Airfield Operations Specialist

ABOUT US: The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority

The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA), established in 1978 as a nonprofit organization, owns and operates McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) and Downtown Island Airport (DKX). With more than 88-years of service to the East Tennessee region, MKAA plays a vital role in supporting the area's air transportation system. Centrally located within a day's drive or short flight of major U.S. cities, our airports are positioned for continued growth and innovation. If you're interested in contributing to the future success of TYS and DKX, we encourage you to explore this opportunity further.

The Position:

This Airfield Operations Specialist position is responsible for ensuring continuous airfield safety and security in compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) and all applicable statutes, regulations, and requirements at McGhee Tyson (TYS) and Downtown Island (DKX) Airports. The role oversees a broad range of general and technical daily operational duties aligned with the Airport Certification Manual (ACM), including conducting airfield safety inspections, preparing reports and documentation, and supporting corrective action efforts. The position also provides training, testing, and oversight for airport employees, tenants, and users operating within movement and non‑movement areas of the airfield. *This is a fully onsite position.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct airfield safety inspections of the Airport Operations Area at TYS and DKX, documenting conditions and supporting corrective actions and repairs
• Train, test, and oversee Airport Authority employees and tenants operating in movement and non‑movement areas; develop, update, and deliver training materials, presentations, and briefings related to airfield operations and changing conditions
• Review, enforce, and execute Airport Certification Manual (ACM) requirements, including recordkeeping, training, self‑inspections, Wildlife Hazard Management Plan, Airport Emergency Plan, and snow and ice control programs
• Serve as Operations Duty Officer (ODO), acting as the primary point of contact and subject matter expert for coordinating and communicating airfield operations issues at TYS and DKX
• Maintain operational continuity and airfield safety during construction activities by reviewing Construction Safety and Phasing Plans (CSPP) and monitoring construction personnel and activities on the Air Operations Area
• Administer FAA Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) for TYS and DKX
• Create and maintain operational documentation, illustrations, spreadsheets, databases, and other resources to support airport departments
• Coordinate with airport users and tenants to schedule terminal gate usage, ramp access, and remote parking
• Utilize and manage computer‑based systems to communicate and coordinate with airfield users, tenants, federal agencies, and MKAA departments
• Participate in on‑call rotations, remote duties, and call‑in response requirements as needed
• Support and backfill terminal operations assignments when required
• Perform other related duties as assigned

The Ideal Candidate:

The idea candidate will demonstrate strong knowledge of FAR Part 139 and Part 77 regulations, safety procedures and protocols, wildlife hazard management, FAA Advisory Circulars, construction activities, training materials, and strategic planning. Proficiency in Microsoft Office is very important. This role also requires well‑developed skills in clear oral and written communication, customer service, sound decision‑making, flexibility, and problem solving. The ability to effectively manage conflict, negotiate solutions, and work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders is essential.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

A bachelor’s degree in aviation management, business, or a related field with zero to one year of experience, or an associate’s degree in business administration or airport operations with one to three years of experience in airport operations. A valid Tennessee driver’s license is required. American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) Airport Certified Employee (ACE) Airfield Operations certification is preferred, or the ability to obtain the certification within two years of hire.

Salary and Compensation:

The hiring range for this position is $52,297 to $67,987 (final offer based on experience). MKAA offers a very competitive benefits package for this position, including medical/dental/vision benefits, disability/life insurance, vacation leave, sick leave, and a 401(a)-retirement program.

Deadline to Apply:
For best consideration, apply by Sunday, March 29, 2026. Position open until filled.

Please apply through this website (preferred), or mail resume to P.O. Box 15600 | Knoxville, TN 37901 | Attention: HR. Resumes/Applications must be received by the stated deadline, or postmarked by the deadline date, to be considered. No phone calls please.

Selection Process:

Applications (and additional documents, if applicable) will be reviewed to identify applicants whose qualifications most closely meet the needs of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority. Employment process includes a security background check and physical (if applicable), which includes drug testing.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a long-term basis.

The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority conducts random employee drug screening.

The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.