Shaping the Future of Aviation: A Guide to the FAA Community Planner Role
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is at the forefront of aerospace innovation. As the aviation industry evolves, the need for skilled professionals who can manage infrastructure, safety, and community impact has never been greater. The Office of Airports is currently seeking a Community Planner (SMS Coordinator) to operate out of its Central Regional office in Kansas City, Missouri. This role is essential to maintaining the integrity and future capacity of the National Airspace System.
Job Responsibilities
As a Community Planner, you will serve as a subject matter expert, balancing high-level technical guidance with administrative oversight. Key duties include:
- Airport Planning: Serving as the point of contact for capacity reviews and demand forecasts.
- Capital Improvement: Developing the Regional Office Airports Capital Improvement Program (ACIP).
- SMS Coordination: Acting as the regional expert for Safety Management Systems, facilitating risk management documents, and analyzing safety data.
- Environmental Stewardship: Collaborating on documentation required for the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
- Public Engagement: Leading public workshops and coordinating with community Advisory Committees.
Requirements
This position requires a specialized background. You must possess one year of experience equivalent to the FV-I or GS-13 grade level.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Degree in Planning, Architecture, Engineering, or related field |
| Experience | 1+ year at the FV-I/GS-13 level |
| Documentation | Must submit transcripts by closing date |
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizenship mandatory |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range from $113,603 to $176,120 per year. This compensation is designed to attract high-level talent capable of overseeing complex national aviation projects.
Benefits
Employees of the FAA receive a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
- Generous paid time off and flexible scheduling options
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. Make every word count by focusing on measurable outcomes.
- Be Specific: Ensure your experience details hours worked per week and specific alignment with the qualifications listed.
- Transcripts: Do not forget to upload your transcripts; failure to do so will result in an automatic disqualification.
Working as a Community Planner (SMS Coordinator) for the FAA is a rare opportunity to influence the aviation infrastructure of the United States. If you possess the required planning expertise and a commitment to safety, this role offers both a significant salary and the chance to contribute to a vital national mission. Apply now to secure your future in the skies.
Why This Community Planner (Sms Coordinator) Job Matters
Shape the future of aviation infrastructure as a Community Planner and lead critical Safety Management Systems (SMS) initiatives for the Federal Aviation Administration.
Community Planner (Sms Coordinator) Job Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking an expert Community Planner to join the Office of Airports in Kansas City, Missouri. This pivotal role serves as a regional subject matter expert, guiding airport planning activities, managing capital improvement programs, and leading the implementation of Safety Management Systems (SMS). You will act as a key liaison between the FAA, airport sponsors, and the community to ensure the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of the National Airspace System.
Requirements for Community Planner (Sms Coordinator)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the FV-I or GS-13 level.
- Possession of a degree in community planning, urban affairs, architecture, landscape architecture, engineering, sociology, geography, economics, political science, or public administration (including 12 semester hours in specific planning coursework).
- Submission of college transcripts by the closing date.
- Evaluation of foreign education credentials if applicable.
- Submission of current, non-award SF-50 for current FAA employees.
Preferred Qualifications for Community Planner (Sms Coordinator)
- Proven experience in developing or approving airport layout plans.
- Demonstrated expertise in technical guidance regarding airspace, design standards, and contract administration.
- Direct experience utilizing Safety Management Systems (SMS) for data analysis and reporting.
- Strong background in coordinating National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation.
- Experience managing or reviewing Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) programs and airport capital improvement plans.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs
- ✓Generous retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and TSP
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Flexible work schedules and telework eligibility
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance options
💡 How to Apply Community Planner (Sms Coordinator) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Community Planner (Sms Coordinator) Job
- Ensure your resume is limited to two pages.
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Gather all academic transcripts and, if applicable, your most recent non-award SF-50.
- Submit your application through the official portal before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
- Complete any required online assessments.
- Monitor your email for notifications regarding interview scheduling.
💡 General Tips
- Resumes are strictly limited to two pages; prioritize high-impact results over long lists of duties.
- Ensure your work history explicitly lists hours worked per week, as this is vital for calculating specialized experience.
- Clearly link your past experience to the specific responsibilities mentioned in the job duties.
- If you make any changes to your application, you must re-submit it for the updates to be recorded.
- Contact the provided HR representative if you require a reasonable accommodation for the hiring process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, providing flexibility in how you manage your responsibilities.
What is the primary function of the SMS Coordinator role?
The SMS Coordinator facilitates safety risk management processes, tracks safety data, and ensures regional compliance with national airport safety policies.
Do I need to submit an official transcript?
You must submit your transcripts by the closing date. If selected, you will be required to provide official transcripts prior to your formal appointment.
What is the security clearance level for this job?
*A: The position is subject to a background investigation. Final requirements will be outlined during the onboarding process.*
Can I update my application after submission?
*A: Yes, but you must resubmit the entire package for the changes to be valid.*
Job from Federal Aviation Administration
The FAA, a division of the Department of Transportation, manages the most complex and safest aerospace system in the world. With over 44,000 employees, the agency handles everything from air traffic control to research on high-speed electric and solar-powered aircraft. Joining the FAA means becoming part of a diverse, mission-driven organization that values technical expertise and public service.