Airport Operation Centre Operator (AOCO)

Winnipeg Richardson International Airport; Winnipeg; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A major transportation hub in Manitoba is seeking an Airport Operation Centre Operator to oversee internal and external communications in a 24/7 operations center. This role involves coordinating security responses, managing resources, and ensuring accurate flight information. The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills, experience in resource management, and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure.

Benefits

Highly competitive salary

Full Benefits package of Health, Dental & Vision

DC Pension Plan

Healthcare Spending Account

Lifestyle Spending Account

Employee Assistance Program

Training & Development opportunities

Qualifications

• Relevant education and/or experience in aviation or equivalent regulated environments.
• Experience in dispatching and emergency response protocols is an asset.
• Proficient in adapting to new technologies.

Responsibilities

• Monitor internal and external communications in a 24/7 operations center.
• Dispatch resources using the ticketing software system.
• Serve as the central communication hub for security operations.

Skills

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Resource management

Decision-making under pressure

Attention to detail

Conflict resolution skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

The Organization

The Winnipeg Airports Authority (WAA) is a community-based, non-share capital corporation that operates, manages, maintains, and invests in the Winnipeg Richardson International Airport and affiliate businesses.

WAA is a critical player in the development of one of Canada’s strategic transportation hubs. As a perennial “Manitoba Top Employer”, WAA prides itself as an organization that attracts engaged employees with the right combination of skills, values, and attitude to help us achieve our mission of connecting communities. http://www.waa.ca

Job Title: Airport Operation Centre Operator (AOCO)

Reports to: Manager, Airport Operations

Type: Permanent, Full Time

Closing Date: October 8, 2025

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Manager, Airport Operations, the Airport Operation Center Operator (AOCO) is responsible for monitoring and responding to internal and external communications in a 24/7 operations center. This includes serving as the central communication point for security operations, coordinating and dispatching security responses, and monitoring access control systems.

Additionally, this role is responsible for planning and assigning airport resources such as gates, counters, and baggage belts, and ensuring flight information is accurate and up to date. This role requires continuous monitoring and adjustment of flight schedules and resource allocations based on operational requirements and stakeholder feedback to meet real-time demands.

Responsibilities include:

• Dispatch resources using the ticketing software system
• Monitor critical systems, including fire panels and building alarm systems
• Oversee airport operations through the CCTV system
• Serve as the central communication hub and generate work orders in the ticketing system
• Respond to stakeholder, customer and public inquiries via phone and email
• Secure the Airport primary security line
• Monitor access control using software and CCTV
• Coordinate appropriate responses to safety and security situations as they arise
• Manage RAIC (Restricted Area Identification Card) and keycard access issues
• Maintain detailed logs of security incidents and proactively identify recurring patterns
• Plan daily terminal facility allocations
• Assign gates and counters, and update flight information displays accordingly
• Communicate with stakeholders and emergency services during emergency response scenarios
• Ensure adherence to the Common Use Plan (CUP) to ensure equitable and efficient gate and counter assignments
• Escalate safety, security and operational concerns to leadership
• Prepare and submit daily shift reports
• Conduct verbal briefings during shift handovers
• Support on-the-job training of team members

Selection Criteria include:

• Successful completion of high school along with relevant education and/or experience in aviation or equivalent regulated environments.
• Experience in dispatching, resource management, emergency response protocols, and operational guidelines adherence is considered as asset
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Consistent professional interaction with internal and external ents, stakeholders, and members of the public, maintaining a positive and composed demeanor in all working environments
• Demonstrates sound judgment and the ability to make reasonable decisions independently, without direct supervisor
• Ability to assess complex situations rapidly and make data-driven decisions aligned with operational objectives
• Proactive mindset with the ability to anticipate developments and stay ahead of emerging needs or situations
• Collaborative team player who willingly provides support to colleagues and actively contributes to group goals
• Demonstrated proficiency in adapting to new technologies and quickly acquiring technical skills
• Strong attention to detail, common sense, active listening and project management capabilities
• Exceptional conflict resolution and de-escalation skills

Work with us!

• Highly competitive salary.
• Full Benefits package of Health, Dental & Vision.
• DC Pension Plan.
• Healthcare Spending Account to use on additional benefit expenses.
• Lifestyle Spending Account to use on Wellness expenses such as health and fitness.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Supported Training & Development opportunities.
• Opportunity to work with a high functioning team of professionals working on a diversified portfolio.
• Proud to be named one of Manitoba’s Top Employers annually since 2011

Condition of employment is the ability to obtain and maintain an Airport Restricted Area Identification Card.

Winnipeg Airports Authority is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. We encourage all qualified applicants experiencing barriers to equity to self-identify in their application.

Accommodations are available upon request during the assessment and selection process.