Appleton Airport Station Manager (Part-time)

About Great Planes Aviation

Great Planes Aviation (GPA) is a growing aviation services company headquartered in Rochester, Minnesota. We provide a full suite of services including flight training (Part 141), aircraft maintenance (Part 145), and airline ground handling at multiple airports. Our mission is to deliver safe, reliable, and professional aviation services while investing in our employees and communities.

This position offers Sun Country Airlines flight benefits along with opportunities for career growth within GPA’s expanding aviation network.

Position Overview

The Station Manager will oversee day-to-day operations in a dynamic airport and customer service environment. This role requires a hands-on leader who can balance operational oversight, safety compliance, staff supervision, and positive customer experiences. The Station Manager serves as the primary point of contact for airline partners, airport authorities, and Great Planes Aviation leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Pre-Ops Preparation

• Set daily team assignments with leads and ensure coverage.
  
  

• Monitor for and communicate any late or early arrivals or departures.
  
  

• Monitor Flight Information Display Systems (FIDS) for accuracy and make adjustments.
  
  

• Ensure all work areas are supplied and ready (counters, cleaning cart, radios, PPE, etc.).
  
  

• Complete and distribute required pre-flight paperwork.
  
  

During Operations

• Oversee operations and ensure timelines are being met while safety is prioritized.
  
  

• Actively support the operation with a flexible, hands-on presence (“floating” to where needed).
  
  

• Serve as the first point of contact for irregular operations, baggage issues, and GSC/security concerns.
  
  

• Communicate effectively with company leadership and airline Regional Managers.
  
  

• Coordinate with airline partners and GSC to resolve operational or security issues.
  
  

Post-Ops

• Complete and file post-flight paperwork and reports.
  
  

• Ensure damaged or lost baggage cases are resolved promptly.
  
  

• Report and resolve Ground Support Equipment (GSE) issues in coordination with the mechanic and below-wing leads.
  
  

Ongoing Responsibilities

• Create and adjust staff schedules to ensure minimum coverage levels.
  
  

• Supervise and mentor a team of 15–20 employees, fostering a culture of professionalism, safety, and service.

• Review and approve staff timecards on a bi-weekly basis to ensure accuracy and compliance with company policies.
  
  

• Maintain airline-required training records and ensure all staff remain current.
  
  

• Actively monitor and participate in station communications via Slack channels.
  
  

• Conduct daily safety briefings and ensure compliance with FAA, TSA, airline, and OSHA requirements.
  
  

• Track and report key performance metrics (on-time performance, baggage delivery times, customer feedback).
  
  

• Coordinate response during irregular operations (cancellations, delays, diversions) and emergency events.
  
  

• Support continuous improvement by identifying and implementing process enhancements.
  
  

Qualifications

• Prior experience in aviation ground handling, airline operations, or airport management (station management experience preferred).
  
  

• Proven ability to lead and motivate teams in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.
  
  

• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
  
  

• Proficiency in airline systems (DCS, FIDS, baggage tracing software) and Microsoft Office/Google Workspace tools.
  
  

• Ability to problem-solve and make sound decisions under pressure.
  
  

• Must be able to obtain and maintain airport security clearance (SIDA badge).
  
  

• Availability for irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
  
  

Work Environment

This position requires frequent presence on the terminal floor and ramp areas. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and work in varying weather conditions.