Airport Manager – McCook Ben Nelson Regional Airport (MCK)

Location: McCook, Nebraska

Employment Type: Full-Time

Salary Range: $75,000 – $125,000 (Commensurate with experience, education, and credentials)

Reports To: McCook Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) Executive Director/Board of Directors and City Manager, City of McCook

Benefits: Health insurance stipend | AFLAC | Retirement match | Paid holidays | PTO

Position Summary

Looking for an experienced and visionary airport leader to drive operational excellence, community engagement, and growth in a thriving rural setting.

This role serves as an operational leader of the airport, assisting with daily operations, long-term planning, and strategic initiatives to ensure safety, efficiency, and sustainability. This role requires a visionary approach to leveraging the airport as a regional hub, producing economic development and enhancing connectivity for the surrounding community.

The Airport Manager acts as a liaison between local stakeholders, government agencies, and aviation partners, promoting collaborative growth and ensuring the facility meets both current and future needs.

Position Overview

The Airport Manager provides leadership in advancing the safety, efficiency, and growth of the McCook Ben Nelson Regional Airport (MCK). This collaborative role, supported by the McCook Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the City of McCook, combines operational management with marketing and economic development to strengthen the airport’s role as a regional hub. The ideal candidate is a proactive, relationship-driven professional skilled in airport operations, business development, and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities

Airport Operations & Compliance

•Assist with developing and implementing the airport’s strategic and economic development plan.

•Ensure compliance with FAA Part 139, TSA, and other regulatory standards.

•Maintain and update the Airport Certification Manual (ACM); coordinate annual FAA inspections.

•Support emergency planning and serve as Incident Commander until relieved.

•Assist with daily airside and landside operations, FBO performance, and hangar management.

•Conduct or assist with inspections, NOTAMs, ARFF readiness, and environmental compliance.

•Occasionally assists with airport facility and grounds maintenance, including mowing, landscaping, painting, etc.

Marketing, Community Relations & Economic Development

•Market and promote the airport as a regional asset for business and industry.

•Collaborate with MEDC, the City, and regional partners to attract aviation-related businesses and services.

•Represent the airport at conferences, meetings, and community events.

•Build and maintain strong relationships with airlines, tenants, and public agencies.

•Lead or assist in preparing press releases, outreach materials, and marketing campaigns showcasing airport services and impact.

Financial Management & Capital Projects

• Assist in preparing and administering annual budgets and financial reports.

• Support capital improvement projects in partnership with the City and NDOT–Division of Aeronautics.

• Help manage FAA AIP grants and other funding opportunities.

• Coordinate vendor contracts, bids, and service agreements.

Leadership & Coordination

• Support airport personnel, contractors, and service providers; organize schedules and training.

• Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and collaboration.

• Work closely with city and county departments to address operational and emergency needs.

Preferred Qualifications and Experience

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, or related field; or

• Minimum five (5) years of progressive experience in airport operations or aviation management.

• Knowledge of FAA Part 139 and TSA compliance standards.

Licenses & Certifications

• Valid driver’s license and insurable record; ability to obtain a Class A CDL within six months.

• Ability to obtain and maintain First Aid/CPR certification, if needed.

• AAAE/ACI or other professional airport management certifications preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Proven success in marketing, community engagement, and stakeholder relations.

• Comprehensive understanding of FAA Parts 139, 107, 77, 91, and 61.

• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and airport management systems.

• Strategic, solution-driven mindset with attention to detail.

• Commitment to professionalism, integrity, and exceptional public service.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

This role involves both office and field work, with exposure to weather, noise, and mechanical environments typical of an active airfield. Candidates must be able to lift up to 25 pounds and perform duties requiring moderate physical exertion.

How to Apply

Submit a cover letter, resume, and professional references to:

Charlie McPherson, Executive Director

McCook Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

Charlie@mccookne.org

(308) 345-1200

402 Norris Ave., Suite 301, McCook, NE 69001

*Applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.