Regional Aviation Planning Manager

At McFarland Johnson (MJ), you'll own your future. We're a 100% employee-owned firm with 80 years of experience delivering innovative engineering, planning, environmental, technology, and construction solutions that make a lasting impact on the clients and communities we serve. Certified as a Great Place to Work, our employee-owners describe MJ's culture as collaborative, people-focused, and supportive.

About The Opportunity

The Regional Aviation Planning Manager will work closely with a diverse team of airport planners and technicians, as well as airport stakeholders and local, state, and federal agencies, to ensure airport planning and development projects are completed efficiently and effectively based on strategic thinking and technical analyses. MJ is recognized for its innovation and client-focused services, offering a unique environment where employee-owners are empowered to deliver quality solutions.

Responsibilities

• Independently lead and manage a team of technical staff and project managers working on multiple simultaneous aviation planning assignments.
• Oversee the execution of various aviation planning projects, including airport master plans and layout plan sets, project definition documents, and facility/terminal planning studies.
• Manage Airport planning efforts for airside and landside components at airports of all sizes, from general aviation to small/non-hub to large hub commercial service facilities.
• Identify and interpret regulatory requirements from FAA and state aviation departments related to airport operations and development.
• Evaluate proposed airport improvements to ensure regulatory compliance and advise clients on best practices and implementation practices.
• Develop projects scopes, budgets and associated contract/work authorization documents.
• Support and identify project pursuit and proposal development activities throughout the region.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Urban or Regional Planning, Aviation Management, Architecture or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive airport planning experience.
• 3+ years managing staff delivering aviation projects.
• Experience in managing multiple, simultaneous aviation assignments & technical staff.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and experience with AutoCAD AviPlan and/or AirTOPS preferred.
• Outstanding written and oral communication skills.
• Possession of an industry-appropriate certification, professional license, or pilot's license is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary between $120,000 and $165,000 with performance-based incentive payment plan/bonus structure.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental & vision insurance.
• Generous Paid time off including Paid Parental Leave.
• Fully contributed Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
• 401(k) match.
• Technical training and professional development opportunities.

Why Join MJ?

• Be part of an award-winning, employee-owned firm that values innovation and client-focused service.
• Collaborate with a diverse team of experts committed to delivering sustainable infrastructure solutions.
• Enjoy a supportive, growth-oriented work environment with opportunities for professional development.
• Enjoy flexible schedules, generous PTO, and a culture that values balance so you can thrive both professionally and personally.
• For experienced professionals, MJ offers the chance to mentor emerging talent, share your expertise, and leave a lasting legacy on the industry.