Aviation Director

The Albuquerque Aviation Department is seeking an Aviation Director to serve as the chief executive responsible for the leadership, management, and long-term development of the City’s Aviation Department. Reporting to the Chief Operations Officer, this at-will executive role provides strategic direction across airport operations, planning, finance, and stakeholder relations to ensure a safe, efficient, and economically sound airport system that supports regional and statewide growth.

The department operates two municipal airports:
Albuquerque International Sunport, a medium-hub commercial service airport and the largest multimodal facility in New Mexico, and Double Eagle II Airport, a key general aviation facility serving the Albuquerque region.

The Aviation Director leads an organization with approximately 293 full-time employees and an annual operating budget of $68 million. The role balances dayto-day operational oversight with long‑range planning, capital development, and regulatory compliance. As the public face of the airport system, the Director represents the City in local, regional, and national forums while maintaining strong partnerships with airlines, tenants, federal agencies, military partners, and the community.

• Lead safe, secure, and efficient airport operations across airfield, terminal, and landside functions
• Set strategic direction through master planning, capital programming, and long‑term development initiatives
• Direct operating and capital budgets while overseeing financial stewardship and fiscal accountability
• Ensure compliance with FAA, TSA, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations
• Oversee leases, contracts, and relationships with airlines, tenants, and business partners
• Guide capital projects to deliver scope, schedule, and budget objectives
• Advance sustainability, environmental stewardship, and noise compatibility programs
• Serve as primary liaison with government agencies, media, and key stakeholders
• Lead emergency preparedness, response, and crisis communication efforts
• Foster a high‑quality, customer‑focused airport experience across all passenger services

Candidates should possess extensive executive‑level aviation leadership experience and hold Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) certification, or the ability to obtain equivalent accreditation. A valid New Mexico Driver’s License and the ability to secure a City Operator’s Permit within six months of hire are required.

The starting salary range for this position is negotiable and is accompanied by a generous benefits package. For instructions on how to apply, please to see the recruitment brochure, or visit the searches tab at