Airport Operations Safety Officer

DIVISION : Airport

SALARY : The starting (hiring) salary for this position is $68,000. Upon successful completion of one year of service, the salary will increase to $100,897.

LOCATION : Trenton Mercer Airport

JOB SPECIFICATION : info.csc.nj.gov/jobspec/05072.htm

REPORTS TO : Airport Director

POSITION(S) AVAILABLE : 3

POSITION OVERVIEW :

Under direction, oversees and coordinates safety, operational, environmental, and regulatory compliance activities at a federally certified airport. This role ensures adherence to all applicable federal, state, and local aviation regulations, while supporting the safe and efficient daily operation of airport facilities, airfield activities, and emergency preparedness programs.

APPOINTMENT STATUS:

This position is provisional pending the administration of an open competitive Civil Service examination. The selected candidate will be appointed on a provisional basis and will be required to apply for and successfully pass the examination once it is issued. Permanent appointment to the title will be contingent upon Civil Service certification and the candidate's ranking on the resulting eligible list.

RESPONSIBILITIES :

• Oversee daily airport operations and safety programs in accordance with FAR Part 139 requirements
• Conduct routine airfield inspections and identify unsafe conditions and initiate corrective actions, including closure of impacted areas when necessary
• Monitor compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, including Federal Aviation Administration standards
• Develop, implement, and maintain required airport documents including the Airport Certification Manual, Airport Emergency Plan, and Snow and Ice Control Plan
• Issue NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) as required based on airfield conditions
• Coordinate with internal staff, tenants, contractors, and external agencies to ensure operational compliance and safety standards
• Serve as liaison with FAA, law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency response agencies
• Respond to airfield incidents, emergencies, and unusual operational events and coordinate appropriate response efforts
• Oversee safety inspections of runways, taxiways, ramps, fueling operations, and airport facilities
• Ensure contractors and tenants adhere to airport safety and operational regulations
• Develop and conduct training programs related to airport safety, emergency response, and regulatory compliance
• Maintain required documentation, reports, and records of daily airport operations and safety activities
• Support and coordinate emergency drills, tabletop exercises, and full-scale training exercises
• Other duties as assigned

REQUIREMENTS :

• Three (3) years of experience in airport operations, aviation safety, protective services, or aircraft rescue and firefighting
• Valid driver's license if operating a vehicle is necessary for job duties.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required airport security clearances

PREFERENCES:

• Working knowledge of FAA regulations, including FAR Part 139
• Experience at a commercial service airport
• Bachelor's degree in aviation management or a related field
• Certification and/or accreditation through the American Association of Airport Executives

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILILITIES :

• Knowledge of airport operations, aviation safety standards, and emergency response procedures
• Knowledge of federal and state aviation regulations and compliance requirements
• Ability to inspect airfield conditions, identify hazards, and implement corrective actions
• Ability to interpret and apply laws, regulations, and technical guidance to operational scenarios
• Strong communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with staff, tenants, and external agencies
• Ability to prepare reports, maintain records, and document operational activities
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and respond effectively in emergency situations
• Ability to conduct training sessions and present safety-related information
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders

BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH MERCER COUNTY:

Mercer County is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package that supports the health, financial security, and professional development of our employees. Benefits include:

• Access to health and wellness coverage
• Retirement and deferred compensation plans
• Generous paid time off and leave programs
Ongoing training and tuition assistance

Mercer County EEO/ Civil Service Statement & Residency Requirements :

Mercer County is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and accessible workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, nationality, ancestry, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, marital status, civil union status, domestic partnership status, familial status, religion, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait, genetic information, liability for service in the Armed Forces of the United States, disability, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law.

As a Civil Service employer under the State of New Jersey, all candidates must comply with New Jersey Civil Service Commission regulations and guidelines. Mercer County residency is required. Non-residents must establish residency within one (1) year of employment.

Mercer County is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state laws, specifically in accordance with the New Jersey State Policy Prohibiting Discrimination in the Workplace .