Airport Principal Planner

Position Title

Airport Principal Planner

Under the general supervision of the Airport Planning Manager, Assistant Airport Director of Planning and Airport Director of Planning, the individual conducts research, analyzes data and presents planning alternatives and recommendations in written, graphic, or oral reports for use by Division Directors, Executive Director, and Airport Board. This professional‑level position involves complex current and long‑range airport planning, airport facility design and development, project funding coordination and federal program administration.

The role requires strong CAD skills and may specialize in airport facility planning and design, airport/community compatibility planning, federal grant management, Capital Improvement Program (CIP) management, and/or Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program management.

Join the Salt Lake City Department of Airports as an Airport Principal Planner, where you’ll help shape the future of airport facilities and operations. You will conduct research, analyze data, and present planning recommendations that guide strategic decisions. We seek a detail‑oriented planner with strong CAD skills to create clear, professional visuals and layouts that support planning and development. Working closely with the FAA, airlines, consultants, and internal stakeholders, you’ll deliver compliant, well‑coordinated, and forward‑looking solutions that support safe, efficient, and sustainable airport operations.

$82,000 to $91,689 annually based on qualifications and experience.

• Health Insurance (95% of premium paid by city)
• Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
• Paid vacation and personal leave
• 6‑12 weeks of paid parental leave available
• Retirement contributions toward a pension plan and/or 401(k)
• A robust Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)
• Up to $4,000 tuition reimbursement annually
• Discounted supplemental benefits such as pet insurance and legal services

• Prepare detailed construction drawings, technical exhibits, and planning documents for aircraft systems and airport infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with applicable aviation and industry standards.
• Perform research and analysis for complex planning projects consistent with Department goals and Airport Master Plans; coordinate with division directors, FAA, airlines, and airport users to identify facility requirements, operational constraints, and financial limitations.
• Develop planning alternatives in compliance with FAA regulations, zoning requirements, security regulations, and operational needs, and recommend compatible solutions.
• Prepare professional narrative reports, statistical analysis, drawings, maps, presentations, and other graphics for small‑area plans and special studies.
• Coordinate consultant work efforts, including selection, scope review, performance monitoring, contract compliance, and payment recommendations.
• Coordinate the Airport’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Civil Rights Title VI programs.
• Coordinate the Airport’s grant funding program, ensuring compliance with grant eligibility, federal contract requirements, and grant assurances; prepare and process grant applications, reimbursements, and close‑out reports; assist with Passenger Facility Charge applications.
• Prepare and maintain the 5‑ and 10‑year Capital Improvement Program (CIP), coordinate with Airport divisions, establish program priorities, negotiate with FAA to maximize funds, and develop project descriptions and justifications.
• Operate and maintain the computerized noise monitoring system, coordinate data collection and analysis, and produce summary reports.
• Perform other related duties as required.

• Bachelor’s degree in Planning, Aviation Management, Business, Engineering, or a closely related field and four (4) years paid experience in an engineering or aviation/community planning environment; educational requirements may be substituted on a year‑for‑year basis for aviation or community planning experience.
• Advanced knowledge of airport/community planning principles…