Aviation Operations Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern world, the role of Aviation Operations Managers has never been more critical.

As the aviation industry continues to advance, so too does the demand for skilled professionals who can efficiently orchestrate, oversee, and safeguard our aviation operations.

But what exactly is expected from an Aviation Operations Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the inner workings of aviation operations,

You’ve landed at the right destination.

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

Let’s take flight and explore it.

Aviation Operations Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Aviation Operations Managers are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of an airport or airline.

They are involved in multiple aspects, including managing personnel, coordinating maintenance and repairs, ensuring safety procedures are strictly adhered to and liaising with various stakeholders.

The daily duties and responsibilities of an Aviation Operations Manager may include:

• Coordinating and supervising daily operations of the airline or airport
• Ensuring all operations are carried out in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations and laws governing business operations
• Overseeing personnel, which may include hiring, training and scheduling staff
• Developing and implementing operational policies and procedures
• Managing relationships with airlines, ground handling agents, and regulatory authorities
• Overseeing maintenance, repairs, and inspections of aircraft or airport facilities
• Ensuring high level of customer service and addressing customer complaints
• Managing operational budgets and reducing operational expenses where possible
• Forecasting trends and making strategic plans for future growth
• Ensuring all safety procedures are strictly adhered to, and promoting a culture of safety awareness

 

Aviation Operations Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly competent Aviation Operations Manager to oversee and manage the day-to-day operations of our aviation department.

The role will involve ensuring compliance with federal regulations, managing staff, overseeing maintenance and repairs, and liaising with other departments to ensure smooth and efficient operations.

The ideal candidate will have a solid background in aviation management, excellent leadership skills, and a strong understanding of aviation laws and regulations.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the aviation department, including flight scheduling, maintenance, and staff management.
• Ensure compliance with all aviation regulations and safety standards.
• Coordinate with other departments to ensure operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
• Manage and supervise aviation staff, providing training and development opportunities as needed.
• Oversee maintenance, repairs, and inspections of aircraft.
• Manage budgets and ensure cost-efficiency in all operations.
• Handle crisis management and emergency response planning.
• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures.
• Stay updated on latest aviation industry trends and developments.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Aviation Operations Manager or similar role.
• Extensive knowledge of aviation laws, regulations, and safety standards.
• Strong leadership and management skills.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to handle crisis situations calmly and effectively.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, or relevant field.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Aviation Operations Manager
• Work Environment: This role primarily operates in an aviation environment, which may include exposure to noise and weather conditions. Some office work and travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Aviation or higher management.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $85,000 minimum to $130,000 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 Aviation Operations Manager Do?

Aviation Operations Managers typically work for airlines, airports, or other aviation service companies where their main role is to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the aviation sector.

They are primarily responsible for coordinating the day-to-day operations of an airport or an airline.

This includes overseeing the scheduling, dispatching, and maintenance of aircraft, as well as coordinating with ground services to ensure a seamless operation.

Aviation Operations Managers are also responsible for maintaining safety and regulatory standards within their operations.

They ensure that all operations comply with FAA regulations and other relevant aviation standards.

They are responsible for conducting regular safety inspections and coordinating maintenance activities to keep aircraft in perfect flying condition.

They often work in collaboration with other departments such as customer service, security, and air traffic control, to ensure high-quality service delivery to passengers.

Aviation Operations Managers are also involved in personnel management, which includes the hiring, training, and supervision of staff.

They are responsible for ensuring their team is adequately trained and proficient in all safety procedures.

Furthermore, these professionals are responsible for budgeting and financial management within their operations.

They monitor operational costs and work towards maintaining profitability without compromising on safety or service quality.

In times of emergency or unforeseen situations like inclement weather, they are responsible for making critical decisions, often needing to reschedule or reroute flights.

Hence, the role of an Aviation Operations Manager is multifaceted, requiring a comprehensive understanding of aviation operations, personnel management, safety regulations, and financial management.

 

Aviation Operations Manager Qualifications and Skills

An Aviation Operations Manager is a pivotal role in the aviation industry, requiring a unique blend of technical skills, industry knowledge, and soft skills.

Here are the qualifications and skills that an Aviation Operations Manager should possess:

• Understanding of aviation operations, including flight planning, ground operations, air traffic control, and aviation safety and security regulations to effectively manage daily operations.
• Strong leadership and management skills to oversee and motivate a team, ensuring efficiency, safety, and high-quality service.
• Problem-solving and decision-making abilities to quickly address operational issues and make informed decisions under pressure.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with team members, pilots, air traffic controllers, and other stakeholders, and to clearly convey operational procedures and safety guidelines.
• Attention to detail to ensure compliance with local, national, and international aviation regulations and to maintain meticulous records of operations.
• Technical skills to understand aircraft systems, flight data, and navigation tools, and to utilize aviation software for flight planning and resource management.
• Strong customer service skills to ensure passenger satisfaction and manage any complaints or issues.
• Ability to multitask and manage several aspects of operations simultaneously, often under time constraints.

 

Aviation Operations Manager Experience Requirements

Candidates for the role of Aviation Operations Manager typically require a minimum of 5 years of experience in aviation management or a related field.

This experience should ideally be gained in roles such as Flight Dispatcher, Air Traffic Controller, or Airport Operations Supervisor.

Additionally, a thorough understanding of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations is crucial, often achieved through hands-on experience in the aviation industry.

Candidates with around 7 to 10 years of experience in the field, especially those who have previously held supervisory or managerial roles, are highly desirable.

This experience should demonstrate their ability to oversee all aspects of aviation operations, including safety management, crew scheduling, and flight planning.

Those with more than 10 years of experience may have an extensive leadership background and are well-suited for higher managerial or executive positions within aviation operations.

Furthermore, candidates with a history of effectively managing budgets, coordinating with various aviation departments, and implementing operational policies and procedures are often preferred.

Prior military aviation experience can also be a valuable asset for an Aviation Operations Manager role, as it provides a unique and rigorous perspective on aviation operations.

 

Aviation Operations Manager Education and Training Requirements

Aviation Operations Managers typically require a bachelor’s degree in fields such as aviation, aviation management, or aeronautical engineering.

They need a solid background in aviation operations, such as understanding the principles of flight, airport security, and air traffic control.

To be an effective manager, knowledge of business administration and management principles like strategic planning, resource allocation, and leadership technique is also essential.

Some positions, particularly in larger airports or airlines, may require Aviation Operations Managers to have a master’s degree in aviation management or a related field.

Professional certifications, such as Certified Member (CM) or Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) from the American Association of Airport Executives can also be beneficial.

Some jobs also require several years of experience in aviation management or a related area.

Ongoing education and training in evolving aviation technologies and regulations are also crucial for this role.

 

Aviation Operations Manager Salary Expectations

An Aviation Operations Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $92,741 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may fluctuate based on factors such as experience, education, geographical location, and the size of the employing airline or aviation company.

 

Aviation Operations Manager Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does an Aviation Operations Manager need?

An Aviation Operations Manager typically requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in aviation management, business administration, or a related field.

They also need several years of experience in the aviation industry, with a focus on operations and management.

It is beneficial if they hold licenses or certifications related to aviation.

 

What are the main duties of an Aviation Operations Manager?

The main duties of an Aviation Operations Manager are to oversee the daily operations of an airport or airline.

This includes managing staff, coordinating flights, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations, maintaining safety standards, and managing budgets.

They are also responsible for planning and implementing strategies to improve operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

 

What skills are important for an Aviation Operations Manager?

An Aviation Operations Manager should have strong leadership and managerial skills to effectively manage a team.

They should also possess excellent communication and negotiation skills to coordinate with various stakeholders.

A good understanding of aviation regulations and safety standards is crucial, as well as problem-solving skills to handle operational issues.

 

What should you look for in an Aviation Operations Manager resume?

An ideal resume for an Aviation Operations Manager should highlight relevant education and extensive experience in the aviation industry.

Look for experience managing large teams and handling operations at an airport or for an airline.

Familiarity with aviation regulations and safety standards is also vital.

Additional skills like budget management, strategic planning, and customer service can be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Aviation Operations Manager?

A good Aviation Operations Manager is a strong leader who can motivate and manage a team.

They should be detail-oriented and organized, capable of overseeing multiple operations simultaneously.

They should also be decisive and able to make informed decisions quickly and under pressure.

Excellent interpersonal skills are important for liaising with various stakeholders, and a commitment to safety and quality service is essential.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a closer look at what being an Aviation Operations Manager truly entails.

And guess what?

It’s not just about managing flights.

It’s about orchestrating the seamless movement of aircraft, one flight at a time.

With our comprehensive Aviation Operations Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-prepared to take flight.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate resource for creating precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every flight operation is a part of a larger journey.

Let’s navigate this sky of opportunities. Together.

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