Entry Level Aviation Planner
Talbert, Bright & Ellington
Columbia, SC (In Person)
Full-Time
Skill Insights
Compare your current skills to what this opportunity needs—we'll show you what you already have and what could strengthen your application.
Job Description
Description The Aviation Planner is responsible for planning, developing, and coordinating airport and aviation-related projects. This role involves conducting aviation studies, preparing master plans, forecasting aviation activity, evaluating airport infrastructure needs, and ensuring compliance with FAA regulations and industry standards. The Aviation Planner collaborates with airport authorities, engineers, government agencies, and stakeholders to support safe, efficient, and sustainable airport operations and development. Key Responsibilities Prepare airport master plans, system plans, aviation studies, and environmental documentation. Conduct aviation demand forecasts and capacity analyses. Analyze airport operational, environmental, and land-use data. Assist with FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grant applications and documentation. Develop Airport Layout Plans (ALPs) and supporting planning documents. Coordinate with FAA, state aviation agencies, airport sponsors, and consultants. Support and conduct environmental review processes and regulatory compliance. Conduct stakeholder meetings, public involvement initiatives, and presentations. Research aviation trends, policies, and emerging technologies impacting airports. Prepare technical reports, maps, graphics, and presentations. Assist with capital improvement planning and funding strategies. Ensure projects meet applicable FAA Advisory Circulars, state regulations, and local requirements. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Aviation Planning, Urban Planning, Geography, or related field. 2+ years of aviation planning or airport consulting experience (entry-level roles may vary). Knowledge of FAA regulations, airport planning principles, and aviation systems. Experience with aviation forecasting and airport planning methodologies. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. Experience with airport master planning software and CAD tools. GIS experience (ArcGIS preferred). Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines. Preferred Qualifications Master's degree in Urban Planning, Aviation, or related field. Familiarity with FAA grant processes and environmental documentation. Knowledge of NEPA and environmental permitting processes. Key Skills Aviation and airport planning Technical writing and reporting Data analysis and forecasting Stakeholder coordination Project management GIS and mapping Regulatory compliance Public presentation skills Work Environment Office-based with periodic travel to airports and project sites. Occasional attendance at public meetings, workshops, and conferences. May involve field inspections and coordination with airport operations staff. We Offer Excellent compensation package Outstanding holiday and paid-time-off programs 401(k) Plan and Match Career Path Development Program (Management & Technical Career Tracks) Mentorship Program Tuition Reimbursement Competitive health and dental insurance premiums Variety of voluntary benefit options Short-Term Disability/Long-Term Disability Company-furnished life insurance Employee Assistant Program (EAP) Flexible Spending Account and More About Talbert, Bright & Ellington Talbert, Bright & Ellington (TBE), established in 1994, is a specialty engineering firm that is exclusive to aviation. Our firm has extensive experience in full-service planning, design, and construction administration at aviation facilities throughout the Southeastern United States from our offices located in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Columbia, South Carolina. We are committed to providing cost-effective airport and aviation facility developments, civil and municipal engineering, and land development services to assist airports and their clients. To better assist our Charlotte location, TBE opened a Columbia, SC office in 2004. Our Columbia location provides master planning and environmental compliance, engineering design, project inspection, and construction administration services. Our hiring process Stage 1: Applied Stage 2: Initial Screening Stage 3: 1st Interview Stage 4: Offer Stage 5: Hired