At Surf Air Mobility, were transforming air mobility. As innovators in aviation, we are at the forefront of creating a more efficient and accessible flying experience. With our commitment to a customer-first approach, advanced software solutions, and electrification, we’re pioneering new ways for people to travel, making flying not only faster but more enjoyable. Our passionate team thrives in a collaborative environment where innovation and hard work go hand in hand. Help us shape the future of aviation while working with cutting-edge technologies that are changing the lives of our passengers.

Department: Airports & StationsLocation: Flexible within the Southern Airways hub networkPosition Type: Full-TimeReports To: Vice President of Airport Operations

The Director of Airport and Ground Support Operations is responsible for leading and overseeing all airport, below-wing, and ground support equipment (GSE) operations across Southern Airways’ station network. This role ensures safe, compliant, and efficient station operations while managing all GSE assets performance, maintenance, and availability. The Director also oversees any rental car programs operated by the company and plays a strategic role in resource planning, team development, vendor coordination, and operational excellence.

• Lead all airport and below-wing operations aspects, including baggage handling, ramp services, fueling coordination, and aircraft turnaround in coordination with procurement.
• Monitor performance metrics to drive continuous improvement in safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
• Ensure full compliance with FAA, TSA, OSHA, IATA, and airport authority regulations.
• Provide direction and leadership to station and ramp teams, ensuring alignment with safety protocols, company policies, and service standards.
• Manage staffing, scheduling, and performance evaluations across multiple stations.
• Develop and implement training programs to enhance staff competencies in operational procedures and safety practices.
• Act as a liaison between below-wing operations, internal departments, airline partners, and airport stakeholders.

• Oversee the operation, maintenance, inspection, and repair of all GSE across the network.
• Develop and manage GSE maintenance schedules to minimize downtime and extend equipment lifespan.
• Maintain accurate logs and reporting for all GSE activities and compliance audits.
• Assess equipment needs and lead procurement or leasing efforts in collaboration with Procurement.
• Manage GSE and spare parts inventory levels, ensuring availability and cost efficiency.
• Maintain oversight of vendor relationships, contracts, and service agreements related to GSE.

• Champion a strong safety culture across all departments.
• Conduct regular safety audits and implement improvements to reduce risk.
• Develop emergency response protocols for GSE-related incidents in coordination with the Safety Department.
• Investigate and report GSE accidents or malfunctions following regulatory standards.

• Develop and manage budgets for airport operations and GSE, including cost controls and capital planning.
• Identify opportunities to reduce costs while enhancing efficiency and safety.
• Lead equipment and personnel resource planning to support growth and operational demands.

• Manage the operations and logistics of any Southern Airways rental car program.
• Coordinate with the rental agency, maintain reporting systems, and deliver seamless customer service.

• Serve as the airline’s representative in discussions with airport authorities, vendors, and regulatory bodies.
• Partner with Procurement to support vendor sourcing, evaluations, and contract negotiations.
• Maintain strong working relationships with station managers, GSE suppliers, airport authorities, and key stakeholders.

• Stay current on industry innovations in ramp operations and GSE technologies.
• Recommend and implement tools or systems to enhance operational efficiency and reporting.

Travel:

• Regular travel across the Southern Airways network is required to support station teams, oversee GSE assets, and engage in strategic planning.

Education:Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Engineering, Logistics, Operations Management, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

Experience:

• Extensive experience in airline ground operations and GSE management, with proven leadership in a multi-station or hub network.
• Hands-on knowledge of below-wing procedures, safety regulations, turnaround coordination, and GSE best practices.

Certifications:

• Safety and regulatory certifications (OSHA, FAA) preferred.

Skills:

• Strong leadership and team development capabilities.
• Proficient in operational analysis, problem-solving, and process improvement.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency with GSE systems, ground ops tools, and Google Suite.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift, bend, and operate in outdoor conditions.
• Comfortable working in diverse weather environments when on-site.

Miscellaneous Requirements:

• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Computer, phone skills.
• Ability to read, write and speak English effectively.
• Ability to work within a 24/7 operation including holidays.
• Ability to pass 7-year background check and pre-employment drug screen per airline regulations and/or company policy.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Authorized to work in the U.S. per the Immigration Act of 1986.

Benefits:

• Competitive Salary: Attractive compensation package based on experience.
• Health & Wellness: After 30 days of employment on the 1st of the next month, you are eligible to sign up for medical, dental, and vision insurance, air ambulance coverage, short-term disability, pet insurance, health savings accounts, and company-paid life insurance.
• Retirement Plans: Employees can enroll in our company’s 401(k) plan.
• Generous PTO: After completion of your probationary period, employees earn 1 day of PTO per month, plus paid holidays throughout the calendar year.
• Employee Discounts: After completion of your probationary period, you can access the My ID Travel program, which allows members of your immediate family to participate as well. This program provides travel privileges, including:
• Flight tickets at significant discount, employee and family members can fly our planes (standby space available)
• Discounts on hotels and resorts
• Car rentals at reduced rates
• Discounted cruises

Join our team at Surf Air Mobility and be a key player in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of our flights!

At Surf Air Mobility, we are committed to building a more inclusive ecosystem that integrates women, people of color, and other underrepresented groups into the cleantech sector and aerospace industry. We strongly encourage applications from qualified applicants and members of underrepresented groups. Surf Air Mobility is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Surf Air Mobility is governed based on merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.