Airport Operations Specialist - Airfield, Portland International Airport (PDX)

Ready to play a key role at one of the nation's top airports? Join the Port of Portland's Airport Operations team and help keep Portland International Airport running smoothly, safely, and efficiently.

Why this role matters:
Airport operations is at the heart of everything we do. From supporting passengers and airlines to coordinating aircraft and cargo, our specialists are the behind-the-scenes problem-solvers who keep the airport moving 24/7.

Why join us:
At the Port of Portland, you'll be part of a mission-driven team that values collaboration, innovation, and excellence. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a real impact on travelers' experiences and the success of our region's gateway to the world.

• Under the direction of the Airport Duty Manager, provide 24/7 oversight of the airside system for matters of safety, security, efficiency, and customer service.
  • Evaluate, report and recommend to the Airport Duty Manager any corrective action, as needed, on any planned and unplanned airside closures and/or restrictions.
  • Assist in the coordination of activities and efforts to minimize impacts resulting from emergencies, weather problems, construction and maintenance, or other irregular situations.
• Conduct airfield inspections to facilitate operational safety and ensure compliance with federally mandated security regulations and compliance with the airport's FAR Part 139 self-inspection program.
  • Evaluate runway conditions during snow and ice events or wildlife/bird strike hazards; issue condition advisories via NOTAM/ARINC and/or verbal communications with FAA, airlines, and pilots.
  • Monitor airfield vehicle operations and ensure compliance with current airfield driving regulations.
  • Coordinate with Environmental staff to research and implement control measures to reduce wildlife/bird strike hazards.
• Conduct perimeter area inspections of the airfield, ensuring access points and fence line are in compliance with TSAR.
  • Monitor and ensure compliance by airfield users of the ramps, roadways, and movement areas on the airfield in compliance with FAR, TSAR, Port Ordinances and Airport Rules and Regulations.
• Conduct training of airfield movement area users in compliance with FAR, TSAR, Port Ordinances, Airport Rules and Regulations and Airport Policies and Procedures.
• Maintain Subject Matter Expertise and documentation in assigned operational areas.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in related field is preferred.
• Minimum two (2) years' experience applying directive or regulatory requirements within a dynamic operational environment is required.
• Direct experience with FAR Part 139 and TSR 1542 is preferred; or the equivalent combination of education and/or relevant experience.
• Ability to pass and maintain a Criminal History Records check and Security Threat Assessment required for a PDX Security Badge.
• Maintain a valid state drivers' license is required.
• Working knowledge of:
  • Airfield operations management principles/practices.
  • Transportation Security Administration Regulations and Federal Aviation Administration Regulations, safety, and security.
  • FAR Parts 139, 77; TSA 1542.

• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrate commitment to valuing differences among individuals and passion for being inclusive.
• Proven team player that shows the utmost respect for others.
• Effectively solve problems, while applying complex regulations and procedures under high-pressure circumstances.
• Work with general supervision, many times in isolated situations.
• Evaluate, report and recommend to the Airport Duty Manager any operational plans and operational impacts resolutions.
• Safely and effectively operate a motor vehicle in the airfield environment.

SELECTION PROCESS (tentative schedule):

1. A minimum qualification evaluation of education, training, and experience of submitted application packets will take place by Human Resources the week of September 29, 2025.
   
   
2. A Subject Matter Expert (SME) Panel will perform an evaluation of experience and training taken from your employment application materials including any responses to the supplemental questionnaire.
   
   
3. Candidates who successfully pass the SME evaluation will be invited to a first-round virtual interview on Tuesday, October 14. Those who advance will then be invited to join us for an in-person panel interview on Wednesday, November 5.

About us:

At the Port of Portland, we use everything we have - our three airports, three working marine terminals, six business parks, and all the resources, expertise, and experience behind them - to move with purpose, connecting people with powerful opportunities and creating value for our region. We know that every person we hire, business we work with, contract we sign and decision we make is a chance to make someone's life better. And we'll use our power and influence to unlock new opportunities and ensure more people share in our region's success. With YOUR help - together with our partners, customers, and community - we'll help drive meaningful change!

Do you have questions about this job?

Contact us: careers@portofportland.com

Safety: The Port promotes safety as a Core value and we seek to eliminate harm through a culture of active prevention, curiosity, evaluation, and action. We comply with safety and health policies and procedures and consistently look for improvements that support operational excellence.

Equal Opportunity Employer: The Port of Portland is dedicated to maintaining and improving a work environment, which extends equal opportunity to all individuals, regardless of their race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability or sexual orientation. Employment decisions shall be made in such a manner as to further the principle of equal employment opportunity and to comply with state, federal and local laws. We affirm through this policy statement our continuing commitment to the principles of nondiscrimination.

Veterans Preference: Under Oregon law, qualified veterans may be eligible for veterans' preference when applying for Port of Portland positions. If you are a veteran and would like to be considered for a veteran's preference for this job, please provide the qualifying documents as instructed during the application process.

Background Checks and Drug Testing: The Port of Portland will conduct background checks and/or drug tests for positions where such tests are required by regulation and for other safety-sensitive positions.

ADA Accommodation: Accommodations will be considered for applicants or candidates with a qualifying disability that prevents them from participating in this process. Accommodations will be made where the Port can reasonably do so without imposing an undue hardship on the business or compromising the integrity of the recruitment process. An applicant with any disability who believes that they need an accommodation should contact Human Resources: call 503-415-6690 or email careers@portofportland.com.