Description
Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced Project Manager with strong airline and aviation services expertise to support short-term mobilization and implementation efforts tied to newly awarded airline RFPs. This temporary 3-month assignment is designed to provide rapid operational deployment and transition support following contract awards.
This role requires extensive travel and on-site presence at airport locations, playing a critical role in ensuring seamless startup execution, operational readiness, regulatory compliance, and successful service launches.
Assignment Duration
Temporary assignment: 3 months
Potential extension based on business needs and contract awards
Key Responsibilities
Lead contract startup and mobilization activities following airline RFP awards
Serve as the primary project lead coordinating cross-functional teams, including Operations, HR, Training, Safety, Finance, GSE, and Compliance
Develop, manage, and execute startup project plans, timelines, and key deliverables
Support station readiness efforts, including staffing, training, GSE deployment, uniforms, supplies, and vendor coordination
Ensure compliance with contract requirements, SLAs, CBAs, airport regulations, and applicable living wage ordinances
Act as the primary liaison between corporate leadership, station management, and airline partners
Identify operational risks and implementation gaps while developing mitigation strategies
Conduct onsite readiness assessments, go-live support, and post-launch operational reviews
Prepare executive-level startup reports, progress updates, and operational status communications
Required Qualifications
5+ years of project management experience within aviation, airline operations, ground handling, or airport services environments
Direct experience supporting airline contract startups, transitions, and RFP mobilizations
Strong understanding of airline operational structures and station staffing models
Experience working within unionized environments and collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) preferred
Familiarity with airport authority regulations, compliance standards, and living wage ordinances
Proven ability to manage multiple operational workstreams under aggressive timelines
Skills & Competencies
Strong project planning and execution capabilities
Cross-functional leadership and coordination
Operational readiness and startup assessment expertise
Risk management and problem-solving skills
Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
Ability to work independently in fast-paced, high-pressure operational environments
Travel Requirements
Extensive travel required
Ability to remain onsite at assigned airport locations for extended periods
Flexibility to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and irregular schedules during startup operations
Preferred Certifications (Not Required)
PMP or equivalent Project Management certification
Six Sigma or Lean experience is a plus
Work Environment
On-site airport operational environments
Fast-paced, customer-facing settings
High-visibility role supporting critical airline service launches and operational transitions