Deputy Manager Air Traffic Services & Airport

Are you a qualified air traffic controller looking to take the next step in your career?

We are looking for a new Deputy Manager for Air Traffic Services & Airport. Applicants must hold a current UK/CAA licence with both Aerodrome and Approach procedural control ratings. A current EU Class 3 Medical, OJTI rating and MET Observers Certificate are also required.

This is a senior operational role where you will support and deputise for the Airport Manager/ATSAM, ensuring the safe, compliant, and efficient delivery of air traffic services and airport operations. You will play a key role in maintaining the highest standards of aerodrome safety, regulatory compliance, and operational performance within a unique and dynamic environment.

Key responsibilities for the role will be:

Safety & Risk Management

• Maintain and continuously improve the airport's integrated Safety Management System (SMS)
• Identify, assess, and mitigate operational and safety risks
• Promote a strong, proactive safety culture across all airport functions
• Lead incident reporting, investigation, and learning processes
• Regulatory Compliance
• Ensure full compliance with CAA and applicable aviation regulations
• Support regulatory audits and inspections, ensuring readiness and accuracy of documentation
• Manage Mandatory Occurrence Reporting (MOR) and regulatory submissions
• Monitor legislative changes and advise on operational impacts
• Air Traffic & Operational Delivery
• Undertake ATC duties in line with MATS Part 1 & 2
• Ensure safe, orderly, and efficient aircraft movements
• Maintain readiness of ATC systems, navigation aids, and aerodrome infrastructure
• Support and coordinate emergency response and incident management
• Leadership & Team Development
• Deputise for the Airport Manager/ATSAM when required
• Lead, supervise, and develop ATCOs and operational staff
• Act as Unit Training Officer (UTO), ensuring staff competence and licensing compliance
• Foster high standards of professionalism, teamwork, and communication
• Stakeholder Management
• Build and maintain effective relationships with the CAA, contractors, and key stakeholders
• Provide expert advice on safety, compliance, and operational matters
• Ensure clear communication of safety-critical information
• Engage with the local community and partner organisations
• Airside & Aerodrome Safety
• Oversee airside operations and aerodrome safety in line with CAP700 responsibilities
• Lead airfield inspections, runway safety initiatives, and wildlife hazard management
• Ensure safe aircraft ground movement, vehicle operations, and contractor activities
• Manage low visibility procedures, runway contamination, and fuel safety

St Mary's Airport currently operates six days a week with the prospect of seven days a week operation in the future.

Essential Requirements

• Valid CAA ATCO Licence (ADI, APP, OJTI)
• Meteorological Observer's Certificate
• Significant ATC experience in a complex operational environment
• Current EU Class 3 Medical, OJTI rating
• Strong knowledge of: CAA regulatory framework Aerodrome operation Safety Management Systems (SMS) and risk management
• Proven leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills
• Why Join Us?
• Work in a unique and rewarding aviation environment
• Play a key leadership role in a safety-critical operation
• Opportunity to shape operational excellence and safety culture
• Be part of a committed and professional team serving the Isles of Scilly community

Benefits include:

• A benefits platform offering 100s of discounts with major retailers
• A generous holiday entitlement starting at 27 days pro rata per annum plus bank holidays.
• Eye care vouchers.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Active Scilly gym discounts
• Defined benefit pension scheme.
• Training and development opportunities

For an informal conversation or more information, please contact Tamar Smethurst on tamar.smethurst@scilly.gov.uk

To apply, please complete an application form, on the right hand side of this advert, and return to humanresources@scilly.gov.uk