Aviation Department Manager

Description The Aviation Department Manager is responsible for leading and growing the firm’s Aviation practice through a combination of technical expertise, people leadership, client engagement, and strategic business development . This role provides overall direction for aviation civil engineering services, manages a multi-disciplinary team, and serves as a visible leader both internally and externally. The Department Manager plays a key role in expanding the aviation portfolio, strengthening client relationships, and positioning the firm for continued growth in existing and new markets. This is a local hybrid position. Requirements Who You Are Proven leadership experience within an aviation or transportation engineering environment. Strong background in aviation civil engineering with the ability to provide high-level technical oversight and guidance. Demonstrated success in client-facing roles, business development, and practice growth. Excellent communication, leadership, and relationship-building skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate at all levels. Ability to balance strategic planning with hands-on leadership and operational execution. What You’ll Do Department & Team Leadership Lead the Aviation Department, with direct management responsibility for a portion of the team. Foster a high-performing, collaborative, and accountable team culture focused on quality, responsiveness, and professional growth. Provide mentorship, performance feedback, and career development guidance to staff. Support recruitment, onboarding, and staff development to meet current and future workload demands. Practice Growth & Strategy Drive continued growth of the Aviation practice, aligning department goals with the firm’s strategic vision. Identify and pursue new market opportunities, including geographic expansion and new client relationships. Collaborate with firm leadership to develop long-term practice plans, staffing strategies, and revenue goals. Client Leadership & Business Development Serve as a client-facing leader and trusted advisor for aviation clients and stakeholders. Represent the firm at national conferences, industry events, and client meetings to strengthen brand visibility and relationships. Lead or support business development efforts including proposal strategy, pursuit planning, and client interviews. Maintain and expand relationships with airport authorities, municipalities, and regulatory agencies. Technical Oversight & Quality Provide high-level technical oversight for aviation civil engineering projects, ensuring consistency, quality, and compliance with FAA and industry standards. Support Project Managers and Technical Leads in resolving complex technical, schedule, or coordination challenges. Ensure projects are delivered in alignment with scope, budget, schedule, and quality expectations. Operational & Financial Management Oversee department performance, workload planning, and staff utilization. Support project financial management efforts, including forecasting, staffing alignment, and coordination with Project Managers. Some of What You’ll Enjoy A competitive benefits package including 401(k) match, employee stock ownership, paid volunteer time off, parental leave, and continuing education reimbursement. Flexible work scheduling within a growing, forward-thinking organization. A collaborative, inclusive, and engaging work environment. Colleagues who value diverse perspectives, experiences, and ideas. Employee-led committees that promote social engagement, wellness initiatives, and community service throughout the year.