What are the responsibilities and job description for the Airport Director position at Mercer County, NJ – County Government?
Mercer County Government is seeking an Airport Director to serve as the accountable executive for Trenton–Mercer Airport (TTN). Reporting to County Executive leadership, the Director operates with delegated authority to lead the airport as a complex public enterprise and serves as the Airport Sponsor’s authorized representative to the FAA and other regulatory agencies. This recruitment occurs as TTN advances a multi-year capital redevelopment program and strengthens its operational and financial framework.
Trenton–Mercer Airport is entering a pivotal phase of operational and infrastructure development. The Airport Director provides strategic and operational leadership across all functional areas of the airport, including safety, compliance, finance, capital delivery, commercial performance, and stakeholder engagement. With a new 125,000-square-foot terminal designed, major airfield and landside projects underway, and passenger growth projected to approach 476,000 annual enplanements by 2035, this executive will guide TTN through a defining transformation. The Director balances regulatory discipline, airline competitiveness, capital affordability, and community trust while positioning the airport for long-term resilience.
Key responsibilities:
- Ensure operational safety and full regulatory compliance
- Lead operating and capital budgeting and revenue strategy
- Oversee delivery of major capital projects
- Negotiate airline, tenant, and commercial agreements
- Direct airfield, terminal, and landside operations
- Represent the airport in community and governmental forums
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in aviation, business, public administration, engineering, or related field
- Senior leadership experience at a commercial service airport
- Demonstrated expertise in FAA Part 139 and AIP compliance
- Experience managing multi-year capital development programs
- Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) designation preferred
Salary & Benefits
The salary range for this position is competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications. A comprehensive public-sector benefits package is included. Relocation assistance will be provided.