Ground Operations Supervisor

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 550,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Ground Operations Supervisor for our client at Polokwane International Airport. You will oversee all ground handling activities, coordinate ramp services, baggage handling, passenger services, and aircraft servicing to ensure safe and timely turnarounds.

You will lead a diverse team, train staff, monitor operations, and liaise with flight crews, ATC, and other stakeholders while upholding safety and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• 3+ years supervisory experience in aviation ground operations.
• Thorough understanding of ground handling procedures, safety protocols, and regulations.
• Experience managing diverse teams and fostering a positive work environment.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and make quick, sound decisions.
• Proficiency in ground operations software and systems.
• Knowledge of local airport procedures and regulations.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain airport security pass.
• A related aviation qualification is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily activities of the ground operations team to ensure efficient aircraft turnaround.
• Coordinate baggage loading/unloading, passenger boarding, marshalling, and catering services.
• Ensure adherence to safety procedures and aviation regulations.
• Monitor flight schedules and adapt resources to meet demand.
• Train, mentor, and evaluate ground handling staff for safety and service excellence.
• Manage equipment and resources, ensuring maintenance and availability.
• Liaise with flight crews, ATC, and airport stakeholders.
• Respond to irregular operations to minimize impact.
• Maintain accurate operational records and reports.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Decision making under pressure

Problem solving

Team management

Education

Aviation management qualification

Tools

Ground ops software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic player in the aviation services sector, is seeking an experienced and motivated Ground Operations Supervisor to oversee and manage all ground handling activities at their facility in Polokwane, Limpopo. This critical role ensures the efficient, safe, and timely turnaround of aircraft, managing a team of ground handling staff. You will be responsible for coordinating ramp operations, baggage handling, passenger services, and aircraft servicing, maintaining the highest standards of service delivery. This is an excellent opportunity for a proven leader in aviation ground operations to make a significant impact in a key regional airport. The role is based in Polokwane, a strategic location for our operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and direct the daily activities of the ground operations team, ensuring efficient aircraft turnaround.
• Coordinate all ground handling services, including baggage loading/unloading, passenger boarding/deplaning, aircraft marshalling, and catering services.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety procedures, aviation regulations, and company policies during all ground operations.
• Monitor flight schedules and operational requirements, adapting resources to meet demands.
• Train, mentor, and evaluate ground handling staff, fostering a culture of safety, efficiency, and customer service.
• Manage equipment and resources effectively, ensuring their proper maintenance and availability.
• Liaise with flight crews, air traffic control, and other airport stakeholders to ensure seamless operations.
• Respond to and manage irregular operations, including delays and disruptions, to minimize impact.
• Maintain accurate operational records and reports.

Requirements

• Proven experience in aviation ground operations, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or team lead role.
• Thorough understanding of aircraft ground handling procedures, safety protocols, and aviation regulations.
• Experience managing diverse teams and fostering a positive work environment.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and make quick, sound decisions.
• Proficiency in relevant ground operations software and systems.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and customer service excellence.
• A valid driver's license and the ability to obtain an airport security pass.
• Knowledge of local airport procedures and regulations.
• Relevant qualification in aviation management or a related field is an advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance incentives, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and opportunities for further training and career advancement within the aviation industry. This role in Polokwane offers a chance to lead and shape ground operations at a crucial airport.