The Jacksonville Aviation Authority is seeking a Director of Public Safety & Security to lead airport security, law enforcement, and public safety programs across the Authority which owns and operates Jacksonville International Airport (JAX); Cecil Airport & Spaceport (VQQ); Jacksonville Executive at Craig Airport (CRG); and Herlong Recreational Airport (HEG). Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer (COO), the Director provides strategic and operational leadership to ensure a safe, secure, and compliant environment while advancing the Authority’s mission and operational objectives. The position oversees security planning, regulatory compliance, emergency preparedness, and law enforcement coordination and serves as a key liaison with federal, state, and local public safety partners. This role is instrumental in protecting critical airport infrastructure, maintaining regulatory compliance, and fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and operational excellence.
Key responsibilities include:
Lead airport security and law enforcement operations in alignment with organizational priorities.
Develop and implement strategic security and public safety plans that support regulatory compliance and operational excellence.
Oversee the Airport Security Plan and ensure compliance with TSA, FAA, and applicable federal regulations.
Coordinate security and emergency response activities with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
Manage departmental resources, budgets, capital needs, and operational priorities to maximize efficiency and effectiveness.
Advise organizational leadership on security, regulatory, and public safety matters.
Develop, mentor, and evaluate a high-performing public safety and security team while promoting continuous professional development.
Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Aviation Management, Public or Business Administration, or a closely related field.
Certified Member (CM) designation from the American Association of Airport Executives or the ability to obtain the CM designation within (18) months of date of hire preferred.
Minimum of ten years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience, including at least seven years in a leadership role.
Current Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) certification in good standing or the ability to transfer current certificate from another state.
Airport law enforcement experience with significant knowledge of TSA security regulations and airport security programs preferred.
Demonstrated expertise in FAA and TSA regulatory compliance, airport security planning, and public safety leadership.
Salary & Benefits:
Salary is dependent on qualifications and will be based upon the knowledge and experience of the individual selected. The annual salary range for this position is $128,333.91 - $166,834.10 and is accompanied by a competitive benefits package.
