Airport Operations Manager Job Vacancy in Sumbawanga, Tanzania – Aviation & Airport Services

Job Description

Position: Airport Operations Manager

Company: Tanzania Airports Authority

Location: Sumbawanga, Tanzania

Experience: Minimum 5 years in airport operations, aviation safety, or related fields

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, or a related discipline

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Aviation & Airport Services

Department: Operations

Salary: SSP 2,500,000 – SSP 3,500,000 per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) is the premier government agency responsible for the development, management, and regulation of all civil airports across Tanzania. With a mandate to ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable airport operations, TAA collaborates with international aviation bodies, airlines, and service providers to deliver world‑class infrastructure and passenger experiences. As a key player in Tanzania’s transport ecosystem, TAA contributes directly to the nation’s economic growth, tourism expansion, and regional connectivity. Joining TAA means becoming part of a forward‑thinking organization that values innovation, safety, and community impact, offering unparalleled career growth for professionals seeking to shape the future of aviation in Tanzania.

Job Overview

The Airport Operations Manager will lead all operational aspects of Sumbawanga Regional Airport, ensuring compliance with national and international aviation standards while delivering exceptional service to airlines, passengers, and stakeholders. This role is pivotal in coordinating ground handling, security, airside services, and emergency response, aligning daily activities with strategic objectives set by TAA. The successful candidate will drive continuous improvement initiatives, manage a multidisciplinary team, and act as the primary liaison between the airport and regulatory authorities. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence airport performance, enhance safety culture, and support Tanzania’s broader vision of becoming a leading hub for air travel in East Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day‑to‑day airport operations, including runway maintenance, terminal services, and ground handling.
• Ensure strict adherence to ICAO, IATA, and Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority regulations.
• Develop and implement operational SOPs, emergency response plans, and safety management systems.
• Coordinate with airlines, ground service providers, and security agencies to optimize turnaround times.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as on‑time performance, passenger satisfaction, and incident rates.
• Lead, mentor, and evaluate a team of supervisors, technicians, and support staff.
• Prepare operational budgets, forecast resource needs, and manage cost‑control measures.
• Conduct regular audits and risk assessments to identify improvement opportunities.

Required Skills

• Strong knowledge of airport operations, airside safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proficiency in operational planning tools and airport management software.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and drive performance improvements.
• Effective problem‑solving skills under high‑pressure situations.
• Fluency in English and Swahili.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field is required. Professional certifications such as Airport Operations Management (AOM) or Safety Management System (SMS) are advantageous.

Experience

At least five (5) years of progressive experience in airport operations, air traffic coordination, or aviation safety, with a minimum of two (2) years in a supervisory or managerial role.

Salary

The position offers a competitive salary range of SSP 2,500,000 to SSP 3,500,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage for employee and dependents.
• Pension scheme contributions.
• Annual leave and sick leave in line with Tanzanian labor law.
• Performance‑based bonuses.
• Professional development allowance.

Training

• On‑boarding program covering TAA policies, safety protocols, and airport systems.
• Continuous training in ICAO standards, emergency response, and leadership.
• Access to industry conferences and workshops.
• Opportunities for advanced certifications funded by TAA.

Working Environment

The role is based at Sumbawanga Regional Airport, a modern facility serving both domestic and regional flights. The work environment is dynamic, requiring collaboration across multiple departments and external partners. Employees benefit from a supportive culture that emphasizes safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience through the online portal at https://tanzaniajobsearch.com/. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Tanzania Airports Authority is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, or background.