Airport Director

The City of Mesa is seeking a strategic, innovative, and business-minded Airport Director to lead the continued development, operational excellence, and long-term financial sustainability of Falcon Field Airport (FFZ).  This is a unique leadership opportunity for an aviation professional who understands the critical role an airport plays as a major economic development asset, regional business partner, and driver of aerospace, aviation, and defense industry growth.  This classification has been designated as a non-classified, non-merit system, at-will position.

Position Summary
The Airport Director reports directly to an Assistant City Manager and leads the Falcon Field Management Team; negotiating and administering leases for fixed-base operators and industrial tenants; planning for future airport services through development of an airport master plan; developing short- and long-range departmental goals and objectives; developing and implementing all components of the division strategic plan; promoting economic development and business expansion at the airport and immediate environs per the Falcon Field Employment Center Strategy Plan; stimulating support for airport activities; coordinating department activities with other City departments to ensure effective working relationships; and speaking before public groups on the plans, programs, and goals of the Airport Division. 

The Airport Director also oversees air traffic control items and issues, and the preparation and administration of the division budget and twenty-year financial plan; directs a staff of employees engaged in all airport operations; and serves as a liaison between federal and state regulatory agencies.

The ideal candidate is a collaborative, relationship focused leader who builds effective working relationships with staff, tenants, aircraft owners, pilots, fixed-base operators, City colleagues, and the public.  They communicate clearly, represent the airport confidently before public groups and regulatory bodies, and bring sound judgment to planning, leasing, and development decisions.  The Airport Director upholds the City of Mesa’s shared employee values of Knowledge, Respect, and Integrity and develops a capable, engaged team.

Qualifications

A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in airport management, business administration, or a closely related field.  A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible managerial, supervisory, and administrative experience.

Compensation and Benefits

The City of Mesa provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent health insurance options, life insurance, paid time off, paid holidays, participation in the Arizona State Retirement System, and professional development opportunities.  The compensation and benefits package will be competitive and negotiable depending on the experience and qualifications of the chosen candidate.  The starting salary range for this position is $143,062 – $192,545 annually depending on qualifications.

Applications and Inquiries

This position is open until Thursday, November 11, 2026.  To be considered for this exceptional career opportunity, please go to the following website to submit your application:  City of Mesa — Falcon Field Airport — Airport Director.

Please refer to the link below for the full job description and additional information regarding assignments, preferred qualifications, and essential functions.




https://apps.mesaaz.gov/JobDescriptions/Documents/JobDescriptions/cs5516.pdf

Salary : $143,062 - $192,546