Supervisor of Airfield Maintenance

ABOUT US: The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority 

The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA), established in 1978 as a nonprofit organization, owns and operates McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) and Downtown Island Airport (DKX).  With more than 88-years of service to the East Tennessee region, MKAA plays a vital role in supporting the area's air transportation system.  Centrally located within a day's drive or short flight of major U.S. cities, our airports are positioned for continued growth and innovation.  If you're interested in contributing to the future success of TYS and DKX, we encourage you to explore this opportunity further.

The Position:

The Supervisor of Airfield Maintenance coordinates, plans, and directs all airfield maintenance activities to ensure timely and efficient completion of assignments. This role provides day‑to‑day leadership by conducting performance appraisals, coaching and counseling employees, participating in the hiring process, and contributing to corrective actions when needed. The supervisor ensures staff are properly trained on safety procedures and the operation of relevant equipment, while also confirming that appropriate tools, materials, and resources are available. Responsibilities include generating and issuing work orders through a computerized maintenance management system, resolving employee conflicts, recommending process and system improvements, and supporting budget forecasting efforts by maintaining accurate inventory levels within established budget limits.

Responsibilities:

• Supervise, direct, and evaluate assigned staff, including hiring and termination recommendations in accordance with MKAA policies and procedures


• Prioritize work assignments, oversee daily operations, and develop employee work schedules, including approving time off


• Provide and facilitate employee training and development; complete performance evaluations; and address employee concerns, counseling or disciplining as appropriate


• Make recommendations regarding new hire salaries and pay adjustments in alignment with organizational policies


• Serve as a liaison between employees and senior management to ensure clear communication and operational alignment


• Prepare, issue, and maintain work orders and assignments to ensure efficient departmental operations and inspect completed projects


• Manage the ordering, scheduling, and sourcing of materials and equipment required for maintenance projects, maintaining accurate records


• Operate a variety of construction and maintenance equipment, including specialty painting, snow removal, and ground maintenance equipment


• Collaborate with department managers to support organizational goals and objectives


• Assist with the purchasing and evaluation of new equipment


• Supervise and monitor herbicide application activities, ensuring compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations


• Manage safety training programs and enforce safe work practices across the team


• Perform related duties as required

The Ideal Candidate:

The ideal candidate will possess strong knowledge of basic math skills required for calculating herbicide applications; the safe operation of light‑ and heavy‑duty equipment; and compliance with TOSHA, OSHA, Department of Transportation, and FAA regulations. This role requires familiarity with airfield terminology, air traffic control communication practices, airport policies and procedures, vegetation management, and applicable laws related to herbicide use, water runoff, and right‑of‑way maintenance. Successful candidates will demonstrate effective people leadership, strong organizational and time‑management abilities, and clear verbal and written communication skills. The position also requires the ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships, deliver quality customer service, prioritize multiple projects, maintain attention to detail, and solve problems efficiently, while safely operating vehicles and equipment around aircraft and on the airfield during both day and night operations.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

• High school diploma or equivalent


• Five (5) to seven (7) years of experience in airfield maintenance or a related field


• Three (3) to five (5) years of supervisory or leadership experience, preferably in an airfield environment and/or heavy equipment operations


• Additional vocational training in heavy equipment operation and/or airfield electrical operations preferred

• Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with Air Brakes endorsement


• Herbicide Applicator License


• Airfield Marking Professional (AMP) Certification preferred, or ability to obtain within one year of hire


• AAAE Airport Certified Employee (ACE) – Operations certification preferred, or ability to obtain within one year of hire

Salary and Compensation:

The salary range for this position is $73,474.60 - $95,516.98 (DOE), with the final offer based on experience (DOE).  MKAA provides a highly competitive benefits package, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; disability and life insurance; vacation and sick leave; and a 401(a)-retirement program.

Deadline to Apply:  

For best consideration, apply by Sunday, February 15, 2026.  Position open until filled.

Please apply through this website (preferred), or mail resume to P.O. Box 15600 | Knoxville, TN 37901 | Attention: HR. Resumes/Applications must be received by the stated deadline, or postmarked by the deadline date, to be considered. No phone calls or emails please.

Selection Process:

Applications (and additional documents, if applicable) will be reviewed to identify applicants whose qualifications most closely meet the needs of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority.  The employment process includes a security background check and physical (if applicable), which includes drug testing.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a long-term basis.

The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority conducts random employee drug screening.

The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.