Aviation Ground Operations Supervisor

Placements24; Stellenbosch Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and shift allowance

Medical and retirement benefits

Career advancement opportunities

Travel discounts

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa seeks an Aviation Ground Operations Supervisor to lead the ground handling team in Paarl, overseeing baggage handling, aircraft marshalling, and passenger services on-site.

You will ensure safety, timely turnarounds, and adherence to regulations, coaching staff, coordinating with flight crews and maintenance, delivering operational excellence in a fast-paced airport environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional aviation operations training is a plus.
• Relevant certification in aviation operations improves candidacy.
• Experience leading ground handling teams in fast-paced environments.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily ground operations team including ramp agents and baggage handlers.
• Ensure safe, efficient aircraft ground services and timely turnaround.
• Enforce safety regulations, company policies and procedures.
• Train new ground crew and provide ongoing performance feedback.
• Liaise with flight crews, maintenance and airport departments to resolve issues.
• Monitor schedules and operational requirements to maintain service levels.

Skills

Leadership & supervision

Aviation ground handling

Safety regulations

Communication

Problem-solving

Operational planning

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Cert in aviation operations (plus)

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a motivated and experienced Aviation Ground Operations Supervisor to lead their ground handling team in Paarl . This role is crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient, and timely turnaround of aircraft on the ground. You will be responsible for managing a team of ground crew, overseeing all ground handling activities including baggage handling, aircraft marshalling, and passenger services, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols and operational standards. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of aviation ground operations, excellent leadership skills, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced airport environment. This is a critical on-site role contributing to operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate the daily activities of the ground operations team, including ramp agents, baggage handlers, and equipment operators.
• Ensure the safe and efficient handling of all aircraft ground services, including baggage, cargo, and passenger boarding/disembarking.
• Monitor flight schedules and operational requirements to ensure timely aircraft turnarounds.
• Implement and enforce all safety regulations, company policies, and operational procedures.
• Train new ground crew members and provide ongoing performance feedback and coaching.
• Liaise with flight crews, maintenance, and other airport departments to resolve operational issues.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent; further education or certification in aviation operations is a plus.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in aviation ground operations or airport management.
• Proven experience in leading and supervising teams in a demanding operational environment.
• Strong knowledge of aircraft ground handling procedures and safety regulations.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and shift allowances.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for career advancement within airport operations.
• Employee discounts on travel and related services.
• On-the-job training and professional development support.