Terminal Operations Specialist

ABOUT US: The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority

Established in 1978, the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA) is a nonprofit corporation responsible for operating McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) and Downtown Island Airport (DKX). With 88-years of service to the East Tennessee region, McGhee Tyson Airport plays a vital role in the national air transportation network. Centrally located within a day's drive or a short flight from major cities, our airports are key gateways for travelers and businesses alike. If you're passionate about contributing to the continued success and growth of McGhee Tyson and Downtown Island Airports, we invite you to explore this opportunity further.

The Position:

The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority is seeking a detail-oriented and customer-focused Terminal Operations Specialist to ensure the safe, efficient flow of passengers through the airport terminal while delivering an exceptional travel experience.

In this role, you will monitor terminal operations, coordinate closely with airlines and stakeholders, resolve scheduling conflicts, and respond to irregular operations such as weather events or emergencies. This is a dynamic position ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, operational environment and enjoys problem-solving in real time. *** Work on weekends is expected, and overtime may be required.

Responsibilities:

• Performs daily inspections of the Terminal, including ticketing, baggage claim, concourse, airport Common Use systems and supplies; documents discrepancies and follow up on issues.
• Reviews advanced flight schedules and aligns resource allocations for air carriers, coordinating with airlines and ground handlers to optimize airport resources, and resolving potential gate scheduling conflicts in accordance with lease agreements and deadlines.
• Effectively communicates with various airport tenants to maintain operational continuity during irregular operations including aircraft emergencies, ramp congestion, diversions, terminal construction and severe weather.
• Troubleshoots errors and issues related to Common Use equipment, baggage handling systems, and other critical Terminal systems and equipment.
• Investigates and documents incidents related to general liabilities in the Terminal.
• Uses and administers various computer-based systems to coordinate and communicate with airfield users, tenants, federal agencies, and MKAA departments.
• Develops aircraft parking plans as it relates to remote and overnight parking, aircraft deicing operations, and support for irregular operations.
• Creates, modifies, and provides statistical reports on the utilization rates, downtime of the airport resources, and forecasting for peak travel periods.
• Monitors passenger movement and implements crowd control measures, as necessary.
• Makes time-sensitive, critical decisions with limited information in order to resolve operational conflict.
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with airline support staff and fellow employees.
• Handles multiple assignments with frequent interruptions and changes of priority.
• Other duties as assigned.

The Ideal Candidate:

The ideal candidate possesses a strong understanding of airport operations, including industry standards, airline procedures, and the use of airport resource and maintenance management systems, as well as familiarity with IATA/ICAO codes and Microsoft Office applications. They demonstrate excellent communication and customer service skills, with the ability to interact effectively with a wide range of stakeholders. Success in this role requires strong analytical thinking, sound judgment, and the ability to make timely decisions in a fast-paced, constantly changing environment. The candidate must be adaptable, highly organized, and capable of managing multiple priorities simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail. Additionally, they should exhibit strong problem-solving and conflict resolution skills, work both independently and collaboratively, and build positive working relationships through professionalism, tact, and diplomacy.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's Degree with 0 to 1 year of related experience OR
• Associate's Degree with 1 to 3 years of related experience

• Valid TN Driver's License required
• (AAAE) Airport Certified Employee (ACE) - Operations certification preferred (or ability to obtain within two years).

Salary and Compensation:

The hiring range for this position is $52,297.77 - $67,987.10 (final salary will depend on experience). MKAA offers a very competitive benefits package for this position, including medical/dental/vision benefits, disability/life insurance, vacation leave, sick leave, and a 401(a)-retirement program.


Deadline to Apply: For best consideration, apply by Sunday, May 31, 2026. Position open until filled.

Please apply through this website (preferred), or mail resume to P.O. Box 15600 | Knoxville, TN 37901 | Attention: HR. Resumes/Applications must be received by the stated deadline, or postmarked by the deadline date, to be considered. ***No phone calls or emails please.

Selection Process:

Applications (and additional documents, if applicable) will be reviewed to identify applicants whose qualifications most closely meet the needs of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority. Employment process includes a security background check and physical (if applicable), which includes drug testing.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a long-term basis.

The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority conducts random employee drug screening.

The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.