Airport Manager

Department: Airport

Reports to: TAA

Classification: Exempt – Grade 10

Effective Date: March 2026

EXAMPLES OF RESPONSIBILITY

• Oversee daily airport operations, fueling, safety, and maintenance programs
• Manage staff, contractors, and the Fix Base Operator
• Administer FAA and TDOT grants, budgets, and capital projects
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state regulations
• Maintain airport licensing, inspection readiness, and environmental programs
• Support business development, hangar expansion, and community outreach

EXAMPLES OF RESPONSIBILITY

• Oversee daily airport operations, fueling, safety, and maintenance programs
• Manage staff, contractors, and the Fix Base Operator
• Administer FAA and TDOT grants, budgets, and capital projects
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state regulations
• Maintain airport licensing, inspection readiness, and environmental programs
• Support business development, hangar expansion, and community outreach

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Operations, Safety & Security

• • Ensure safe, efficient and secure operation of all airfield, ramp, terminal, and landslide areas.
  • Maintain compliance with FAA and TDOT Aeronautics requirements and all applicable Grant Assurances.
  • Conduct daily inspections, monitor lighting/signage; issue Notice to Air Mission’s as needed.
  • Enforce airport safety, fueling, and security procedures consistent with FAA and Titan Aviation Fuels standards.
  • Coordinate with police, fire/rescue, and emergency management agencies.
  • Oversee environmental programs (SPCC, SWPPP, storm-water management, OSHA) and promote a strong safety culture.

2. FBO, Fuel Operations & Business Oversight

• • Direct the Fixed Base Operator to ensure safe, reliable, and customer focused service.
  • Manage fuel purchasing, inventory, and retail sales in coordination with fuel vendors.
  • Maintain fuel-quality records, staff training, and insurance compliance.
  • Recommend fuel pricing and flowage fees to the TAA.
  • Monitor FBO lease performance and ensure compliance with all contractual obligations.

3. Emergency preparedness & Risk Management

• • Maintain the Airport Emergency Plan and conduct periodic drills.
  • Act as on-scene authority during emergencies until relieved.
  • Identify operational risks and ensure appropriate insurance coverage.

4. Personnel & Administration

• • Supervise staff; set priorities, provide training, conduct evaluations, maintain team performance and morale.
  • Oversee contractors performing maintenance or project work.
  • Manage hiring recommendations, performance evaluations, and disciplinary actions as needed.
  • Prepare correspondence, policy documents, and official reports for the TAA.
  • Maintain professional relationships with federal, state and local offices.

5. Finance, Grants & Capital Improvements

• • Identify, apply for, and administer FAA AIP and TDOT Aeronautics grants.
  • Manage all projects in accordance with FAA Grant Assurances and state requirements.
  • Develop and maintain a multi-year Capital Improvement Plan aligned with the Airport Master Plan.
  • Prepare and manage annual operating and capital budgets; monitor revenues from leases, flowage fees, and rental income.
  • Ensure timely submission of grant applications, documentation, and reimbursement expenses.

6. Maintenance & Capital Improvements

• • Oversee maintenance and repair of runways, taxiways, lighting and facilities.
  • Implement preventative-maintenance schedules for airport infrastructure and equipment.
  • Manage construction and capital projects for quality, safety, and schedule compliance.
  • Maintain inspection and maintenance records and warranty documentation.

7. Compliance & Records Management

• • Execute TAA policies and ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.
  • Serve as the designated compliance officer for FAA and TDOT requirements.
  • Enforce airport rules, regulations, minimum standards, and leases consistently.
  • Prepare, advertise, and evaluate bids and make award recommendations to the TAA.
  • Maintain organized digital records for all contracts, agreements, leases, and documents.
  • Coordinate with legal counsel on resolutions, ordinances, contracts, and other requiring legal review or interpretation.

8. State Regulatory Oversight & Licensing

• • Maintain a valid Public Airport License with TDOT Aeronautics Division.
  • Serve as liaison to TDOT for funding, licensing, and compliance inspections.
  • Submit the annual ACIP and coordinate project priorities with state officials.
  • Keep the Airport Layout Plan current and compliant with FAA and TDOT standards.

9. Strategic Development & Public Engagement

• • Represent the Airport with FAA, TDOT, The City of Tullahoma, and regional organizations.
  • Promote airport growth, tenant relations, and economic development.
  • Pursue aviation business and hangar development opportunities.
  • Participate in community and industry organizations to enhance public relations.

10. Leases & Tenant Management

• • Administer hangar, ground, and land-use leases and agreements.
  • Track lease terms, insurance, rental rates, and maintenance obligations.
  • Negotiate renewals per TAA policy and ensure use conforms to the ALP and Grant Assurances.

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) in Aviation Management, Business or related field
• Five years of progressive experience in airport operations and management
• Strong knowledge of FAA regulations, Grant Assurances, and airport finance
• Excellent leadership, communications, and organizational skills
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications
• Ability to perform physical inspections when necessary
• Valid TN driver’s license
• Ability to be covered under a general liability insurance policy

ADA REQUIREMENTS

Physical Requirements - Ability to stand, walk, and sit for extended periods of time, including traversing uneven surfaces, airfield pavements, and construction areas. Frequent use of hands and fingers to operate computers, radios, telephones, and other standard office and field equipment. Ability to reach, stoop, kneel, bend, climb, and lift or move objects weighing up to 30 pounds occasionally. Capability to drive and operate vehicles and light equipment on and around the airfield as required. Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and wind. Capacity to respond to emergency situations rapidly, which may require physical exertion and mobility in confined or hazardous areas.

Sensory Requirements - Adequate visual acuity to read documents, computer screens, and inspect airfield lighting, signage, and facility conditions both day and night. Hearing ability sufficient to communicate clearly in person, by radio, and by telephone in environments with high background noise (e.g., aircraft operations). Speech clarity is sufficient to convey information to staff, tenants, and the public in meetings, over communication devices, and during emergencies. Environmental awareness is sufficient to detect hazards and ensure compliance with safety and security protocols.