Ground Operations Supervisor

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 22,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid and retirement fund

Paid annual leave and sick leave

Career advancement opportunities

Exposure to diverse aircraft types

Structured team environment

Job summary

Placements24 client, a dynamic aviation services company in Welkom, Free State, is seeking a Ground Operations Supervisor to oversee all ground handling activities and lead a team at the airport. You will ensure safe, efficient aircraft turnarounds and coordinate with flight crews, dispatch, maintenance, and cabin crew to maintain punctuality.

The role requires 3–5 years in aviation ground ops with supervisory experience, strong leadership and communication skills, and a proactive,

Qualifications

• A minimum 3–5 years in aviation ground operations, with 1 year in supervision.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in airport operations software and standard office apps.
• Willing to work nights, weekends, and public holidays.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily ground handling operations including baggage, cargo, marshal, and passenger services.
• Lead, train, and motivate ground operations team and enforce safety standards.
• Coordinate with flight dispatch, maintenance, and cabin crew for smooth turnarounds.
• Monitor schedules and performance; take corrective actions to maintain punctuality.
• Ensure compliance with aviation safety regulations and company policies.
• Manage allocation and use of ground support equipment (GSE).
• Respond to disruptions and irregular operations (IROPS).
• Maintain records of activities, turnaround times, and equipment usage.
• Conduct safety inspections and promote a safety culture.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Time management

Decision making

Problem solving

Flexibility

Driver's license

SMS knowledge

Tools

Airport operations software

Office applications

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic aviation services company operating in Welkom, Free State , is seeking an experienced and highly organized Ground Operations Supervisor. This vital role oversees all aspects of ground handling operations at the airport, ensuring the safe, efficient, and timely turnaround of aircraft. You will lead a team of ground crew, coordinate with various stakeholders including flight crews and air traffic control, and maintain operational standards. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership capabilities, exceptional organizational skills, and a proven track record in aviation ground operations. This is a hands-on role requiring a proactive approach and a commitment to maintaining the highest levels of service quality at the Welkom airport.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and direct daily ground handling operations, including baggage handling, cargo loading, aircraft marshalling, and passenger services.
• Lead, train, and motivate a team of ground operations personnel, ensuring adherence to procedures and safety standards.
• Coordinate closely with flight dispatch, maintenance, and cabin crew to ensure seamless aircraft turnaround.
• Monitor flight schedules and operational performance, implementing corrective actions as needed to maintain punctuality.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant aviation safety regulations, security protocols, and company policies.
• Manage the allocation and utilization of ground support equipment (GSE), ensuring its safe operation and maintenance.
• Respond effectively to operational disruptions, emergencies, and irregular operations (IROPS).
• Maintain accurate records of ground handling activities, turnaround times, and equipment usage.
• Conduct regular safety inspections and promote a strong safety culture within the ground operations team.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in aviation ground operations, with at least 1 year in a supervisory or team lead role.
• Demonstrated understanding of ground handling procedures, safety regulations, and airport operations.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent organizational and time-management abilities, with the capacity to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Ability to work under pressure and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in using airport operations software and standard office applications.
• Willingness to work flexible shifts, including nights, weekends, and public holidays.
• Valid driver's license.
• Knowledge of safety management systems (SMS) is advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave.
• Opportunities for career advancement within the aviation industry.
• Exposure to diverse aircraft types and operational challenges.
• A structured and supportive team environment.