Director of Public Safety & Security

The Jacksonville Aviation Authority is seeking a Director of Public Safety & Security to lead airport security, law enforcement, and public safety programs across the Authority which owns and operates Jacksonville International Airport (JAX); Cecil Airport & Spaceport (VQQ); Jacksonville Executive at Craig Airport (CRG); and Herlong Recreational Airport (HEG). Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer (COO), the Director provides strategic and operational leadership to ensure a safe, secure, and compliant environment while advancing the Authority’s mission and operational objectives. The position oversees security planning, regulatory compliance, emergency preparedness, and law enforcement coordination and serves as a key liaison with federal, state, and local public safety partners. This role is instrumental in protecting critical airport infrastructure, maintaining regulatory compliance, and fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and operational excellence.

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead airport security and law enforcement operations in alignment with organizational priorities.
• Develop and implement strategic security and public safety plans that support regulatory compliance and operational excellence.
• Oversee the Airport Security Plan and ensure compliance with TSA, FAA, and applicable federal regulations.
• Coordinate security and emergency response activities with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
• Manage departmental resources, budgets, capital needs, and operational priorities to maximize efficiency and effectiveness.
• Advise organizational leadership on security, regulatory, and public safety matters.
• Develop, mentor, and evaluate a high-performing public safety and security team while promoting continuous professional development.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Aviation Management, Public or Business Administration, or a closely related field.
• Certified Member (CM) designation from the American Association of Airport Executives or the ability to obtain the CM designation within (18) months of date of hire preferred.
• Minimum of ten years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience, including at least seven years in a leadership role.
• Current Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) certification in good standing or the ability to transfer current certificate from another state.
• Airport law enforcement experience with significant knowledge of TSA security regulations and airport security programs preferred.
• Demonstrated expertise in FAA and TSA regulatory compliance, airport security planning, and public safety leadership.

Salary & Benefits

Salary is dependent on qualifications and will be based upon the knowledge and experience of the individual selected. The annual salary range for this position is $128,333.91 - $166,834.10 and is accompanied by a competitive benefits package.