Job Description

The Officer Airside Operations is responsible for ensuring the airside environment is safe, secure, and operationally efficient while delivering excellent customer service to airlines and key stakeholders. The role supports the Duty Manager Airside (DMA) in maintaining aerodrome safety and compliance with GCAA regulations, the Aerodrome Certificate, and all applicable aviation legislation. The role is part of a 24/7 Airside Operations Team and includes responding to emergencies in accordance with the Airport Emergency Plan. The position also requires effective coordination with airlines, government agencies, emergency services, contractors, and airport stakeholders to ensure smooth and safe airport operations.

Responsibilities

• Comply with all company management systems, policies, SOPs, regulatory requirements, and Abu Dhabi Environment Health and Safety Management System standards.
• Support senior officers in ensuring safe and efficient aerodrome operations.
• Conduct movement area inspections and record findings/events as required.
• Conduct wildlife inspections in line with the Wildlife Hazard Management Plan.
• Enforce airside safety regulations for all airside users.
• Execute daily airside operational activities and maintain accurate duty logs.
• Maintain effective communication with customers and stakeholders during normal and emergency operations.
• Deliver assigned team objectives and performance targets.
• Supervise contractor activities on the airfield and ensure compliance with work permits and regulatory requirements.
• Integrate Safety Management System (SMS) principles into daily operations.
• Participate in shift briefings and contribute to continuous improvement through a “plan, do, check, review” approach.
• Respond to aerodrome incidents and accidents and report them according to procedures.
• Escort police vehicles, VIP vehicles, ambulances, and contractors when required.
• Provide “Follow Me” services for aircraft when necessary.
• Participate in airport emergency responses in line with the Airport Emergency Plan.
• Complete all required training and familiarization programs to maintain aerodrome certification compliance.
• Collaborate effectively with all stakeholders.
• Oversee airside operations to ensure compliance with national and international aviation safety standards, including:
  • Airside inspections and audits
  • FOD (Foreign Object Debris) control
  • Aircraft turnaround oversight
  • Incident investigation
  • Wildlife and weather risk management
  • Obstacle safeguarding
  • Disabled aircraft recovery
  • Stakeholder coordination
• Maintain accurate operational records and support continuous operational improvement.
• Ensure 24/7 airside safety readiness.
• Perform any additional duties assigned by Airside Operations management.

Requirements and Skills

Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Aviation or a related discipline.
• Valid UAE Driving License.

Experience

• Minimum 2 years of experience in airport operations.
• Experience conducting aerodrome inspections.
• Experience working under GCAA and statutory legal requirements.
• Experience operating within the airside environment and understanding required technical competencies.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong English communication skills (spoken and written).
• Computer literacy.
• High level of responsibility and professionalism.
• Positive attitude and ability to work collaboratively as one team.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Adaptability to changing operational requirements.
• Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building skills with internal and external parties.