Sr Operations Manager - DOT

PrimeFlight Aviation Services; Lincoln, Northern (NE, KY); Hybrid; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

PrimeFlight Aviation Services in Lincoln, NE seeks a Senior Operations Manager DOT to oversee day-to-day operations across airport service departments, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality service delivery.

You will lead cross-functional teams—ground handling, customer service, security, and facilities—driving performance, managing budgets, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years in airport/aviation operations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive continuous improvement.
• Strong knowledge of aviation safety standards and regulatory requirements.
• Experience managing budgets, resources, and vendor relations.
• Excellent written and spoken English communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily activities across all operational departments to ensure smooth airport operations.
• Establish and enforce policies and procedures to improve efficiency and service quality.
• Coordinate with ground handling, customer service, security and facilities for integrated service delivery.
• Drive continuous improvement through data analysis and performance reporting.
• Oversee budget development, resource allocation and cost optimization strategies.
• Ensure compliance with aviation regulations, safety standards and environmental guidelines.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to the operations team and stakeholders.
• Maintain relationships with airport authorities, airlines and other partners.
• Develop and oversee emergency response plans and operational continuity.
• Lead major projects from conception to execution to enhance efficiency.
• Stay informed on industry trends and implement innovative practices.

Skills

Leadership

Regulatory compliance

Budget management

Strategic planning

English communication

DOT regulations knowledge

Cross-functional coordination

Operational oversight

Job description

The Senior Operations Manager DOT is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of all airport service departments, ensuring efficient, safe, and high-quality service delivery. This position leads cross-functional teams—including ground handling, customer service, security, and facilities—while driving operational excellence through strategic planning, performance monitoring, and continuous improvement initiatives.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the management of daily activities across all operational departments, ensuring smooth and efficient airport operations
• Formulate and establish operational policies and procedures, and oversee their implementation to enhance overall efficiency and service quality
• Facilitate effective communication and coordination between various departments such as ground handling, customer service, and security to ensure integrated service delivery
• Regularly assess operational processes and outcomes, employing strategies to drive continuous improvement and address inefficiencies
• Manage the operational budget, including the development of financial plans, allocation of resources, and cost optimization strategies
• Ensure strict adherence to aviation industry regulations, safety standards, and environmental guidelines, staying updated with any changes in legal requirements
• Provide leadership, guidance, and mentorship to the operations team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment
• Act as the primary point of contact with airport authorities, airlines, and other stakeholders, maintaining strong professional relationships
• Develop and oversee emergency response plans and procedures, ensuring preparedness for crisis situations and swift, effective management of any operational disruptions
• Analyze operational data and generate comprehensive reports to identify trends, measure performance against targets, and inform decision-making
• Oversee the procurement, maintenance, and efficient utilization of equipment and facilities, ensuring they meet operational needs and standards
• Implement high standards of customer service within all operational areas, ensuring passenger satisfaction and adherence to service level agreements
• Conduct and lead regular meetings with department heads and teams to review operational performance, set goals, and align on strategic initiatives
• Stay abreast of industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices, integrating innovative solutions into operational strategies
• Lead and manage significant operational projects and initiatives, from conception through to execution, to improve overall operational effectiveness and efficiency
• Follow all DOT regulations
• Perform any additional duties as assigned by management

QUALIFICATIONS

• 18 years of age or older
• Eligible to work in the United States
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in airport or aviation operations, with at least 5 years in a managerial role
• Extensive knowledge of airport operations, regulations, and safety standards
• Proven leadership and team management skills
• Must have a valid state-issued driver’s license with an acceptable driving record
• Communicate effectively in English (reading, writing, speaking)
• Ability to access and interpret information in print and electronically, including the use of electronic devices including IPads/Tablets, Computers, and Mobile Devices
• Effectively communicate with colleagues and clients, both in-person and through electronic means