Job Title: Line Service Manager
Location: Thunderbird Aviation (KFCM) Flying Cloud Airport, Eden Prairie MN 55347
Department: Line Services / Operations
Reports To: Operations Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time
Position Summary:
The Line Services Manager is a key leadership role at Thunderbird Aviation, responsible for the strategic oversight, operational excellence, and regulatory compliance of all ramp and line service functions. This position manages a team of supervisors and technicians, ensures adherence to federal and state aviation standards, and plays a critical role in customer satisfaction, safety culture, and audit readiness. The ideal candidate brings a blend of hands-on aviation experience and high-level operational leadership.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership & Team Development
· Lead, mentor, and develop a team of line supervisors and technicians across multiple shifts.
· Establish performance goals, KPIs, and training programs to ensure operational excellence.
· Collaborate with executive leadership to align line service operations with company objectives.
Operational Oversight
· Direct all ramp operations including aircraft marshaling, fueling, towing, de-icing, and hangar management.
· Oversee scheduling, resource allocation, and workflow optimization to ensure timely and safe aircraft handling.
· Implement and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all line service activities.
Regulatory Compliance & Audit Management
· Serve as the primary point of contact for state and federal audits (FAA, EPA, OSHA, DOT).
· Maintain and audit documentation, training records, and operational logs to ensure full compliance.
· Lead internal audits and corrective action plans to proactively address compliance gaps.
Safety & Risk Management
· Champion a proactive safety culture through training, inspections, and incident response planning.
· Conduct root cause analysis of safety incidents and implement preventive measures.
· Ensure all GSE and fueling operations meet operational standards.
Customer Experience & Stakeholder Relations
· Build strong relationships with pilots, flight departments, and corporate clients.
· Resolve high-level service issues and ensure a premium experience for all FBO customers.
· Coordinate with customer service, maintenance, and hangar teams to ensure seamless operations.
Financial & Resource Management
· Develop and manage departmental budgets, including labor, equipment, and training costs.
· Analyze financial and operational data to identify trends and opportunities for efficiency and revenue growth.
· Evaluate and recommend capital expenditures for GSE and ramp infrastructure.
· Inventory reporting, monitor fuel inventory, usage, and quality control processes.
Qualifications:
· Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience).
· 3+ years of progressive leadership experience in FBO or aviation ground operations.
· Proven experience managing audits and regulatory compliance.
· Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
· Proficiency in FBO management systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
· Ability to work flexible hours and respond to operational emergencies. The Line Service Manager position requires at least 1 weekend shift per week and Holidays.
Physical Requirements:
· Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in outdoor conditions.
· Must be able to pass background checks and obtain airport security clearance.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
