AECOM

Construction Director or Senior Director - Aviation/Airport (Travel Required)

AECOM • $130K — $180K *
Phoenix, AZ 85032In-Person
Transportation
11 - 15 years of experience
1 month ago
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or related field required; extensive experience preferred
  • 12+ years of progressive construction experience, including 5 years in aviation or equivalent
  • 4-6 years of leadership experience, depending on level
  • Proven track record delivering large-scale transportation infrastructure projects
  • Experience managing complex projects ranging from $500M to $1B
  • Ability to pass security screenings and background checks
  • Willingness to travel or relocate as determined by project location

Responsibilities

  • Lead field operations for major aviation construction programs
  • Oversee General Superintendents and field teams across multiple job sites
  • Standardize aviation-specific execution practices across regions
  • Direct construction activities in active airport environments
  • Ensure coordination with airport operations, TSA, and FAA stakeholders
  • Enforce compliance with aviation safety standards
  • Monitor project schedules and manage logistics effectively

Benefits

  • Potential relocation or travel living allowance for certain assignments
  • Opportunities for mentorship and talent development
  • Dedicated focus on employee safety and a safety-first culture
  • Access to high-profile projects across multiple U.S. markets
  • Commitment to professional growth and operational excellence
Full Job Description
Job Description

AECOM Hunt is seeking senior construction leaders for our Aviation/Airport construction vertical.to support airport construction projects.

Provides executive leadership for field operations across complex aviation and airport infrastructure projects. This role oversees multiple concurrent programs-including terminals, airside/landside improvements, concourses, and support facilities-ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality execution within active airport environments.

This role plays a critical role in aligning field operations with project delivery strategies, maintaining strict regulatory compliance, and minimizing disruption to ongoing airport operations.

This opportunity is tied to projects across multiple U.S. markets. Candidates should be open to travel and/or temporary relocation depending on project location.

Core Responsibilities

Aviation Field Operations Leadership
  • Lead field operations across major aviation construction programs, including terminal expansions, runway/taxiway projects, and airside infrastructure
  • Provide oversight to General Superintendents, Superintendents, and field teams across multiple job sites
  • Standardize aviation-specific field execution practices across projects and regions
  • Ensure seamless coordination between field teams and airport authorities

Project Execution in Active Airport Environments
  • Direct construction activities in highly regulated, operational airport settings with minimal disruption to passengers and airline operations
  • Oversee phasing, logistics, and access planning in secure and constrained environments
  • Coordinate closely with airport operations, TSA, FAA stakeholders, and airline partners
  • Ensure strict adherence to project schedules, including night work, shutdown windows, and phased turnover requirements

Safety & Airside Compliance
  • Champion a safety-first culture with emphasis on airside safety protocols and zero-incident performance
  • Ensure compliance with all aviation safety standards, including FAA regulations and airfield operational requirements
  • Lead safety planning for complex conditions (e.g., working near active runways, secure zones)
  • Oversee incident response and continuous safety improvement initiatives

Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance
  • Enforce rigorous quality control standards aligned with aviation authority requirements
  • Ensure compliance with FAA, TSA, local airport authority, and environmental regulations
  • Oversee inspection processes, commissioning, and turnover of critical infrastructure systems

Operational & Financial Performance
  • Partner with Project Executives and Operations leadership to ensure projects meet financial and performance targets
  • Monitor productivity, cost control, and labor utilization across aviation projects
  • Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency in complex airport builds

Stakeholder & Client Leadership
  • Serve as a senior point of contact for airport authorities, owners, and key stakeholders
  • Build strong relationships to support repeat business in aviation markets
  • Represent field operations in executive-level meetings, progress reviews, and client presentations

Talent Development & Workforce Strategy
  • Lead development of high-performing field teams with aviation expertise
  • Mentor General Superintendents and emerging field leaders
  • Support recruitment and retention strategies for specialized aviation construction talent


Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Director level:
  • Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or related field plus 12 years of progressive construction experience including at least 5 years within the aviation industry, or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education
  • At least 4 years of leadership experience

OR

Senior Director level:
  • Bachelor's degree in construction managemet, engineering, or related field plus EXTENSIVE years of progressive construction experience including at least 5 years within the aviation industry, or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education
  • At least 6 years of leadership experience

AND
  • Extensive experience delivery aviation or large-scale transportation infrastructure projects
  • Experience leading large ($500M-$1B+) complex projects
  • Proven leadership overseeing multiple complex projects in active, highly regulated environments
  • Ability to pass security screenings and background checks
  • Willingness to travel or relocated as determined by project location

Preferred Qualifications
  • 15+ years of progressive construction field leadership experience
  • Experience working with major general contractors or ENR-ranked firms

Core Competencies
  • Deep expertise in aviation construction and airport operations
  • Advanced planning, phasing, and logistics management in constrained environments
  • Strong knowledge of FAA, TSA, and airport authority regulations
  • Executive leadership and team development
  • Financial acumen and operational excellence
  • Exceptional stakeholder and client management skills

Physical Demands:
  • The following physical demands represent those typically required of individuals working in construction field roles, with or without accommodation. Construction field positions require physical stamina and mobility, including the ability to climb ladders and stairs, use personnel hoists, and move through various terrain and active construction zones. Vision requirements include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Team members must be capable of using their hands to handle tools and materials, and perform activities such as sitting, standing, walking, speaking, hearing, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling. Lifting and carrying materials weighing up to 50 pounds unassisted may be necessary on an occasional basis.

Work Environment:
  • Individuals in construction field roles work primarily on active job sites where exposure to environmental and job-related hazards is common, with or without accommodation. These environments may include proximity to heavy machinery, elevated work areas, airborne particles, varying weather conditions, and potential electrical risks. Noise levels may vary from moderate to high depending on the phase of construction. Employees may be required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and must remain alert to ensure safety. Additional duties may be assigned as needed based on the scope and progress of the project.


Additional Information
  • Sponsorship opportunities for US Employment Authorization are not offered for this position, now or in the future
  • Relocation or a Travel Living Allowance may be provided for certain assignments.
  • Qualified applicants who are offered a position must pass a pre-employment substance abuse test.
  • For positions with driving responsibilities, Motor Vehicle Records are reviewed as part of AECOM's background check process to ensure compliance with the Company's driving standards.
  • In order to receive a security badge at the client worksite for which you are being hired to perform services, you will be required to pass the client's security screening process to include SWAC (Secure Worker Access Consortium) and/or SIDA (Identification Display Area) and fingerprinting, which will be done after you have commenced employment and is a condition of your continued employment.


At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

About AECOM

AECOM is a global provider of professional technical and management support services to a broad range of markets, including transportation, facilities, environmental, energy, water and government. With approximately 45,000 employees around the world, AECOM is a leader in all of the key markets that it serves. AECOM provides a blend of global reach, local knowledge, innovation and technical excellence in delivering solutions that create, enhance and sustain the world's built, natural, and social environments. A Fortune 500 company, AECOM serves clients in more than 150 countries and had revenue of $8.0 billion during the 12 months ended March 31, 2014.

AECOM Careers

Join AECOM, a premier global team of professionals dedicated to delivering infrastructure and environmental solutions. At AECOM, we are committed to fostering a culture of innovation, leadership, and diversity, making it an ideal place for ambitious individuals looking to advance their careers.

Work You’ll Do

At AECOM, you will be part of a dynamic team that thrives on challenges and is passionate about making a positive impact on the world. Our projects range from building sustainable cities to creating efficient transportation systems, offering a variety of job opportunities to apply your skills and grow professionally.

Explore AECOM’s Diverse Opportunities

Whether you are seeking an internship, a full-time position, or a leadership role, AECOM offers a spectrum of career paths across multiple disciplines. Our global presence provides unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and networking, allowing you to shape your career path in ways only limited by your imagination.

Innovate and Lead

Join a company where innovation and leadership go hand in hand. AECOM is a place where you can lead critical projects, influence strategies, and deliver solutions that contribute to our clients' success. Our leadership and diversity training ensure that you have the tools to lead effectively and inclusively, fostering an environment where all ideas are welcomed and explored.

Be Part of a Great Team

AECOM’s culture is centered on collaboration and excellence. Work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry, benefiting from a wealth of knowledge and experience that will enhance your professional development. Our team’s diversity fuels creativity and drives innovation, making AECOM a breeding ground for new ideas.

Future-Proof Your Career

AECOM is dedicated to your long-term career development. With access to cutting-edge projects and leading-edge technology, your skills will stay relevant in an ever-evolving industry. Our comprehensive benefits support your health, well-being, and financial security, ensuring you and your family are taken care of.

Join Our Team

Discover the array of job opportunities at AECOM by exploring open positions that match your skills and interests. We are continuously hiring and looking for professionals who are curious, creative, and driven to excel.

Stay Connected

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Prepare for Your Future

Ready to advance your career at AECOM? Prepare your resume, hone your interview skills, and connect with us to find out how your aspirations align with our goals. At AECOM, your potential is limitless.

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Learn more about AECOM
Size
51,000 employees
Market Cap
$11.8 billion
Industry
Real Estate & Construction
Net Income
-$200.8 million
Founded
1990
5 Year Trend
-6.3%
Revenue
$13.3 billion
NASDAQ
ACM
* Ladders Estimates

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