Leadership and Business Development Excellence
2+ years minimum of proven leadership experience in aviation construction or related industries
Strong existing relationships with aviation clients in North America
Proven business development track record with demonstrated success in major project capture
Experience in strategic account management for aviation clients with project values $10M+-15M+
Technical + Educational Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Project Management, Construction Management, or related field
Expert at interpreting complex aviation construction drawings and specifications
Project Delivery + Financial Management
Experience managing aviation projects from business case through closeout
Risk management expertise and contract dispute resolution experience
Ability to negotiate design and construction phase services, consultant fees, and change orders
Communication + Stakeholder Management
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, clarity and professionalism valued
Team-oriented approach with ability to work well in fast-paced environments with minimal supervision
Experience coordinating with airport tenants, airlines, and governmental agencies
Regulatory + Compliance Knowledge
Understanding of airport security requirements and operational constraints
Experience with claims avoidance and expeditious claims resolution
Knowledge of aviation safety protocols and regulatory compliance requirements
Technology + Systems Proficiency
Established computer competency, including Procore

Nice To Haves

Professional certifications valued (PMI, PMP, aviation-specific certifications)

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership + Division Building: Lead the growth of Silver Maple's aviation division, developing comprehensive strategies that align with company goals while positioning us as a premier aviation construction partner. Build a strong and thriving culture within the aviation practice that promotes innovation, while upholding technical excellence and quality construction. Shape the direction of this division with the autonomy to establish processes and build the team.
Business Development + Market Leadership: Drive business development efforts across the aviation sector by maintaining a strong customer focus. Promote the company’s capabilities by marketing its services to both existing and potential clients. Lead the process of capturing major aviation projects and build strategic partnerships to expand our market presence across North America. Manage the entire business development cycle from initial opportunity identification to contract award to build completion.
Project Management: Direct complex aviation infrastructure projects, including runways, taxiways, terminals, hangars, and control towers. Manage multiple concurrent projects exceeding $10-15M in value while ensuring delivery within budget, schedule, and quality standards. Collaborate with delivery/operations teams to ensure project processes meet desired outcomes and partner with project manager(s) to drive daily results, achieving technical and business objectives.
Project Risk + Issue Management: Ensure that risks, issues, dependencies, and constraints are managed appropriately at project level. Where risks or issues threaten delivery of the project, develop and agree on recovery plans.
Financial Excellence + Performance Management: Oversee project budgets, financial performance, and resource allocation for the aviation division. Lead contract negotiations with design consultants and construction partners and ensure profitable project delivery. Administer budget, schedule, and quality adherence to contract documents and established procedures.
Technical Excellence + Innovation: Act as subject matter expert in aviation construction technology, regulations, and operational requirements. Oversee design consultants to ensure projects stay on schedule and budget, manage design review processes, and ensure coordination of all project activities with airport tenants, airlines, and governmental agencies. Drive innovative solutions for complex aviation challenges while maintaining compliance with all aviation regulations and safety protocols.