What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Aviation position at Humboldt County?
DEFINITION
Please note: This is a County of Humboldt job position, however the job application is submitted through ADK Consulting & Executive Search. To apply for this position, click on this link.
The Director of Aviation plans, organizes and directs aviation programs, services and facilities across countyoperated airports. Collaborating closely with the Board, County Administrative Officer, airline partners, general aviation tenants and community partners, the Director ensures the delivery of safe, efficient and innovative airport operations.
DEFINITION Under general policy direction by the Board of Supervisors, plans, organizes, coordinates and directs the programs and activities of the County's Aviation Department; provides expert professional assistance to County management staff, responsible for the operation, maintenance and development of aviation facilities and airfields, and related matters; performs related work as assigned. The Airport Department consists of six (6) airports located throughout the County: The California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport (ACV), which offers commercial as well as general aviation, and five general aviation airports including Murray Field (EKA) Rohnerville Field (FOT), Garberville Field (O16), Kneeland Field (O19) and Dinsmore Field (D63). DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS This class has department head-level responsibility for overall policy & strategic development, program planning, fiscal management, administration and operation of the county's Aviation Department. The incumbent is responsible for accomplishing departmental goals and objectives, supervising staff, administering the annual budget, and directing the day-to-day operations and activities of the Aviation Department. This class is not part of the classified service and serves at the will and pleasure of the Board of Supervisors.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES
- Ensures the Humboldt County Airport system is operating according to Federal, State and Local laws and regulations in order to ensure public safety and security; ensures proper maintenance, security and compliance of airport facilities; directs airport security and emergency operation efforts, performing safety risk analysis to ensure the Airport and airfields operate in a safe and compliant manner.
- Represents the county in negotiating terms and conditions of tenant leases, submits for review to the County Counsel and Risk Management and enforces terms of leases.
- Develops and directs the implementation of goals, objectives, policies, procedures and work standards for the Aviation Department; prepares and administers the department's budget.
- Works closely with the County Administrative Officer, Board of Supervisors, other County departments, a variety of public and private organizations, and citizen groups in developing programs and implementing projects to solve problems related to the assigned function; advises the County Administrative Officer and Board of Supervisors on related issues and programs.
- Advises the Board of Supervisors on issues and programs relative to management of the county's airport and airfields; prepares and recommends long-range plans for aviation services and programs and develops specific proposals for action on current and future County needs.
- Oversees long- and short-range activities including the Aviation Department Master Plan; coordinating such activities with those of other political jurisdictions.
- Formulates and administers the Aviation Department enterprise and capital improvements budgets. Prepares federal and state grant applications. Monitors and administers grant projects expending grant funds per agreements.
- Formulates and administers the local commercial air service marketing strategies and serves as the direct representative for Humboldt County in seeking expanded air service and competitive rates for the public.
- Represents the County and works closely with boards and commissions and public and private officials to provide technical assistance, directly or through subordinate staff.
- Directs terminal, operations and administrative functions. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the county's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities including interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning and directing work; appraising performance, rewarding and disciplining employees; ensuring programs and funding for staff development and training; addressing complaints and resolving problems.
- Coordinates the preparation of a wide variety of reports or presentations for County management and/or outside agencies.
- Directs the development of management systems, procedures and standards for program evaluation.
- Monitors developments related to delegated service area; evaluates their impact on County operations and implements policy and procedure improvements.
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
- Administrative principles and methods, including goal setting, program and operating & capital budget development and implementation and employee supervision.
- Modern principles, practices and programs related airport operation, management and maintenance.
- Federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations affecting airport operations, safety and security
- Methods and techniques of effective facilitation, communication and negotiation
- Budget development and administration
- Principles of leadership, engagement and performance management
- Strategic planning and development
- Negotiation and lease management
- Principles and practices of business computer applications related to the work.
Skill in:
- Planning, organizing, administering and coordinating a variety of large and complex aviation services, programs and staff.
- Selecting, motivating and evaluating staff and providing for their training and professional development.
- Developing and implementing goals, objectives, policies, procedures, work standards and internal controls.
- Understanding, interpreting, explaining and applying complex county, state and federal laws regulating airport and airfield programs and projects.
- Analyzing complex technical and administrative problems, evaluating alternative solutions and adopting effective courses of action.
- Preparing clear and concise reports, correspondence and other written materials.
- Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with a variety of citizens, public and private organizations, boards and commissions, and County staff.
- Exercising sound independent judgment within general policy guidelines.
Other Requirements:
Must possess a valid California driver's license.
Desirable Education and Experience:
A typical way to obtain the knowledge and skills outlined above is:
A four year college degree with major course work in aviation, public administration, management, facilities/construction management, or a closely related field and five (5) years of supervisory or administrative experience in aviation and airfield management which has included program planning, development and administration and working with community organizations.
Certification through the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) as an Accredited Airport Executive is highly desirable.
WORKING CONDITIONS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
HOW TO APPLY
A complete, original application must be filed for each position you are interested in applying for. Applicants must apply online through ADK Consulting & Executive Search website found here.
Applications must be submitted no later than the final filing date and time listed on the job flyer.
It is important that your application shows all the relevant education and experience you possess.
Please read the job requirements section of the announcement. Be sure you meet these requirements since they will be carefully evaluated during the selection process.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
The County utilizes a set of rules to ensure that our hiring processes are fair and equitable. Applications will be screened and those considered qualified will be invited to appear for an oral and/or written examination. Meeting the requirements does not guarantee inclusion into the selection process. Depending upon the number of applications received, the selection process may consist of additional application screening, written and/or practical exam(s), oral interview, or any combination thereof.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does it take to fill out the application?
- You should allow 30 – 45 minutes to fill out your application.
Can I change my application after submitting it?
- No. Once an application has been submitted, it is final. Applicants may submit a new application with updated information during the filing period if they wish. Only the most recent application submitted will be considered. All other applications will not be considered.
How long until I hear back from you and how can I check for updates on my application?
- You may receive communications regarding your application at different stages of the selection process. Important updates will be sent to the email address listed in your governmentjobs.com account at the time of notification. To ensure you don't miss any critical information, we recommend keeping your email address current and regularly checking both your inbox and junk mail folders throughout the process. You can also log into your governmentjobs.com account at any time to check your application status. If you have any questions about your application's progress, please contact the County of Humboldt Human Resources Personnel Division at 707-476-2349 or personnel@co.humboldt.ca.us.
Will I be informed if I am not selected for an interview / Oral Exam?
- Yes, you will be informed via email if you are not selected for an interview / Oral Exam.
OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION
Research indicates that individuals in protected classes can be less likely to submit a job application. The County of Humboldt is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace where our employees are free to bring their full selves to work each day in an environment that allows them to reach their full potential. The County Board of Supervisors has made organizational commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the County is working to ensure that these commitments are reflected in all we do. The County recognizes that certain populations (BIPOC, Disabled Persons, Veterans, LGBTQIA community members, etc.) face systemic and structural challenges which may inhibit their ability to satisfy every requirement of the position. In recognition of these structural and systemic factors, the Human Resources Department understands that experience can be gained in many ways – oftentimes, outside of formal institutions – and strives to take a holistic approach in assessing an applicant’s qualifications for a position.
If you’re excited about this role but your past work experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we strongly encourage you to apply.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS
The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access and opportunities in its programs, activities, and employment, and does not discriminate on the basis of mental or physical disabilities. The Human Resources Department is located in the Humboldt County Courthouse, which has an accessible entrance on 4th Street. Accessible parking is available adjacent to the 4th Street entrance and on the 4th Street side of the K Street lot. Special testing arrangements may be made to accommodate disabilities or religious convictions. If invited to an examination and you are in need of a reasonable accommodation, please contact Human Resources immediately at (707) 476-2349 so arrangements can be made.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The county is an equal opportunity employer. We enthusiastically accept our responsibility to make employment decisions without regard to race, religion or religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, military service, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local laws or ordinances.
MEDICAL EXAMINATION
A pre-employment medical examination provided by the County may be required upon offer of employment.
OTHER EXAMINATIONS
Some positions also require psychological evaluation and/or extensive background investigation.
LICENSES
Some classifications require possession of valid professional and/or technical licenses. Some classifications may require the possession of a valid California driver’s license.
PROBATIONARY PERIOD
Persons appointed to regular County positions serve a probationary period. This is normally six (6) months but could be up to one (1) year. All designated safety employees serve a one-year probationary period.
EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY
It is the County’s intention to hire only those workers who are authorized to work in the United States, pursuant to the Immigration Act of 1990. If you are offered employment, you will be required to verify your eligibility to work in the United States. For law enforcement positions you will be required to verify your U.S. citizenship or legalized status.
DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS
All County of Humboldt employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE NECESSARY MODIFICATIONS TO THE EXAMINATION PLAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE HUMBOLDT COUNTY MERIT SYSTEM RULES.
