Job Summary
The Aviation Planner will perform aviation and transportation planning functions related to airport master plans and state aviation system plans. The role will collect, compile, and analyze economic, demographic, and aeronautical data to forecast aviation demand, evaluate airport capacity and development needs, and make recommendations regarding airport improvements and upgrades.
The position will coordinate with government agencies and other stakeholders on airport planning, funding programs, development projects, and aviation needs. Responsibilities also include reviewing and coordinating federally and state-funded airport projects, managing grant and assistance programs, maintaining aviation planning documents, and supporting regional planning activities.
The Aviation Planner will conduct airport safety inspections, on-site investigations of aircraft accidents and incidents, airport record updates, and enforcement activities. The role will also support airport operations, contribute to safety and environmental compliance, and recommend operational or procedural improvements.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, maintain, and update airport master plans and state aviation system plans.
- Collect and analyze economic, demographic, and aeronautical data to forecast aviation demand.
- Evaluate current and future airport capacity requirements.
- Coordinate with federal, state, and local government officials regarding airport planning and development.
- Manage and coordinate state-sponsored airport grant and assistance programs.
- Review and evaluate airport master plan input from government agencies and other stakeholders.
- Coordinate projects under federal and state aviation funding programs.
- Prepare recommendations regarding airport development, upgrades, and operational improvements.
- Participate in regional planning activities in an advisory capacity.
- Conduct airport inspections, safety inspections, and aircraft accident or incident investigations.
- Maintain airport records and update master records as required.
- Prepare and submit required disadvantaged business enterprise goals and related documentation.
- Support airport operations when needed.
- Recommend new procedures and operational changes to department leadership.
- Perform duties in accordance with applicable safety, environmental, risk management, and regulatory requirements.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree and 2 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Education and experience should be in planning, civil or aeronautical engineering, community development, law, business administration, aerospace, aviation studies, or a related field.
- Commercial pilot certification may substitute for one year of required experience.
- Valid driver's license.
- Motor vehicle record must meet applicable requirements.
- Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret aviation, economic, demographic, and planning data.
- Ability to coordinate with government agencies and other stakeholders.
- Knowledge of airport planning, aviation development, transportation planning, or related areas.
- Ability to perform field inspections and work under varying weather and site conditions.
- FAA pilot certification is preferred.
- Master's degree in planning, civil engineering, aeronautical engineering, or a related field is preferred.