Vice President of Operations​/COO

The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority

Job Posting
Jan. 26, 2026

The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority (SDCRAA) is seeking a Vice President of Operations / Chief Operating Officer. The COO is a member of the Executive Leadership Team and has a critical role in creating and implementing strategies in support of SDCRAA’s vision, mission and goals, including reinforcing the organization’s culture and enhancing the customer experience. The COO is responsible for directing the day-to-day operations of the Airport, as well as developing and implementing all airport operations initiatives.

The COO’s scope of authority includes the Airport’s airfield and landside, airport security, public safety, facility management and traffic management. The COO is also responsible for terminal operations, including oversight of large-scale construction and renovation projects. The COO ensures airport activities are aligned with those of airport users including tenants, governmental agencies, and customers. The COO is a liaison to SDCRAA’s stakeholders and collaborates with tenants and the stakeholders to achieve the goals and objectives of the Airport.

The COO evaluates the work of assigned departments and ensures work is accomplished in compliance with established policies, directives, codes, regulations and laws. The COO evaluates departmental activities as well as the performance of individual staff members, makes and/or recommends adjustments, improvements or corrective actions, and coaches staff in order to achieve optimal performance levels. The COO also monitors budget activities, looking for methods of maximizing budget allocations.

The COO represents the SDCRAA at trade associations and local, state and federal meetings and conferences.

The ideal candidate for this position will have a college degree and at least 10 years’ experience in airport operations, maintenance and planning, with 5 years’ experience in a leadership role at a commercial service airport. Experience with international carriers is desired. The individual will have strong strategic thinking skills and have demonstrated the ability to effectively lead diverse teams with the goal of achieving employee engagement and success.

The candidate will be skilled in assessing the needs of customers, tenants and employees alike, creating opportunities for input and addressing concerns. The individual will have experience allocating budget and staff resources to projects as well as creating an inclusive work environment where all staff are encouraged to contribute their ideas and time in order to meet organizational goals and objectives.

The salary range is $187,546 - $337,582 (with a starting salary of $262,564). SAN offers short- and long-term incentive opportunities accompanied by a generous benefits package. Relocation assistance will be offered. For instructions on how to apply, please to see the recruitment brochure, or visit the searches tab at  .