Manager, Airfield Services
Southport, Manitoba
Our client, Southport Aerospace Centre Inc. (SACI), is seeking a Manager, Airfield Services to join their team. Reporting to the Director, Site Services, this role is responsible for ensuring the maintenance, safety, and operational readiness of all airside infrastructure, including runways, taxiways, roads, grounds, and navigational aid systems at Southport Airport.
This position provides leadership to a multidisciplinary team and oversees the equipment, programs, and processes necessary to maintain full operational functionality and regulatory compliance year-round. The Manager, Airfield Services will collaborate with internal teams, contractors, and regulatory bodies to ensure uninterrupted airfield operations in alignment with safety, operational, and compliance standards.
As the Manager, Airfield Services, you will:
- Oversee the inspection, maintenance, and repair of all airside pavements, including asphalt, line painting, pothole repairs, drainage systems, and signage.
- Direct the operation, maintenance, calibration, and performance of navigational aids, lighting systems, and related airfield electronic equipment (including ILS, NDB, VOR, PAPI, and runway/taxiway lighting).
- Ensure all airfield systems and operations meet Transport Canada, NAV CANADA, and ICAO regulatory standards.
- Liaise with NAV CANADA and other regulatory bodies, ensuring documentation, certifications, testing, and compliance records are current and accurate.
- Lead safety and risk management activities, ensuring all operations comply with federal, provincial, and municipal regulations, as well as Southport’s Safety Management System (SMS).
- Oversee the Wildlife Management Program and groundskeeping components within the SMS to ensure proactive risk mitigation.
- Plan, lead, and execute all seasonal operations, including Snow and Ice Control (SNIC), spring/fall cleanup, turf care, and surface marking programs.
- Coordinate winter operations, including staffing, scheduling, contractor management, equipment readiness, and material inventory for snow and ice control activities.
- Lead, coach, and supervise a team of skilled staff, including technicians, mechanics, and leads, ensuring high performance, safety compliance, and operational efficiency.
- Maintain strong working relationships with contractors, vendors, and internal stakeholders to support ongoing operations and projects.
- Monitor equipment performance and ensure a high serviceability rate across all airfield assets and heavy equipment.
- Prepare operational reports and performance updates aligned with contract and organizational requirements.
- Assist in the development and management of departmental budgets, monitoring expenditures and recommending capital improvements.
- Support procurement activities, including equipment sourcing, vendor engagement, and inventory management to ensure operational readiness.
- Drive continuous improvement of systems, processes, and operational efficiencies across airfield services functions.
You and Your Experience:
- Diploma, certification, or equivalent experience in Airfield Maintenance, Civil Works, Horticulture, or a related field (required).
- Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) designation or membership with the International Association of Airport Executives (IAAE) (considered an asset).
- Training in heavy equipment operation, snow removal, or turf management (preferred).
- Minimum 5+ years of experience in infrastructure, airfield, municipal, or industrial maintenance environments.
- Minimum 3+ years of leadership experience, including team supervision, scheduling, and operational or contract performance management.
- Experience managing airfield snow and ice control (SNIC) programs (asset).
- Experience maintaining or coordinating repairs for heavy equipment such as plows, loaders, mowers, sweepers, and graders.
- Proven ability to coordinate with vendors, contractors, and external stakeholders.
- Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Knowledge of airport operations, safety regulations, and environmental compliance standards.
- Ability to analyze operational challenges, make sound decisions, and execute effective solutions under pressure.
- High attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining a safe, compliant, and efficient work environment.
Benefits of the organization:
- Employer-paid benefits
- RRSP employer match
- Professional development support
- Southport fitness or golf course membership
About Southport Aerospace Centre Inc (SACI):
Southport Aerospace Centre Inc. (SACI) is a not-for-profit property management and development company that strives to stimulate economic development and community partnerships. With a well-balanced, world-class business centre model in mind, SACI is home to aviation and aerospace training facilities, product research and development initiatives, light manufacturing, and educational institutions. Beyond its commercial landscape, Southport provides visitors with access to accommodation buildings, various recreational offerings, over 200 residential properties, and an airport.
To submit your candidacy:
Please apply online or email your resume in confidence to Brittney Frias at
[email protected].
We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Privacy Notice:
By applying, you consent to People First HR retaining your resume for up to seven (7) years to consider you for current and future opportunities. If you do not wish for your information to be kept on file, please email
[email protected].
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