Airport Operations Manager

Make an impact on regional aviation services and infrastructure that supports our community.

Port Lincoln Airport Management Authority is looking for an experienced and motivated aviation professional to join our team as Airport Operations Manager. This full-time, three-year fixed-term opportunity offers the chance to make a real impact on the future of aviation across the Lower Eyre Peninsula.

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, you'll lead the Airport Operations Team and be responsible for the safe, compliant and efficient operation of Port Lincoln Airport, as well as the Cummins and Coffin Bay Aircraft Landing Areas. This is a diverse, hands-on leadership role covering aviation safety, security, emergency preparedness, operational compliance and airside operations. As PLAMA continues to build its foundations, you'll have the opportunity to strengthen compliance systems, enhance operational practices and contribute to the development of a new Airport Master Plan that will help shape the airport's future. If you're a practical, solutions-focused aviation professional who enjoys making a real impact, we'd love to hear from you.

About the role

As Airport Operations Manager, you will lead the safe, compliant and efficient operation of Port Lincoln Airport, as well as the Cummins and Coffin Bay Aircraft Landing Areas.

Key responsibilities

• Leading and developing the Airport Operations Team.
• Managing airside operations and daily airport activities.
• Ensuring compliance with aviation regulations, standards and airport procedures.
• Overseeing aviation safety, security and emergency management requirements.
• Maintaining airport operational manuals, systems and compliance programs.
• Coordinating contractors, stakeholders and regulatory agencies.
• Supporting strategic projects and future airport planning initiatives.
• Driving continuous improvement across airport operations and services.

Joining PLAMA at an exciting stage of its development, you will have the opportunity to strengthen compliance systems, improve operational processes and help shape the future of aviation infrastructure and services across the Lower Eyre Peninsula.

About you

You are an experienced aviation professional with a strong understanding of airport operations, aviation safety and regulatory compliance. A practical and approachable leader, you enjoy working with people, solving problems and driving continuous improvement.

You will bring:

• Experience in airport operations, aviation safety, compliance or a related field.
• Sound knowledge of aviation regulations, standards and operational requirements.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• The ability to build positive relationships with staff, airport users, contractors and stakeholders.
• A proactive, solutions-focused approach and commitment to high-quality outcomes.
• Excellent communication, organisational and decision-making skills.
• Experience managing compliance systems, audits or regulatory obligations (desirable).

Most importantly, you will be passionate about safe and efficient airport operations and excited by the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to a growing organisation and the future of aviation in our region.

Why join PLAMA?

Working with PLAMA and the Lower Eyre Council gives you the opportunity to be involved in ensuring the delivery of safe and compliant airport operations, as well being involved in delivering the future of aviation services and infrastructure that supports the communities around you.

Job Contact

For a confidential discussion regarding this position, please contact the Port Lincoln Airport Chief Executive Officer Jennifer May on 8684 3400 or visit https://www.lowereyrepeninsula.sa.gov.au/

Applications closing 5:00pm Monday 02 November 2026.