Aviation Management Jobs
Aviation management jobs can be found in a variety of places in the aviation industry. Government agencies with oversight of the industry, major, regional and local airlines, airports, aircraft manufacturers, aircraft maintenance repair and overhaul facilities, corporate flight departments and other aviation service and support companies all have a need for qualified managers.
The Department of Transportation, the National transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration are three government agencies that employ managers at many different levels. United Airlines, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines are all examples of major airlines with aviation management jobs and careers that are in high demand. Million Air and Landmark Aviation need FBO managers and line service managers. Cessna and Gulfstream as well as every manufacturer of airplanes or airplane parts also have a need for supervisors, shift managers and line managers.
Aviation management jobs can lead to different levels of management such as executive management, middle management and line management. Depending on the level an aviation manager reaches, an individual could be given the responsibility for oversight of the company, a department or a division of a specific department. For instance a manager could be given the responsibility to manage finances, human resources or flight scheduling.
Aviation Management Jobs Take Time to Achieve
Aviation management jobs are normally reached after several years of working a specific job or series of jobs. A Chief Pilot might have worked as a co-pilot, a Captain, an Instructor Pilot and a Check Airman before finally making it to the management position. Normally, a person will be advanced after demonstrating above average skills, ability and dedication to accomplishing the company’s goals.
While some aviation management jobs are attainable without possessing a higher education most require some additional training or education. Many universities offer degrees in aviation management and administration. Embry Riddle is a well know Aviation University offering 2 and 4 year degrees in aviation management. The University of North Dakota is another well-known college offering degree programs leading to aviation management jobs. Students learn about subjects like weather and aerodynamics as well as business administration and principles of accounting.
Like any management position, aviation management jobs can be very rewarding but they can also be challenging and have aspects that are tough to deal with. As a VP, Director or General Manager you can expect to have some fairly long days. Holidays, weekend and evenings is when the majority of people fly since they are not working themselves and able to travel.
You will need to be decisive and have good judgment. High tolerance to stress will definitely be a requirement. Stressful days come with the territory. After all managers are responsible for the success of the department and even of the company. Managers must develop ways to reduce stress and maintain a good balance of mental and physical health.
Aviation management jobs are currently some of the highest paying jobs in the industry. Remuneration packages typically include medical, dental and vision insurance, 401K’s, stock options, paid vacation, personal days and sick days. Salaries for managers range from $35,000.00 to over $200, 000.00 per year.