Hybrid Ground Ops Lead - Aircraft Turnaround & Safety

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Training opportunities

Hybrid work model

Paid annual leave

Paid sick leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Ground Operations Manager to oversee all ground handling activities at a regional airport in Queenstown, NZ. The role blends on-site leadership with remote administrative duties and strategic planning to ensure safe, efficient aircraft turnarounds and service quality.

You will manage a ground crew, coordinate with airline reps, ATC, and airport stakeholders, and drive safety compliance and performance reporting.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in airport ground operations or airline ramp management.
• Proven leadership and team management experience.
• Thorough understanding of airport safety procedures, regulations (SACAA), and ground handling best practices.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and make sound decisions in a dynamic environment.
• Proficiency in using scheduling, reporting and communication software (MS Office Suite).
• Valid driver's license.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including weekends and public holidays, and manage tasks remotely when appropriate.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Queenstown area.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise all ground handling operations, including baggage handling, aircraft marshalling, and passenger services.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, company policies, and airline procedures.
• Develop and implement operational plans and schedules to meet airline requirements and airport efficiency goals.
• Lead, train, and motivate a team of ground operations staff.
• Monitor aircraft turnaround times and take corrective actions to minimize delays.
• Liaise with flight crews, airline representatives, and airport authorities on operational matters.
• Manage equipment maintenance and ensure availability of necessary ground support equipment (GSE).
• Oversee safety training programs for ground crew and conduct regular safety audits.
• Handle incident investigations and implement preventive measures.
• Prepare operational reports and analyze performance data, potentially using remote tools.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Problem solving

Scheduling

MS Office

Tools

MS Office Suite

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Ground Operations Manager to oversee all ground handling activities at a regional airport in Queenstown, NZ. The role blends on-site leadership with remote administrative duties and strategic planning to ensure safe, efficient aircraft turnarounds and service quality.

You will manage a ground crew, coordinate with airline reps, ATC, and airport stakeholders, and drive safety compliance and performance reporting.