Grayson County is seeking a qualified and motivated Airport Manager to oversee the operation and development of its county-owned general aviation airport. This position is responsible for managing daily airport operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, maintaining facilities, and advancing the airport’s role as a driver of local economic development. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on professional capable of working independently in a small-team environment while building strong relationships with tenants, businesses, and community stakeholders.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Manage day-to-day airport operations, including airfield safety, inspections, and facility oversight • Ensure compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Texas Department of Transportation aviation standards, and county policies • Conduct routine inspections of runways, taxiways, lighting systems, and navigational aids • Oversee airport tenants, hangar leases, the FBO, and customer service for general aviation users • Develop and manage the airport budget, including monitoring revenues and expenditures • Identify, pursue, and administer grant funding opportunities, including FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants • Plan, coordinate, and oversee capital improvement projects • Promote the airport as an economic development asset by supporting business recruitment and aviation-related growth • Serve as liaison between the county, airport tenants, economic development organizations, and the public • Maintain required records, reports, and regulatory documentation • Coordinate emergency response planning with local agencies • Perform hands-on operational duties as needed
Minimum Qualifications: • Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field (experience may substitute) • Minimum of 5-10 years of experience in airport operations, FBO management, or aviation-related field • Working knowledge of general aviation airport operations and applicable regulations
Preferred Qualifications: • Experience managing a general aviation airport • Familiarity with FAA grant processes and compliance requirements • Certified Member (CM) or Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) from the American Association of Airport Executives • Strong background in budgeting, capital planning, and economic development initiatives
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: • Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a small-team environment • Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills • Financial and project management proficiency • Ability to build partnerships with tenants, businesses, and community leaders • Self-directed with sound judgment and decision-making abilities
