Airport Operations Supervisor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic world of aviation, the role of the Airport Operations Supervisor is critical and constantly in the spotlight.

As the industry evolves, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can effectively manage, oversee, and secure our airport operations.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from an Airport Operations Supervisor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager creating the profile of the ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of airport operations,

You’ve landed at the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Airport Operations Supervisor job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started right away.

Airport Operations Supervisor Duties and Responsibilities

Airport Operations Supervisors oversee the daily operations of an airport and ensure the safety and efficiency of flights.

They are responsible for coordinating airport staff, managing emergencies and ensuring compliance with aviation regulations.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Overseeing the daily operations of an airport, including the coordination of flights, passenger services, and terminal activities
• Implementing and enforcing airport and aviation regulations and procedures
• Managing and coordinating staff across various departments
• Developing and implementing operational procedures to increase efficiency and safety
• Responding to and managing emergencies at the airport
• Coordinating with various airport agencies for smooth operations
• Handling passenger complaints and queries
• Ensuring all airport facilities and equipment are well maintained and functional
• Providing training and guidance to staff
• Monitoring and evaluating the performance of airport staff
• Preparing and managing the operational budget of the airport

 

Airport Operations Supervisor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Airport Operations Supervisor to oversee our airport operations team and ensure all activities run smoothly and efficiently.

The responsibilities include managing staff, organizing schedules, and ensuring that safety regulations and standards are met.

The ideal candidate should be a natural problem solver, possess a deep understanding of aviation regulations, and have a proven track record in a leadership role within the aviation industry.

 

Responsibilities

• Supervise day-to-day airport operations to ensure smooth running
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal aviation laws and regulations
• Manage and coordinate with team members to ensure optimal performance
• Develop and implement operational procedures and schedules
• Coordinate with various departments including security, maintenance, and customer service
• Handle any emergency or crisis situations efficiently
• Address and resolve customer complaints or issues
• Prepare reports on operations and personnel performance
• Ensure all safety measures, guidelines, and policies are in place and followed
• Train staff to meet the required standards of the role

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a similar role within the aviation industry
• Strong understanding of aviation regulations and safety standards
• Excellent leadership and team management skills
• Strong problem-solving abilities
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to handle stressful situations and emergencies
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Willingness to work in shifts and during weekends or holidays
• BSc degree in Aviation Management or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Airport Operations Supervisor
• Work Environment: Fast-paced airport setting with potential for high-stress situations. Requires shift work and may include weekends and holidays.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Airport Operations Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $85,000 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 Airport Operations Supervisor Do?

Airport Operations Supervisors play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of an airport.

They work for airline companies or directly for the airport itself.

They are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the airport, which includes the management of ground handling services such as baggage handling, aircraft loading, and the supervision of runway activities.

Their job involves ensuring that all airport operations comply with the regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other relevant aviation authorities.

They also ensure the safety and security standards of the airport are met.

They coordinate with various airport departments such as security, customer service, and maintenance to ensure seamless operations.

Airport Operations Supervisors also handle emergency situations and work on creating contingency plans.

They may also be responsible for staff scheduling, training, and performance evaluation.

In some cases, they are involved in the planning and implementing of procedures to improve operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

They must also be prepared to handle any complaints or issues raised by passengers promptly and professionally.

 

Airport Operations Supervisor Qualifications and Skills

An Airport Operations Supervisor should have the skills and qualifications that line up with the demands of the job, such as:

• Strong leadership and management skills to oversee and coordinate the daily operations of various airport departments effectively.
• Excellent communication skills for providing clear and concise instructions to team members, and for interacting with passengers, airlines, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving skills to quickly identify and address operational challenges, safety issues, and customer service concerns.
• Time management skills to ensure smooth and timely operations, including flight schedules, passenger processing, and baggage handling.
• Ability to maintain composure and make critical decisions under pressure and in emergency situations.
• Detail-oriented and organized to manage multiple tasks and ensure compliance with airport regulations and standards.
• Strong knowledge of aviation rules and regulations and airport safety procedures.
• Technical skills for the use of computerized systems for scheduling, logistics, and other operational tasks.

 

Airport Operations Supervisor Experience Requirements

An Airport Operations Supervisor typically requires at least 3 to 5 years of experience in airport operations or a related field, such as aviation management or logistics.

This prior experience is crucial in gaining a solid understanding of airport procedures, safety regulations, and management tactics.

Entry-level roles that can lead to this position may include Airport Operations Agent, Ground Support Agent, or Air Traffic Control Specialist, which provide hands-on experience in managing daily airport operations and interacting with various airport departments.

Candidates with more than 5 years of relevant experience often have a comprehensive understanding of airport regulatory requirements and possess strong leadership skills.

They may have served in roles such as Airport Operations Manager or Airfield Services Coordinator, where they have honed their skills in staff management, strategic planning, and crisis management.

For the most senior positions, extensive experience in airport operations management, as well as a proven track record of improving efficiency and safety, is often required.

This could include experience managing large teams, budgeting, and liaising with airport authorities and airlines.

In addition, certifications like the Certified Member (C.M.) or Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) from the American Association of Airport Executives can serve to highlight a candidate’s expertise and commitment to the field.

 

Airport Operations Supervisor Education and Training Requirements

Airport Operations Supervisors typically need a bachelor’s degree in aviation, airport management, business administration or a related field.

They must have a strong understanding of aviation operations, airport security protocols, and facility management.

They also need to understand the principles of customer service as the role involves managing passenger concerns and complaints.

In addition to a bachelor’s degree, several years of relevant work experience in an airport environment is often required.

This experience can include roles such as airline customer service, airport security, or airport operations.

Some positions may require Airport Operations Supervisors to have a master’s degree in airport or aviation management.

Certification from the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) or other relevant bodies can also be beneficial.

These certifications demonstrate a candidate’s expertise and commitment to the field.

Advanced training in airport security, emergency response, and regulatory compliance may also be required, depending on the specific responsibilities of the role.

Knowledge of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules and regulations, as well as an understanding of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requirements, are essential for this role.

 

Airport Operations Supervisor Salary Expectations

An Airport Operations Supervisor earns an average salary of $54,167 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary can significantly vary based on factors such as the size and location of the airport, the individual’s level of experience, and the responsibilities of the specific role.

 

Airport Operations Supervisor Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Airport Operations Supervisor need?

An Airport Operations Supervisor should have excellent leadership skills to manage and coordinate a team effectively.

They should also have good decision-making abilities, problem-solving skills, and be able to manage stress and work under pressure, as the airport environment can often be fast-paced and unpredictable.

Communication and interpersonal skills are also important for liaising with staff, regulatory bodies, and passengers.

 

What qualifications does an Airport Operations Supervisor need?

Most Airport Operations Supervisor roles require a bachelor’s degree in aviation management, business administration, or a related field.

Experience in airport operations or a similar industry, as well as supervisory experience, are often required.

Some positions may also require specific certifications or licenses relevant to airport operations.

 

What should you look for in an Airport Operations Supervisor resume?

Look for a strong background in airport operations and management.

Supervisory experience is crucial, and any knowledge or experience in safety protocols, emergency response, and regulatory compliance would be beneficial.

Also look for important skills such as decision-making, problem-solving, and leadership.

Certifications or licenses relevant to airport operations are a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Airport Operations Supervisor?

A good Airport Operations Supervisor must be a strong leader with the ability to make quick decisions in a high-pressure environment.

They should be able to communicate effectively with a diverse team and have excellent problem-solving skills.

They must also be detail-oriented, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and operational standards.

Being calm under pressure and having a proactive attitude towards potential issues can also be beneficial.

 

What are the daily duties of an Airport Operations Supervisor?

On a typical day, an Airport Operations Supervisor might oversee the daily operations of the airport, manage and coordinate airport staff, ensure compliance with safety and security standards, and handle any emergencies or incidents that arise.

They may also liaise with airline representatives, regulatory bodies, and law enforcement agencies as required.

Additionally, they might be responsible for developing operational procedures and staff training programs.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve provided an inside look into what it truly means to be an Airport Operations Supervisor.

And guess what?

It’s not just about managing flights.

It’s about ensuring a smooth, safe and efficient airport operation, one flight at a time.

With our indispensable Airport Operations Supervisor job description template and real-world examples, you’re all equipped to take the leap.

But why halt your journey here?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your next level tool for crafting meticulous job listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every successful flight is a part of the bigger picture.

Let’s ensure a seamless travel experience. Together.

How to Become an Airport Operations Supervisor (Complete Guide)

Think Your Job is Tough? Wait Until You See These Stress-Filled Roles!

The Human Realm: Jobs Where AI’s Algorithms Fall Short

Rich Rewards: The Jobs That Promise More Than Just a Paycheck!

The Offbeat Office: Exploring the World’s Most Unusual Jobs