Demo

Airport Operations Manager

Humboldt County
McKinleyville, CA, CA Full Time
POSTED ON 12/29/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 2/26/2026

DEFINITION


AIRPORT OPERATIONS MANAGER

Department of Aviation, California Redwood Coast Humboldt County Airport

The County of Humboldt Department of Aviation has an exciting opportunity for you to join our team As a Department of Aviation employee, you will work in an environment with other motivated individuals who are passionate about their work.

What You'll Do:

  • Oversees daily airport operations and facilities maintenance, including airside and landside infrastructure, safety, security, and regulatory compliance (FAA/TSA).
  • Manages and supervises airport operations and maintenance staff, including hiring, training, performance evaluation, and discipline.
  • Administers airport leases, contracts, and property use, including developing agreements, monitoring compliance, recommending rental rates, and coordinating tenant improvements.
  • Supports departmental leadership and planning, assisting the Director of Aviation with policy development, operational improvements, interagency coordination, and long-range airport planning.

Where You'll Do It:

This position will be located in McKinleyville, California at the California Redwood Coast Humboldt County Airport (ACV). The County also manages five other airports throughout the County and employees will regularly use a county vehicle to travel to these airports to perform similar work.

This work schedule for this position is Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm with a 1-hour lunch.

DEFINITION

Under general direction, plans, organizes, manages and oversees the daily operations, facilities maintenance, and security functions of the Aviation Department; provides direction and supervision to airport maintenance and operations staff; manages and administers policies and procedures for lease of airport facilities; serves as a professional and technical resources to the Director of Aviation; and performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general direction from the Director of Aviation. Exercises direct supervision over supervisory and technical staff through subordinate levels of supervision.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

This is a management classification responsible for planning, organizing, reviewing, and evaluating the operations and maintenance of the County's commercial and general aviation airports. Incumbents are responsible for performing diverse, specialized and complex work involving significant accountability and decision-making responsibilities, which include assisting the Director with developing and implementing policies and procedures for assigned programs, budget administration and reporting, and program evaluation. Incumbents serve as a professional-level resource for organizational, managerial, and operational analyses and studies. Performance of the work requires the use of considerable independence, initiative, and discretion within broad guidelines.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES


Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignment of different positions.

  • Manages, oversees, and coordinates the day-to-day activities, functions and staff of department programs and activities including the maintenance and operation of airport facilities and infrastructure, administration of contracts for lease of airport facilities, and customer and public relations.
  • Participates in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for the department; recommends within department policy, appropriate service and staffing levels; recommends and administers policies and procedures.
  • Participates in the development, administration, and oversight of department budget.
  • Develops and standardizes procedures and methods to improve and continuously monitor the efficiency and effectiveness of assigned programs, service delivery methods, and procedures; assesses and monitors workload, administrative and support systems, and internal reporting relationships; identifies opportunities and makes recommendations for improvement.
  • Participates in the selection of, trains, motivates, and evaluates assigned personnel; works with employees to correct deficiencies; recommends and implements discipline and termination procedures.
  • Inspects and monitors airport facilities and grounds to prevent hazardous conditions and ensure compliance with Federal Aviation Administration and Transportation Security Administration rules and regulations.
  • Develops and administers airport leases, licenses and agreements; prepares recommendations for Director's review; develops and processes contracts, and monitors compliance with airport lease terms.
  • Recommends rental rates and user fees for airport properties, facilities, and other activities.
  • Evaluates requests for property improvements; reviews possible restrictions on future use and integration with Airport Master Plan; and prepares recommendations for director's review.
  • Prepares and solicits Requests for Proposals and processes bid specifications on properties and vendors; evaluates proposals; and prepares recommendations for director review.
  • Schedules, coordinates and evaluates proposed remodeling and repairs on tenant property; inspects buildings; determines maintenance priorities; and projects long term needs.
  • Coordinates airport operations and maintenance with other County departments and outside public and private agencies.
  • Performs related duties as assigned.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

QUALIFICATIONS


The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge and ability required.

Knowledge of:

  • Organization and management practices as applied to the development, analysis, and evaluation of programs, policies, and operational needs of the assigned area of responsibility.
  • Principles and practices of employee supervision, including work planning, assignment review and evaluation, discipline, and the training of staff in work procedures.
  • Principles and practices of leadership.
  • Administrative principles, practices, and methods including goal setting, program development, implementation and evaluation, policy and procedure development, quality control, and work standards.
  • Methods of administrative problem solving and the implementation of effective solutions.
  • Applicable federal, state and local laws, rules, regulations, and ordinances relevant to the assigned areas of responsibility including airport management, operations, safety and security.
  • Public agency budget development and Countywide administrative practices related to the functions assigned.
  • Principles and practices of contract preparation, negotiation and administration including the development of procedures to assure compliance and conformity within the terms of the contract.Principles and practices of airport operations management, community relations, aviation industry standards, policies, and rules.
  • Principles of project management and planning.
  • Business development, property management, facilities maintenance, and noise abatement requirements and procedures.
  • Principles and techniques of marketing, public relations, and community relations relative to airport services and operations.
  • Principles and techniques for working with groups and fostering effective team interaction to ensure teamwork is conducted smoothly.
  • Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and County staff.
  • The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
  • Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

Ability to:

  • Select and supervise staff, provide training and development opportunities, ensure work is performed effectively, and evaluate performance in an objective and positive manner.
  • Develop and implement goals, objectives, practices, policies, procedures, and work standards.
  • Provide administrative, management, and professional leadership for the County's Department of Aviation staff.
  • Analyze and evaluate complex financial, budgeting and administrative problems, and develop, recommend, and implement effective solutions.
  • Direct the formulation, implementation and interpretation of administrative, budget, personnel, real property, fleet, and facilities policies and procedures.
  • Develop short-term and long-range plans to anticipate service needs for the County.
  • Direct implementation of information technology solutions that will improve business practices.
  • Develop and recommend effective courses of action to satisfy customer needs.
  • Prepare budgets, monitor expenditures and revenues, and identify and effectively utilize all available resources.
  • Ensure conformance with applicable laws and regulations governing the business of the Department; make difficult decisions and award contracts impartially and objectively.
  • Coordinate departmental services with County departments and public/private agencies.
  • Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
  • Effectively represent the department and the County in meetings with governmental agencies; community groups; various business, professional, and regulatory organizations; and in meetings with individuals.
  • Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
  • Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, and procedural, guidelines.
  • Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
  • Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
  • Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in aviation, public administration, management, facilities/construction management, or a closely related field.

and

Three (3) years of responsible experience in airport operations at a Part 139 Airport, which included responsibility for compliance with Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) Part 139. Responsibility for contracts, budget administration, and employee supervision preferred, but not required.

Licenses and Certifications:

  • Must possess a valid US driver's license upon date of application. Must obtain California driver's license following hire date per California DMV regulations.
  • Possession of a certification through the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) as an Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) or Certified Member (C.M.), is desirable, but not required.

WORKING CONDITIONS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION


PHYSICAL DEMANDS

When assigned to an office environment:

  • Mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; to operate a motor vehicle and visit various County sites; primarily a sedentary office classification although standing in work areas and walking between work areas may be required; occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information; ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 10 pounds.
  • Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen.
  • Hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone.
  • Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment.

When assigned to work in the field:

  • Mobility to work in changing site conditions; ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects averaging a weight of 50 pounds, or heavier weights, in all cases with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff.
  • Strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light to medium physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; to reach, twist, turn, kneel, and bend, to climb and descend ladders; and to operate a motor vehicle and visit various County sites.
  • Vision to inspect site conditions and work in progress.
  • Fieldwork requiring frequent walking in operational areas to identify problems or hazards, with exposure to hazardous materials in some site locations.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

  • Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances.
  • Employees also work in the field and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road hazards, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes.
  • Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Must be willing to attend meetings outside of regular working hours.
  • Some departments may require pre-employment screening measures before an offer of employment can be made (i.e. background screening, physical examination, etc.).

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

HOW TO APPLY

A complete, original application must be filed for each position you are interested in applying for.Applicants must apply online through the County's automated application system at

Applications must be submitted no later than the final filing date and time listed on the job flyer.

It is important that your application shows all the relevant education and experience you possess. Human Resources staff does not consider or review resumes or attachments. Incomplete applications will be rejected.

Please read the job requirements section of the announcement. Be sure you meet these requirements since they will be carefully evaluated during the selection process.

Your performance in any employment examinations will be compared with the performance of others who take the tests. The examination results will be emailed to you as quickly as possible.

SELECTION PROCEDURE

The County utilizes a set of rules to ensure that our hiring processes are fair and equitable. Applications will be screened and those considered qualified will be invited to appear for an oral and/or written examination. Meeting the requirements does not guarantee inclusion into the selection process. Depending upon the number of applications received, the selection process may consist of additional application screening, written and/or practical exam(s), oral interview, or any combination thereof.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to fill out the application?

  • You should allow 30 – 45 minutes to fill out your application.

Can I change my application after submitting it?

  • No. Once an application has been submitted, it is final. Applicants may submit a new application with updated information during the filing period if they wish. Only the most recent application submitted will be considered. All other applications will not be considered.

How long until I hear back from you and how can I check for updates on my application?

  • You may receive communications regarding your application at different stages of the selection process. Important updates will be sent to the email address listed in your account at the time of notification. To ensure you don't miss any critical information, we recommend keeping your email address current and regularly checking both your inbox and junk mail folders throughout the process. You can also log into your account at any time to check your application status. If you have any questions about your application's progress, please contact the County of Humboldt Human Resources Personnel Division at or

Will I be informed if I am not selected for an interview / Oral Exam?

  • Yes, you will be informed via email if you are not selected for an interview / Oral Exam.

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

Research indicates that individuals in protected classes can be less likely to submit a job application. The County of Humboldt is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace where our employees are free to bring their full selves to work each day in an environment that allows them to reach their full potential. The County Board of Supervisors has made organizational commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the County is working to ensure that these commitments are reflected in all we do. The County recognizes that certain populations (BIPOC, Disabled Persons, Veterans, LGBTQIA community members, etc.) face systemic and structural challenges which may inhibit their ability to satisfy every requirement of the position. In recognition of these structural and systemic factors, the Human Resources Department understands that experience can be gained in many ways – oftentimes, outside of formal institutions – and strives to take a holistic approach in assessing an applicant's qualifications for a position.

If you're excited about this role but your past work experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we strongly encourage you to apply.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access and opportunities in its programs, activities, and employment, and does not discriminate on the basis of mental or physical disabilities. The Human Resources Department is located in the Humboldt County Courthouse, which has an accessible entrance on 4th Street. Accessible parking is available adjacent to the 4th Street entrance and on the 4th Street side of the K Street lot. Special testing arrangements may be made to accommodate disabilities or religious convictions. If invited to an examination and you are in need of a reasonable accommodation, please contact Human Resources immediately at so arrangements can be made.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The county is an equal opportunity employer. We enthusiastically accept our responsibility to make employment decisions without regard to race, religion or religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, military service, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local laws or ordinances.

MEDICAL EXAMINATION

A pre-employment medical examination provided by the County may be required upon offer of employment.

OTHER EXAMINATIONS

Some positions also require psychological evaluation and/or extensive background investigation.

LICENSES

Some classifications require possession of valid professional and/or technical licenses. Some classifications may require the possession of a valid California driver's license.

PROBATIONARY PERIOD

Persons appointed to regular County positions serve a probationary period. This is normally six (6) months but could be up to one (1) year. All designated safety employees serve a one-year probationary period.

EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY

It is the County's intention to hire only those workers who are authorized to work in the United States, pursuant to the Immigration Act of 1990. If you are offered employment, you will be required to verify your eligibility to work in the United States. For law enforcement positions you will be required to verify your U.S. citizenship or legalized status.

DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS

All County of Humboldt employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.

THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE NECESSARY MODIFICATIONS TO THE EXAMINATION PLAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE HUMBOLDT COUNTY MERIT SYSTEM RULES.

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