Airline Project Transition Manager
Position SummaryWe are seeking an experienced Project Manager with strong airline and aviation services expertise to support short-term mobilization and implementation efforts tied to newly awarded airline RFPs. This temporary 3-month assignment is designed to provide rapid operational deployment and transition support following contract awards.This role requires extensive travel and on-site presence at airport locations, playing a critical role in ensuring seamless startup execution, operational readiness, regulatory compliance, and successful service launches.Assignment DurationTemporary assignment: 3 monthsPotential extension based on business needs and contract awardsKey ResponsibilitiesLead contract startup and mobilization activities following airline RFP awardsServe as the primary project lead coordinating cross-functional teams, including Operations, HR, Training, Safety, Finance, GSE, and ComplianceDevelop, manage, and execute startup project plans, timelines, and key deliverablesSupport station readiness efforts, including staffing, training, GSE deployment, uniforms, supplies, and vendor coordinationEnsure compliance with contract requirements, SLAs, CBAs, airport regulations, and applicable living wage ordinancesAct as the primary liaison between corporate leadership, station management, and airline partnersIdentify operational risks and implementation gaps while developing mitigation strategiesConduct onsite readiness assessments, go-live support, and post-launch operational reviewsPrepare executive-level startup reports, progress updates, and operational status communicationsRequired Qualifications5+ years of project management experience within aviation, airline operations, ground handling, or airport services environmentsDirect experience supporting airline contract startups, transitions, and RFP mobilizationsStrong understanding of airline operational structures and station staffing modelsExperience working within unionized environments and collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) preferredFamiliarity with airport authority regulations, compliance standards, and living wage ordinancesProven ability to manage multiple operational workstreams under aggressive timelinesSkills & CompetenciesStrong project planning and execution capabilitiesCross-functional leadership and coordinationOperational readiness and startup assessment expertiseRisk management and problem-solving skillsExcellent written and verbal communication abilitiesAbility to work independently in fast-paced, high-pressure operational environmentsTravel RequirementsExtensive travel requiredAbility to remain onsite at assigned airport locations for extended periodsFlexibility to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and irregular schedules during startup operationsPreferred Certifications (Not Required)PMP or equivalent Project Management certificationSix Sigma or Lean experience is a plusWork EnvironmentOn-site airport operational environmentsFast-paced, customer-facing settingsHigh-visibility role supporting critical airline service launches and operational transitionsEqual Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with DisabilitiesThis employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.