Airport Operations Specialist

The Airport Operations Specialist is responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of all airfield, terminal, and landside environments at Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport. This position plays a critical role in maintaining compliance with 14 CFR Part 139, applicable FAA regulations, TSA requirements, and RIAC policies/procedures. The role requires the ability to make operational decisions in an adynamic environment consistent with established regulations, procedures, and management direction related to airfield inspections, incident response, construction coordination, snow removal operations, and regulatory enforcement. The Airport Operations Specialist serves as the airport's frontline representative during irregular operations, emergencies, and daily field activities, ensuring operational continuity and safety.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesOther duties may be assigned; the essential duties and responsibilities include the following:Airfield Operations & ComplianceConduct comprehensive airfield self‑inspections in accordance with 14 CFR Part 139, including:Runways, taxiways, ramps, lighting systems, signage, and markingsWildlife hazards and mitigation effectiveness, including termination and removal of carcass or remainsForeign Object Debris (FOD) detection and removalPerimeter security and access pointsIdentify discrepancies, generate work orders, document deficiencies and monitor the status of corrective actions in accordance with FAA Advisory Circulars and RIAC proceduresDocument unresolved or non‑compliant conditions and elevate concerns through the appropriate management chain in accordance with RIAC proceduresIssue, update, and cancel NOTAMs accurately and in real‑time in accordance with RIAC procedures and management direction.Monitor and report runway surface conditions, including friction testing and contaminant reportingEnsure protection of navigational aids (NAVAIDs) and critical areasSafety, Security & Regulatory EnforcementMonitor compliance with airport rules, regulations, and FAA/TSA requirements and report or address operational issues in accordance with RIAC procedures and management directionAdminister and enforce the Airport Motor Vehicle Driver Training and Operator Program to RIAC personnel, tenants, and contractorsRespond to, document and report incidents, accidents, and irregular operations in accordance with RIAC procedures and management directionMaintain compliance with FAR Part 77 obstruction standardsServe as a first responder to airfield and terminal/landside emergencies, including aircraft incidents, medical events, and security concernsConstruction & Airfield CoordinationMonitor airfield construction projects for safety and compliance with approved Construction Safety and Phasing Plans (CSPP), in accordance with RIAC procedures and management directionCoordinate operational activities with contractors, infrastructure personnel, and FAA ATCT to support safe and efficient airport operationsProvide escorts and ensure safe access for contractors in movement and non‑movement areasIdentify operational risks associated with construction activities and report or elevate concerns in accordance with RIAC proceduresOperational Response & Incident ManagementRespond to emergencies and irregular operations, including:Aircraft incidents and diversionsSnow and ice control operationsFuel spills and environmental hazardsCoordinate with RIAC Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF), RIAC Police, TSA, FAA ATCT, mutual aid, airlines, and tenants during eventsSupport implementation of the Airport Emergency Plan (AEP)Airfield & Aircraft SupportProvide aircraft marshalling, follow‑me services, and remote parking/reposition coordinationProvide operational information to pilots consistent with FAA regulations and RIAC procedures during non‑towered operationsAssist with gate management and ramp congestion mitigation when requiredTerminal & Landside OperationsConduct inspections of terminal, curbside, and roadway areas to ensure safety, security, regulatory compliance, and efficient passenger flowIdentify and document operational issues, hazards, and maintenance deficiencies and coordinate follow‑up through appropriate RIAC channelsMonitor and manage terminal and curbside activity during peak periods and irregular operations (IROPs), including congestion, traffic flow, and passenger movementRespond to and document incidents within terminal and landside environments, coordinating with management, public safety, TSA, and stakeholders as neededEquipment & SystemsOperate and maintain proficiency with specialized airport operations equipment, including friction measurement devices, radios, mobile data systems (iPad/tablet), shotguns/air rifles, and inspection toolsUtilize airfield lighting control systems, NOTAM management systems, and other operational software in accordance with RIAC procedures to support safe and efficient airport operationsOperate airport vehicles in movement and non‑movement areas in accordance with established procedures and safety requirementsPerform routine checks of assigned equipment to ensure operational readiness and report deficiencies for repair or replacementAdministrative & Reporting DutiesAccurately and promptly document inspections, incidents, and operational activities in airport management systemsGenerate work orders and monitor maintenance follow‑up status in accordance with RIAC proceduresMaintain detailed logs to support FAA inspections and auditsPrepare reports and documentation for internal and regulatory reviewCustomer Service & Stakeholder CoordinationServe as a liaison operational point of contact between RIAC and tenants, airlines, contractors, and stakeholders in accordance with RIAC procedures and management directionProvide clear, professional communication during routine and high‑stress situationsSupport and attend operational meetings, briefings, and coordination efforts, as directed by managementSupervisory ResponsibilitiesNoneRequired QualificationsTo perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.Strong working knowledge of:14 CFR Part 139 requirementsFAA Advisory Circulars related to airport operationsNational Airspace System fundamentalsAbility to:Work under stressMake rapid, sound decisions in high‑pressure environmentsManage multiple priorities simultaneouslyInterpret NOTAMs, weather reports (METAR/TAF), and airfield conditionsIdentify aircraft types and operational characteristicsProficient in radio communications and aviation phraseologyStrong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skillsEducation & ExperienceAssociate degree in Aviation Management, Airport Operations, or related field ORMinimum of 3 years of relevant airport operations experience at a Part 139 airportCertifications & RequirementsValid driver's license (must meet airport driving requirements) which must be maintained as a condition of continued employment and must remain insurableAbility to obtain and maintain:Airfield driving privileges (movement and non‑movement areas) which must be maintained as a condition of continued employmentAirport SIDA badge (TSA clearance) which must be maintained as a condition of continued employmentU.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) authorization and clearance which must be maintained as a condition of continued employmentAbility to complete required FAA and airport training programs which must be maintained as a condition of continued employmentPrivate Pilot's License (PPL) preferredAmerican Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) certifications preferredMust be available for:Rotating shifts (24/7 operation)Mandatory overtime and emergency call‑insProlonged shifts up to 16 continuous hours to ensure shift coverage or longer during State/Airport emergencies (i.e. aircraft incidents/accidents, snow/ice events, etc.)Physical RequirementsWork outdoors in all weather conditions (extreme heat, cold, precipitation)Lift up to 50 poundsOperate vehicles and specialized equipment for extended periods without sleepRemain alert and responsive during extended shifts and emergency operations (i.e. snow/ice events)Work EnvironmentThe work environment characteristics described herein are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position.Work is performed in all areas of Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport including both office and field environments, with significant time spent on the airfieldExposure to:Aircraft noise, jet blast, and moving equipmentSevere weather conditionsHigh‑stress and time‑sensitive operational scenarios#J-18808-Ljbffr

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