Airfield Operations Specialist

About the role

The Airfield Operations Specialist is responsible for managing day‑to‑day airfield activities at Balad, Iraq. The role ensures a safe, secure and efficient environment for both local and transient aircraft through coordination with air traffic control, maintenance crews and other stakeholders.

Key responsibilities

• Inspect all airfield areas including pavements, markings, signs, lighting, obstructions, wildlife hazards, fencing, construction zones, and foreign object debris (FOD).
• Coordinate runway closures, construction activities and maintenance repairs with minimal impact on flight operations.
• Respond to in‑flight and ground emergencies and maintain event logs, flight schedules and discrepancy records.
• Issue Notices to Airmen (NOTAM) via the FAA system and manage airfield driving programs, including training new drivers.
• Enforce a FOD‑free environment and operate wildlife control devices such as BASH cannons.
• Collaborate with other departments, agencies, foreign governments and nationals to complete work harmoniously.
• Work rotating day and night shifts and communicate continuously with the air traffic control tower.

Required profile

• High school diploma (minimum) and USAF Airfield Management 5‑Skill level certification.
• At least three years of airfield management experience plus three additional years in a shift‑lead or equivalent role.
• Ability to operate vehicles on an airfield and communicate effectively with the ATC tower.
• Familiarity with base operations, event logs, flight schedules, crash phones and emergency notification procedures.
• Capability to multitask in high‑stress situations and coordinate closures with minimal disruption.

Required skills

• USAF Airfield Management 5‑Skill level certification
• FAA NOTAM system operation
• BASH (Bird/Wildlife Aircraft Strike Hazard) management
• FOD (Foreign Object Debris) control
• Airfield vehicle operation and driving program training
• Air traffic control communication