Senior Aviation Project Manager - Infrastructure Development

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical aid

Pension fund

Annual leave

PMP certification support

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Polokwane, Limpopo, is seeking a Senior Aviation Project Manager to lead large-scale airport infrastructure programs, including runways and terminal upgrades. The hybrid role requires on-site oversight with remote planning, reporting, and strategic coordination of budgets, schedules, and safety standards; you will coordinate with regulators, contractors, and internal teams.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's in Civil Engineering (Master's preferred), 8+ years in PM (5+ in

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering required.
• Minimum 8 years of project management experience, 5+ in aviation or large-scale infrastructure.
• PMP or equivalent certification is highly desirable.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all phases of large-scale aviation projects from initiation to closeout.
• Develop detailed plans: scope, budget, timelines, resources, risk management.
• Coordinate with regulators, contractors, and internal teams to meet objectives.
• Oversee procurement of materials and services for projects.
• Monitor progress, identify deviations, and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure safety, environmental, and quality standards throughout.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Project management

Negotiation

Risk management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

MS Project

Primavera P6

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major airport operator in Polokwane, Limpopo, is seeking a seasoned Senior Aviation Project Manager to oversee the development and execution of significant infrastructure projects. This role is crucial for managing the planning, design, construction, and commissioning of airport facilities, runways, and terminal upgrades. The successful candidate will ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality and safety standards. This hybrid position requires significant on-site presence for project oversight and stakeholder engagement in Polokwane, combined with remote responsibilities for planning, reporting, and strategic coordination. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of aviation infrastructure in the region, driving growth and enhancing operational capabilities. This is a high-impact role for an experienced professional in a dynamic environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading and managing all phases of large-scale aviation infrastructure projects, from initiation to closeout.
• Developing detailed project plans, including scope, budget, timelines, resource allocation, and risk management strategies.
• Coordinating with internal teams, external consultants, contractors, and regulatory bodies to ensure project objectives are met.
• Overseeing the procurement process for materials, equipment, and services.
• Monitoring project progress, identifying deviations from the plan, and implementing corrective actions.
• Ensuring strict adherence to all safety regulations, environmental standards, and quality control measures throughout the project lifecycle.
• Managing project budgets and financial performance, including cost control and forecasting.
• Communicating project status, risks, and issues effectively to senior management and stakeholders.
• Leading and motivating project teams to achieve project goals.
• Conducting post-project evaluations to capture lessons learned and identify areas for improvement.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Aviation Management, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of proven experience in project management, with at least 5 years specifically within the aviation or large-scale infrastructure sector.
• Strong understanding of airport operations, construction methodologies, and relevant regulatory frameworks.
• PMP or equivalent project management certification is highly desirable.
• Excellent leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera) and financial management tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Willingness to work a hybrid schedule, with significant on-site presence in Polokwane.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive executive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including private medical aid, a generous pension fund, and substantial annual leave.
• Professional development opportunities include advanced project management training and PMP certification support.
• You will have the opportunity to work on high-profile projects that are critical to the region's economic development and infrastructure growth.
• This role provides significant responsibility and autonomy, allowing you to shape major aviation developments from our Polokwane operational hub.
• Enjoy a challenging and rewarding career with an organization committed to excellence and innovation in aviation infrastructure.