DeKalb County is searching for a forward-thinking and strategic leader to drive the vision of establishing PDK as the premier general aviation airport in the Southeast.

This role offers a unique opportunity for professional growth and the chance to make a meaningful impact. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in airport operations, property and lease management, airport development, and fiscal oversight. Success in this role will require building strong partnerships with federal agencies and fostering connections with the local community to achieve organizational goals. The candidate must possess outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, demonstrate decisive and effective leadership, value collaboration and teamwork, and exhibit strong political acumen.

This position is non-merit and serves at the pleasure of the appointing authority

Salary: $150,000+  Job Code: 82001   Salary Grade: 31   FLSA: Exempt  

Essential Functions:  

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Manages, directs, and evaluates assigned staff; develops and oversees employee work schedules to ensure adequate coverage and control; compiles and reviews timesheets; approves/processes employee concerns and problems and counsels or disciplines as appropriate; assists with or completes employee performance appraisals; directs work; acts as a liaison between employees and management; and trains staff in operations, policies, and procedures.

Organizes, prioritizes, and assigns work; prioritizes and schedules work activities in order to meet objectives; ensures that subordinates have the proper resources needed to complete the assigned work; monitors status of work in progress and inspects completed work; consults with assigned staff to assist with complex/problem situations and provide technical expertise; provides progress and activity reports to management; and assists with the revision of procedure manuals as appropriate.

Implements policies established by the Board of Commissioners and the Chief Executive Officer; attends meetings with commissioners; and works with the Law Department to ensure leases, requests for proposals and invitations to bid are in compliance with County directives.

Ensures adherence to FAA and GDOT rules and regulations; reviews and conducts airport safety inspections; prepare FAA and GDOT grant applications; and prepares and maintains the airport's Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan.

Ensures airport security; monitors and investigates security breaches; ensures public safety; and investigates inside and outside "the fence line" for public safety incidents.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Aviation, Airport Management, Aeronautical or Civil Engineering or a related field (Master’s degree preferred); ten years of progressively responsible experience in operations for a general aviation and commercial airport, with five years of management experience for a comparably sized organization or as a director for a smaller organization; must have appropriate certifications in related field.

Specific License or Certification Required:  Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license.