Aviation Ground Support Manager - Operations Lead

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Aviation Ground Support Manager to lead ground handling operations at a Mahikeng facility in North West. The role focuses on safe, efficient aircraft turnaround and staff leadership to maintain operational excellence at a regional airport.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in aviation ground handling or airport operations, with strong leadership, safety knowledge, and the ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in aviation ground handling or airport operations management
• Proven leadership and team management skills
• Strong knowledge of aircraft ground operations and safety protocols
• Familiarity with SACAA regulations preferred
• Experience with GSE maintenance and operations
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aircraft ground handling operations.
• Ensure compliance with aviation safety regulations and company policies.
• Lead, train, and develop a team of ground support personnel.
• Develop and implement efficient turnaround procedures.
• Oversee maintenance and readiness of ground support equipment (GSE).
• Coordinate with flight crews, maintenance teams, and external stakeholders.
• Manage inventory of ground support supplies and equipment.
• Implement quality control measures to ensure high service standards.
• Prepare operational reports, including performance metrics and incident analysis.
• Foster a strong safety culture and ensure all safety procedures are followed.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Planning & organization

Problem solving

Safety awareness

Tools

GSE maintenance software

Operations management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding aviation services company, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Aviation Ground Support Manager to oversee operations at their facility in Mahikeng, North West . This leadership role is responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and timely turnaround of all aircraft on the ground. You will manage a team of ground handling staff, coordinate ground equipment maintenance, and implement best practices to optimize ground operations. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in ground handling management, a strong understanding of aviation safety regulations, and excellent leadership capabilities. This is a key position for maintaining operational excellence at a vital regional airport.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise all aspects of aircraft ground handling operations.
• Ensure compliance with all aviation safety regulations and company policies.
• Lead, train, and develop a team of ground support personnel.
• Develop and implement efficient turnaround procedures.
• Oversee the maintenance and readiness of ground support equipment (GSE).
• Coordinate with flight crews, maintenance teams, and external stakeholders.
• Manage inventory of ground support supplies and equipment.
• Implement quality control measures to ensure high service standards.
• Prepare operational reports, including performance metrics and incident analysis.
• Foster a strong safety culture and ensure all safety procedures are followed.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in aviation ground handling or airport operations management.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Strong understanding of aircraft ground operations, safety protocols, and procedures.
• Knowledge of relevant aviation regulations (SACAA preferred).
• Experience with ground support equipment (GSE) maintenance and operations.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Proficiency in relevant software systems for operations management.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid and retirement fund contributions. This role provides an excellent opportunity to take on significant responsibility within a growing aviation company. Employees will benefit from a dynamic work environment in Mahikeng, North West , with opportunities for professional development and career progression. Contribute to the smooth operation of vital aviation services in the region.