Advance Your Career: Deputy Director Opportunity at the Federal Aviation Administration
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently seeking a highly skilled and strategic leader to serve as the Supervisory Aviation Technical Systems Specialist (Deputy Director) in College Park, Georgia. This pivotal role is central to the mission of the Office of Airports within the Southern Region. If you are passionate about the future of aviation, infrastructure safety, and high-level organizational leadership, this opportunity offers a platform to influence national aviation policy and regional development.
Job Responsibilities
As the Deputy Director, you will perform a broad range of high-level management duties, including:
- Strategic Leadership: Assuming full authority for the Airports Division in the Executive Director’s absence.
- Supervisory Oversight: Managing a team of Branch and Airport District Office (ADO) Managers across diverse locations.
- Program Management: Providing oversight for critical initiatives such as Part 139 safety certifications, the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), and environmental compliance.
- Stakeholder Coordination: Serving as a technical advisor and managing complex, politically sensitive projects with internal and external stakeholders.
Comparison: Professional vs. Executive Aviation Roles
| Feature | Professional Aviation Specialist | Deputy Director (This Role) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Project/Technical focused | Strategic/Divisional focused |
| Decision Making | Tactical implementation | Policy and organizational strategy |
| Supervisory Role | Individual Contributor | Senior Management |
| Stakeholders | Internal/Technical teams | Executive/Governmental/Public |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship.
- At least one year of specialized experience at the FV-K or GS-15 grade level.
- Proven expertise in leading employees and managing technical airport planning.
- Ability to pass a background investigation for a Secret clearance.
- Willingness to participate in a drug-testing program.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $166,025 to $228,000 annually. Beyond the salary, the FAA provides a robust benefits package, including comprehensive medical insurance, federal retirement programs, paid leave, and professional development opportunities.
Application Tips
- Customize Your Resume: Limit it to two pages and directly address the specialized experience listed in the announcement.
- Clear Documentation: Ensure all work history includes start/end dates and hours per week.
- Use the System: All applications must be submitted through the official portal; do not rely on faxed or emailed materials.
Serving as the Deputy Director for the Southern Airports Division is an exceptional way to contribute to the backbone of American transportation. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to prepare your application package thoroughly and submit it by the November 12, 2026, deadline.
Why This Supervisory Aviation Technical Systems Specialist (Deputy Director) Job Matters
Step into a critical leadership role with the FAA and help shape the future of airport infrastructure, safety, and compliance across the Southern Region.
Supervisory Aviation Technical Systems Specialist (Deputy Director) Job Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking an experienced leader to serve as the Deputy Director for the Office of Airports, Southern Airports Division. In this high-level position, you will provide strategic oversight, management, and direction for diverse aviation programs, including airport certification, capital improvement projects, and environmental planning. This role serves as a key technical advisor and requires a visionary leader capable of navigating complex regulatory environments while coordinating with internal and external stakeholders to advance national aviation goals.
Requirements for Supervisory Aviation Technical Systems Specialist (Deputy Director)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the FV-K or GS-15 level.
- Proven experience in leading and developing employees.
- Direct experience in technical or management processes related to airport planning, environmental reviews, or capital financial processes.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.
- Subject to pre-employment and random drug and alcohol testing.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Aviation Technical Systems Specialist (Deputy Director)
- Expertise in Federal Aviation Administration airport policies and program implementation.
- Demonstrated ability to manage and provide oversight for remote organizational units.
- Experience in labor-management partnership processes and EEO program advocacy.
- Advanced proficiency in navigating complex budgetary and human resource management policies.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary schedule.
- ✓Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance options.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Generous paid leave (vacation, sick time, and federal holidays).
- ✓Professional growth and leadership development programs.
- ✓Telework opportunities where eligible.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Aviation Technical Systems Specialist (Deputy Director) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Aviation Technical Systems Specialist (Deputy Director) Job
- Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and contains specific work history details including hours worked per week and project outcomes.
- Create or update your profile on the official FAA/USAJOBS portal.
- Upload required documentation, such as the SF-50 (for current federal employees) and other verification documents.
- Submit your application through the online system prior to the closing date of November 12, 2026.
- Complete any required assessments as prompted by the system.
💡 General Tips
- Focus your resume on quantifiable achievements rather than just duties.
- Ensure your SF-50 clearly shows your tenure, series, and grade if you are an internal candidate.
- Double-check that all required fields in the application are complete before the final submission.
- Resubmit your application immediately if you make any post-submission edits.
- Highlight specific instances of leadership where you solved complex, multi-disciplinary problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is education a substitute for the required experience?
No, education cannot be substituted for the specialized experience required for this position.
What is the security clearance requirement?
The position is designated as Non-Critical Sensitive, requiring a Secret security clearance.
Can I submit my application via email or fax?
No, you must apply online through the official USAJOBS portal to be considered for this vacancy.
Job from Federal Aviation Administration
The FAA, a part of the Department of Transportation, oversees the safest and most efficient aerospace system in the world. With over 44,000 employees, the agency is at the forefront of aerospace innovation, supporting autonomous vehicles, electric aircraft, and cutting-edge space technology. As a member of this team, you will contribute to a culture that values diversity, professional integrity, and the continuous improvement of the nation's air infrastructure.
