Operations ManagerSyracuse, New York • 75%+ Travel Between Stations
THE OPPORTUNITYThis is a high-visibility field leadership role with ownership of multi-station operations across a national aviation ground services platform. You'll manage service delivery, staffing, safety, and P&L performance while spending 75%+ of your time in the field between airport stations. The right candidate thrives in a fast-paced, regulated environment, leads from the ramp, and can stand up new operations or stabilize existing ones with equal confidence. This is a builder's seat- not a desk job.
WHAT YOU'LL OWN- Own the delivery of ground handling, passenger, cargo, and facility services for airline and airport customers - on contract, on budget
- Lead, mentor, and develop local operations teams across multiple airport stations
- Manage local recruiting and staffing initiatives to maintain headcount against service level and quality assurance standards
- Liaise with airline station managers, airport operations, handling agents, Customs, Immigration, Security officials, and other airport stakeholders
- Monitor operational performance metrics and take immediate corrective action on shortfalls
- Investigate and report all accidents, incidents, and irregularities - including work-related injuries, passenger incidents, and aircraft/property damage
- Collaborate with senior leadership on operational gaps, audit findings, and irregularity resolution
- Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, TSA/airport security requirements, and company safety policies
- Assist and/or lead startup operations across all lines of business at new or expanding stations
- Backfill open leadership positions during vacancies to maintain operational continuity
WHAT YOU BRING- 5+ years of leadership and operational management experience
- Proven track record managing large frontline teams in a fast-paced, high-accountability environment
- In-depth knowledge of airport operational procedures and regulatory requirements
- Comfortable with 75%+ travel between airport stations - this is a field-first role
- Strong communication skills - able to interface effectively with airline partners, airport authorities, and internal leadership
- Ability to manage recruiting, staffing, and workforce planning to meet fluctuating operational demands
- Valid state-issued driver's license with clean driving record
- Flexible to work extended hours as needed to support field operations
- Must pass background check and drug screen
NICE TO HAVE- Direct aviation ground services or airport operations experience
- Project management experience - especially station startups or operational turnarounds
- Experience managing in a multi-site or multi-station environment
- Familiarity with TSA, CBP, and airport authority compliance frameworks
WHY THIS ROLE- National aviation platform with continued growth through new contracts and station launches
- High-impact leadership role with real field autonomy - not a corporate desk seat
- Culture built on accountability, safety, and frontline leadership development
