Director of Transportation — Airline Catering
O'Hare International Airport (ORD) | Chicago, IL
Compensation: $135,000–$140,000 base 20% annual incentive | Full-Time
A leading global in-flight catering provider is hiring a Director of Transportation to lead a 600-person transportation department at one of the busiest airline catering operations in the country, based at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). You'll oversee a fleet of 130 trucks and serve as the third-highest-ranking leader at the station, directly impacting on-time aircraft servicing for 550 daily flights.
This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who wants real ownership, not a desk job.
What You'll Do
- Lead 3 Senior Transportation Managers and their teams (~600 employees total) — dispatchers, CDL/non-CDL drivers, airfield personnel, and truck loaders
- Drive safety performance and DOT compliance across a 130 vehicle fleet
- Split your time between strategic planning and hands-on, front-line leadership on the ramp and airfield
- Partner with the fleet manager on vehicle readiness and maintenance
- Develop the management bench and build a leadership pipeline
- Own departmental budget and drive continuous process improvement
What You Bring
- Large-scale, 24/7 transportation leadership — in-flight catering, airline ground handling, airport/airfield operations, or comparable high-volume hub/distribution environments (40 vehicles, 100 drivers)
- Strong track record in safety performance and DOT compliance
- Experience managing multiple departments or functions
- A visible, collaborative leadership style — comfortable on the floor, not just in the office
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience; 5–7 years in a related field
- Union environment experience a plus
Note: This role requires regular weekend coverage (especially in the first 6–12 months) and availability to support the team as operational needs arise. Ideal for someone energized by a high-engagement, 24/7 environment rather than a traditional 9-to-5.
Why Join
- Genuine scope and autonomy in one of the company's largest, most critical stations
- Visible, measurable impact — your team keeps flights on schedule
- Competitive pay: $135K–$140K base 20% annual incentive
- Benefits eligible day one
Salary : $135,000 - $140,000
