Aviation Project Manager

Overview

Join our growing aviation team as an Aviation Project Manager in Nashville, TN and play a pivotal role in shaping critical airport infrastructure that impacts communities and connectivity nationwide. In this role, you'll lead the full lifecycle of complex aviation design and construction projects—bringing together technical expertise, strategic leadership, and client partnership to deliver high-impact, mission‑critical solutions. You'll work at the intersection of engineering excellence and program delivery, ensuring projects are executed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with FAA and industry standards.

Collaborating with industry‑leading experts across disciplines, you'll have the opportunity to influence major capital improvement programs while advancing your own career in a supportive, flexible hybrid work environment. This is a high‑visibility role ideal for professionals who thrive in dynamic, multidisciplinary settings and are motivated to drive innovation, deliver quality, and make a lasting impact on aviation infrastructure.

• Own project delivery from end to end – Oversee scope, budget, schedule, quality, and risk across aviation projects.
• Serve as a trusted client advisor – Build strong relationships with airport clients and represent Atkins
  
  Réalis's full suite of capabilities with minimal oversight.
• Lead capital improvement program (CIP) efforts – Support clients through planning, grant applications, design, procurement, construction administration, and closeout.
• Drive technical excellence – Provide oversight on airfield and landside design; review engineering concepts, plans, and specifications to ensure quality and compliance.
• Coordinate across disciplines – Partner with engineers, subconsultants, and technical teams to deliver integrated solutions.
• Guide project planning and execution – Develop and manage cost estimates, staffing plans, schedules, and budgets.
• Solve complex engineering challenges – Evaluate alternatives, mitigate risks, and implement practical, cost‑effective solutions.
• Mentor and develop talent – Support and coach junior engineers and technical staff, fostering a high‑performing team environment.
• Engage with key agencies – Collaborate with the FAA and TDOT Aeronautics Division on grants, inspections, and construction administration.
• Support construction oversight – Ensure quality assurance and field coordination through project delivery.
• Travel as needed – Occasional travel to project sites (domestic and potentially international).

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field
• 8+ years of experience in aviation engineering and/or project management, with increasing responsibility
• Professional Engineer (PE) license (required)
• Proven experience managing airport or aviation infrastructure projects
• Strong understanding of FAA standards, funding processes, and airport development programs
• Excellent communication and client management skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels
• Demonstrated success managing budgets, schedules, and multidisciplinary teams
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; familiarity with AutoCAD Civil 3D is a plus
• Strong technical writing and documentation

At Atkins

Réalis, our values—Safety, Integrity, Collaboration, Innovation, and Excellence—are the foundation of our culture and guide our decisions. Depending on your employment status, benefits may include medical, dental, vision, company‑paid life and short‑ and long‑term disability benefits, employer‑matched 401(k) with 100% vesting, employee stock purchase plan, paid time off, leaves of absence options, flexible work options, recognition and employee satisfaction programs, employee assistance program, and voluntary benefits.

Expected compensation range is between $100,000–$150,000 annually depending on skills, experience, and geographical location.

Atkins

Réalis is an equal opportunity, drug‑free employer. EOE/Veteran/Disability.