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