Job Title: Line Service Manager
Location: Thunderbird Aviation (KFCM) Flying Cloud Airport, Eden Prairie MN 55347
Department: Line Services / Operations
Reports To: Operations Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time
Job Type: Full-time
The Line Services Manager is a key leadership role at Thunderbird Aviation, responsible for the strategic oversight, operational excellence, and regulatory compliance of all ramp and line service functions. This position manages a team of supervisors and technicians, ensures adherence to federal and state aviation standards, and plays a critical role in customer satisfaction, safety culture, and audit readiness. The ideal candidate brings a blend of hands‑on aviation experience and high‑level operational leadership.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Team Development
- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of line supervisors and technicians across multiple shifts.
- Establish performance goals, KPIs, and training programs to ensure operational excellence.
- Collaborate with executive leadership to align line service operations with company objectives.
Operational Oversight
- Direct all ramp operations including aircraft marshaling, fueling, towing, de‑icing, and hangar management.
- Oversee scheduling, resource allocation, and workflow optimization to ensure timely and safe aircraft handling.
- Implement and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all line service activities.
Regulatory Compliance & Audit Management
- Serve as the primary point of contact for state and federal audits (FAA, EPA, OSHA, DOT).
- Maintain and audit documentation, training records, and operational logs to ensure full compliance.
- Lead internal audits and corrective action plans to proactively address compliance gaps.
Safety & Risk Management
- Champion a proactive safety culture through training, inspections, and incident response planning.
- Conduct root cause analysis of safety incidents and implement preventive measures.
- Ensure all GSE and fueling operations meet operational standards.
Customer Experience & Stakeholder Relations
- Build strong relationships with pilots, flight departments, and corporate clients.
- Resolve high-level service issues and ensure a premium experience for all FBO customers.
- Coordinate with customer service, maintenance, and hangar teams to ensure seamless operations.
Financial & Resource Management
- Develop and manage departmental budgets, including labor, equipment, and training costs.
- Analyze financial and operational data to identify trends and opportunities for efficiency and revenue growth.
- Evaluate and recommend capital expenditures for GSE and ramp infrastructure.
- Inventory reporting, monitor fuel inventory, usage, and quality control processes.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- 3+ years of progressive leadership experience in FBO or aviation ground operations.
- Proven experience managing audits and regulatory compliance.
- Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
- Proficiency in FBO management systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to work flexible hours and respond to operational emergencies. The Line Service Manager position requires at least 1 weekend shift per week and Holidays.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in outdoor conditions.
- Must be able to pass background checks and obtain airport security clearance.
Benefits
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person