Airline Operational Control Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic realm of aviation, the role of an Airline Operational Control Manager is critical.

As airlines continue to expand their horizons, the demand for skilled professionals to manage and safeguard our air travel operations escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Airline Operational Control Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the true essence of this role,
• A hiring manager envisioning the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate operations of airline management,

You’ve landed in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Airline Operational Control Manager job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s fly right into it.

Airline Operational Control Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Airline Operational Control Managers oversee the day-to-day operations of an airline’s control center.

Their role is critical in ensuring the smooth running of the airline’s operations, safety compliance, and overall efficiency.

Their core duties and responsibilities are:

• Manage the daily operations of the airline’s operational control center
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory and safety guidelines set by aviation authorities
• Coordinate with various departments such as flight operations, maintenance, and crew scheduling to ensure smooth operations
• Monitor weather conditions and provide regular updates to flight crews
• Implement and manage the airline’s operational procedures and policies
• Oversee the process of flight planning and scheduling
• Handle emergency situations efficiently and coordinate with appropriate teams for resolution
• Review and analyze operational data to identify areas for improvement
• Conduct crew briefings on operational issues and changes in procedures
• Ensure communication between the airline control center and other stakeholders such as airports and air traffic control

 

Airline Operational Control Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Airline Operational Control Manager to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of our airline’s operational control department, including flight dispatch, crew scheduling, flight planning, and weather monitoring.

As an Airline Operational Control Manager, your role will be to ensure the safe, efficient, and regulatory compliant operation of all our flights.

 

Responsibilities

• Overseeing the day-to-day operations of the airline’s operational control center
• Ensuring compliance with all FAA, DOT, and other applicable regulations
• Coordinating with other departments such as Maintenance, Inflight, and Customer Service
• Managing and training a team of flight dispatchers and operational control staff
• Developing and implementing operational policies and procedures
• Monitoring weather conditions, aircraft performance, and other factors that may impact flight operations
• Participating in emergency response planning and execution
• Collaborating with senior management on strategic planning and decision making

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in an airline operational control environment
• Knowledge of FAA, DOT, and other applicable regulations
• Experience managing and training a team
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work in a high-stress, fast-paced environment
• Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management or related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k) with company match
• Health, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Life and Disability insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off and holiday pay
• Flight benefits

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Airline Operational Control Manager
• Work Environment: Control center environment, often requiring shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays. May require occasional travel.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Operations.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Airline Operational Control Manager Do?

Airline Operational Control Managers, also known as Airline Operations Managers, play a crucial role in the aviation industry.

Their primary responsibility is to ensure the safe, efficient, and timely operations of all airline flights.

They oversee the coordination of flight plans, scheduling, and dispatching.

They are responsible for managing the aircraft routing, considering factors like weather, fuel, airport conditions, and regulatory restrictions.

Airline Operational Control Managers also work closely with various departments such as maintenance, customer service, and ground handling to ensure a smooth operational flow from the start of the flight process to the end.

In addition, they coordinate with the flight crew, communicating vital information regarding flight plans, weather conditions, and any potential changes that may occur.

One of their key duties is to ensure compliance with federal and international regulations in all aspects of flight operations.

They oversee safety audits and implement safety standards to ensure the welfare of both passengers and crew members.

Furthermore, they are involved in strategic decision-making, such as crisis management, problem-solving, and contingency planning, to respond effectively to any unpredictable circumstances that may affect flight operations.

In a nutshell, the Airline Operational Control Manager’s role is pivotal in ensuring that all airline operations run smoothly, safely, and efficiently, meeting both customer expectations and industry regulations.

 

Airline Operational Control Manager Qualifications and Skills

An effective Airline Operational Control Manager should possess a range of technical skills, leadership qualities and industry knowledge, such as:

• Strong understanding of aviation operations, regulations, and safety standards.
• Excellent organizational skills to manage and prioritize various operational aspects simultaneously.
• Leadership qualities to guide and motivate the control center team effectively.
• Superior decision-making abilities to respond swiftly and accurately in high-pressure situations.
• Strong communication skills to liaise effectively with pilots, air traffic control, and other relevant departments.
• Problem-solving skills to identify operational issues and implement effective solutions.
• Good technical skills to use and understand various aircraft systems and software.
• Knowledge of crisis management and ability to develop and implement contingency plans.
• Ability to analyze operational data and use it to improve efficiency and safety.
• Experience in managing budgets and resources effectively.

 

Airline Operational Control Manager Experience Requirements

Airline Operational Control Managers typically require a significant amount of experience in the aviation industry, often in roles such as Flight Dispatcher, Air Traffic Controller, or other operational roles within an airline company.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience in aviation operations, often acquired through an internship, traineeship or part-time role within an airline company.

These professionals can also gain experience in roles such as Airline Operations Officer, Flight Coordinator, or other aviation-related roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop their technical skills and knowledge in advanced roles such as Flight Dispatcher, Air Traffic Controller, or Operational Supervisor.

They may have considerable experience in ensuring the safety and efficiency of flights, coordinating with various departments, and making critical decisions under pressure.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership experience in their background and are usually well equipped to manage the complex operational tasks of an Airline Operational Control Manager.

This could include managing a team of flight dispatchers, liaising with maintenance teams, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations, and developing operational procedures to improve efficiency and safety.

In addition to practical experience, a degree in aviation management, business, or a related field can be beneficial.

Extensive knowledge of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, as well as strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills, are also crucial for this role.

 

Airline Operational Control Manager Education and Training Requirements

Airline Operational Control Managers generally need to have a bachelor’s degree in aviation, aerospace, transportation or a related field.

They are also often required to have extensive experience in airline operations, including serving in positions such as a flight dispatcher, crew scheduler or similar operational control roles.

Having a strong understanding of Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) is essential, as is knowledge of aviation safety and airline operational control procedures.

Some roles may require Airline Operational Control Managers to have a FAA Dispatch license, while others may require a certification in airline operations or aviation management.

Airline Operational Control Managers also need to have strong leadership, decision-making and communication skills, as they are often responsible for overseeing teams and making important operational decisions.

Continuing education and training are also important, particularly in relation to changes in aviation regulations and technology.

Therefore, many Airline Operational Control Managers may also pursue additional training, certifications or advanced degrees in areas such as aviation management, safety or regulations.

 

Airline Operational Control Manager Salary Expectations

The average salary for an Airline Operational Control Manager is $89,447 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can differ based on factors such as experience, qualifications, the scale of operations managed, and the airline company.

 

Airline Operational Control Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Airline Operational Control Manager need?

An Airline Operational Control Manager needs to have strong leadership and decision-making skills to oversee the operational activities of an airline.

They should possess excellent communication and interpersonal abilities to liaise effectively with different departments.

Understanding of aviation laws and regulations, safety procedures, and the ability to handle crisis situations are also crucial.

They should also be competent in using airline operation software and have good analytical skills to assess operational data.

 

Do Airline Operational Control Managers need a degree?

Most airlines prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in aviation management, operations, business, or a related field.

However, extensive experience in airline operations can sometimes compensate for lack of formal education.

It’s also beneficial for an Airline Operational Control Manager to have an FAA Aircraft Dispatcher certificate, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the operational aspects of an airline.

 

What should you look for in an Airline Operational Control Manager resume?

When reviewing a resume for an Airline Operational Control Manager, key things to look for include experience in airline operations, management skills, and knowledge of aviation laws and regulations.

Certifications such as the FAA Aircraft Dispatcher certificate can be a plus.

Proven experience in managing teams and a solid understanding of safety procedures are also important.

 

What qualities make a good Airline Operational Control Manager?

A good Airline Operational Control Manager is a strong leader with the ability to make quick, critical decisions.

They must be detail-oriented to ensure compliance with aviation regulations and safety standards.

They need to be excellent communicators, able to liaise effectively between different departments and stakeholders.

Resilience and the ability to remain calm under pressure are also valuable qualities, as they may need to handle emergency situations.

 

What are the daily duties of an Airline Operational Control Manager?

An Airline Operational Control Manager typically oversees the daily operations of an airline, ensuring that flights are safe and run on schedule.

They coordinate with different departments, like ground crew, maintenance, and flight dispatch, to ensure smooth operations.

They may also be involved in planning flight routes, monitoring weather conditions, and making necessary adjustments to flight plans.

Ensuring compliance with safety regulations and managing emergency situations are also part of their duties.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being an Airline Operational Control Manager.

Guess what?

It’s not just about coordinating flights.

It’s about orchestrating the smooth flow of air travel, one flight at a time.

With our detailed Airline Operational Control Manager job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to creating detailed job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every flight coordinated is a step towards seamless air travel.

Let’s navigate the skies. Together.

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