Become an Airfield Manager: Leading Operations at Lakehurst
The Department of the Air Force is currently seeking a highly motivated professional to serve as an Airfield Manager at Lakehurst, New Jersey. This position is a critical lynchpin for the Air Mobility Command, tasked with ensuring that airfield operations function smoothly, safely, and in full compliance with complex regulatory frameworks. If you have a background in transportation, aviation management, or military base operations, this role offers an exceptional opportunity to serve your country while advancing your federal career.
Job Responsibilities
As an Airfield Manager, your primary duties involve the comprehensive oversight of base operations. You will be responsible for:
- Organizing and overseeing Airfield Management and Base Operations activities.
- Ensuring all maintenance and operations comply with safety and security regulations.
- Serving as the representative for all airfield-related matters to local officials, DoD components, and federal organizations.
- Managing flight planning, aircraft operational characteristics, and emergency response procedures.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the specialized experience requirements set forth by the OPM. Candidates generally need at least one year of experience at the GS-09 level in transportation operations or facility management. Education may also be used to qualify; a Ph.D. or three years of graduate study in a relevant field like transportation or business administration can be substituted for experience. All applicants must meet time-in-grade requirements and pass a pre-employment drug test.
Qualifications Comparison Table
| Feature | Qualification Requirement |
|---|---|
| Experience | 1 year at GS-09 level (or equivalent) |
| Education | Ph.D. or 3 years of graduate study |
| Certification | SEI 368 required (or 12-month completion window) |
| Clearance | Secret level required |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal pay scale, ranging from $88,005 to $114,413 per year. As a GS-11 grade position, the salary reflects the technical depth and managerial responsibility required to oversee a military airfield effectively.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Health Insurance: Access to the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program.
- Retirement: Inclusion in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Work-Life Balance: Generous annual leave, sick leave, and paid federal holidays.
- Growth: Continuous training and professional development opportunities within the Department of the Air Force.
Application Tips
- Watch the Clock: Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on September 11, 2026.
- Format Matters: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less. Use standard font sizes and include clear dates and hours worked.
- Detail Your Experience: Clearly articulate how your past experience relates to the OPM standards for the GS-2150 series.
- Verify Documents: Double-check that your SF-50s and transcripts are legible and attached correctly.
Serving as an Airfield Manager at Lakehurst is more than just a job; it is a vital contribution to national defense. If you are prepared to lead in a high-stakes environment and meet the technical requirements, we encourage you to review the full details and submit your application today.
Why This Airfield Manager Job Matters
Take command of the runway! The Department of the Air Force is seeking a dedicated Airfield Manager to ensure mission readiness and operational excellence at Lakehurst, New Jersey.
Airfield Manager Job Overview
As the Airfield Manager in Lakehurst, NJ, you will play a critical role in the oversight of Airfield Management and Base Operations. This position is central to ensuring that military and civil aircraft operations remain safe, efficient, and compliant with all Department of Defense and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. You will serve as the primary representative for airfield matters, coordinating complex projects and programs to support the broader Air Mobility Command mission.
Requirements for Airfield Manager
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance
- Pre-employment drug testing is required
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level or equivalent
- Completion of the Air Force Airfield Manager Position certification (SEI 368) or ability to complete within 12 months
- Time-in-grade requirements for current or former federal employees
- Submission of a resume (maximum two pages) and all required supporting documentation
Preferred Qualifications for Airfield Manager
- Deep understanding of USAF and FAA airfield maintenance and ground handling regulations
- Experience managing airfield programs, safety, and security protocols
- Strong analytical skills for identifying and resolving complex operational issues
- Proven ability to mentor, motivate, and manage a diverse team
- Demonstrated expertise in communicating complex technical data to stakeholders
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Competitive retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave
- ✓Career advancement and professional development opportunities
- ✓Telework flexibility (as applicable to position requirements)
- ✓Direct deposit payroll
💡 How to Apply Airfield Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Airfield Manager Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS profile.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, including hours worked and dates of employment.
- Review the job announcement and gather required supporting documents such as SF-50s, transcripts, or DD-214s.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 11, 2026.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; excess pages will be excluded from review.
- Explicitly detail your specialized experience by stating the number of hours worked per week for each role.
- If claiming veteran preference, ensure your DD-214 is properly annotated with your character of service.
- Verify your eligibility against the Air Force Civilian Employment Eligibility Guide before submitting.
- Ensure your transcripts are ready if you are using education to satisfy any part of the qualification requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security clearance requirement for this job?
This position requires a Secret level security clearance, which you must be able to obtain and maintain.
Can I qualify for this position without the SEI 368 certification?
Yes, but you must complete all mandatory Airfield Management qualification training requirements within 12 months of your start date if selected.
Is travel required for this position?
The position indicates travel may be involved; please consult the job details for specific frequency expectations.
What is the primary focus of this role?
*A: The role focuses on providing oversight for airfield management and ensuring compliance with FAA and DoD regulations to maintain safe operations.*
Can I apply if I am currently an active duty military member?
*A: Yes, active duty members may apply. You must provide a valid certification memo in lieu of a DD-214 if you have not yet been discharged.*
Job from Air Mobility Command
The United States Air Force operates with a vision of global reach and power. The Air Mobility Command, in particular, relies on the precision of airfield management to facilitate mission-critical flights. Employees in this agency are guided by core values: integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all they do. By joining this team, you become part of a professional community dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of military and civil aviation safety.