Job Description

Airport Manager

The City of South Lake Tahoe is seeking an experienced, safety-focused Airport Manager to lead the operations, regulatory compliance, financial management, and strategic development of Lake Tahoe Airport.

This exempt management position oversees airport safety, security, maintenance, emergency preparedness, leasing, revenue generation, budgeting, capital improvements, and compliance with FAA, TSA, California Division of Aeronautics, and other applicable requirements. The Airport Manager serves as the City's primary representative on airport matters and works closely with City leadership, staff, tenants, public agencies, and the community.

The ideal candidate brings strong aviation operations experience, proven supervisory and fiscal management skills, and the ability to balance safety, customer service, regulatory compliance, and long-term airport sustainability. While not required, designation as an American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) Certified Member (C.M.) or Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) is highly desirable.

The City offers a comprehensive benefit package for this position, including:

• $133,908 - $162,768 Annual Salary
• Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance & Long-Term Disability
• Deferred Compensation with Matching
• Education Incentive Pay
• 168 Hours of Paid Time Off, increasing after year 3
• Administrative Leave
• 13 Paid Holidays
• Wellness Program
• Professional Association Memberships
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Training Program Memberships
• CalPERS
• City employees may also qualify for student loan forgiveness through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program

Recruitment Process: Applications Received: August 31, 2026 – September 20, 2026 In-Person Interviews: Tentatively October 23, 2026

A resume and cover letter must be submitted at time of application.

As the Airport Manager, you'll lead the day-to-day operations, development, and strategic direction of the Airport. Key responsibilities include:

• Manage Airport operations, facilities, maintenance, safety, security, and emergency preparedness.
• Lead and develop Airport staff and oversee work plans and programs.
• Manage the Airport budget, enterprise fund, leases, fees, grants, and revenue-generating opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with FAA, TSA, state, federal, and local regulations.
• Oversee Airport property, land use, facility development, and capital improvement projects.
• Build effective partnerships with City departments, government agencies, tenants, and community stakeholders.
• Prepare reports and recommendations and represent the Airport before City leadership and the public.

The ideal candidate has knowledge of airport operations and aviation regulations, along with strong leadership, financial management, and problem-solving skills. The successful candidate will be able to:

• Lead and supervise staff and manage complex operations.
• Develop and manage budgets, revenues, leases, and grants.
• Interpret and apply applicable laws, regulations, and policies.
• Analyze operational and financial issues and develop effective solutions.
• Promote safe, efficient, and financially sustainable Airport operations.
• Communicate effectively and build strong working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Exercise sound judgment, professionalism, and initiative.

Minimum Qualifications

Any combination of education, training, and experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for successful performance is qualifying. A typical qualifying background includes:

Education/Training: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in business administration, public administration, marketing, economics, airport management, or a closely related field.

Experience: Four years of increasingly responsible aviation management experience involving airport operations, including at least one year of administrative and supervisory responsibility.

Licenses and Certifications:

• Possession of a valid driver's license.
• A pilot certificate is desired.
• American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) Certified Member (C.M.) or Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) designation is highly desirable.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer

The City of South Lake Tahoe is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All employment actions shall be administered regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, physical or mental disability or medical condition, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, political affiliation, veterans' status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

Disaster Service Worker

All full-time, permanent City employees are required to provide services as Disaster Service Workers in the event of an emergency/disaster.

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