Airport Operations Specialist

Syracuse Hancock International Airport is growing, and the Syracuse Regional Airport Authority (SRAA) is looking for dedicated professionals to join our team. If you are passionate, hard-working, and have a commitment to ensuring safety and security in an airport environment, this is the perfect opportunity for you!

The SRAA is currently seeking an Airport Operations Specialist to contribute to the daily operations and success of the airport. Operating under the general supervision of the Director of Airport Operations, this role requires a candidate with airport experience and a strong sense of initiative who is eager to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. You will be part of a team that strives to make Syracuse Hancock International Airport a best-in-class airport. Must be able to do shift work due to 24/7 airport operations.

Job Description

Under general direction, this position is responsible for the day-to-day activity of the airport, including airfield, terminal, and landside, during an operational shift. This position has the authority to direct shift staff to ensure a safe and secure environment for the traveling public. As the senior airport official on duty during non-business hours, this position represents the executive team and has the authority to make decisions in the best interest of the airport. Employees in this class must be able to exercise independent judgement based upon the situations encountered and their knowledge of federal, state & local regulations, industry best practices and a variety of operations manuals and procedures. Assignments are received from the Airport Operations Manager or designee in both oral and written form. Work performance is evaluated through supervisory observation, complaints received from the public, carriers, tenants, and other concerned persons. Does related work as required.

Typical Work Activities

• Overseeing all shift activities including the coordination and monitoring of all functions to ensure work is performed in a consistent manner with airport policies, procedures, and regulations, and in accordance with airport standards and to ensure the safety and security of passengers, tenants, and employees.
• Represents Airport Management in all aspects of airport operations.
• Ensuring the operational efficiency and safety of the airport by performing standard safety and security inspections of the aircraft operating area (AOA) and terminal facilities in compliance with applicable FAA and TSA regulations/directives and airport rules and regulations and directs necessary responses and corrective actions for all deficiencies noted during inspections.
• Work with appropriate departments to coordinate the airport’s response to critical incidents, irregular operations (IRROPS), and emergencies and provide effective resolutions to problems/issues.
• Monitoring and inspecting airport activities, properties, and facilities. Monitoring the performance of airlines, tenants, concessionaires, and others to ensure their adherence to airport rules and regulations.
• Coordinating with stakeholders on all construction and maintenance projects to ensure minimal operational disruption and monitors all construction activity to address safety and customer satisfaction concerns.
• Serving as liaison between the Airport and contractors during airfield construction activities; coordinates and directs maintenance and construction work on runways, taxiways, aprons, and terminal facilities; ensures safety and security are maintained during these activities; and issues Notice to Airmen (NOTAMS) to advise all concerned parties of airfield conditions.
• Record and provide reports on incidents and accidents that occur on airport property.
• Monitor and approve the use of shared-use equipment including gates, ticket counters, jet bridges, and baggage carousels to ensure critical equipment is available during regular operations and irregular operations and emergencies.
• Providing direction and instruction on resolving critical incidences/situations, operational activities, security-related activity, security breaches, and violations of rules and regulations, etc.
• Reviewing and maintaining records and operational logs and prepares reports and correspondence.
• Investigating complaints, issues, concerns, and inquiries and providing recommendations for resolution
• Making recommendations for general policy development for Airport operations.
• Represent the organization, both internally and externally, by supporting the strategic direction, strategic priorities, objectives, vision, mission, and values of the Authority.

• Strong knowledge of 14 CFR Part 139 and 77, and 49 CFR 1542.
• Strong knowledge of the operations and activities associated with the operation of an international airport.
• Ability to provide excellent customer service to all stakeholders.
• Working knowledge of a two-way radio communication system, air to ground and communicating with the tower, using phonetic alphabet.
• Knowledge of SMS and ability to report safety related items for risk assessment.
• Ability to establish and maintain a harmonious working relationship with Federal, state and local officials, SRAA employees, the air carriers, tenants, and general public, and be able to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to assess operational situations, make sound judgement calls to ensure safety and follow through to successful resolution.
• Ability to act in calm and rational manner during stressful and emergency situations.
• Ability to effectively communicate in English with a clear and distinct voice, including public speaking.
• Ability to effectively communicate in writing.
• Must be able to manage multiple projects concurrently, organize work in an effective and efficient manner, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to read and interpret instructions in the English language.
• Ability to use computers, and proficient in Microsoft Suite.
• Ability to perform the essential functions and physical requirements of the position with or without a reasonable accommodation. Physical requirements include ability to work standing, sitting, or walking for long periods of time, ability to lift up to 50 lbs., ability to work in all weather conditions, ability to drive a vehicle, use of hands and fingers, use eyes to see for close vision and depth perception.
• Ability to work 24/7 shift work.

Minimum Qualifications

Promotional/Internal

One (1) year of work experience, or its part time equivalent, in one of the following areas:

A. Airport Field Maintenance; or,

B. Airport Communications Center

Open/External

A. Bachelors degree in Aviation management or equivalent; or

B. Four (4) year of work experience, or its part time equivalent, working at a commercial airport or military airbase in one of the following areas: airport operations, airside and/or landside.

C. An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of (A) and (B).

Special Necessary Requirement

• At time of appointment, possession of the license as required by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles for the class of vehicle being operated. Eligibility for and continued possession of the license is required for employment.
• Must pass a pre-employment background check, obtain and maintain SIDA clearance and Customs & Border Protection clearance, and successfully complete a pre-employment drug test.
• Required to obtain ACE Operations within one year of hire

Salary and Benefits

• Comprehensive salary and benefits package, including medical/dental/vision coverage upon date of hire, Flexible Spending Accounts
• Generous paid time off
• New York State deferred compensation (457b)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Membership in the New York State Local and Employee Retirement System
• Opportunity for professional development opportunities
• Exciting work environment at a leading airport with opportunities for growth and collaboration

You may be able to receive loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF). The PSLF Program forgives the remaining balance on Direct Loans after 120 qualifying monthly payments have been made under a qualifying repayment plan while working full-time for a qualifying employer. For more information on PSLF, please visit www.studentAid.gov/publicservice
To learn more about our organization, visit: www.flysyracuse.com

Application Instructions

Interested candidates should apply online and include a resume and 3 professional references.