Airfield Manager

Major/Essential Functions Operational Oversight

• Direct and coordinate daily aircraft movements, including fixed-wing, rotary-wing, unmanned, and experimental aircraft.
• Manage airfield access and scheduling for tenants, research teams, and visiting aircraft.
• Monitor and maintain airfield readiness, including runway, taxiway, and apron conditions.
• After-hour work is possible; could need to be on-call.

• Ensure compliance with applicable FAA, DoD, ICAO, and RNSC operational standards.
• Conduct routine safety audits and risk assessments.
• Develop and implement emergency response protocols tailored to dissimilar aircraft operations.
• Maintain wildlife and environmental compliance plans.
• Provide Notices to Airmen (NOTAM).

• Serve as the primary liaison between RNSC, LRRA, aerospace tenants, TTU research teams, and regulatory agencies.
• Facilitate communication and coordination for joint operations, testing schedules, and infrastructure use.
• Direct the planning and coordination of airfield events and use.

• Oversee maintenance of airfield infrastructure including lighting, signage, and navigational aids.
• Coordinate with engineering and maintenance teams for repairs, upgrades, and capital improvements.
• Track and report on airfield asset conditions and operational needs.

• Maintain accurate records of aircraft operations, inspections, incidents, and maintenance.
• Prepare operational reports for RNSC leadership and regulatory bodies.
• Support grant applications and compliance documentation with relevant operational data.

• Train and supervise ground operations staff and contractors.
• Ensure personnel are briefed and certified for handling dissimilar aircraft and research protocols.
• Escort vendors, contractors, and visitors on and off the airfield.

• Contribute to long-term planning for airfield development, tenant expansion, and research integration.
• Assess future operational needs based on evolving aerospace and defense‑related activities.

Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Aeronautical Science, or related field. Minimum 5 years of experience in airfield operations or airport management.

This position is designated as involving access to critical infrastructure systems and/or research, as defined by Texas Executive Order GA-48. As such, candidates must successfully complete a comprehensive background check prior to employment. Employees are required to comply with all applicable state and federal regulations related to the protection of critical infrastructure. Ongoing employment is dependent upon maintaining eligibility for access and successfully passing periodic security and compliance reviews.

• Proactive problem solving and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Strong knowledge of private-use airfield operations and safety protocols.
• Ability to interpret and apply applicable regulations, safety standards, and internal policies.
• Excellent computer skills, specifically with security systems, badging programs, and access control technologies.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with internal staff, customers, contractors, and external agencies.